Bannerghatta park to be disabled-friendly

As a part of the master plan, the management of Bannerghatta Biological Park (BBP) is now working towards making the entrance and the zoo disabled friendly.

The management is talking to city-based architects and art schools on how to redo the entrance with ramps.

BBP Executive Director Sanjay Bijoor told DH that there is a need to have seamless walkways for physically challenged.

There is a plan to create a three-lane- for entry, exit and a buggy lane for the disabled, he said.

“It is still in preliminary discussion stages and a concept plan is being prepared. Talks are on with some art and architecture institutes also. Once things are finalised, work will start,” Bijoor said.

He reiterated that the facility is a part of the master plan and its implementation will be given priority.

In an effort to create a seamless entrance and walkway, the authorities would make Seating arrangements by putting up benches and gazebos at the entrance and across the zoo.

The BBP is also in talks with Centre for Environmental Education for positioning, signage, size and context.

The management is also working towards creating a photo point at the entrance where those waiting with family and children can take photographs. The plan is to install structures of animals to make it livelier.

Though similar structures are made in Mysuru zoo, Bijoor said BBP will look different.

Tours for children

The BBP management is creating guided tours specifically for children and youngsters to lure school-goers and increase footfall. These would be day-long programmes with 50% fee waiver, lunch and guided tours.

“Many school children visit the zoo. Their experience therefore needs to be made unique, educational and fun. Discussions are going on how to create special guided tours,” Bijoor said.