LAHORE/ISLAMABAD: In a dramatic and life-saving mission, the Punjab Wildlife Department rescued six lions trapped in floodwaters at a farmhouse in Lahore near the Ravi Bank on Multan Road. The operation, carried out under dangerous conditions of torrential rain, averted a potential threat to human lives while safeguarding the rare animals.
Swift Action by Wildlife Rangers
According to officials, the lions had become stranded as rising floodwaters engulfed the private farmhouse where they were being kept. Acting on urgent reports, Wildlife Rangers and the Wildlife Rescue Force quickly mobilized, using four boats and the expertise of veterinary doctors to extract the big cats safely.
Senior Minister Maryam Aurangzeb lauded the bravery and commitment of the rescue teams. “The Wildlife Rangers and Rescue Force are the pride of the nation,” she said, praising their courage in completing the mission under extreme weather conditions.
Medical Care and Monitoring
Immediately after being rescued, the lions were provided with veterinary care. Doctors conducted thorough medical assessments to check for stress, injuries, or dehydration, and continuous monitoring has since been initiated to ensure their recovery and well-being. Officials confirmed that the animals are stable but will remain under observation for the coming days.
Commitment to Wildlife Protection
Minister Aurangzeb emphasized that the Punjab government places a high priority on wildlife conservation, particularly during natural disasters. “No living being will be left alone in trouble,” she declared, adding that the rescue highlights the government’s dedication to both public safety and animal welfare.
The incident also underscores the growing challenges faced by wildlife keepers and authorities in Pakistan amid worsening floods linked to seasonal rains. Experts stress that proper disaster-preparedness plans for private and public wildlife facilities are urgently needed to prevent similar emergencies in the future.
