fficials attributed the recent uptick to outreach initiatives launched in collaboration with NGOs and schools which ushers in crowds aplenty within the premises. (File image)After touching a three year low in 2024 to 25, the Veermata Jijabai Bhosale Vanaspati Udyan and Zoo at Byculla has recorded a modest recovery in footfall and revenue in 2025 to 26, though numbers remain well below earlier peaks.Data from zoo authorities show that between April 2025 and March 2026, 25.42 lakh visitors came to the zoo, generating revenue of Rs 9.85 crore. This marks an increase of over seven percent from the previous fiscal, when the zoo saw 23.57 lakh visitors and earned Rs 9.18 crore, its lowest footfall in three years. During 2024 to 25, the highest turnout was recorded in November, coinciding with school vacations.Officials attributed the recent uptick to outreach initiatives launched in collaboration with NGOs and schools which ushers in crowds aplenty within the premises.Despite the rise, visitor numbers remain significantly lower than earlier years. In 2023 to 24, the zoo recorded 28.97 lakh visitors and revenue of Rs 11.64 crore, while total footfall had touched 29.56 lakh.Officials pointed the current plateau in visitor count to a sudden spike post COVID. “After the lockdown was withdrawn, the zoo – like other public spaces – recorded a significant spike in visitors. This continued for a few years, before the visitor count fell in the previous fiscal year. Now, the figure of visitors arriving into the zoo premises remains steady,” said senior official at Byculla zoo.The absence of new attractions in recent years has also slowed visitor growth, especially among repeat visitors.Spread across 60 acres, the zoo remains one of the largest open spaces in south Mumbai, with over 6,600 trees and 350 animal species. However, key enclosures such as the Asiatic lion exhibit remain vacant after unsuccessful attempts to procure the species. Last month, Mumbai mayor Ritu Tawde wrote to Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel seeking a pair of Asiatic lions.Story continues below this adTo revive visitor interest, the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation has planned a series of upgrades. These include an aquarium within the existing premises and a proposed Exotic Zoo spread over 9.25 acres, expected to house 18 species. The civic body has allocated Rs 136 crore in the 2026 to 27 budget for the zoo’s development and upkeep.Nayonika Bose is a Senior Correspondent with The Indian Express’ Mumbai bureau. While in the early stages of her career, her focused reporting on local governance and community welfare already demonstrates clear Expertise and Trustworthiness in covering essential civic issues impacting Mumbai's residents. Expertise & Authority (E-E-A-T) Specialized Focus: Nayonika's reporting is dedicated to civic and community issues, providing readers with highly relevant, ground-level information about the functionality and administration of India's largest metropolitan area. Core Coverage Areas: Her articles highlight a strong focus on the fundamental quality of life and public safety in Mumbai, including: Civic Infrastructure: Reports on critical failures and initiatives related to public works, such as the recurring problem of unauthorized building collapses in Navi Mumbai, the construction of new infrastructure projects (like the Dahisar-Bhayandar Link Road and the Mahalaxmi cable-stayed bridge), and the maintenance of essential city services (e.g., manhole cover theft). Urban Governance & Crisis Management: Provides detailed coverage of the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation's (BMC) response to major crises, particularly during the monsoon (e.g., heavy rainfall, water cuts, and public health concerns like dengue and malaria) and large-scale public safety incidents (e.g., the hoarding collapse fallout). Community Welfare & Rights: Reports on key social issues, including the financial aid scheme for persons with disabilities, the struggles of Mumbai's hawkers protesting eviction drives, and the dangers faced by workers due to the continuation of manual scavenging in water tanks. Cultural & Heritage Reporting: Covers significant community stories, including the restoration of British-era fountains and the history of institutions like the 126-year-old Chinchpokli cemetery, showing a breadth of interest beyond pure administration. Tweets @nayonikakb ... Read MoreStay updated with the latest - Click here to follow us on Instagram© The Indian Express Pvt Ltd