Elephant Dies of Heart Failure After Family Reunion

In Karachi, Pakistan, an elephant named Sonia passed away from apparent heart failure, mere weeks after reuniting with her sister, Madhubala. The tragic event marks the second elephant death in the city within two years.

Sonia, who was nearly 19 years old, had resided at a safari park in Karachi since 2009. Her reunion with Madhubala, who was transferred from the Karachi Zoological Garden to the safari park, was intended to join them with another family member. Their separation had lasted about 15 years.

The director of the safari park, Syed Amjad Hussain Zaidi, announced that they would disclose the findings of Sonia’s post-mortem examination in the upcoming days. However, this incident underscores Pakistan’s ongoing challenges with the management of elephants in captivity.

Previously, Noor Jehan, another elephant brought to Karachi over a decade ago, died in April 2023 following a critical medical procedure performed by an international team of veterinarians. The situation with Pakistani elephants has prompted concern and action from international figures and organizations.

In 2020, an elephant known as Kaavan, dubbed the world’s loneliest elephant, was relocated from a Pakistani zoo to a sanctuary in Cambodia. This move drew global attention, notably supported by the singer Cher, due to the animal’s prolonged solitary confinement and its need for better living conditions.

The deaths of Sonia and Noor Jehan, along with Kaavan’s earlier relocation, highlight a significant issue in Pakistan regarding the welfare of elephants in captivity. These events have attracted international scrutiny and sparked a dialogue about the treatment of such animals, calling for reforms and improved standards.

The recent death of Sonia, closely following her brief reunion with her sister, raises critical questions about the care and oversight of elephants in Pakistan. As more details emerge from her post-mortem examination, it will be crucial to address the systemic challenges faced by elephants in captivity to prevent future tragedies.

Source: Apnews