Madhubala undergoes tests

The health of Madhubala, the second elephant of Karachi Zoo, has been under scrutiny as concerns were raised about her health. Today, various tests were conducted on Madhubala before her planned relocation to Safari Park. The Four Paws international vet Dr. Amir Khalil along with his team has arrived and expressed concerns over the elephant's health.

"Madhubala was with Noor Jahan for many years. That is why tests are being conducted. Blood tests, x-rays, and ultrasound were done," said Dr. Amir Khalil. He added that Madhubala is also suffering from mental stress and that the test reports will decide whether or not she will be safe to be shifted to Safari Park. He stressed that elephants require a large suitable place for living, and there is a need to create a sanctuary for them to live in a natural environment. "One elephant needs about 1.5 acres of land," he added.

In order to take care of existing and new animals, including elephants, experts from foreign countries will be called for training, and people from here will also be sent abroad for training.

Meanwhile, Karachi Zoo director Kanwar Ayub has delayed the transfer of Madhubala from Karachi Zoo to Safari Park until her health report is cleared. He said that Madhubala had undergone various tests, and they would wait for the test reports before making any decisions.

It may be recalled that in 2009, four elephants were shifted from Tanzania to Karachi Zoo.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 25^th, 2023.