A proposal has been submitted to move the Dehiwala Zoological Gardens to the Kalapola area in Piliyandala, Tourism Minister Prasanna Ranatunga said.
Minister of Tourism Prasanna Ranatunga said the current methodology of the zoo maintaining animals in cages must be changed to a more modern approach that does not involve or lead to animal cruelty.
The Dehiwala Zoo incurs an expense of Rs.40 million for the maintenance of the zoo and animals, while it spends Rs.06 million for overtime payments of employees.
Minister Ranatunga said guidelines are also being drawn on the taming of elephants and its usage in processions, adding that the guidelines will be submitted for cabinet approval soon.
The Minister made the observations during a meeting with officials from the Department of Zoology and Botanical Gardens. (Newswire)