Elephant Sonia, a resident of Karachi’s Safari Park, unexpectedly passed away during the night. The staff discovered her lifeless body upon their arrival at the park the following morning.
Madhubala Recently Relocated to Safari Park
In a related development, Madhubala, another elephant, was recently relocated from the Karachi Zoo to Safari Park, where she joined her sisters Sonia and Malka. The move was carried out under the guidance of the global animal welfare organization Four Paws, with Madhubala being transported in a specially designed training container while semi-sedated.
Madhubala’s Relocation Follows Death of Noor Jehan
The decision to transfer Madhubala to Safari Park was made two years ago after the death of elephant Noor Jehan. Dr. Amir Khalil praised the successful relocation, calling it a result of dedicated teamwork.
Mayor Highlights Welfare Focus in Relocation Decision
Mayor of Karachi, Murtaza Wahab, explained that Madhubala had been living in a confined space at the Karachi Zoo, which led to the decision to move her to the Safari Park. The new location offers a spacious enclosure and a swimming pool for the elephants.
The Arrival of African Elephants to Pakistan
In 2009, four African elephants—Madhubala, Noor Jehan, Sonia, and Malka—arrived in Pakistan after being captured as young elephants in the wild. Upon their arrival in Karachi, they were split up: Madhubala and Noor Jehan were sent to the Karachi Zoo, while Sonia and Malka were housed at Safari Park.
Sindh High Court Orders Evaluation of Elephants’ Health and Living Conditions
In 2021, the Sindh High Court directed Four Paws to assess the elephants’ health and living conditions. The evaluation revealed that all four elephants were in dire need of proper care, including improved diets, medical treatment, and environmental enrichment. Additionally, it was discovered that Noor Jehan and Madhubala needed dental surgeries due to infections caused by broken tusks.
