Karachi: The Sindh High Court has established a high-level committee to oversee the phased closure of zoos across the province, signaling a major shift in the management and future of wildlife facilities in Sindh. The decision was taken in the wake of a case concerning the transfer of a female bear named Rano from Karachi Zoo, highlighting longstanding concerns about animal welfare, zoo management, and conservation practices in the province.
The court, presided over by the Doraknay bench of the Sindh High Court, issued a detailed written order outlining the formation and mandate of the committee. The bench emphasized that the phased closure of zoos should be handled systematically, ensuring the welfare of animals while addressing the administrative and logistical challenges associated with managing these facilities. The court underscored the importance of expert guidance, careful planning, and adherence to conservation principles throughout the process.
According to the written order, the high-level committee is tasked with submitting detailed proposals for the phased closure of zoos in Sindh. The committee will be assisted by specialists from relevant fields, including wildlife conservationists, veterinarians, and environmental experts, to ensure that decisions are informed by scientific knowledge and best practices. This collaborative approach is expected to improve the overall management of animal facilities and protect the rights and welfare of the animals involved.
The proposal for the formation of the committee was initially submitted by Jaweed Mehr, the Conservator of Wildlife, who recommended the creation of a dedicated body to oversee the process. By including experts from various sectors, the committee is expected to conduct comprehensive assessments of existing zoos, identify deficiencies, and propose actionable solutions for their phased closure or transformation into more sustainable and ethical wildlife centers.
The court order also stipulates that the committee has the authority to visit all zoos in the province, observe operational practices, assess animal health and habitat conditions, and make practical recommendations. The committee will be responsible for drafting a detailed roadmap, including timelines and actionable steps, to ensure that the closure of zoos occurs in an organized and humane manner. The initiative is seen as a critical step toward improving animal welfare standards in Sindh and aligning the province’s wildlife management practices with global norms.
Animal welfare advocates have long criticized existing zoos in Sindh for poor infrastructure, overcrowding, inadequate nutrition, and limited veterinary care. The Sindh High Court’s intervention aims to address these concerns systematically, providing legal oversight and expert guidance for the gradual transformation or closure of problematic facilities. Experts believe that the phased approach will prevent abrupt disruptions to animal care while allowing time for the development of alternative conservation and rehabilitation measures.
The case concerning the transfer of Rano, the female bear from Karachi Zoo, brought to light several operational and ethical issues faced by the province’s wildlife facilities. The court’s order emphasizes that every decision must prioritize the well-being of the animals and ensure that no harm comes to them during the transition process. The establishment of the high-level committee is expected to standardize procedures across all zoos and introduce measures that are in line with modern conservation ethics.
The Sindh High Court has adjourned the next hearing in this matter until November 21, allowing the committee sufficient time to begin its assessments and prepare initial recommendations. During this period, the committee will likely review current practices, consult with stakeholders, and identify best practices for managing animal welfare during the closure of facilities.
Legal analysts note that the court’s proactive role in forming the committee represents a growing recognition of animal rights and environmental accountability in Pakistan. By mandating the involvement of experts and establishing a formal oversight mechanism, the Sindh High Court is setting a precedent for how wildlife and conservation issues can be handled systematically within the legal framework.
In conclusion, the formation of a high-level committee by the Sindh High Court for the phased closure of zoos marks a significant step toward improved animal welfare and ethical management of wildlife in the province. With expert guidance, systematic assessment, and clear procedural mandates, the committee is expected to ensure that the transition is carried out responsibly, protecting both the animals and the broader interests of conservation in Sindh. The next hearing on November 21 will likely provide further updates on the committee’s progress and the implementation of its recommendations, setting the stage for long-term reforms in the management of zoos across the province.
