KARACHI, Aug 2: Former City Nazim Niamatullah Khan has criticized the city government decision to give Zoo, Safari and Aquarium under the control of community development group of offices.

The decision was ‘unwise’ and ‘uncalled for’ and would affect the working of the department, he said, adding, these departments were separated with the consent of a former DCO as EDOs of the Community Development Department were finding it difficult to pay attention to the department’s technical requirements. However, with their separation, the working of the department improved considerably, he added.

Mr Khan demanded of the CDGK’s caretaker to revoke the decision and give more financial and managerial powers to the department on the pattern of Lahore Zoological gardens.

He recalled that the Zoo, Safari and Aquarium Department shortly after its separation from the community development group of offices succeeded in opening the Safari park’s safari area for general public, introduced safari coaches and wheeler train, set up rose and jasmine garden, aquarium and amusement area.

It also resulted in an increase in the park’s annual income which jumped to over Rs 10 million following auctioning of Safari coaches, wheeler train, canteen and gate money contracts.

He said that credit for undertaking reconstruction of Clifton’s aquarium, adding 100 more animals in the zoological gardens, construction of aquariums in Landhi-Korangi zoo also goes to the department and its officials.