Jungle Safari Battles Summer Heat for Animals

The Sardar Patel Zoological Park, or Jungle Safari, is actively combating the escalating summer temperatures to safeguard its diverse collection of approximately 1,500 animals and 100 species. Director Vipul Chakravarty highlighted the creation of specialized facilities to ensure exotic animals, recently brought from abroad, are comfortable despite the heat. Several enclosures have been fitted with air coolers, fans, and AC units tailored to each species' needs. Continuous water spraying and sprinklers are employed in aviaries and cages to maintain a cooler environment.

Animals are also receiving a special summer diet, including fruit juices, frozen fruits, and ice cubes for exotic species and birds. Water-rich fruits are a key part of the avian diet. For larger animals like hippopotamuses, rhinoceroses, gaurs, bears, and deer, new ponds have been constructed within their enclosures to offer relief from the heat. The park, located near the Statue of Unity, has also improved amenities for visitors, offering special shaded areas and cold drinking water.

Zoologists and veterinary doctors are on round-the-clock duty, monitoring the health of all animals and birds. This intensive care ensures the well-being of the park's inhabitants during the hot weather. Simultaneously, educational programs focused on wildlife conservation are being conducted at the safari to raise awareness among visitors.