The Sindh Assembly discussed the alarming rise in chikungunya cases attributed to climate change and increased rainfall, prompting concerns over vector-borne diseases. Health officials highlighted preventative measures being implemented and acknowledged the high cost of medical testing, supporting the belief that actual case numbers are likely underreported. Concurrent issues regarding electricity utility performance and traffic congestion from Qingqi rickshaws were also addressed during the session.
On November 1, 2024, the Sindh Assembly addressed concerns regarding a notable increase in chikungunya cases attributed to recent rainfall and climate change. Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan lawmaker, Sikandar Khatoon, highlighted the escalating chikungunya cases, emphasizing the high costs associated with its testing and inquired about the provincial government’s measures to combat the disease’s rapid spread. In response, Nida Khuhro, the Parliamentary Secretary for Health from the Pakistan Peoples Party, acknowledged that the recent weather conditions had created conducive environments for mosquito breeding, which in turn exacerbated the prevalence of vector-borne diseases. She assured that the government was actively undertaking preventive strategies, including enhanced fumigation efforts. Plans for public awareness campaigns were also mentioned. Khuhro provided historical context by indicating that chikungunya was first identified in Tanzania in 1952, with its first case in Sindh province recorded in 2016. She stated that chikungunya is transmitted solely through the bite of an infected mosquito and is characterized by symptoms such as high fever, severe joint and muscle pain, headache, and swelling. Treatment primarily involves the use of analgesics to manage pain and fever. Furthermore, Khuhro reported that 554 healthcare professionals had received training in laboratory testing and disease management. So far, this year, 831 individuals were screened, out of which 181 tested positive for chikungunya. Despite official numbers, it is widely believed that actual case numbers are significantly higher due to the prohibitive costs of testing. She assured that adequate stocks of medications were maintained across the province to facilitate prompt treatment. Khuhro noted, “No deaths due to chikungunya have been reported so far,” although former speaker Agha Siraj Durrani raised concerns over a fatality in his constituency. In related discussions, Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon criticized the performance of major power utilities K-Electric, Hyderabad Electric Supply Company (Hesco), and Sukkur Electric Power Company (Sepco). Memon proposed that the assembly summon the heads of these companies to address ongoing issues of prolonged electricity shortages and excessive billing after a special committee was established to evaluate their performance. Additionally, the Excise Minister Sharjeel Memon announced a ban on Qingqi rickshaws in urban areas due to their contribution to traffic congestion, although a court injunction temporarily halted enforcement of this ban. He stated, “Only certified charitable organizations qualify for tax exemptions,” and emphasized that misusage of exempt vehicle privileges could result in confiscation. The assembly’s proceedings underscore the urgent public health concerns posed by climate change and vector-borne diseases, as well as ongoing challenges in the energy sector and traffic management in Sindh.
The recent rise in vector-borne diseases, particularly chikungunya, in the Sindh province has raised significant public health concerns. The Sindh Assembly discussed the implications of climate change and recent rainfall which have provided ideal breeding conditions for disease-carrying mosquitoes. The response from health officials indicates a proactive stance to combat the issue through fumigation and public education initiatives. Additionally, concerns surrounding electricity supply and traffic management have been brought to the forefront, illustrating how interconnected public health, utilities, and city infrastructure challenges are in urban Sindh.
In conclusion, the Sindh Assembly’s deliberations reflect the urgent need to address the rise in vector-borne diseases due to climatic factors and the inadequate response from power utility companies. The government’s commitment to enhancing public health measures and improving utility services is vital for the wellbeing of its citizens. Continued scrutiny and action from legislative bodies are essential to effectively manage the intertwined challenges of public health, energy, and urban infrastructure in Sindh.
Original Source: asianews.network
