KARACHI:
Kolahoo Tehsil of district Tump in Balochistan has a big population. Unfortunately, the people there lack access to several basic amenities including proper medical care. Despite the presence of a local hospital, the doctors are negligent towards patients and do not provide adequate support. Most doctors seldom show up for their duty. In addition, there is a shortage of medicines and other equipment. Things are much worse in nearby villages within the district as these areas are entirely neglected by the relevant authorities.
It takes approximately four hours to reach Turbat from Kolahoo because of the poor infrastructure, which poses a severe risk to the lives of patients that require immediate medical support. In recent years, several women have died during pregnancy — something that could have been easily avoided. Most patients are unable to make it to the major cities i.e. Quetta or Karachi either because of the long distance or because they cannot afford it. The outbreaks of Covid-19 and dengue fever have further put a strain.
The denial of basic healthcare to the citizens of Kolahoo is a violation of their constitutional rights. I urge the health minister and other relevant authorities to reform the condition of local hospitals and take strict action against doctors and medical staff not fulfilling their duties. The lives of Kolahoo citizens should not be risked and instead be prioritised as those of other citizens of the country.
Hammal Zahid
Kolahoo
Published in The Express Tribune, December 9th, 2021.
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