Finally, Kolkata's Alipore Zoo to introduce cloakroom facility for visitors
West Bengal Zoo Authority has approved the implementation of a cloakroom service in response to longstanding concerns raised by both and local visitors, who have often faced difficulties managing their personal belongings during their time at the zoo.
According to Arun Mukherjee, director of the Zoological Garden, the cloakroom will be located adjacent to the main ticket counter for maximum accessibility. 'The facility will house around 1,000 cabinets and will be available free of charge. We are aiming to have it fully operational before the upcoming Durga Puja to better serve the festive crowd,' said Mukherjee.
Established in 1876, Alipore Zoo holds the distinction of being India's oldest zoological park and remains one of the most popular recreational destinations in the city. With an annual footfall of approximately three million, the zoo continues to attract visitors from across the country. However, despite its widespread popularity, the absence of a cloakroom has been a significant shortcoming in its public service infrastructure. Carrying backpacks, food baskets, and other large items has often caused inconvenience to guests, particularly during weekends, holidays, and the peak winter season.
Until now, the zoo's official website had advised visitors to avoid bringing excess baggage, clearly stating that no storage facility was available on site.
This cloakroom facility is in line with the zoo's ongoing efforts to modernize infrastructure and improve the quality of services offered to the public. It is expected to ease congestion at entry points and allow visitors to enjoy the zoo's offerings more comfortably.
In recent years, the zoo has introduced several upgrades, including purified drinking water stations, improved restroom facilities, sanitary napkin vending machines, breastfeeding rooms, battery-operated carts, and wheelchairs for the elderly and differently-abled.
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