The Hindu : New Delhi News : Zoo residents cramped for space

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Wednesday, May 10, 2006

New Delhi

New Delhi

Zoo residents cramped for space

One of the finest in Asia and home to more than 134 animal and bird species, Delhi Zoo has become a tad too cramped for its "residents".

The authorities are faced with a peculiar problem it being used as a "dumping ground" for animals rescued from Delhi and neighbouring States. Space here is at a premium.

As if this was not enough, the proverbial last straw seems to have come in the shape of a young elephant recently rescued by non-government organisation People for Animals and housed at the Zoo on court orders.

"The Delhi Zoo as a matter of routine has been taking in rescued animals including monkeys, donkeys, elephants, reptiles and birds all year round. These animals have to be housed in secluded enclosures and cannot be kept with the original `inhabitants' due to the fear of them transmitting infections or even causing fights. This has resulted in a space crunch. Though some rescued animals have been exhibited after the quarantine period, the latest entrant has us worried," said Delhi Zoo Director D.N. Singh.

The Zoo currently houses over 150 rescued animals of 30 species, which includes six slot bears, three elephants and two leopards. In the absence of a full-fledged rescue centre in the Capital, all rescued animals are sent to the Zoo.

The Director adds that Central Zoo Authority (CZA) rules do not permit exhibition of any animal that is seriously sick, injured or infirm. It stipulates that they be kept in a secluded enclosed area for a specified time, compounding the problem for space for rescued animals and Zoo inmates.

"We have been burdened with responsibility of the elephant rescued by the NGO, which was being regularly beaten up by the mahout with an iron-spike. It was found in a malnourished state, dehydrated and also had injuries on its feet. Further, it has been diagnosed with osteoporosis, which makes it unsuitable for display. We are not a rescue centre," added Mr. Singh.

Understanding the problem, CZA had advised the Zoo authorities to approach the Chief Wildlife Warden, Delhi, to work towards setting up of a rescue centre.

"While evaluating the Delhi Zoo it was observed that it was being used as a rescue centre despite not having adequate space. We have written to all the States informing them that in case they are short of funds for setting up the facility, CZA would support them with 100 per cent funding so that there is no pressure on the zoos to keep the rescued animals," said CZA Member Secretary B. R. Sharma. — Bindu Shajan Perappadan

— Bindu Shajan Perappadan

Printer friendly page
Send this article to Friends by E-Mail