SAIL, Rourkela Steel Plant (RSP) has undertaken a series of proactive initiatives through its Horticulture Department to protect the animals, birds, and reptiles housed at the Indira Gandhi Park Zoo from the harsh summer heat. The measures are aimed at ensuring a safe and healthy environment for nearly 200 zoo inhabitants belonging to 18 different species.
As part of the summer care plan, cold water is being regularly sprayed inside the enclosures of leopards, bears, deer, and primates using water tankers to reduce ambient temperatures. Air coolers have also been installed in the enclosures of leopards, bears, monkeys, peacocks, and macaws to provide additional relief from the soaring heat.
To maintain hygiene and ensure animal comfort, water pools in the paddocks of bears, deer, and emus are being scraped and cleaned thoroughly to provide clean bathing spaces. Enclosures are being disinfected regularly with medicinal disinfectants to prevent infections and maintain sanitation during the hot season.
A continuous supply of cold and potable drinking water is being ensured in the deer enclosures and wallowing ponds for sambars, nilgai, and emus. In addition, to prevent dehydration and heat-related stress, the animals are being provided electrolyte supplements, succulent feed, and anti-stress formulations mixed with drinking water, particularly for primates, birds, and deer.
Water tankers are also being deployed to sprinkle water over animal sheds every alternate day to reduce surface temperature and create a cooling effect. Special attention is being given to sensitive and endangered species, ensuring uninterrupted access to water bodies for effective body temperature regulation.
Notably, Indira Gandhi Park Zoo, is the the second-largest integrated zoo in Odisha, which attracts nearly one lakh visitors every year.
