Key Takeaways
- Dr Amir Khalil of Four Paws says Madhubala can now stand and walk.
- Experts to examine Madhubala and her companion Malika.
- Madhubala suffered from multiple infections and significant weight loss.
Dr Amir Khalil of the international animal welfare organisation Four Paws has expressed hope for the ailing elephant Madhubala, stating that she can now stand and walk, though her hind leg and significant weight loss remain critical concerns.
Dr Khalil, who arrived in Karachi on Thursday, conducted a detailed medical assessment of Madhubala alongside Dr Buddhika Bandara, a prominent Sri Lankan wildlife health specialist and veterinarian.
Madhubala, who had been in solitary confinement at Karachi Zoo following the death of her companion Noor Jehan, was successfully relocated to Safari Park in November 2024, where she was reunited with her sisters, Sonia and Malika.
However, the success story of her reunion was short-lived, as Sonia died a month later after collapsing in her Safari enclosure, with lab reports indicating multiple chronic illnesses.
Sources indicate that Dr Bandara is expected to arrive in Karachi today to further examine Madhubala and her companion Malika, as the KMC continues to seek solutions to improve their health.
Initial reports suggest that Madhubala suffered from several bacterial infections and a parasitic infection, necessitating an intensive treatment programme.
The experts will focus on improving Madhubala’s diet, administering necessary medicines, and building a treatment crush that provides stress-free access for medical procedures.
Despite the challenges, Dr Khalil remains optimistic, stating that there is still hope for Madhubala’s recovery.
Madhubala can stand and walk now, thanks to the efforts over the last three weeks following cooperation with the team on the ground.
Dr Amir Khalil, Four Paws
This includes [an] improved diet, administration of required medicines as well as building a treatment crush that provides stress-free access for medical procedures.
Dr Amir Khalil, Four Paws
