Zoo draws throngs of tourists
A Pakistan zoo is auctioning off a dozen of its 29 lions to private buyers to free up space. AFP
Eight-year-old Anaya Bibi, a vivacious fourth-grade student from a private school, radiated pure joy as she recounted her adventure to Peshawar Zoo during the festive Eid holidays.
For Anaya, it was a dream come true to witness firsthand the majesty of wild creatures in captivity, from fearsome cobras to majestic lions, graceful falcons, and towering giraffes. Hailing from Pabbi in the Nowshera district, Anaya was effusive in her gratitude towards her father, whose kindness had made her cherished wish a reality.
Anaya’s exhilaration was shared by throngs of children and families who flocked to Peshawar Zoo during the Eid festivities, drawn by the allure of encountering exotic wildlife within the confines of the zoo’s gates. The zoo, which sprawls across 29 acres of land adjacent to the University of Peshawar, stands as a testament to the province’s commitment to conservation and environmental education.
The influx of visitors during Eid was a testament to the zoo’s popularity, as families from far and wide converged to partake in the spectacle of nature’s wonders. From the bustling streets of Khyber to the verdant hills of Swabi, people came together to marvel at the diverse array of animals that call the zoo home.
Guided by knowledgeable wildlife experts, visitors embarked on a journey of discovery, learning about the habits and habitats of the creatures they encountered.
Published in The Express Tribune, April 13th, 2024.