Overcrowding makes life miserable

[Guest guest]

http://www.centralchronicle.com/20060705/0507303.htm

 

PETA has filed a case in the Supreme Court against the substandard state of zoos

across the country after conducting investigations of more than 30 zoos- P Kumar

Shrivastava

The famous Van Vihar National Park has recently gained international

significance with the announcement to set up a vulture captive breeding centre.

A rescue centre for the circus animals has already been established and recently

rescued lions, tigers and other animals were brought to Van Vihar and more are

likely to be brought in near future.

 

There is no doubt that the rare animals of Van Vihar should get better care and

attention. With the setting up of rescue centre and arrival of more animals, the

authorities must ensure that all the animals get sufficient space, suitable

environment, food and medical care.

 

It is ironic that, despite housing large variety of endangered birds and

animals, the authorities have failed to provide the much-needed space to the

prized denizens of Van Vihar. According to the park's initial plan about 650

hectares of land was to be provided to the park. But only 450 hectares could be

made available. This area is now proving insufficient, as the population of the

animals has increased manifold over the years.

 

Wildlife experts have suggested that an area of at least 200 hectares should be

added to the park. The land adjacent to the park boundary in Prempura village

can be added to the park. This additional land can be effectively utilised to

house the increasing population of animals. At present this land is not being

used for any purpose and so can be conveniently handed over to the Van Vihar.

 

In several countries of the world the zoological gardens are a refuge for

species menaced with extinction. While we deprive animals of their freedom and

natural life, it is our responsibility to provide an environment as close to the

nature as possible. But in most zoos of India, including Van Vihar, we have

failed to pay attention towards even the basic needs of animals.

 

The present population of herbivores is almost twice the park's capacity. The

proposal to increase the park's area was made several years back, but nothing

has been done. According to the criterion set by Central Zoo Authority (CZA),

area of one hectare is sufficient for three herbivores. Van Vihar is spread over

an area of 450 hectares. Out of this 275 hectares have been set aside for

herbivores. As per the CZA norms, between 800 to 850 herbivores could be housed

in an area of 275 hectares. But the present population of herbivores is more

than 1500. Due to overgrazing the quality of land has deteriorated. Besides the

herbivores, the park also houses tiger, including the rare white tiger, lion,

bear, crocodiles etc, in addition to birds, reptiles and other animals. Wildlife

lovers feel that Van Vihar must get the additional land it deserves.

 

The problems that plague Van Vihar are similar to the problems being faced by

most zoos of the country. Says Anuradha Sawhney, PETA India's chief functionary,

" Although zoos make high-sounding claims, they are guilty of a total failure to

treat their captives humanely, educate people or preserve species. With adequate

funding and proper zoo staff and officials, zoos could turn these prisons into

sanctuaries for animals rescued from madaris and pet shops " .

 

PETA has filed a case in the Supreme Court against the substandard and inhumane

state of zoos across the country after conducting investigations of more than 30

zoos. The SC has accepted the case and ordered notice to be served to all 37

respondents.

 

In its investigations, amongst other points, PETA has found zoo officials are

almost always not properly trained in the care of animals, veterinary doctors do

not have adequate wildlife training and some zoos do not have veterinary

doctors. In many zoos, animals are treated as objects rather than the living,

breathing, feeling beings they are.

 

Last year, the Mumbai High Court ordered improvements at the Mumbai Zoo after

PETA filed a case in October 2004 citing the zoo's failure to provide even the

most basic care for animals who are held captive there.