Zoo signage to become more interactive with QR code

The National Zoological Park here is going to get a makeover as part of the ₹400-crore plan. The zoo authorities here have started changing the signboards and making them more interactive for visitors. Around 500 signage in the animal section and about 300 for plants will be changed and improvised with QR codes so that visitors can scan and get more audio-visual information on the specific species of flora and fauna at the zoo.

Director of the zoo, Sanjeet Kumar, said each animal enclosure will have a signboard displaying the name, species and feeding behaviour with QR codes for more detailed information such as their habitats, usual environments, etc. “Besides animal enclosures, signage showing directions and maps will also be made more interactive. Augmented reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) tools will be used to direct the visitors to their favourite spots,” he said. The signage showing ‘do’s’ and ‘don’ts’ will also be changed, Mr. Kumar added.

Under the second phase, plants and trees at the zoo will be labelled with their common name, while scientific name will be displayed along with QR codes.

As part of theplan to modernise the zoo, the authorities are planning to change the feeding trays of animals and making the floors and enclosures more comfortable for animals. “The tortoises need a space that is more humid which is being done by changing the cemented floors to coco peat floors to trap humidity. The rope ladders are being changed with leaves and branches in monkey enclosures. More ponds and fountains will be put up in time for summers,” Mr. Kumar said.

These minor works are expected to be completed within February. Efforts are being made to fill over 50% vacancy for permanent zoo staffers and consultants are being hired for various specialities such as botanists.