KARACHI:
Sindh’s Kashmore district is home to over 1.23 million people, although Kandhkot, a tehsil within it, has a population of over 0.4 million, as per the 2023 census. The lack of a functional hospital in Kandhkot, despite the city's expanding population and its status as an independent district since 2004, puts the health of its citizens at serious risk. The Kandhkot Taluka Hospital offers very little in the way of medical care; it is essentially a referral facility. Patients are frequently sent for treatment in emergency to cities like Rahim Yar Khan, Larkana or Sukkur. Sadly, many lives have been lost on the road as a result of this delay in getting the right care.
Adding to the crisis, current healthcare facilities are in desperate need of maintenance. Hospitals are plagued by filthy rooms, dirty restrooms and piles of trash, all of which contribute to health problems rather than alleviating them. Despite having a reasonable budget, authorities have failed to maintain fundamental hygiene requirements, putting public health at risk.
An immediate response is essential. Higher authorities must address both the scarcity of healthcare facilities and the deterioration of existing institutions. Cleanliness campaigns, good waste management and a fully equipped hospital are critical to Kandhkot's future.
The government needs to act swiftly to provide basic healthcare and a clean environment so that the people of Kandhkot can live safely and healthfully.
Moin Ahmed Awan
Kandhkot
