WAP to probe missing black bear issue

ISLAMABAD: The World Animal Protection (WAP) body has decided to initiate an inquiry into the ‘missing’ black bear which was sent to Balkasar sanctuary (Chakwal) from Islamabad for its well-being on the Islamabad High Court directions.

The WAP, working for the safety of animals in the world, appreciated The News for highlighting the ‘missing’ bear issue, and the rights of animals in the country. While the local relevant departments showed no interest in probing the matter, the WAP conveyed to The News to dig into the issue soon.

In an email message, the WAP stated that the organisation would inquire about the ‘missing’ black bear. The News had asked the WAP about the standard operating procedures (SOPs) for the bear sanctuary after it was learnt that the Balkasar sanctuary had no method to track its captive animals to assess their well being. The WAP revealed that it was supporting the Balkasar bear sanctuary to ensure the safety of animals. The organisation confirmed it had called upon the sanctuary to follow the SOPs to protect the bear, and also promised that they would investigate about the whereabouts of the ‘missing’ black bear.