GORAKHPUR, June 10 -- The outbreak of avian influenza H5N1 (bird flu) has dealt a severe economic blow to the Shaheed Ashfaqullah Khan Zoological Park in Gorakhpur which, according to officials, will remain closed till further notice. Earlier, the zoo was closed to the public in three separate spells from May 13 to June 10.

Zoo director Vikas Yadav confirmed the temporary closure, stating that strict biosecurity measures have been implemented as per the Central Zoo Authority (CZA) guidelines to prevent any further spread of the virus. "We are taking precautions to protect the animals from infection. Until we receive clearance, the zoo will remain closed to visitors," he said.

According to deputy director Yogesh Pratap Singh, all infecte...