Zoological gardens: PM asks to improve condition of zoos

Directives issued in the light of a letter written to premier by World Association of Zoos and Aquariums

ISLAMABAD:

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has directed the Ministry of Climate Change (MoCC) to take appropriate steps to improve condition of zoological gardens across the country.

The premier has issued the directives in light of a letter written by the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) asking Pakistan to improve condition of it zoos to bring them at par with international standard.

The WAZA is a Switzerland-based unifying organisation for the world zoo and aquarium community which guides, encourages and support zoos, aquariums and like-minded organisations of the world in animal care and welfare, environmental education and global conservation.

According to sources, the prime minister has taken serious notice of the letter and directed the MoCC to take appropriate measures for improving the awful condition of zoological gardens in collaboration with provincial governments and relevant departments.

“The ministry has contacted provincial governments and has sought their proposals and suggestions for improvement of zoos across the country,” an official told The Express Tribune on the condition of anonymity.

He said that in pursuit of the prime minister’s directives, Climate Change Secretary Syed Abu Akif visited Marghazar Zoo in Islamabad and met with Capital Development Authority Director Zoo Abdul Rasheed on Thursday. During the visit, the secretary pointed out small perches and enclosures for birds and animals and directed the zoo administration to take steps to provide sagacious and conducive environment to animals and birds.

The secretary also asked the zoo administration to invite experts from across the country to conduct training workshops to sensitise the zoo officials.

Waqar Ahmed, a resident of Islamabad, who is a zoologist, told The Express Tribune that the condition of birds and animals in Marghazar Zoo was pitiable. He said that perches for birds and cages and enclosures for animals were too small for their movement. Ahmed said that the zoo administration has failed to take appropriate steps for the wellbeing of primates and animals.

 

Published in The Express Tribune, April 8^th,  2016.