BHUBANESWAR: In view of onset of summer season, arrangements are made in Nandankanan Zoological Park to keep the animals stress free.
Although species specific arrangement is made, the whole arrangement is divided into four segments. Carnivore sections are provided with sprinklers in the paddock area as well as in back kraal area.
Ice slabs are provided if mercury soars over 40C. In reptile section sheds are provided to regulate their body temperature. Straw thatching as well split bamboo sheds ware provided inside enclosures.
For birds, bamboo sheds are provided to avoid direct sunlight. Earthen pots as well as showers are provided to beat the summer heat. Primates like chimpanzees are provided with water coolers. Lot of fruits like watermelons, bananas and guava among others mixed with ice is provided to them.
When temperature soars over 40C they are kept inside the feeding cells. Ample shed, nutritious food electrolyte supplements are provided to all animals with strict monitoring and supervision by authorities as well as zoo vets. Last but not the least, sufficient rest sheds, first aid facilities are arranged for visitors to prevent heat stroke cases.
The Nandankanan Zoological Park premises have been illuminated with energy efficient LED bulbs during the night time in these following routes: 90 LED footpath lights of 6 watt capacity have been provided from Gate No. 2 towards fountain square then towards administrative block further towards water birds aviary ending at FRH front gate.
85 LED street light posts of 15 watt capacity have been provided from fountain square towards zoo hospital leading to tiger enclosure line, elephant enclosure road, nocturnal house square to Reptile park square and from tiger safari front towards giraffe enclosure square.
25 LED street light posts of above 20’ height of 35 watt capacity have been provided near main entry and exit road of the park starting from Jagannath square towards ticket booking counter and then to gate no 2 ending at Reptile Park square including staff colony area. The previous CFL and other bulbs have been replaced by energy efficient LED bulbs for saving electricity consumption.
Also, the previous iron/GI pipe and wire mesh type light post structures have been replaced by nature emersion (RCC/Cement) light posts. These light posts are monkey proof, durable and natural looking. The entire project expenditure will be met from Society budget 2018-19 and cost estimation is Rs 10 lakh.
