As per the world-renowned Chhatbir Zoo was reopened on Thursday amidst pandemic with strict COVID-19 protocol for the safety of zoo visitors, employees, and animals; the day one witnessed a footfall of total 1,100 visitors.
A staggered entry was ensured by the Zoo Administration in the entry plaza. In the first slot, around 100 visitors entered, and the number of visitors increased after 12 noon with a total 1,100 visitors visiting the zoo till 4.30 pm.
“The online booking facility, Wifi hotspot and battery operated carts were effectively utilized by the visitors. Even though some visitors faced difficulties in using online booking, QR code and other cashless transaction methods, the overall response of the visitors were very positive,” said Chhatbir Zoo’s field director Dr M Sudhagar.
Dr Sudhagar said that the response of visitors was positive. “The visitors were hesitant to move from the Tiger enclosure after seeing the Tiger cubs — Amar, Arjun and Dilnoor. The visitors felt safe in the Zoo and were properly informed and guided,” he added.
The state Chief Wildlife Warden RK Mishra shared that the response of visitors for the reopening of Chhatbir Zoo were more than expected. “All the safety precautions were taken as per COVID-19 norms keeping in view the safety of visitors, Zoo employees, workers, and animals,” he said.
Mishra said that the other zoos of Punjab — Mini Zoo, Patiala; Mini Zoo Bir Talab, Bathinda; Mini Zoo, Ludhiana; and Deer Park, Neelon — will accordingly be reopened next week for visitors.
Zoo spokesperson said that the visitors enjoyed the clean and pollution-free environment, along with the new facilities and amenities such as Mom and Baby care room, Coffee booth, Control room, Selfie points, touch-free hand wash and sanitizer dispensers etc.