Tragedy at Delhi zoo

Though versions differ on how 20-year-old Maqsood fell into the enclosure at the Delhi zoo, there is no doubt that the authorities could have prevented his death (“ >Tiger mauls visitor to death in Delhi zoo ,” Sept.24). The tiger was zoo-bred and therefore not accustomed to hunting. Its reactions, as described in the article, show that the authorities had ample time to act. The incident shows that Indian zoos lack adequate emergency responses.

Ganapathi Bhat,

Akola

The picture was both spine-chilling and heart-rending. The tiger took some time to measure things up, during which time the guards should have swung into action. Why was there no tranquilliser gun? Let us hope that zoo staff are equipped with such devices in future.

D. Sethuraman,

Chennai

What was completely stunning was the image of India’s national animal glowering down on an utterly hapless young man who could have gone on to make accomplishments.

Mohan Das,

Bangalore