Chamarajendra Zoological Gardens Executive Director K.B. Markandaiah said the Mysore Zoo was not just a picnic sport but an animal conservation centre too.

Speaking to SOM here yesterday at his office, Markandaiah said he would give top priority for the welfare and captive breeding of animals by upgrading the enclosures and providing a near-natural ambience for them.

"The Health Committee comprising experts from University of Agricultural Sciences and NGOs will be consulted to seek suggestions and opinions to develop the Zoo, paving way for more purchase and exchange of animals. Good publicity will be given for animal adoption scheme to create awareness among people," said Markandaiah.

However, SOM found that several of birds and animals live solitary lives. The Highland Gorilla is one such example. Gorillas live in well-disciplined family groups but the specimen in a private enclosure in Zoo has been leading a lonely life for several years.

A bare-necked vulture and an equally solitary Greater Adjutant Stork are other examples. There has been no study of the trauma suffered by these animals living alone.

Infrastructure

Referring to the development of infrastructure in the Zoo, he said apart from the battery-operated vehicles, other amenities like good benches and ample dustbins will be set up soon. Drinking water facility will be further improved. Good information boards will be put up near the animal enclosures.

"It is proposed to have an interconnection between the Zoo and Karanji Lake through the aquarium with a common entrance and vehicle parking facility to facilitate the visitors. The inflow of sewage to Karanji Lake will be arrested after discussing with the local authorities. Two Bangalore-based companies have come forward to set up a hi-tech security system at the Zoo with centralised Control Room. More funds are sought from Central Zoo Authority to develop the Zoo," said Markandaiah.

Profile: K.B. Markandaiah, born on May 4, 1958 in Kolar, did his M.Sc (Zoology) from Central College, Bangalore. He joined the Forest Department as Assistant Conservator of Forests in 1986 and served in Karwar, Hunsur, Bangalore, Bhadra and Shimoga Wildlife Divisions and as DCF in Chikkamagalur. He was the Executive Director of Bannerghatta Biological Park, Bangalore, for five years. He was promoted to IFS Cadre in 2000 and served as Conservator of Forests in Kodagu before coming to Mysore Zoo as its Executive Director in July.

Courtesy : Star Of Mysore