Cyclone Montha: Nandankanan Biological Park on high alert with control room in place, focus on animal safety

The Nandankanan Biological Park in Odisha's Bhubaneswar has stepped up its preparedness measures to safeguard animals, visitors, and park infrastructure in view of the heavy rainfall forecast and gusty winds under the influence of cyclone Montha. 

The administration has issued detailed directions to all sections and activated safety protocols following the necessary instructions from Nandankanan Biological Park’s Director.

Key Measures Undertaken:

24x7 Control Room: A round-the-clock control room has been established under the leadership of the Assistant Conservators of Forests and supervised by the Deputy Director to coordinate emergency actions and real-time responses.

Staff Deployment: Range Officers and frontline staff have been instructed to remain within the park premises throughout the period. All leaves have been cancelled.

Animal Safety: Carnivores and other sensitive species will be confined to night shelters during the cyclone. Bird enclosures are being covered with nets and reinforced with wooden frames for added protection.

Veterinary Preparedness: Sufficient stock of animal feed, medicines, anti-stress formulations, and anti-snake venom has been arranged. The zoo hospital and veterinary team are on full alert for any emergency.

Infrastructure Reinforcement: Tree pruning, boundary strengthening, and inspection of vulnerable enclosures have been completed to prevent structural damage during heavy winds.

Coordination with Key Departments: Advance coordination has been established with the Police, Fire Services, Electricity Department, and  DISCOMs to ensure prompt assistance if required.

Emergency Facilities: Power back-up, water supply, and lighting systems have been tested, while fuel for DG sets and vehicles has been replenished to maintain continuity during power outages.

Mobile and Patrol Teams: Mobile response units have been deployed across the zoo and the adjoining State Botanical Garden to ensure quick communication and coordinated response.

Mock Drills and Equipment Checks: Mock drills and verification of all emergency and rescue equipment, including power saws, chain saws, and communication systems, have been successfully completed to ensure full readiness. 

Stationed Safety Teams: Adequate teams will remain positioned at key locations during the cyclonic depression to ensure animal safety and provide immediate assistance if required.

Post-Cyclone Operations: After the cyclone, the park will assess animal health, clear uprooted trees, disinfect enclosures, and restore water and sanitation facilities.

Visitor Advisory: The park may be closed to visitors if deemed necessary for public and animal safety. Any closure will be announced through print, electronic, and social media platforms.

All precautionary steps are being implemented proactively at Nandankanan Biological Park to minimise risks and ensure the highest level of preparedness during the cyclonic depression, reportedly.