Visitors to Patna zoo can soon enjoy the scenic view offered from the southwest corner of the old lake, as the authorities are developing a platform near the giraffe enclosure.

The foundation for the 40ftx20ft Sal wood platform is ready, while the actual viewing platform will be ready in two months. At least 50 people can enjoy the view from the lake and the cool breeze round-the-year under a shade.

Zoo director Abhay Kumar said: “The southwest corner of the old lake allows visitors to have a scenic view. As the lake flows northward from this end, visitors enjoy the breeze in this area round the year. Considering the apt location of the spot, we are developing an elevated platform near the giraffe enclosure. People can stand there and enjoy the view. The platform would be made of Sal wood and have a shade for around 50 people.”

The zoo authorities are also putting in place a bio-filter plant at the northwest side of the lake to treat around 25 kilolitres of wastewater.

The wastewater, collected through open drains from various sections of the zoo, is now discharged into the lake.

But the bio-filter plant being installed by National Environmental Engineering Research Institute, Nagpur, would treat the wastewater and put it to use.

The plant too would be functional within two months, said the zoo director.

A greenhouse is also under construction.

Once ready by next month, it would be home to different trees, ferns and cactus not found in the state. Abhay said the greenhouse would allow 10 per cent sunlight to penetrate and humidity will be controlled with sprinklers.