Goa zoo reopens after bird flu outbreak

Subsequently, authorities implemented precautionary measures, including isolating the affected enclosures, and restricted public access. The Forest department sent samples to ICAR-National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases (NIHSAD) in Bhopal for testing. Forest department officials said the lab reports confirmed that the two jungle cats died due to avian influenza while the cause of deaths for the civets remained unknown.

An order issued by Jiss K Varkey, Deputy Conservator of Forests, Wildlife and Eco-Tourism North Division on Wednesday, said, “Consequent upon receipt of two consecutive negative test results for Avian influenza from ICAR-NIHSAD Bhopal and in accordance with the guidelines of Central Zoo Authority, it is hereby ordered that the Bondla Zoological Park will be open for visitors with immediate effect.”

In a post on X, Forest Minister Vishwajit Rane announced that the zoo has been reopened. “After a brief closure as a precautionary measure, Bondla Zoo has now reopened to visitors starting Wednesday, following confirmation that the samples tested negative for Avian Influenza by NIHSAD, Bhopal. The Forest Department of Goa, acted promptly and responsibly to ensure the health and safety of both animals and visitors.”

Rane said all necessary biosecurity protocols were followed during this period. Officials said that according to the protocols of Central Zoo Authority, the zoo could only reopen after two consecutive negative test reports for avian influenza were received.

Kamal Datta, Principal Chief Conservator of Forests, said, “As soon as information was received about the possibility of the virus, the forest department took proactive action by closing the zoo immediately and sanitising the affected enclosures and taking other precautionary measures. Due to this, the spread of the virus to areas outside the zoo was prevented.”