India, Oct. 9 -- The Delhi zoo on Wednesday said the latest set of samples - sent for testing for avian influenza (bird flu) had returned back negative. The zoo, which was shut since August 30 following multiple bird deaths, has now approached the Union Environment Ministry, seeking approval to resume operations.

No positive samples have been reported from September 2 onwards, the zoo officials said, stating random sampling has been carried out and sent to the National Institute for High Security Animal Diseases (NIHSAD) in Bhopal.

Zoo Director Sanjeet Kumar said the proposal to resume operations has been sent to the competent authorities and that the decision will be taken in accordance with prescribed guidelines.

"The report for the ...