Gandhinagar (Gujarat) - The Forest Department has implemented measures at the Indroda Nature Park (Zoo) in Gandhinagar to protect over 600 wild animals from the severe heatwave affecting Gujarat.
Under the guidance of Forest and Environment Minister Arjun Modhwadia and Minister of State Pravin Mali, the GEER (Gujarat Ecological Education and Research) Foundation, which manages the zoo, has introduced extensive summer management arrangements since April that will continue until the monsoon season begins.
The zoo houses 3 lions, 2 tigers, 3 leopards, freshwater crocodiles, hyenas, rare birds, and reptiles. To shield them from the harsh heat and winds, a combination of modern cooling technology and traditional eco-friendly practices have been implemented within animal enclosures.
A total of 15 jumbo air coolers have been installed inside carnivorous animal enclosures and the reptile house, remaining operational during the peak afternoon period to regulate temperatures. Visitors to the reptile section also benefit from these cooling systems.
Additionally, 20 high-pressure sprinklers have been set up across open zoo areas and run continuously from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM to create a cooler environment.
Traditional khus (vetiver) curtains have been placed in carnivore enclosures, reptile houses, and aviaries, which are regularly sprayed with water to convert hot air into cooler breezes. Agronet shades have also been erected to protect animals from direct sunlight.
These combined measures have reduced temperatures inside enclosures by 2°C to 4°C compared to outside ambient conditions, producing a favourable microclimate for the wildlife.
Veterinarians have adjusted animal diets for summer health. To prevent bloating and digestive issues caused by excessive food intake in high heat, daily food quantities for carnivores have been reduced by 500 grams to 1 kilogram, depending on individual needs.
Cooling and water-rich fruits such as watermelon, muskmelon, and cucumber have been added to the diets of animals and birds to aid hydration. Herbivores receive oral rehydration powder with Vitamin C as well as multi-mineral and vitamin supplements to protect against heat stroke and electrolyte imbalance.
Since Indroda Nature Park is a protected forest area, free-ranging wild animals such as Hanuman langurs, nilgai, peacocks, and hyenas also roam within the premises. Dedicated water points have been established across the forest to ensure these animals do not suffer water scarcity during summer. These stations are cleaned daily and regularly refilled.
Experienced veterinary doctors are on hand 24/7 for emergency treatments and ongoing health monitoring of all animals. Zoo staff and veterinary teams maintain continuous observation of wildlife conditions amid the severe heatwave, according to an official release from the Gujarat Chief Minister’s Office.