Khadija Shafqat2025-10-102025-10-102024https://escholar.umt.edu.pk/handle/123456789/8529Zoos were traditionally a place where animals were kept under worst conditions, and as exhibits, only for human entertainment. In early days of known civilization, the animals were even fought with each other and other human slaves, for the mere pleasures of royalty and general public. All this didn’t changed much until the second half of last century, when awareness about environment and animal welfare emerged as the sign of civilization and progress. Only then studies were made to enhance the environment of zoos, to make it healthy for cognitive and physical health of animals. Around 700 Million people visit zoos and aquariums each year, as reported by WAZA (World Association of Zoos and Aquariums). Lahore Zoo is the third oldest in the world, and comparatively a better facility, to the ones found in Pakistan. But is not up to the standards of WAZA due to many reasons, like absence of Zoo animal keeper training, unprofessional record books, less breeding successes and programs, inadequate captivity facilities for animals, low standard of veterinary services, and lack of planning for animal collection. Also there is no proper team of professional veterinary staff who could take care of the nutrition’s of them, and the public guidance and education is missing. Our research topic is centered on Lahore zoo. The Lahore Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the world, and hence in South Asia, was established in 1872 by Englishmen, has long been a symbol of heritage and conservation in Pakistan. However, its current state reflects outdated practices that do not align with modern standards of animal welfare and visitor engagement. The existing design, rooted in traditional exhibit styles, often prioritizes entertainment over the well-being of the animals on the modern standards. This thesis aims to reimagine the Lahore Zoo through innovative landscaping and urbanization strategies that focus on creating a more ethical and immersive environment, enhancing both animal welfare and the visitor experience without expanding the zoo's physical footprint. The need for this study stems from the growing global movement which demands every human to be more responsible towards the environment and ecosystem of our home, the earth. It is driven by the consequences of irresponsible behavior that was exhibited in the last couple of centuries by man, owing to the unprecedented advancement of science, which lead to industrialization and gave us unwanted fruits of pollution, global warming and other hazards. This responsible thought has also shifted towards preserving the animal kingdom, which is Page | IX vital part of eco system. We have already lost many species, which have become extinct, and left many endangered. Now people want the modern zoos to be responsible and ecologically sustainable. As urban spaces become increasingly limited, there is an urgent need to rethink how zoos can function as educational and conservation-oriented institutions within cities. By analyzing case studies from South Asia and beyond, this research identifies key strategies for transforming the Lahore Zoo into a modern facility that balances ecological concerns with the needs of its inhabitants and visitors. The emphasis is on creating spaces that mimic natural habitats and foster positive interactions between animals and people, thus moving beyond the traditional "bars and cages" approach. In our study, we have learnt from the worldwide trends of shifting towards natural habitats for captivated animals and our responsibility to rectify the situation. Through this study we will learn that how, in the given resources, and with will, we can transform Lahore zoo into a state of the art modern facility, where not only animals are kept safe and healthy, but also it can be a facility where endangered species are preserved, reproduced, and reintroduced to the wild. We have produced through this research a model that integrates landscape architecture, urban planning, and animal welfare, this thesis underscores the importance of thoughtful design in creating spaces where conservation, education, and recreation can coexist harmoniously. The overall goal is to presents a vision for the Lahore Zoo that goes with the contemporary values of animal welfare and therefore sets a new standard for zoos in South Asia in particular, and in the world in general.enThesis