Delhi zoo seeks nod to reopen as bird flu tests turn negative

Delhi’s National Zoological Park (NZP) has submitted a proposal to reopen following two consecutive negative test results for avian influenza (H5N1), which forced its closure in late August 2025 after the virus killed several painted storks.

"The report of last sample sent on October 1 and received on October 7 has been found negative. After two consecutive negative reports... the proposal for reopening has been moved. The zoo reopening date will be informed to all concerned," the zoo authorities said on Wednesday.

The zoo faced a challenging period in the past couple of months. In late August, avian influenza prompted emergency quarantines and closure of bird enclosures. Samples confirmed H5N1 at the National Institute of High Security Animal Diseases in Bhopal, revealing the zoo’s lack of in-house testing facilities.

September brought further losses: five of six tiger cubs born to tigress Aditi died due to an unidentified infection and delayed diagnosis, two zebra finches perished on September 17, and Shankar, a 30-year-old African elephant, died suddenly on September 18.