YET another animal — a lioness — is critically ill at the Karachi Zoo. The feline, emaciated and barely able to move, is suffering due to old age, according to the zoo director. However, this does little to explain the depth of neglect that has become a recurring theme at this facility. The lioness’s condition — which recently drew attention in a video on social media — is a grim reminder of past tragedies involving other creatures of the wild like elephants, lions, bears and even a young chimpanzee who died of a heart attack. Such incidents are not isolated to Karachi. Islamabad’s Marghazar Zoo was shut down after a landmark judgement, and transformed into a wildlife rescue centre following the global advocacy for Kaavan, the elephant. This not only alleviated the suffering of many animals but also set a precedent for how we should approach wildlife captivity.

Zoos, if unable to replicate near-natural habitats and ensure the welfare of their residents, should indeed be closed. The example of Islamabad should inspire Karachi to consider a similar path, possibly through privatisation, provided stringent reforms and oversight mechanisms are established. The Sindh High Court might consider intervening to safeguard these voiceless creatures, as their suffering reflects our failure as a society to protect the most vulnerable. The role of our zoos must evolve from being just exhibition spaces to centres for conservation and education. If we cannot meet these standards, it is perhaps time to rethink our approach to wildlife in captivity. Karachi Zoo must be reimagined as a sanctuary that genuinely contributes to conservation efforts, rather than being a place where animals merely survive. If we lack the resources or the will to provide for these creatures, we must have the courage to choose a kinder alternative. Closure or new management with strict oversight — anything less would be a disservice to the captive animals. Negligence is cruelty, and it must be stopped.

Published in Dawn, April 23rd, 2024