Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Oct 15: The Sanjay Gandhi National Park which was closed for nearly seven months since the lockdown imposed from the Centre due to the coronavirus pandemic is set to reopen its gates for morning walkers from Thursday, October 15.

However, a designated route will be marked from the main gate to Tumnipada around 10 km and walkers can no longer choose their path. The designated route keeps away forest guards residences and officials and steers clear of animals.

"While there was only one incident of a tiger in New York getting infected by Covid-19, we want to ensure our animals are safe," additional principal chief conservator of forests, Sunil Limaye said.

Nearly 8000 walkers have registered and batches would be created and certain days of the week would be allotted to different batches. However, senior citizens over 65 and children below 10 and pregnant women will not be permitted. Passes can be renewed in a month. Timings will be from 5.30 am to 7.30 am.