The picturesque hill station of Udhagamandalam, popularly known as Ooty, is set to welcome a new attraction for animal lovers. The district administration is preparing to open a dedicated park for pets on the premises of the famous Arboretum. This initiative, established with an investment of ₹40 lakh, aims to create a safe and engaging space for pets and their owners while addressing the declining visitor numbers at the Arboretum.
A Strategic Response to Declining Footfall
Nilgiris District Collector Lakshmi Bhavya Tanneeru spearheaded the project, citing a noticeable drop in footfalls at the Arboretum as a key reason for its development. The idea was to introduce a new facility that would attract a different segment of visitors without disrupting the existing green space. "Without disturbing trees or the walking path, we have designed space for pet dogs on both sides of the stormwater drain channel that runs through the middle of the Arboretum," explained Collector Lakshmi.
Facilities and Features of the Pet Park
The newly constructed park is thoughtfully designed to cater to the needs of both pets and the general public. It is fully fenced to ensure that regular walkers and visitors to the Arboretum are not disturbed by the pets. Inside, the park boasts several amenities:
- Specially designed pet-friendly play and walking areas.
- Convenient water stations for dogs.
- Designated trash cans for waste disposal.
- Play equipment to keep the animals engaged and active.
Furthermore, the administration has permitted dog trainers to use the park for training sessions. Clear guidelines for visitors are established through a signboard listing the dos and don'ts displayed on-site.
Governance, Fees, and Future Plans
The district administration collaborated with the Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SPCA) during the planning phase. Nagina Reddy, the nodal officer of the SPCA, confirmed that their suggestions were incorporated into the park's development. To ensure smooth operation, a sub-committee with members from the horticulture, revenue, and municipal departments, along with SPCA representatives, is likely to be formed to oversee the park's management.
While the entry fee structure is yet to be finalized, officials are considering introducing either a monthly or an annual pass system. Currently, the horticulture department charges an entry fee of ₹10 for the Arboretum. Collector Lakshmi stated that any fees collected from the pet park will be directed towards its maintenance. In a significant future addition, the administration is also exploring the possibility of setting up a dog registration centre in the same area, which would further streamline pet ownership services in the region.
This innovative pet park marks a significant step towards creating more inclusive public spaces in Ooty, catering to the growing community of pet owners while revitalizing a beloved local landmark.
