Bathinda, May 17 -- As the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a five day yellow alert for heatwave conditions in Punjab and Haryana starting from Monday, special arrangements have been made at Bathinda Zoo to protect animals from the rising heat, an official said on Sunday.

Bathinda Animal Husbandry Department Assistant Director Dr Vijay Kumar said that advisories have been issued in view of the rising heat.

"Our department is responsible for the health services of the animals. We have issued advisories regarding the adverse effects of heatwaves. The Forest Department strictly follows all protocols, including quarantine procedures for new animals to acclimate them to the environment before integrating them into the general war...