Coronavirus outbreak: Assam orders shutting of protected areas

The Assam government on Monday ordered shutting of protected areas in the state in view of the novel coronavirus outbreak, officials said. A notification issued by Additional Principal Chief Conservator of Forests (Wildlife) and Chief Wildlife Warden M K Yadava said that mass gatherings in protected areas like tiger reserves, national parks and sanctuaries may be avoided till COVID-19 is contained.

The tiger reserves, national parks and sanctuaries shall remain closed from March 17 to March 29 while the Assam State Zoo cum Botanical Garden in Guwahati will remain out of bounds for visitors with immediate effect till March 29, the order said. Assam has four tiger reserves, five national parks and 19 wildlife sanctuaries.

"This measure has been taken to prevent the spread of the disease and in pursuance of the notification issued by the Central Zoo Authority of India and the Assam General Administration Department," it said. Permission granted for the shooting of films and conduct of research shall also remain suspended till March 29, the order added..

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