Guwahati: Elephants in Assam State Zoo can now roam around without heavy chains as authorities have envisaged "scientific" enclosures for them where they can live in natural surroundings.

"The proposed large scientific elephant enclosure will not only help in their better management but also provide an opportunity to the visitors to have a closer look at the animals," Zoo Director Narayan Mahanta told PTI.

"Basically, the animals will get a natural atmosphere and they will be scientifically managed inside the enclosure," Mahanta said.

Earlier, the elephants used to be chained inside the zoo which results in increased stress, causing mental and physical harm, he said.

The zoo official said the effort was to give the animals a feel of the natural habitat which has already been done in enclosures of golden langurs and Himalayan black bear.

There were instances of black bears killing babies due to stress and lack of space inside the zoo enclosures.  "But large space and natural environment in their enclosure has resulted in social mothering among black bears," Mahanta said.

Zoo authorities want to build the enclosures with the help of private companies. "Private companies have shown interest in investing to improve the zoo enclosures and provide a face lift to the premises," Mahanta said.

The proposed scientific enclosure will also take care of bathing, foot care, diet and medication of the elephants.

Source : PTI