Foreign animal health specialists are expected to arrive in Karachi to examine critically ill elephant Madhubala at Safari Park.
Her condition has continued to deteriorate despite several medical tests conducted over the past month.
Madhubala has suffered repeated collapses, loss of appetite and rapid weight loss. Veterinarians have not yet identified the exact cause of her worsening health.
She is also facing a foot infection and severe swelling in her right hind thigh.
More than a week ago, Madhubala collapsed again inside her enclosure. A crane and harness were used to lift her.
Dr. Amir Khalil from international animal welfare organisation Four Paws and a Sri Lankan expert are expected to arrive in Karachi on October 8.
They will conduct a detailed medical assessment of Madhubala and Malika, the other elephant at Safari Park.
Malika is also reportedly unwell, although her condition is considered less serious.
Madhubala and Malika are now the last two elephants remaining in Pakistan. Both have received prolonged treatment for tuberculosis.
Madhubala was previously kept at Karachi Zoo. She was left alone after the death of her companion Noor Jehan in 2023.
She was later relocated to Safari Park in November 2024 under the supervision of Four Paws. There, she was reunited with Sonia and Malika.
However, Sonia died a month later after collapsing inside her enclosure.
The deaths of captive elephants triggered strong public concern over animal welfare standards.
Karachi Metropolitan Corporation later formed an 18-member body to oversee the care of Madhubala and Malika.
The arrival of foreign experts is now being seen as a critical effort to diagnose Madhubala’s illness and improve her chances of recovery.
