ISLAMABAD, May 12: Preservation and display of skeleton of Saheli, a female elephant who died at Marghazar Zoo, and of a whale shark found dead at Karachi shore, was delayed as the Pakistan Museum of Natural History (PMNH) is in financial straits.

The skeletons of both animals, including the stuffed body of female elephant, were scheduled to be displayed at the museum in June last year, as the tanning period is almost over.

“We are facing funds shortage to execute both projects as the previous government slashed museum's budget by 20 percent,” Director of the Museum Dr Rafiq told APP.

He said the administration was in search of funding from any organization as the people of Islamabad and Rawalpindi had been awaiting the display of these carcasses. Both are expected to add to the attractions in the federal capital.

“We are in talk with UNESCO to provide funds for the projects. The display of shark's skeleton would cost around Rs0.7 million and Rs 0.4 million are required for that of the elephant,” Dr Rafiq said.— APP