Gorewada zoo beats the heat with coolers, fogger systems and water holes for big cats

Nagpur: Gorewada International Zoo has introduced an extensive set of cooling measures to protect animals from the harsh summer heat, with temperatures in the city frequently soaring to 45°C.Zoo director Pandurang Pakhale said preparations begin well before peak summer. Artificial ponds and water holes have been created inside enclosures, where tigers spend long hours during the hottest part of the day.Foggers and misting systems have also been installed to reduce ambient temperature and maintain humidity levels. "The fogger system lowers the temperature and increases humidity, creating a comfortable environment for tigers, leopards, and herbivores," Pakhale said.To minimise heat exposure, large shade nets have been erected over open sections of enclosures, while staff regularly spray water on the ground during peak afternoon hours to reduce surface temperatures.Assistant manager Sarika Khote said the zoo has focused on recreating natural habitat conditions inside the enclosures. Bamboo plantations have been added in select areas to provide shade and cover, while elevated wooden machaans and activity structures have been installed inside kraals — off-display holding enclosures connected to night shelters. "The machaans provide a natural setting and help keep the animals physically active," Khote said.Unlike conventional zoos, Gorewada functions on a safari model spread across forested terrain, where tigers, leopards, and herbivores roam expansive enclosures as tourist buses move along designated routes. Animals undergoing treatment or observation are housed in kraals, which allow controlled yet relatively free movement during recovery.