Visakhapatnam: After a long break, zoo braces for visitors

Visakhapatnam: After close to seven months, Indira Gandhi Zoological Park (IGZP) braces for reopening in 'Karthika Masam'.

With the government of Andhra Pradesh granting permission to reopen IGZP in Visakhapatnam and the Central Zoo Authority issuing the standard operating procedures (SOPs), visitors are now allowed to enter the zoo from Tuesday, albeit following Covid-19 protocols.

The onset of Karthika Masam is synonymous with picnics. But given the pandemic situation, the larger group of visitors will be split into smaller batches. "Restrictions to contain the pandemic are already in place at the zoo. But they will be altered further based on the response and the crowd the zoo witnesses in the coming days.

However, no outside food, plastics or crackers will be allowed on the campus," asserts Dr Nandani Salaria, zoo curator. Elaborating on the preparation for the reopening, the zoo curator says, "Along with the thermal scanning, presence of masks will be monitored at the gate before allowing the visitors into the premises. In case of any violation, a fine will be imposed." Visitors are advised to book online tickets to avoid contact at the counters.

Though the online ticket booking system was readied in June, the facility has now been made available for the visitors as the zoo remained closed till November 16.

Entry tickets can be booked online by logging on to the IGZP's official website www.vizagzoo.com. The zoo will be kept open from 9 am to 5 pm. However, the last booking slot will be closed by 4 pm.

As IGZP was shut for months due to the pandemic, animals that were so far enjoying calm and quiet break now gear up to meet visitors.