Beautifying the beasts

Delhi Zoo hit by Commonwealth Games fever, facelift planned to attract tourists

At first glance it might be difficult to find a connection between the Delhi Zoo and the Commonwealth Games. But it's quite simple really, it's all about tourism and numbers.

And that is why the National Zoological Park is pulling up its socks ahead of the forthcoming sporting bonanza.
Probably to encourage some cash flow, the zoo authorities are planning to place an ATM machine for visitors inside the premises.


It's a jungle out there: A tiger at the Delhi Zoo who's apparently a
tree conservator

"Yes, the Union Bank of India is to install an ATM near the gate before October 3. Now people won't have to run around looking for a machine, whenever they fall short of cash," said Anand Krishna, the Director of the zoological park.

Plastic money is welcome too. Portable credit card swipe machines would also be made available at the ticket counters. "That gives visitors who are wary of carrying cash around another reason to rejoice," Krishna added.
Around 17 lakh people visited the zoo last year. This year the establishment believes the footfalls will increase. But more than the quantity of people coming in, it's the quality of their experience that appears to be the primary focus.

Case in point, the new four-wheeler trolleys that replaced the older three-wheelers a few months back. Officials feel the comfortable ride on these new machines will also be an added treat for foreign guests. "People from abroad are used to smooth rides. The new battery-operated trolleys are as smooth as butter; they won't feel a thing," said a beaming Raiz Khan, who used to drive the older rickety carriages only a few months ago.


The new four-wheeler trolleys are all set to provide a smooth ride to
visitors pics/Rajeev Tyagi

The cloak room too will be spruced up and the ban on polythene bags inside the premises will be strictly enforced. The zoo authorities also intend to renovate the toilet facility in the parking lot before the games.
With plenty of sporting spirit flowing freely, it seems the fitness bug has bitten the animals as well. The lions are avoiding the harsh sun and preserving their energies under the water coolers and shades.

The white tigers have cut down on their meat intake by 10%. The two chimpanzees that were acquired from Germany a while back have given up bread and milk, and are consuming tomatoes, carrots and watermelons. A self-imposed beautification regime before the visitors come calling? "Not exactly. Simply a change of lifestyle and diet, keeping the harsh summer in mind. They'll start eating more in winters," clarified Krishna.

But while the beasts seem to be on their best behaviour, some visitors found the demeanour of certain members of the staff rather boorish. "Some of the staff here are absolutely rude. Hope their behaviour improves before the games or else the foreigners are in for a shock," complained Ravi Juneja, who was out on a photography trip.