The Department of Wildlife has officially resumed control of Lahore Zoo operations after the private company managing it withdrew from its contract. All zoo services, including entry tickets and parking, are now being handled directly by the zoo administration.
The private company had secured the Rs500 million contract on January 1, 2025, to manage ticketing, parking, and visitor facilities. However, after six months and sixteen days, the firm exited the agreement. Sources indicate the company now owes over Rs250 million to the government, including unpaid electricity bills.
Zoo officials confirmed that all responsibilities have returned to government hands. The exit follows the company’s rejected request to increase ticket prices and bundle paid attractions—like the dinosaur hall, reptile house, or aquarium—with every ticket. The Captive Wildlife Management Committee (CWMC) denied this proposal, citing public affordability concerns.
The government’s stance echoes the vision of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif and Senior Minister Maryam Aurangzeb, who emphasize affordable and inclusive recreational services. The bundled ticket system introduced by the contractor had drawn widespread public criticism, prompting immediate intervention from senior officials.
According to insider reports, the private company chose to exit to avoid further financial losses but assured the government that all outstanding dues would be cleared. The CWMC has called an emergency meeting to decide on the zoo’s long-term management