Group Files Case in Indian Supreme Court Against the Substandard State of Zoos Across the Country

Excellent move. Could do much to at least bring awareness to this issue.

Article:

Eagle's Eye: Overcrowding makes life miserable

http://www.centralchronicle.com/20060705/0507303.htm

PETA has filed a case in the Supreme Court against the substandard state of zoos across the country after conducting investigations of more than 30 zoos- P Kumar Shrivastava
The famous Van Vihar National Park has recently gained international significance with the announcement to set up a vulture captive breeding centre. A rescue centre for the circus animals has already been established and recently rescued lions, tigers and other animals were brought to Van Vihar and more are likely to be brought in near future.
There is no doubt that the rare animals of Van Vihar should get better care and attention. With the setting up of rescue centre and arrival of more animals, the authorities must ensure that all the animals get sufficient space, suitable environment, food and medical care.
It is ironic that, despite housing large variety of endangered birds and animals, the authorities have failed to provide the much-needed space to the prized denizens of Van Vihar. According to the park's initial plan about 650 hectares of land was to be provided to the park. But only 450 hectares could be made available. This area is now proving insufficient, as the population of the animals has increased manifold over the years.
Wildlife experts have suggested that an area of at least 200 hectares should be added to the park. The land adjacent to the park boundary in Prempura village can be added to the park. This additional land can be effectively utilised to house the increasing population of animals. At present this land is not being used for any purpose and so can be conveniently handed over to the Van Vihar.
In several countries of the world the zoological gardens are a refuge for species menaced with extinction. While we deprive animals of their freedom and natural life, it is our responsibility to provide an environment as close to the nature as possible. But in most zoos of India, including Van Vihar, we have failed to pay attention towards even the basic needs of animals.
The present population of herbivores is almost twice the park's capacity. The proposal to increase the park's area was made several years back, but nothing has been done. According to the criterion set by Central Zoo Authority (CZA), area of one hectare is sufficient for three herbivores. Van Vihar is spread over an area of 450 hectares. Out of this 275 hectares have been set aside for herbivores. As per the CZA norms, between 800 to 850 herbivores could be housed in an area of 275 hectares. But the present population of herbivores is more than 1500. Due to overgrazing the quality of land has deteriorated. Besides the herbivores, the park also houses tiger, including the rare white tiger, lion, bear, crocodiles etc, in addition to birds, reptiles and other animals. Wildlife lovers feel that Van Vihar must get the additional land it deserves.
The problems that plague Van Vihar are similar to the problems being faced by most zoos of the country. Says Anuradha Sawhney, PETA India's chief functionary, "Although zoos make high-sounding claims, they are guilty of a total failure to treat their captives humanely, educate people or preserve species. With adequate funding and proper zoo staff and officials, zoos could turn these prisons into sanctuaries for animals rescued from madaris and pet shops".
PETA has filed a case in the Supreme Court against the substandard and inhumane state of zoos across the country after conducting investigations of more than 30 zoos. The SC has accepted the case and ordered notice to be served to all 37 respondents.
In its investigations, amongst other points, PETA has found zoo officials are almost always not properly trained in the care of animals, veterinary doctors do not have adequate wildlife training and some zoos do not have veterinary doctors. In many zoos, animals are treated as objects rather than the living, breathing, feeling beings they are.
Last year, the Mumbai High Court ordered improvements at the Mumbai Zoo after PETA filed a case in October 2004 citing the zoo's failure to provide even the most basic care for animals who are held captive there.