Rano, the female bear housed at Karachi Zoo, is ready to begin her relocation journey to Islamabad, officials said on Tuesday.

According to the Sindh Wildlife Department, Rano will be shifted from the zoo to Faisal Base Karachi early Wednesday morning, from where she will be flown to Islamabad aboard a Pakistan Air Force C-130 aircraft at 7:00am.

Officials said Rano’s health and response to training were thoroughly reviewed before final approval for the transfer. A special cage has been prepared to ensure her safe and comfortable journey.

Earlier, a 12-member committee formed to oversee the relocation confirmed that Rano had responded positively to her training, which focused on getting her accustomed to entering and exiting the transport cage.

Upon arrival in Islamabad, Rano will be shifted to the Black Bear Rehabilitation Centre, where a Deputy Conservator-level officer will supervise her care and rehabilitation.

Earlier, on October 14, the Sindh High Court directed the Karachi Zoo administration to hand over Rano to the Islamabad Wildlife Management Board within two days, citing inadequate living conditions and poor care.

Following the court’s order, the Sindh government instructed the Sindh Wildlife Department to carry out Rano’s transfer on the directives of Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah.

Officials added that after rehabilitation in Islamabad, Rano is expected to be relocated to Gilgit-Baltistan for eventual release into her natural habitat.