Circle Chief C N Pandey told Express Newsline that the Kendra, to be built at a cost of about Rs 15 lakhs, would serve the city and highway users as a zoological park, an environment research and an ecology awareness centre. The kendra is expected to be completed by the year-end.

At least three mud-thatched huts and lawns have already been set up and will be thrown open for the public in a couple of days.

According to Pandey, thought the land was transferred by the district collectorate earlier this year, the plan was finalised only in July.

The site, located near the Indian Air Force base at Harni Naka, will have a number of open air exhibits, rare species of ornamental as well as shadowy trees and plants, lawns, sitting arrangements, food shops, among other facilities. There will be parking space for vehicles, besides public amenities.

Pandey says the Kendra will be set up in such a way that it not only attracts people but also spread the message of the need to protect the environment. Exhibits on wildlife, environment protection, ill-effects of pollution, among others will help create awareness, he says, adding a number of workshops and lectures would also be held to promote the cause of environment.

Though there are several gardens in the city, this nature park will serve as an additional solace for the public in general and environmentalists and ecology students in particular, he says.

``Considering the park's proximity to the national highway, we cannot keep many animals here but are planning to keep some small animals, which would be an added attraction.''

Pandey says a record number of saplings have been distributed during the past fortnight to mark the annual vanmahotsav. He claims at least one lakh saplings were distributed through tractors and trolleys in the city, two lakh on the outskirts of the city and 10 lakh in the rural areas.

Most of the saplings were either given free-of-cost or at subsidised rates, thereby earning the department a revenue of more than Rs 1 lakh, he says, adding distribution of saplings will continue till monsoon-end.