Patna: The Sanjay Gandhi Biological Park in Patna reopened to visitors on Sunday after being closed for 10 days due to a bird flu scare in the surrounding area. Authorities took the precautionary step after avian influenza was detected at a nearby poultry research centre late last month.
The zoo had been shut on February 27 as part of safety protocols aimed at preventing the possible spread of the virus. However, after a week of surveillance and testing found no fresh cases of avian influenza in the vicinity, officials decided it was safe to allow visitors back into the park.
Zoo director Hemant Patil said the gates reopened for the public at 6 am on Sunday and will remain open until 5 pm daily. Despite the reopening, officials have urged visitors to continue following safety measures. Tourists have been advised to observe animals and birds from a minimum distance of 10 feet.
Samples collected from the zoo were sent to the laboratory of the National Institute of Veterinary Epidemiology and Disease Informatics in Bhopal, where tests confirmed they were negative for avian influenza. According to guidelines issued by the Central Zoo Authority, activities within a one-kilometre radius must be halted if bird flu cases are detected nearby.
A report from the district animal husbandry department also confirmed that no new infections had been found within a one-kilometre radius of the zoo over the past week. Following this clearance, the administration allowed the zoo to reopen while maintaining strict hygiene measures.
Even though the immediate threat has subsided, authorities say precautionary steps such as sanitisation and cleanliness drives will continue across the park. Officials added that the zoo is now safe for families, including children and elderly visitors, to enjoy a day out.
