Alipore zoo will be closed to visitors from Tuesday to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.

“The zoo will be shut for visitors from March 17 till March 31. We will take a call on the future after March 31,” said zoo director Asis Kumar Samanta.

The zoo is one of the most visited spots in the state and sees a few thousand visitors every day even in the peak of summer. The keepers and some staff will, however, remain at the zoo to take care of the animals, he said.

Other popular spots in the city, like Victoria Memorial and Science City, have also announced a similar shutdown.