Karachi: Madhubala, Karachi Zoo’s lone African elephant, made headlines on Tuesday as she was transported to Safari Park, marking the end of her solitary confinement and the beginning of a long-awaited family reunion.
Madhubala, fondly called Madhu by her caretakers, has lived alone since the death of her companion Noor Jehan in April 2023. At 17, she became Pakistan’s second elephant to gain freedom from zoo captivity after Islamabad’s Kaavan, who was relocated to Cambodia in 2020.
“This is groundbreaking for Madhubala, for us, and for Pakistan,” said Dr. Amir Khalil, head of the Four Paws team leading the operation. He shared that Madhu would soon reunite with her sisters Sonu and Malaika after 15 years of separation.
Preparation and Training
Brought to Karachi as calves in 2009, Madhubala and Noor Jehan were housed at the zoo, while Sonu and Malaika were sent to Safari Park. Noor Jehan’s death paved the way for Madhu’s relocation, and months of preparation followed, including crate training and habitat construction at Safari Park.
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Experts cleared Madhu for the 24-minute journey, ensuring she was fit and cooperative. On the morning of the move, Madhu willingly stepped into a rectangular metal container, a result of consistent training.
A Historic Move
The operation began at 8 AM, with significant media and official presence. Madhu was sedated after entering the container, which was lifted by cranes and placed onto a truck. Despite moments of nervousness, her mahouts calmed her with food and soothing words.
The convoy, accompanied by Four Paws experts, zoo staff, police, and Rescue 1122 personnel, carefully navigated Karachi’s roads. Extra precautions were taken, including instructions to minimize noise to avoid startling Madhu.
Arrival at Safari Park
Upon arrival at Safari Park, closed to the public for the day, Madhubala was released into her designated night room. The expanded sanctuary now spans 5.5 acres and is divided into sections. Initially, Madhu will stay in a separate area, allowing her time to adjust before meeting Sonu and Malaika.
Dr. Khalil explained the gradual introduction process, emphasizing that elephants have strong memories and familial bonds. “The reunion will be emotional and natural for them,” he said.
Josef Pfabigan, president of Four Paws, expressed hope for a brighter future for the elephants. “Elephants thrive in family groups, and Safari Park offers them a better life,” he said.
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