BENGALURU, 11 MARCH

Bannerghatta Biological Park (BBP), a sanctuary for over 1,900 animals belonging to 94 species, is now facing severe water scarcity.

The scorching summer and dwindling groundwater levels have strained the park's water resources. This perennial challenge in the City forces the park to adopt innovative strategies to ensure the well-being of its inhabitants.

Park officials, led by CEO AV Surya Sen, are determined to ensure the well-being of their animal residents. "The water crisis is a challenge we face every summer, but this year it is different because of the water shortage that is plaguing the City. Our bore-wells are not as productive as they once were, and the surrounding lakes suffer from receding water levels." Sen told Salar News.

Additionally, BBP is exploring alternative water sources. He said discussions are underway with the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) to secure additional water supplies.

“Purchasing water is also a possibility. BBP is focusing on water conservation efforts for a more sustainable future. Rainwater harvesting systems are being planned to capture and store precious monsoon rains. Recharging existing bore-wells and exploring and planning to create new ones are also on the agenda,” he said.

‘Frozen food can save animals’

Elephant expert and Chief Wildlife Veterinarian, Dr Prayag Hodigere Siddalingappa, Chief Veterinary Officer (Mobile & Extension), has voiced his opinions on the water shortage and how the animals cope with it. “Animals can die out of heat stroke and dehydration and this applies to all the zoo animals as well. That's why in Mysuru zoo we have initiated a new way of coping with the heat. The vegetables and the meat diet is frozen in water and then given to the animals. This way the animals will be engaged in licking the ice and by the time the ice is melted the food will be thawed and water content is also consumed by them. I hope Bannerghatta will also implement the same,” he said.

“But for some animals like hippos and rhinos this is not possible to lick the ice for longer periods. For them, high water content fruits like watermelon, muskmelon, cucumber can be given,” he said.