Air coolers for kangaroos, bears: Alipore zoo ready for heatwave

• Alipore Zoo implements proactive cooling measures amid Bengal's scorching heatwave
• Air coolers installed in cages housing kangaroos and bears
• Sprinklers within animal enclosures, protective shade cloths on zoo cages for heat protection 

As a relentless heatwave blankets Bengal, residents express growing concern over its impact on both humans and animals. The Meteorological Department forecasts continued high temperatures in the region for the upcoming days, fueling worries among the populace.

In response to the heatwave, Alipore Zoo has taken proactive measures to safeguard the well-being of its animal inhabitants. Director Subhankar Sen Gupta assures the public that all zoo animals are in good health, with the institution implementing various strategies to mitigate the effects of the scorching heat.

These measures include providing ample water for bathing and drinking, incorporating oral rehydration solution (ORS) into the animals' drinking water, and offering hydrating foods such as green fodder, watermelon, cucumber, fresh fruits, and curd.

Additionally, the zoo has installed sprinklers within the animal enclosures to maintain humidity levels and reduce temperatures, while air coolers and electric fans have been set up in specific cages, including those housing kangaroos and bears. Protective shade cloths have been erected around the cages to shield the animals from direct sunlight, and meal timings have been adjusted to minimize exposure to excessive heat.