As Odisha prepares for the impact of the approaching Cyclonic Storm “Arnab,” authorities at the renowned Nandankanan Zoological Park (NKZP) and the adjoining State Botanical Garden (SBG) have finalised extensive emergency readiness measures to safeguard animals, staff, infrastructure, and the public.
To ensure seamless execution during the storm, a 24-hour Control Room has been established on-site. Park officials have already conducted range-wise mock drills and tightened coordination with key emergency departments, including the Odisha Police, Fire Services, and the State Electricity Department.
Safety inspections have been carried out across all vulnerable structures, electrical installations, internal roads, animal enclosures, and drainage channels to prevent waterlogging and structural hazards during heavy rainfall.
Prioritising Animal Welfare & Emergency Action
Special attention is being directed toward animal care and health. The zoo’s veterinary division is fully prepared with emergency medical kits, ample stocks of animal feed, and purified drinking water. Contingency strategies are in place to shift vulnerable species to reinforced, safer shelters if weather conditions deteriorate.
To handle potential emergencies, specialised rescue teams, updated communication systems, and emergency equipment—including three rescue boats deployed at the Boat Ghat—have been put on high alert.
“The Control Room and designated response teams will remain continuously vigilant, closely monitoring official weather updates issued by the meteorological department,” zoo officials stated.
Visitor Operations & Post-Cyclone Action
Decisions regarding visitor access, partial closures, or reopening dates for both the Zoological Park and the State Botanical Garden will be strictly governed by directions from competent authorities based on ground safety conditions. Immediate post-cyclone inspections, debris clearing, and rapid restoration work will begin as soon as the storm passes.
