Gkp zoo reopening delayed despite negative bird flu reports
GORAKHPUR, July 5 -- The reopening of Shaheed Ashfaq Ullah Khan Zoological Park in Gorakhpur has been delayed by a day or two, despite confirmation of a third consecutive negative report for bird flu. The delay is due to the official report from the National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases (Nishad), Bhopal, not reaching the zoo authorities by Friday evening as expected.
Zoo director Vikas Yadav confirmed that officials from Nishad communicated the negative results via telephone. However, the physical report, which was expected on Friday afternoon, did not arrive. The zoo will reopen the day after the official document is received.
Samples from 13 sick animals were sent to Nishad, Bhopal, on June 25, following two earlier negative reports. In total, 72 samples, including those of critically ill tigress Malani, were tested. The zoo was temporarily closed after the death of Tigress Kesari on May 7. A post-mortem on May 13 confirmed the presence of the bird flu virus, prompting immediate closure to the public.
Although all samples have now tested negative for bird flu, concerns remain over the health of Tigress Malani, who continues to battle severe complications. Deputy zoo director Dr Yogesh Pratap Singh stated that Malani, aged around 13, is in a critical condition.
"Despite testing negative nearly two months ago, Malani's condition has not improved. The virus severely damaged her liver and kidneys. She is currently unable to stand or walk and shows minimal interest in food," he said.
Dr Singh added that the tigress is under continuous medical supervision, but her deteriorating condition remains a serious concern....
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