Ahmedabad, May 9 (IANS) As temperatures in the city climbed beyond 40 degrees C during the ongoing summer heatwave, the Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation-run (AMC) Kamla Nehru Zoological Garden at Kankaria has introduced extensive cooling and hydration measures for more than 2,000 animals, birds and reptiles housed at the facility.

Zoo authorities said around 38 to 40 air coolers have been installed near enclosures of animals, including elephants, lions, tigers and leopards, to reduce heat stress during the peak summer period.

Green shade nets have been placed over enclosures to prevent direct exposure to harsh sunlight, while regular water sprinkling is being carried out across animal habitats and visitor areas to maintain lower temperatures.

A special geo-thermal aeration arrangement has also been made at the nocturnal zoo section.

Officials said the system helps maintain a cooler internal environment compared to outside temperatures, making conditions more suitable for nocturnal wildlife during extreme heat.

The zoo currently houses around 2,190 animals, birds and reptiles.

Authorities said the summer management arrangements are being implemented under the guidance of zoo advisor Dr R.K. Sahu and zoo superintendent Dr Sharv Shah.

“Special arrangements have been made at Kankaria Zoo to protect wildlife from the heatwave,” the zoo administration said.

Animal keeper staff have been instructed to carry out regular cleaning of cages and enclosures, ensure timely feeding and maintain continuous care and monitoring of the animals during the summer months.

Veterinary doctors are conducting routine inspections and behavioural observations of animals and birds to identify signs of stress or discomfort caused by the heat and take appropriate preventive measures.

“To prevent dehydration among animals and birds and to maintain proper body temperature, shelters have been provided so that direct sunlight does not fall on them,” officials said.

The administration added that glucose and ORS powder are being mixed into drinking water wherever required to help maintain hydration levels among animals and birds.

Zoo officials said exotic species are generally more vulnerable to extreme summer conditions.

In response, the veterinary team has intensified vaccination drives, deworming procedures, routine medical check-ups and monitoring rounds across the zoo premises.

The diet of animals and birds has also been adjusted for the season. Fruits and food items with high water and glucose content, including watermelon, musk melon and sugarcane, are being provided regularly as part of the summer feeding programme.

The zoo administration said tigers, leopards and blackbucks were recently brought to the facility.

During the ongoing summer vacation season, the zoo remains open to visitors from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. and is expected to receive nearly 3 lakh visitors.

To improve visitor comfort during the intense heat, the zoo has arranged drinking water stations, washrooms, shaded areas created using green nets, air coolers, water points and water sprinkling systems across the premises.

According to officials, approximately 77.72 lakh people have visited Kankaria Zoo over the last five years.

Work is currently underway to develop a walk-in aviary as part of efforts to enhance tourism and visitor experience at the zoo.

Authorities also said the process of bringing additional animals and bird species to the facility has been initiated.

Officials said that due to the severe summer conditions this year, many visitors are preferring to spend time at the zoo compared to other outdoor locations.

–IANS

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