Pilot project draws good response; senior citizens won't have to trudge through rough terrain now
In a much needed respite for visitors, battery-operated vehicles will soon be available at the sprawling Bannerghatta Biological Park.
The 104-acre park draws more than 10 lakh visitors and most of them, especially senior citizens and women, have often complained that traversing through the park's undulating topography was challenging.
Park authorities had recently allowed five battery-operated vehicles on a pilot basis to ferry tourists around the zoo. Seeing the overwhelming response, they have now decided to float tenders for supply of more battery-operated vehicles.
"We have laid down motorable roads to enable movement of these vehicles. A New Delhi-based manufacturer was operating five vehicles on a pilot basis. The response has been tremendous. We have now decided to introduce more vehicles," Range Gowda, BBP executive director, told Bangalore Mirror.
The three-wheeled eco-friendly vehicle — which can accommodate six people — takes about 45-50 minutes to cover the entire zoo area. The trek halts briefly before every enclosure where the driver doubles up as a guide to talk about the animals.
"Once charged fully, the vehicles can run nonstop for about five to six hours. Currently, each tourist is charged Rs 50 per trip. Introducing more vehicles would decongest the park," said senior BBP official who did not want to be named.
Battery-operated vehicles are not only easy to operate, but will also reduce noise and air pollution. Authorities are also considering these vehicles for tiger and lion safaris.
"Since these vehicles are quiet and smooth, we can use them for safaris too. However, we will need fully covered and sealed vehicles to operate within the safari area," Gowda said.
-- BM
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