On November 1, 2024, the Sindh Assembly discussed the rising cases of chikungunya attributed to climate change and increased rainfall. Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan lawmaker Sikandar Khatoon raised concerns over testing costs and treatment. Parliamentary Secretary for Health, Nida Khuhro, confirmed preventive measures are being undertaken. There is pressure on electric companies for better performance, amidst plans to address traffic issues caused by Qingqi rickshaws.
On November 1, 2024, the Sindh Assembly convened to address the alarming rise in chikungunya cases within Karachi and the broader province, attributing the increase in vector-borne diseases (VBDs) to recent rainfall and climate change. During the session, Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan lawmaker Sikandar Khatoon raised concerns regarding the escalating chikungunya incidents and highlighted the prohibitive costs associated with testing for the virus. In response, Parliamentary Secretary for Health, Nida Khuhro of the Pakistan Peoples Party, acknowledged that climate change has created more conducive breeding conditions for mosquitoes, resulting in an uptick in VBDs. Ms. Khuhro elaborated on the preventive measures being implemented by the provincial government, which include enhanced fumigation efforts and planned public awareness campaigns. She provided historical context, noting that chikungunya was first identified in Tanzania in 1952, with the first recorded case in Sindh occurring in 2016. Ms. Khuhro clarified that chikungunya is transmitted solely through the bite of infected mosquitoes and is not contagious. Symptoms typically manifest as high fever, severe joint and muscle pain, headache, and swelling. She stated that the pain and fever can be managed with analgesics and underscored that 554 healthcare providers have been trained in laboratory testing and case management to improve patient care. This year, 831 individuals underwent screening at government health facilities, with 181 testing positive for chikungunya. Despite the reported cases, Ms. Khuhro indicated that the actual case numbers are believed to be higher due to the high cost of testing services. The health department has ensured the availability of sufficient medical stock across the province to facilitate prompt treatment. Although Ms. Khuhro claimed no fatalities due to chikungunya had been recorded, former Assembly Speaker Agha Siraj Durrani refuted this assertion, citing a recent death in his constituency. Further discussions in the assembly addressed the electricity distribution companies, with Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon proposing that the heads of K-Electric, Hesco, and Sepco be summoned to address issues concerning excessive billing and ongoing load-shedding. The assembly had previously established an 11-member special committee to evaluate the performance of these utilities, with particular attention to KE’s non-compliance with committee decisions. There were also discussions regarding regulation of Qingqi rickshaws, which the provincial government proposed to ban due to their contribution to traffic congestion. However, a court has stayed that order, complicating the government’s efforts to manage city traffic more effectively. In summary, public officials outlined ongoing health and utility challenges amidst a backdrop of climate impacts affecting local health conditions and urban management.
The Sindh government’s recent acknowledgment of the impacts of climate change on public health stems from observable increases in vector-borne diseases such as chikungunya. These diseases thrive in conditions created by climate factors, such as rainfall, which facilitates the breeding of disease-carrying mosquitoes. The region has seen notable spikes in disease cases, necessitating government intervention through health education and preventive measures. Additionally, challenges in urban transportation, particularly concerning Qingqi rickshaws and electricity distribution, underscore the broader systemic issues faced by the Sindh administration.
The Sindh government’s recognition of climate change as a factor in the rise of vector-borne diseases, particularly chikungunya, marks a critical moment in addressing public health challenges exacerbated by environmental changes. Ongoing efforts to manage mosquito populations and educate the public are essential for mitigating this health crisis. Furthermore, continued scrutiny of utility performance highlights the need for accountability and effective management of urban infrastructure.
Original Source: asianews.network
