Karachi mayor inaugurates new enclosures and renovated facilities at Karachi Zoo

Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab inaugurated newly constructed animal enclosures, a renovated Reptile House and additional facilities at the Karachi Zoo, as part of efforts to upgrade the city’s oldest recreational space.

Speaking to the media, the mayor said the zoo, still known to many as Gandhi Garden, was a valuable asset for Karachi and was being transformed into a modern, safe and nature-friendly recreational and educational centre in line with international standards.

He said the zoo’s internal pathways, enclosures and facilities had remained in a dilapidated state for decades, but a modern enclosure spanning two acres had now been completed. The enclosure houses lions Chandni and Rani in an open environment designed to reflect their natural habitat.

According to the mayor, the new enclosures are equipped with modern bulletproof glass, along with special arrangements allowing the animals to play in water and rest comfortably. He added that Chandni and Rani were born at the Karachi Zoo and have since produced offspring, which he said was evidence of the animals’ good health.

Wahab said steps were being taken to improve the quality of food, healthcare and overall wellbeing of animals at the zoo, while the services of additional veterinary doctors were being acquired to bring animal care in line with international standards.

He said the Reptile House had been reopened for the public after renovation, and a newly constructed tower had also been added for visitors, particularly young people and photography enthusiasts.

For visitors’ convenience, the mayor said modern walkways, seating areas and informative signboards were being installed to enhance the zoo’s role as a quality recreational and educational space for families and students.

He noted that thousands of people, especially from low- and middle-income backgrounds, visit the Karachi Zoo daily. The entry fee has been fixed at Rs30 for children and Rs50 for adults, with the revenue being reinvested in further improvements.

Clarifying reports about new animals, Wahab said no decision had been made to purchase large animals, and the focus remained on the care and breeding of existing wildlife. He added that negative propaganda was being spread about the zoo, warning that neglect could expose the land to encroachment.

He invited citizens, experts and welfare organisations to contribute practically if they wanted to see meaningful improvement. The mayor also appealed to the public to help keep the city clean and to refrain from habits such as spitting pan and gutka in public places, saying this not only damaged the city’s appearance but also imposed a heavy financial burden on cleanliness efforts.