The Karachi Zoo, also known as the Karachi Zoological Gardens, has been in the news lately due to the poor living conditions faced by the animals kept there. The issue has escalated with the deteriorating condition of a 17-year-old elephant named Noor Jehan, who is in critical health.
The zoo, which was established in 1878, has been criticized for its inadequate facilities and lack of proper care for its animals. The enclosures are small and cramped, with little room for the animals to move around. The animals are often seen pacing back and forth, which is a sign of stress and anxiety.
Noor Jehan, the zoo’s only elephant, has been in declining health for some time now. She is suffering from a bacterial infection and has lost a significant amount of weight. The zoo’s veterinarians have been treating her, but her condition has not improved, and she remains critically ill.
Animal rights activists have been calling for the closure of the zoo for years. The Karachi Zoo has been notorious for its neglect and abuse of animals. The animals are often malnourished and sick, and many have died prematurely. The zoo’s administration has been accused of embezzling funds, and corruption is rampant.
The situation has become so dire that the Sindh High Court has ordered the formation of a committee to investigate the conditions at the Karachi Zoo. The committee will submit its report to the court within two weeks.
The Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC), which runs the zoo, has announced that it will be shutting down the zoo permanently. The KMC has cited the high cost of maintaining the zoo and the poor conditions faced by the animals as the reason for the closure.
The decision has been met with mixed reactions. Some animal rights activists are pleased that the zoo will finally be shut down, while others are concerned about the fate of the animals. The KMC has assured the public that it will relocate the animals to more suitable habitats, and it is working with various organizations to ensure their safety and well-being.
The closure of the Karachi Zoo is a wake-up call for authorities to take better care of the animals in their custody. It is essential to provide them with adequate facilities, proper care, and a suitable environment. Animal rights activists are hoping that the closure of the zoo will lead to a greater awareness of animal welfare issues in Pakistan and encourage the government to enact stricter laws to protect animals.
