Bahawalpur Zoo in a shambles, probe ordered

Surprise visit reveals negligence, false records, corruption in animal feeding

BAHAWALPUR:

Additional Chief Secretary South Punjab, Fawad Hashim Rabbani, paid a surprise visit to Bahawalpur Zoo on Sunday and expressed dissatisfaction over its overall condition and administrative affairs.

During the unannounced inspection on a public holiday, the additional chief secretary conducted a detailed review of all sections of the zoo.

He voiced displeasure over poor management and revealed preliminary evidence of serious negligence and administrative irregularities by the zoo administration and staff.

According to officials, scrutiny of official records showed that lions were being fed regularly. However, when staff responsible for handling the animals were questioned on the spot, they contradicted the records and disclosed that the lions were not being provided food as claimed.

This discrepancy raised serious concerns and pointed towards possible corruption.

The inspection also uncovered strong indications of corruption, particularly in matters related to animal feed and other administrative affairs, which were found to be suspicious. Several other shortcomings were observed, including poor maintenance of animal enclosures and green areas, lack of proper guidance facilities for visitors, and overall negligence, leaving the zoo in a deplorable and alarming state.

The additional chief secretary noted that such conditions posed a serious threat to animal welfare and undermined public trust.

Taking strict notice of the situation, he directed the zoo management to take immediate corrective and administrative measures to ensure transparency and address systemic weaknesses.

He ordered that animal welfare be ensured at all costs and stated that further action would be taken strictly in accordance with the law. Emphasising the Punjab government's policy, Fawad Hashim Rabbani said there was zero tolerance for negligence, corruption, and cruelty towards animals, warning that those found responsible would face strict action.