Neglected zoo animals
The gross neglect and dilapidated condition of the Karachi Zoo is putting the lives of innocent, voiceless animals at risk. After witnessing the fourth big cat fatality within a span of three years, reports of an endangered elephant fighting for her life have spread. She appears to be limping and in physical distress due to some problem in her hind legs and experts claim that immediate relocation from the zoo to Safari Park is necessary.
Zoo officials, however, tell a different story and claim that the elephant’s underlying condition is similar to a knee ache. Treatment is being given for the pain and in turn her condition is improving. But treating the pain is merely treating the symptom, not the actual cause itself. Instead of relying on self-knowledge, zoo officials must call in a professional veterinarian to assess the condition of the suffering animal and make an informed decision thereafter. In fact, considering the amount of physical and mental stress these animals have to go through while living in secluded enclosures with minimal food and water, check-ups and treatments must be a periodical practice in zoos across the country. If concerned officials are unable to provide them with basic necessities due to the current economic crisis, then it is better to shut down zoos and transport these animals to places where they will be treated with care — or even better, released back into their natural habitat following proper rehabilitation.
You only need half a brain to realise that such a big animal cannot be kept in captivity. In fact, no animal should have to go through such an ordeal just for the sake of human ego and pleasure. Animals belong in nature and that is where they should be.
Published in The Express Tribune, March 11th, 2023.
Like Opinion & Editorial on Facebook, follow @ETOpEd on Twitter to receive all updates on all our daily pieces.