Foreign Experts Called to Treat Critically Ill Madhubala

Foreign animal health experts are on their way to Karachi to investigate the critically ill condition of Safari Park elephant Madhubala, according to recent reports. The elephant's deteriorating health, marked by repeated collapses, loss of appetite, and rapid weight loss, has baffled Safari Park veterinarians despite extensive laboratory tests conducted over the past month.

Madhubala, one of the last two elephants residing in Pakistan, has been grappling with various health issues, including a foot infection and severe swelling in her right hind thigh. A collapse inside her enclosure a week ago necessitated the use of a crane and harness for her rescue. International animal welfare organization Four Paws, along with a Sri Lankan expert, are scheduled to arrive in Karachi on October 8 at the request of local authorities.

Their primary objective will be to conduct a comprehensive medical examination of both Madhubala and Malika, the other elephant at Safari Park, who is also experiencing less severe health problems. Both elephants have been under prolonged treatment for tuberculosis. Madhubala was initially housed at Karachi Zoo, where she was left alone after the death of her companion Noor Jehan in 2023.

Noor Jehan's death resulted from a fall in her enclosure, followed by a severe blood parasitic infection and internal trauma discovered during her autopsy. In November 2024, Madhubala was moved to Safari Park under Four Paws' supervision, where she reunited with Sonia and Malika. However, Sonia died a month later due to multiple chronic illnesses affecting nearly all major organs, indicating years of neglect and delayed diagnosis.

The recurring deaths of captive elephants have sparked public outrage, leading to the establishment of an 18-member committee last year to oversee the care of Madhubala and Malika.