GUWAHATI: A section of the guard wall surrounding the Assam State Zoo in Guwahati collapsed on October 5 due to the incessant heavy rainfall that has been drenching the city in the last few days.
The heavy rainfall in Guwahati, a recurring seasonal challenge, has been a primary factor contributing to the incident. The collapse of the guard wall raises several questions, specifically about the risks of dangerous wild animals escaping and posing a threat to the visitors of the zoo and people nearby.
Speaking to GPlus, Wasim Akram, a resident near the state zoo, said, "If the guard wall has collapsed, it is indeed a cause of concern as there's a chance of wild animals escaping and posing a threat to the residents living nearby."
However, speaking to GPlus, Ashwin Kumar, the Zoo Divisional Forest Officer (DFO), stated "It is important to clarify that the entire guard wall has not collapsed. Approximately 20 metres of the wall, specifically on the Geetanagar side of the Assam state zoo, was affected."
DFO Kumar emphasised, "We are taking immediate measures to address the issue and ensure the safety of both the animals and visitors."