KATHMANDU: The Central Zoo in Jawalakhel, Lalitpur, has reopened to the public today after being temporarily shut down on June 19, following the detection of avian influenza (bird flu) in crows, vultures, and ducks.

The decision to resume operations was finalized on Thursday during a meeting of senior officials from the Department of Livestock Services, the Central Veterinary Disease Research Laboratory, and the Epidemiology and Disease Control Division, after environmental samples tested negative for the virus following extensive treatment, sanitation, and safety management cycles.

According to Zoo Spokesperson and Information Officer Ganesh Koirala, the zoo will be open for entry from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and visitors must exit the premises by 5:00 PM.

To ensure public safety, the management has urged visitors to maintain a safe distance from all animals and birds, particularly near previously infected enclosures which have been cordoned off with red ribbons.

Visitors are also strictly advised to wear masks, avoid eating in open areas, and properly discard waste in designated dustbins.