Karachi Zoo Might Face Closure Amid Worsening Animal Conditions After Rano Bear Relocation

The Sindh High Court has directed Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) to submit a final report within one month on the Karachi Zoo animals condition following the Rano bear relocation to Islamabad.

A two-member bench led by Justice Muhammad Iqbal Kalhoro heard the case after the Rano bear incident drew public attention. The court said the Karachi Zoo cannot continue to operate in its current form and advised converting it into a natural park.

The court noticed during the hearing that there were huge gaps in the care of animals such as empty veterinary stations and lack of personnel. The Karachi zoo was in deplorable conditions and the judges ordered KMC and wildlife officials to examine the Karachi zoo condition and give a detailed plan of animal relocation and upgrading of the facility.

Officials confirmed that Rano bear was moved to the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board facility for medical treatment and rehabilitation. The court asked for details of all Karachi Zoo animals condition and their future plans.

The bench also instructed authorities to phase out Karachi and Hyderabad zoos gradually. It emphasized removing small cages and keeping only those animals that can be properly cared for.

Animal rights groups said the Karachi Zoo’s bear Rano’s relocation highlights long-standing issues in zoo management. The final report, due within a month, will determine whether the Karachi Zoo continues operations or transforms into a wildlife park.