Rano the Bear moved to Islamabad Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre

A female Himalayan brown bear, Rano, has been transferred from Karachi Zoological Gardens to the Islamabad Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation Centre on Wednesday.

The move follows an order by the Sindh High Court aimed at improving the animal’s welfare.

Umar Bilal, spokesperson for the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board (IWMB), told APP that Rano would undergo a detailed assessment of her physical and mental health, along with behavioural training to help her adjust to her new environment.

Rano has been in captivity at Karachi Zoo since 2017. A committee formed by the Sindh High Court recently reviewed her living conditions and reported signs of stress, including pacing in her enclosure, which lacked features of her natural Himalayan habitat.

“The relocation is an important step for Rano’s well-being and reflects ongoing efforts to improve wildlife conservation in Pakistan,” Bilal added.

Preparations for the transfer included a specially designed cage and training to familiarise Rano with travel and her new surroundings.

Conservationists say the move could set a benchmark for better animal welfare standards in the country.

Earlier, Rano was sent from Karachi Zoo to Faisal Base for her onward shifting to Gilgit-Baltistan.  

According to 24NewsHD TV channel, Rano was transported from Faisal Base in Karachi to Islamabad via C-130.

Before shifting, a high-level meeting reviewed Rano's training response and physical and mental health fitness.

Committee member and renowned filmmaker Mahira Umar recorded the moments when the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board and Karachi Zoo team willingly placed Rano in the cage.

Before departure, the Rano bear was brought into a special cage in the last watch of the night. 

After being placed in the cage, the bear's reaction, diet and health were checked. 

The Rano bear is being transferred in two phases and an officer of the rank of deputy conservator will be appointed to take care of Rano.  

In the first phase, the Rano bear will be transferred to a rehabilitation center in Islamabad. 

In the second phase, Rano will be transferred to the natural environment of Gilgit-Baltistan with the cooperation of the Ministry of Climate Change.

Reporter: Aqsa Sheikh