Tragic elephant death

The sudden demise of Sonia, a long-time resident of Karachi's Safari Park, marks yet another grim chapter in Pakistan's troubling history of captive animal care. While it is claimed that there was no negligence on the part of the Safari Park administration in her death, the grim reality of zoos across Pakistan hint at a different reality. Time and again, these facilities have demonstrated a glaring lack of care, expertise and commitment to animal welfare.

Captured from the wild in Tanzania at a young age, she Sonia brought to Pakistan alongside three other elephants. For over a decade, Safari Park incorrectly identified her as male - a glaring oversight. In the months leading up to her death, Sonia's deteriorating health was well-known to the park authorities. Yet, despite this knowledge, she spent her final days confined to an enclosure Globally, there is a growing consensus that traditional zoos, which prioritise human entertainment over animal welfare, are relics of the past. Sanctuaries and conservation centres designed to mimic natural habitats are the modern standard. Pakistan's zoos and safari parks, however, continue to operate under outdated and exploitative models, often failing to meet even the most basic standards of care.

The government must recognise that this status quo is neither sustainable nor acceptable. Zoos across the country need to be revamped or closed down, and the animals housed within them must be relocated to sanctuaries or conservation centres where their welfare can be prioritised. This transition requires bold and decisive action. The government must invest in partnering with international organisations to develop sanctuaries that can house these helpless animals. It must also enforce strict regulations and ensure accountability for negligence to protect these voiceless animals from harm or neglect.