Several cages were completely empty. Most animals seemed to be in a weak state.
KARACHI: The Karachi zoological garden was once considered to be a place of learning and entertainment for both children and adults. But now, if we see this place, its condition has severely deteriorated. The zoo comprises 33 acres but its administration has failed to utilise it in a more appropriate way. Recently, I visited the zoo after nine years and I was shocked by its condition. Several cages were completely empty. Most animals, like the lion, the Bengal tiger, the white lion and lioness seemed to be in a weak state. The water containing the pelicans and ducks was dirty and littered. The reptile house, which recently welcomed an imported American python, failed to feed him for a whole month.
There are no proper monthly medical check-ups for the animals. The white lion’s acrylic cage, which was inaugurated earlier this year, is already in a dirty state, the scratches and marks on its glass case giving the impression that it has been housed by the zoo for centuries. As this is the only place in the city where children can learn about all types of different animals, there is a need to improve its condition and do everything possible to restore it to its former glory.
Maria Nissar
Published in The Express Tribune, April 10th, 2013.
