Conservationist alleges violations at Pilikula zoo in Mangaluru, files PIL

Mangaluru: Wildlife conservationist Bhuvan M has alleged serious violations at Pilikula Biological Park and has moved a writ petition (PIL) in the high court on Wednesday, seeking urgent intervention. He alleged that the zoo was plagued by mismanagement, animal neglect, and regulatory violations. A member of the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) and several other wildlife organisations, Bhuvan, along with high court advocate Ashwin Joyston Kutinha, conducted an independent survey of the park on Oct 31, 2024. Their findings alleged multiple breaches of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972, and the Recognition of Zoo Rules, 2009.
Bhuvan said that among the violations observed were unsafe and deteriorating enclosures, with rusted and damaged barriers posing serious risks to animals. They found use of fishing nets as barriers, creating a hazardous and unauthorised arrangement. Many enclosures failed to meet the minimum size requirements set by the Central Zoo Authority. Veterinary care was grossly neglected. The team also found highly unhygienic conditions, including contaminated water and unsanitary living spaces. Unauthorised acquisition and release of animals further violated Central Zoo Authority guidelines, he alleged.
Bhuvan claimed that he filed multiple RTI applications to seek clarity on these issues, only to face deliberate delays from authorities, suggesting an attempt to suppress the truth. He claimed to escalate the matter by submitting a detailed representation to the Central Zoo Authority, the chief wildlife warden, the principal chief conservator of forests and the commissioner, Pilikula Development Authority on Feb 24. He has demanded action against officials responsible and transfer of the management of the park from the current authorities for the wellbeing of animals.