Mumbai's Sanjay Gandhi National Park reopens for walkers but they can only take 10km path

MUMBAI: After nearly seven months, Sanjay Gandhi National Park will open its gates for morning walkers from Thursday, albeit with riders.
"Masks and sanitizers are mandatory," state the guidelines issued by park authorities.
Morning walkers can no longer choose their path. A designated route has been marked from the main gate to Tumnipada and back, of around 10km.
The route avoids residences of forest guards 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," said Sunil Limaye, additional principal chief conservator of forests.
There are around 8,000 registered walkers who will be divided into batches and allowed only on certain days of the week. Batches have been created based on the first English alphabet in the first name on the pass. Thus, those with alphabets A to I can come on day one, J to Q day two and R-Z day three. Senior citizens over 65, kids below 10 and pregnant women are not allowed. Walkers can renew passes in a month. The timing is 5.30 am to 7.30 am.
G Mallikarjuna, director, SGNP, said depending on the success of the program (no Covid spread), the park may be opened for visitors in coming days.