Describing the condition of the civic body-run zoo in the city as pathetic, several animal rights groups have suggested that it be shut down.
People for Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) has appealed to the Central Zoo Authority (CZA) to close down the zoo in Byculla area, a tourist attraction, as the authorities have failed to maintain it properly.
The rights organisations have claimed the enclosures are not designed to fulfil the biological needs of the animals as they do not resemble like natural habitat for them. The birds don't have enough nesting material and are unable to take free flight, they said.
"This zoo needs to be closed as the staff is unable to take care of the animals. They want to bring in more animals to get more visitors and money but who will take care of the animals?" asked PETA chief functionary Anuradha Sawhney.
She further said there are no caretakers outside the cages to guide or inform the visitors because of which they hardly learn anything by the visit to the zoo.
It had been observed that parts of the zoo stink because of rotting food and dirty cages.
"In this terrible heat, animals need lots of water to cool off but they are not given adequate water," Sawhney said.
Asked about inadequate water in the zoo's ponds for crocodiles and alligators, a zoo official explained that these amphibious reptiles don't need enough water and like to stay in muddy water. "But we do clean the water once in a week."
The official, rubbishing the claims about inefficiency of the zoo hospital, said, "The hospital is properly equipped to take care of animals. We conduct certain tests on animals once in a year. Also, when they are admitted here for any kind of injuries or illness proper care is been taken by us."
In 2005, PETA had filed a case against the Mumbai Zoo for failing to provide even the most basic care for its animals.
Following this, the Bombay High Court had asked the civic body and the State Forest Secretary to provide clean food and water to the animals and maintain hygienic conditions in the enclosures, prevent visitors from teasing, injuring or feeding any animals.
The court order also said to relocate the aged, infirm and sick animals to rescue centres, a panel of experts should be appointed.
"There has been no proper implementation of the High Court's order. It has been four years and still there is no improvement," Sawhney said.
