The Assam State Zoo-cum-Botanical Garden will reopen for tourists from January 2, 2021, after a gap of almost 10 months as it was closed for the COVID-19 pandemic.

A standard Operating Procedure (SOP) has been issued for reopening. "All COVID-19 protocols will be strictly followed to prevent the spread of the virus," said Tejas Mariswamy, Divisional Forest Officer of the State Zoo.

Mariswamy said that no tickets will be sold at the counter to prevent person-to-person contact. He said that tickets will be sold only on online mode and that only 1000 visitors will be allowed per day.

The DFO further said that wearing masks, use of sanitizers and mainatining of social distancing have been made compulsory for visitors as well as the zoo staff.

According to reports, the zoo was supposed to reopen on December 1 but it was delayed due to the prevailing pandemic situation.

The DFO further stated that sanitization of the entire premises is underway from time to time and will be followed continuously adding that the animals are safe and secure to date and that the authorities are ensuring safety even after the reopening of the zoo.