Key Takeaways:

• Zoo closed June 19–July 17 after avian influenza detected
• Estimated Rs 30M loss during 27-day shutdown
• Visitor turnout dropped sharply after reopening
• Zoo earned Rs 180M last fiscal year, targeted Rs 210M for 2025/26
• Operating hours shortened; safety measures remain in place

KATHMANDU, JULY 20 Central Zoo in Jawalakhel suffered an estimated Rs 30 million loss after being closed to visitors for 27 days following the detection of bird flu infections. The Central Zoo in Lalitpur was shut from June 19 (Asar 5) by the National Trust for Nature Conservation and reopened on July 17 (Shrawan 1) after authorities declared the infection under control. Zoo information officer Ganesh Koirala said extensive cleaning, treatment of affected animals and precautionary measures were undertaken during the closure. A joint meeting of officials from the Department of Livestock Services, Central Veterinary Laboratory and Epidemiology and Disease Control Division later approved reopening. Before the outbreak, the zoo attracted 1,700–1,800 visitors on weekdays, 5,000–7,000 on Saturdays and 3,500–5,000 on Sundays. On reopening day, only around 800 visitors entered. The zoo, which charges Rs 100 for children and senior citizens, Rs 150 for students and Rs 250 for other visitors, generated nearly Rs 180 million in revenue last fiscal year and had set a Rs 210 million target for 2025/26. Officials said the prolonged closure has made achieving that target more difficult. Operating hours have also been shortened, with ticket counters now open from 10 am to 4 pm and visitors required to leave by 5 pm. Authorities said monitoring and preventive measures remain in place to ensure the safety of animals, birds and visitors.