In a landmark moment for animal welfare in Pakistan, Madhubala the Elephant, a 16-year-old African elephant, was successfully relocated from Karachi Zoo to Safari Park on Tuesday, marking the end of her years of solitary confinement. This significant move also paved the way for her long-awaited reunion with her sisters, Sonia and Malika, after 15 years of separation.
The relocation, overseen by the global animal welfare group Four Paws, involved months of preparation, including crate training Madhubala the Elephant and constructing new accommodations at the park. Experts had cleared her for the 24-minute journey earlier this year, ensuring a smooth transfer. Once at Safari Park, Madhubala joins two other elephants, making it home to three elephants in total.
Madhubala’s move comes after the passing of her companion, Noor Jehan, in April 2023, and follows the successful relocation of Kavaan, the world’s loneliest elephant, to a sanctuary in Cambodia in 2020. Dr. Amir Khalil, head of the Four Paws team, celebrated the achievement, calling it “a big day for Madhu, for us, and for the country.”
With this historic reunion, Madhubala’s relocation not only brings joy to the elephants but also marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to improve the lives of captive elephants in Pakistan.