As temperatures in Chhattisgarh continue to hover around 44–45°C, authorities at Maitri Bagh Zoo in Bhilai have rolled out extensive measures to protect wildlife from the ongoing heatwave.
The zoo, which houses more than 400 rare species, has introduced a range of cooling arrangements, including sprinklers, artificial waterfalls, shaded enclosures, and modified diet plans aimed at reducing heat stress among animals.
Zoo In-charge and Veterinary Officer Dr N. K. Jain said the rising temperatures have necessitated urgent interventions. “In the past few days, the intense heat has caused temperatures to rise to around 44-45 degrees Celsius. This adverse weather condition is affecting both human life and wildlife. The Maitri Bagh management has made special preparations,” he said.
Detailing the arrangements, Dr Jain noted that big cats are receiving targeted cooling support. “For the tigers, we have installed Typha mats and coolers in their cages. Additionally, artificial waterfalls and sprinklers have been set up to provide them with continuous cooling,” he said.
Similar systems have been extended to other enclosures. “In the deer, sambar, and blackbuck enclosures, we’ve installed a pipeline connected to a motor pump to run sprinklers throughout the day. This helps maintain a cool environment within the entire enclosure,” he added.
To shield smaller animals, protective coverings have been installed. “We’ve also put up green nets in the bird and monkey sections, which block about 80% of sunlight and protect them from the heat,” Dr Jain said.
Dietary adjustments are also part of the strategy. “We provide them with vitamins that promote hydration, along with water-rich fruits like watermelon and musk melon, especially to the monkeys,” he said.
White tigers, considered particularly sensitive to heat, are being closely monitored. “White tigers generally consume a bit less food in the heat, so we supplement their diet with vitamins and minerals to help them cope with heat stress,” Dr Jain said, adding that the zoo currently houses five tigers.
In addition, a wet moat system with continuous flowing water has been activated, allowing animals to cool off as needed.
Visitors to Maitri Bagh Zoo have welcomed the measures and urged caution during the heatwave. One visitor, Pawan Kumar Pal, said, “Arrangements have been made here for the animals in Maitri Bagh Zoo. They have installed sprinklers, and there’s also an arrangement for water.”
He also advised the public to limit exposure during peak hours. “One should leave their house only when it is necessary in this scorching heat… As we are also facing a heat wave, it is important to focus on our health…”
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