Pakistan, June 1 -- LAHORE - The planned import of giraffes, rhinos, and a hippopotamus from South Africa for the Lahore Zoo and Safari Park has been delayed due to quarantine clearance issues. The Animal Quarantine Department has not granted final approval, citing concerns over potential disease risks, particularly Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD).

While the Ministry of Climate Change has already issued a no-objection certificate (NOC) for several species, including giraffes and rhinos, the Quarantine Department is reviewing health certificates to ensure compliance with Pakistan's import standards. Officials emphasized this is a precautionary measure to prevent any foreign disease from affecting local livestock.

According to Project Direct...