VEHARI:
Allegations of negligence and mismanagement have emerged at the Vehari Zoo after the death of a pregnant blackbuck and its unborn fawn, raising concerns about animal welfare at the facility.
According to sources, the rare Indian chital doe was in distress during the night but failed to receive timely veterinary care.
The animal reportedly suffered for hours before dying, resulting in the loss of both the mother and the unborn offspring.
The incident has drawn attention to the overall condition of animals at the zoo, which is the only public recreational facility of its kind in the district.
Local sources and visitors alleged that no responsible officials or staff were present at the time of the incident, pointing to what they described as “criminal negligence” on part of the administration.
It was further claimed that the zoo’s veterinary doctor, identified as Wasif, has been absent from duty for nearly a month without any apparent disciplinary action from senior authorities.
Questions have also been raised regarding the role of supervisory officials.
Residents alleged that the Assistant Chief Wildlife Officer, Mehr Kaleem Sarfraz, was not regularly present at the zoo, contributing to administrative lapses and poor oversight.
In addition to the deceased deer, visitors reported concerns about another pregnant deer at the facility, which they said appeared to be in a critical condition. Eyewitnesses claimed that the animal was being pecked by crows and other birds, indicating a lack of basic care and protection.
Citizens further accused the administration of attempting to downplay or conceal the incident.
They pointed out that a post-mortem examination of the deceased animal was not conducted immediately, raising suspicions about transparency and accountability within the zoo management.
“The condition of animals here reflects sheer neglect. This is not just carelessness but a failure of responsibility,” said a local visitor, adding that urgent action is needed to prevent further incidents.
Residents have demanded strict action against those responsible, including suspension of negligent officials and initiation of legal proceedings.
They warned that failure to take timely measures would reflect complicity at higher levels.
When approached for comment, zoo officials initially denied that any such incident had taken place.
However, in a subsequent statement, the administration said the deceased deer was aged and had been under treatment for some time.
According to officials, the animal could not survive despite medical care.
