I recently visited Goa’s only Wildlife sanctuary at Bondla, located in Ponda taluka. Apparently it was supposed to be covered with evergreen vegetation, rose and botanical gardens and deer safari park. But to our dismay we found it in a pitiable condition.
The present state of animals in the zoo is deplorable. Many animals were found inactive due to the excruciating heat and want for water. The bear evidently distressed, was seen lifting his paw in a distraught manner out of boredom. The hippo was found in a pond that emitted a foul smell, making it obnoxious for onlookers.
The cobra seemed lethargic and famine-stricken. The presence of total 12 to 14 animals and the absence of an elephant ride, is a huge disincentive to visit Bondla. It appears that this zoo runs on a shoe string budget. Moreover, the conditions of the public toilets at the entrance are pathetic, with no electricity and water facilities.
We as individuals need to voice our concern to the authorities over the condition of these helpless creatures. The government needs to have a vision for the development and maintenance of wildlife sanctuaries. Proper co-ordination among the forest officials and plugging all the multiple loopholes will help in the management of the zoos.
The government must sanction additional finances for proper management of all wildlife sanctuaries. Effective monitoring and fixing responsibilities will help in improving the conditions at the zoo. We need to motivate and encourage students to pursue a career in wild life management.
To be brutally honest, these zoos should be treated as “conservation-centres” and not only as “profit-making” sanctuaries. Selfless authorities can successfully ensure better conditions for these animals. As human beings, it is our duty to safeguard these animals, who suffer because of lethargy and lack of vision on the part of the government which manages the zoo.
