Karachi: The postmortem report of an elephant named Sonia, who died last month at Safari Park, has identified respiratory disease and sepsis as the cause of death. In response, the Safari Park administration, in consultation with international experts, plans to conduct comprehensive medical examinations of the park’s remaining elephants, Malaika and Madhubala.

According to Karachi Metropolitan Corporation, the decision follows the results of the postmortem, which were conducted under the directive of Karachi Mayor Barrister Murtaza Wahab. The examination, carried out by Dr. Ghulam Mustafa from the University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, included tests at the Sindh Institute of Animal Health and an internationally recognized laboratory. The findings revealed tuberculosis and other bacterial infections in Sonia.

Ali Hassan Sajid, the spokesperson for Karachi Metropolitan Corporation, stated that the postmortem aimed to ascertain the cause of death and improve animal care practices at Safari Park and Karachi Zoo. Measures are underway to ensure the health and welfare of the animals. Additionally, with Indus Hospital’s cooperation, medical tests are being conducted on the staff members responsible for the elephants’ care.