History
The Dushanbe Zoo was founded in 1960. By 1974, with 1059 animals related to 254 species of global fauna, Dushanbe Zoo was regarded as one of the best zoos in the Soviet Union. The relatively mild climatic conditions of Dushanbe allowed species of tropical fauna to be kept outdoors. Until the breakdown of the Soviet Union and independence in 1991, the zoo was considered one of the best sightseeing attractions in Dushanbe. The number of animals was great and diverse. The two Indian elephants,Delhi and Radsch, were favorites of visitors.
National independence in 1991, followed by a Civil War lasting until 1997, posed a great threat to the Zoo in terms of the loss of species and economical hardship. Public financing was no longer available to the extent it was before. Staff and volunteers faced a challenge to their own survival. In short, the once-famous zoo was abandoned and left to survive on its own. However, because it is the only public institution to present to the population species of local and foreign fauna, zoo attendance is being restored these days.
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