Mayor opens upgraded recreational spots at Karachi Zoo

KARACHI: The Mayor of the city, Barrister Murtaza Wahab, inaugurated a few infrastructure and recreational development projects at the Karachi Zoo. The projects are the first step towards the transformation of the zoo into a modern, safe, and nature-friendly recreational center, claimed Barrister Murtaza.

While addressing journalists at the ceremony, he said that the zoo, which is referred to as Gandhi Garden, is a precious resource for the city, and efforts are being made to upgrade it.

Mayor Wahab highlighted that the internal zoo paths, enclosures, and facilities had deteriorated for decades, and now a state-of-the-art two-acre enclosure has been developed for lions Chandni and Rani, designed as if it were their natural environment. The enclosures are equipped with bulletproof glass, water areas, and relaxation areas.

Also, he noted that the fact that the elephants Rani and Chandni were born in the zoo showed that the animals were healthy, as animals that are not healthy are usually unable to give birth.

Steps have been taken to improve the diet, care, and medical attention offered to all animals, including the hiring of more veterinary doctors to provide international-standard medical attention.

The Reptile House at the zoo has already been refurbished and reopened, while a viewing tower has been erected for visitors, especially youth and photography lovers. Modern walkways and sitting areas are being set up to make the zoo a quality educational and recreational facility for families and students.

“Thousands of people throng the zoo daily, particularly from low and middle-income classes,” noted the mayor while announcing that an entry fee has been charged at Rs30 per child and Rs50 per adult, and this would be used for further development in the zoo.”

He further clarified that they have no plans to buy new large animals, but rather to breed the ones they have.