Article:
The streets of Karachi have become a battleground, with a staggering number of stray dog attacks leaving residents fearful of stepping out of their homes. In the first week of this month alone, over 800 cases of dog bites have been reported in the city, with the numbers steadily increasing. The Sindh government’s Rabies Control Program, launched in 2022, has failed to achieve its desired goals despite a hefty budget and a prolonged plan, with only limited vaccination and neutering carried out.
In just five days of this year, over 850 cases of dog bites have been reported in Karachi. The city has seen over 800 cases of dog bites reported in the first week of the year, but the Rabies Control Program, initiated in 2022, has shown little benefit. The program aimed to prevent the spread of rabies by neutering stray dogs rather than killing them, but after four years, the desired outcomes have not been achieved. Stray dogs continue to terrorize residents, and the situation has become dire.
The districts of West, Korangi, Kemari, and Malir have reported the highest number of dog bite cases. The program aimed to vaccinate and neuter 125,000 stray dogs, but with only four government vehicles and two rented ones available, the task has become almost impossible. The program’s staff strength is also limited, with only six centers operating with a permanent workforce. Despite a budget of Rs. 96 crore 30 lakh, only 30% of the funds have been utilized.
Experts believe that neutering is the long-term solution, but the slow progress, limited budget, and administrative hurdles have left residents in danger. The authorities claim that six centers are operational in Karachi, with another center in Malir nearing completion. Stray dogs are caught and taken to the relevant centers for neutering, but the situation remains critical.
The recent surge in dog bite cases is alarming, and authorities must take immediate action to ensure public safety. The arrest of a lady constable, who claimed to have laid the foundation stone for various development projects in the Old City area, has also been met with criticism. The closure of roads in Peoples’ Chorangi and Mazar-e-Quaid has also caused inconvenience to residents.
The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has expressed concern over the situation, with Chairman PTI Barrister Gohar stating that today is the last day of Sindh Chief Minister Sindh Syed Murad Ali Shah’s visit to the province. The recovery of $160,000 from a suspect arrested by the Pakistan Customs has also been reported. The Punjab government has congratulated the Pakistan Navy on successfully conducting a missile test.
The Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif, has directed the Health Minister, Secretary Health, and PIMS administration to take immediate action to save the lives of those affected by the recent fire incident. The Rangers have reported the recovery of goods worth millions of rupees during a joint operation with the customs department.
Pakistan has strongly condemned Israel’s actions in Somalia, with Ismail Dar expressing his concerns over the situation.
