LALITPUR: The Central Zoo in Jawalakhel, Lalitpur, has suffered an estimated financial loss of around Rs 30 million after it remained closed for 27 days following confirmation of bird flu infection.
The zoo was closed to the public by the National Trust for Nature Conservation from Ashar 5 (June 19) after the infection was detected. It resumed operations from Shrawan 1 after authorities confirmed that the outbreak had been brought under control.
Zoo Information Officer Ganesh Koirala said that after the detection of bird flu, the zoo carried out regular sanitation, treatment of infected animals and implemented necessary safety measures.
Following joint discussions among officials from the Department of Livestock Services, Central Veterinary Disease Investigation Laboratory and Epidemiology and Disease Control Division, a decision was made to reopen the zoo.
According to Koirala, the zoo normally receives around 1,700 to 1,800 visitors daily. Visitor numbers rise significantly on weekends, with 5,000 to 7,000 visitors on Saturdays and 3,500 to 5,000 visitors on Sundays. However, only 800 people visited on the first day after reopening on Shrawan 1 (July 17).
The zoo charges an entry fee of Rs 100 for children and senior citizens, Rs 150 for students, and Rs 250 for other visitors. The zoo generated around Rs 180 million in revenue last fiscal year and had set a target of earning Rs 210 million in fiscal year 2025/26. However, officials said the prolonged closure due to bird flu has created challenges in achieving the target.
Currently, the zoo ticket counter remains open from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, and all visitors must leave by 5:00 pm. Before the infection outbreak, the ticket counter operated until 6:00 pm.
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