CDA to seek world expertise for better upkeep of wildlife in Marghazar Zoo

Islamabad
The Capital Development Authority (CDA) in collaboration with World Wildlife Fund (WWF) and other different bodies of the wildlife conservation would seek international expertise and provide additional facilities for better upkeep of the wildlife in Marghazar Zoo.
This was decided in a high-level meeting of experts in wildlife and environment represented by WWF, Wildlife Department Punjab, representatives of animal society, Lahore Zoo and other relevant bodies. It was chaired by CDA Chairman Maroof Afzal.
Member Administration and Estate Amer Ali Ahmed, the director general environment, director Marghazar Zoo, wildlife experts and management of Lahore Zoo were also present.
It was decided that a committee established for conservation of zoo and wildlife would be revived to serve as advisory forum for adopting concrete measures to preserve the wildlife and rich biodiversity of the Margalla in particular and Islamabad areas in general.
CDA Chairman Maroof Afzal said that CDA is upgrading the Marghazar Zoo on modern lines in order to make it a model zoo and in this context necessary fund and other resources are being allocated on priority basis.
He said that unchaining of the elephant and providing it an open environment has brought good results, however, providing open environment to the elephant demands more care and expertise so that any unpleasant incident could be avoided. He said that authority would seek expertise of international wildlife organisations and Sri Lankan experts for proper care and providing healthier food for the elephant.
Maroof Afzal also directed to revive the committee constituted for improvement, protection and preservation of wildlife and biodiversity and enhance its scope.
The committee would not only work for the preservation and protection of wildlife but would also suggest measures to further enhance the biodiversity of Margalla Hills National Park. The CDA chairman said that animals and birds in the Marghazar Zoo would be provided with improved food and allied facilities in line with international wildlife standards, adding that all the deficiencies would be addressed in this regard.
During the meeting, wildlife experts gave suggestions to further improve and preserve wildlife and biodiversity of Margalla Hills and other areas of Islamabad.