Lahore Zoo has launched a state-of-the-art HoloVerse, which will soon allow visitors to experience virtual and mixed reality technology, bringing them closer to wildlife than ever before.
The zoo has partnered with a private company to run the HoloVerse, where citizens will be able to virtually interact with wild animals, touch them and watch wildlife films in 3D cinemas.
Speaking to Express News, Director of Lahore Zoo Sheikh Muhammad Zahid explained that three unique technologies have been introduced in HoloVerse: Virtual Reality (VR), Mixed Reality (MR) and 3D Hologram Cinema.
Through the VR experience, visitors will feel like they are in the heart of a jungle, where they will encounter dangerous wild animals in a realistic setting. VR technology will allow individuals to see animals they may have never encountered before, making it a truly immersive experience.
An Express News reporter had the chance to experience mixed reality technology, where animals such as dinosaurs, elephants and lions were seen up close. Visitors will also be able to take photos with these virtual creatures.
During the VR experience, when an African lion suddenly attacked, the reporter also felt the thrill of danger, highlighting the realism of the experience. The technology creates the feeling of being in a perilous jungle, surrounded by wildlife, insects and birds, where observation and escape are part of the adventure.
Sheikh Muhammad Zahid further shared that the ticket prices for these experiences are set at 100 Pakistani Rupees for Virtual Reality, 200 Rupees for Mixed Reality and 300 Rupees for Hologram 3D Cinema.
Visitors can choose to explore all three options or select individual experiences based on their preferences.
The HoloVerse was handed over to a private company and Zahid mentioned that family plans and student plans could be introduced in the future, providing more convenience to visitors.
He also attributed the success of this innovative project to the tireless efforts of Punjab Minister Maryam Aurangzeb, Secretary Forest and Wildlife Mudassar Waheed Malik, and especially DG Wildlife Mudassar Riaz Malik.
Zahid highlighted that this was the realization of a dream envisioned by DG Wildlife, which has now come to life, providing citizens with a unique and exciting recreational opportunity.
