Chirldren at Birsa zoo in Ranchi on Sunday. (Hardeep Singh)

Ranchi, Dec. 27: Birsa Munda Biological Park is gearing up to accommodate influx of revellers on New Year eve.

The zoo authorities have decided to increase the number of ticket counters from two to seven to check overcrowding.

The zoo authorities are racing against time to finish to painting the trees trunks, cleaning its nine water tanks, renovating 30 dilapidated animal enclosures and pruning garden.

“We witness heavy rush on three days — December 31, January 1 and 2. There will be extra security arrangements in and around the zoo as we don’t want to take chances. An officer of the rank of magistrate, a team of doctors, water tanks and also police officials of Ormanjhi police station would be there for the checking,” said zoo director P.K. Verma.

The zoo also plans to increase the number of ticket counters in accordance with the increase in the footfall.

“On December 31, we get around 10,000 to 15,000 visitors which increases on New Year. Hence if any additional counter is required we would increase further,” said Verma.

There will be no increase in ticket rates. “Tickets will cost Rs 10 for adults and Rs 5 for children. Visitors start thronging the zoo from December 25 and continues till mid-February. Last year, the total footfall was around 2.8 lakh during the peak season. We expect more visitors this year,” said Verma.

Boat riding is another major attraction at the zoo, which owns five speed boats.

Verma requested visitors not to bring plastic bags with them. Visitors won’t be allowed to prepare food on the zoo premises, but they may carry ready food with them.