A Farewell Moving Letter to Sonia, an African elephant wellbeing
Early Sunday morning Sonia, concerning African elephant wellbeing, passed away unexpectedly in Safari Park in Karachi. Her death marks a tragic event that raises major questions regarding the treatment of captive elephants in Pakistan for both supporters of the city and wildlife.
The Life and Challenges of Sonia
Thought to be between 17 and 19 years old, Sonia was among four elephants abducted from Tanzania as calves and sent to Karachi in 2009. Sonia’s health and welfare declined over years from unsuitable living conditions. Although she visited the Safari Park frequently, her life was beset with several medical issues that made species-appropriate care absolutely essential.
An Interpretive History of Medical Problems
Earlier this year Sonia developed a severe illness and swelling between her hind legs. She also sustained a foot injury last year supposedly caused by rotting flooring and continuously damp circumstances in her enclosure. These injuries exposed the long-standing carelessness in her living surroundings.
Slosh of Hope Before the Tragedy
Weeks before Sonia passed away, she was reunited with her sister Madhubala, who had been transferred from Karachi Zoo to the Safari Park. Madhubala’s year-long solitary confinement came to an end with this reunion, and the sisters got some time together after years of apartness.
Unspoken Questions Regarding Sonia’s Death
Sonia’s exact death cause is yet unknown; a postmortem analysis is still under progress. Under Four Paws, an international animal care organization, Sonia has been under treatment for a potential tumor, according to Mayor Murtaza Wahab. Experts and connoisseurs for wildlife demand responsibility, therefore an inquiry on the events behind her death has been ordered.
Demand for improved welfare of elephants
The sad death of Sonia highlights the inadequate living conditions preserved for captive elephants in Karachi. Her story powerfully reminds us of the urgent necessity of better facilities and moral behavior to assure the psychological and physical well-being of animals.
Our obligation to protect
The death of Sonia has to be a turning point in Pakistan’s treatment of the animals it seized. Designing environments suited for these incredible creatures must be first concern for authorities. Sonia’s legacy should inspire change so that none else suffers the kind she did.
