SHC takes notice of Karachi Zoo’s poor conditions, demands full report

Following public outrage and legal action over the poor treatment of Himalayan brown bear Rano at the Karachi Zoo, who was kept in deplorable conditions with untreated wounds, the Sindh High Court (SHC) has ordered authorities to submit a report on the well-being of all animals housed at the zoo.

The case of Rano, a female Himalayan brown bear whose deteriorating has highlighted the broader issue of neglect faced by animals in captivity at the Karachi Zoo.

On Tuesday, the Sindh High Court (SHC) ordered Rano’s relocation following a petition that raised concerns about her condition.

During today’s continuation of the hearing, the SHC directed authorities to submit a comprehensive report on all animals currently housed at the zoo.

According to lawyer Jibran Nasir, who is representing the petitioner Jude Allen Pereira, the court has asked for detailed information on the animals’ physical and psychological well-being, their living conditions, the qualifications and training of zoo staff, and any alternative plans for the animals if they are to be relocated.

Nasir termed the decision a “massive achievement”, saying it was made possible by the combined efforts of animal rights activists, experts, and the media that raised awareness of the issue.

“We are deeply indebted to the empathy, understanding and judicial will of the honorable bench to make a difference in not just the lives of these animals, but for the education and sensitization of the society at large with regards to animals and their rights,” he told.

KMC’s counsel, Barrister Asad Ahmed, informed the court that Rano would first be relocated to Islamabad and then to Gilgit, with necessary training provided ahead of the move.

Lawyer Jibran Nasir noted that Wildlife Conservator Javed Mehar’s proposal for transport by road or air could be adopted, as similar relocations had been successfully carried out in the past.

During the hearing, Justice Iqbal Kalhoro emphasised that Rano's case reflects a broader issue affecting many animals in captivity.

He criticised the poor conditions in local zoos, questioning their viability and stated that animals should live in natural habitats instead.

Advocate Jibran Nasir highlighted the lack of trained staff and inadequate facilities at Karachi Zoo, including the presence of only one veterinarian. Justice Kalhoro further remarked on the misuse of zoo revenues and the absence of a national park concept in Pakistan, contrasting local conditions with international standards.

Rano, a critically endangered Himalayan brown bear at Karachi Zoo since 2017, was kept in solitary confinement under stressful conditions.

Despite a committee's recommendation for her relocation, the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation failed to act, leading to neglect and a serious head injury.

After animal rights activist Pereira petitioned the Sindh High Court, Justice Kalhoro condemned the KMC’s treatment and ordered Rano’s transfer to the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board, hailed as a major victory for the bear.