Renovation at Karachi Zoo attracts more visitors

However, the conflict over the provision of funds slows down the development work


Our Correspondent June 13, 2019
PHOTO: FILE

KARACHI: The Karachi Zoo, also known as Gandhi Garden, is visited by a large number of Karachi's residents. On Sundays alone, an estimated 10,000 people visit the Zoo. Since its renovation work began, the number of the number of visitors has increased at the Zoo. However, the conflict over the provision of funds between the Centre and the provincial government is slowing down the development work.

The on-going development work at Karachi Zoo, part of the Karachi Mega Project, has entered its final phase of completion but might be delayed due to the suspension of funds. The funds reserved for Karachi Zoo have been delayed due to, what the Sindh government says, failure of federal government to transfer Sindh's share.

Renovation of Karachi Zoo is being carried out at the cost of Rs320 million. Ten of the 32 bathrooms constructed under this project were open for public during the Eid holidays and the rest of them are to be opened soon. Although the work on the parking area at Gate No5 is still going on, it has been made operational for visitors. The boundary walls of the zoo have also reached the final stage of construction while work on new railings for the animals is under way and expected to be completed soon. A recycle plant is also being installed under the project to solve the issue of water supply for plants, trees and animals. The renovation work will improve Karachi Zoo, which is one of the few public recreational spaces in the city and a tourist attraction. The project could be completed in a few months but the non-release of funds might affect it like other projects. The estimated cost of the renovation has soared to Rs340m of which Rs160m have been issued. The remaining Rs10m have yet to be released by the Sindh government but might be delayed due to the non-provision of funds.

Published in The Express Tribune, June 13th, 2019.

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