New Delhi: After Supreme Court upheld a high court order directing the relocation of around 400 deer from A N Jha Deer Park in Hauz Khas to various tiger reserves in Rajasthan, Delhi Development Authority (DDA) plans to pursue Central Zoo Authority (CZA) to determine the next course of action.“All protocols will be followed for the relocation and to take care of the remaining 38 deer in Hauz Khas,” a DDA official said on Tuesday.Prior to the SC order, inspections were carried out by CZA and a court-appointed central empowered committee, and their reports were submitted to the court along with DDA’s report.SC directed that the relocation should be carried out in a time-bound manner in accordance with updated guidelines and after preparation of a detailed plan. DDA will adopt the African Boma method (a gentle herding technique aimed at minimal stress, injury or mortality) previously used for translocation. So far, 261 deer have already been shifted to Rajasthan’s Ramgarh Vishdhari Tiger Reserve and Mukundara Hills Tiger Reserve between 2023 and 2025.In its March 6 report, the committee stated that the enclosure at the Hauz Khas deer park can sustainably accommodate 38 spotted deer, recommending an optimal sex ratio of 15 males to 23 females.Referring to the Guidelines for Establishment and Scientific Management of Zoos in India, 2008, the panel noted that a minimum of 1,500 sq metres of outdoor space is required for every pair of spotted deer. With the Hauz Khas enclosure spread across 10.2 acres (around 41,500 sq metres), and about 70% of it considered usable, it currently offers 29,000 sq metres of effective space.The committee flagged ecological stress in the enclosure, including overgrazing, soil compaction and degradation of vegetation. It recommended planting native grasses, restoring water bodies, repairing fencing and strengthening shelter infrastructure. It also suggested creating public viewing areas to regulate visitor access.A DDA official said some of the measures are already in place, with the plantation planned for the upcoming monsoon. “Arrangements have been made for indoor night shelters. Tagging of deer will also be carried out,” the official added.The committee further recommended filling vacant posts at the park, including malis, a veterinary officer, a wildlife biologist and a curator, to improve animal care, habitat management and emergency response. It also called for rejuvenation and desilting of lakes and water bodies, and the adoption of non-invasive, scientifically validated population control measures.Considering the public importance of the park, the panel suggested that CZA may grant recognition to the facility, subject to full compliance with its inspection report dated Dec 17, 2025.
