Bihar Sharif: The Rajgir Zoo Safari management has initiated preparations to address crowd management challenges during the month-long Malmas Mela, which commences on May 17. A high-level review meeting was convened on Monday under the chairmanship of Rajgir Zoo Safari director Ram Sundar M, with the primary objective of ensuring a safe and orderly conduct of the fair.
Key Measures for Crowd Control
Thousands of devotees visit the mela daily from across the district and neighboring areas, making crowd control a critical concern. The director stated that officials have been instructed to strengthen barricading within and around the campus, increase the number of ticket counters, and streamline entry and exit points to manage the anticipated surge in footfall. Measures are also being implemented to ensure an uninterrupted drinking water supply, improve parking arrangements, and enhance visitor facilities.
Enhanced Security and Surveillance
The zoo campus will be placed under enhanced CCTV surveillance. Multilingual signage and information centers will be established to assist visitors. Authorities have also emphasized the importance of maintaining smooth traffic flow, cleanliness, and an effective solid waste management system throughout the mela period.
Significance of Malmas Mela
The Malmas Mela, observed during the Adhik Maas period as per the Hindu calendar, holds significant religious importance and attracts large numbers of pilgrims to Rajgir for rituals, prayers, and charity. Inaugurated in 2022, the zoo safari has emerged as a major tourist attraction in the region. It houses over 250 animals, including Royal Bengal tigers, Asiatic lions, leopards, and sloth bears, along with herbivores such as chital, sambar, blackbuck, barking deer, and wild boar, besides several bird species.
Recognition and Awards
The safari recently gained national attention after a 12-minute animation film based on it, The Wild Call, won the Dadasaheb Phalke Award 2026. The film was directed by Navinath S, Farid, and Azharuddin.
Comprehensive Planning
The review meeting also covered additional aspects such as deployment of additional staff, coordination with local authorities, and emergency response protocols. The management aims to provide a seamless experience for devotees while ensuring the safety of both visitors and animals. With the mela expected to draw a massive crowd, these proactive measures are crucial for maintaining order and comfort.
