THATTA: An alarming surge in the cases of malaria in Thatta district has raised serious concerns among local people and health professionals, highlighting what many describe as a lack of proactive measures by the administration to curb the disease.

According to official figures, 1,445 malaria cases were reported in June alone. The figure was confirmed by Thatta District Health Officer (DHO) Dr Safdar Shah Amirkhani. The situation has led to overflowing wards in both government and private hospitals where dozens of new patients are arriving daily.

An unchecked proliferation of mosquitoes — largely attributed to poor sanitation, stagnant water, and accumulating garbage — is believed to be the primary cause behind the escalating crisis.

This conducive environment has allowed malaria to reach epidemic proportions across the district.

Social activist Aziz Sarwan told reporters that mismanagement and ineffective programmes have raised concerns among citizens and local advocacy groups, who have been protesting against ineffective controlling for measures over the spiraling malaria situation.

He pointed out that millions of rupees are allocated annually for malaria control programmes, yet there appears to be little to no tangible progress on the ground.

This stark contrast between budget allocation and on-ground effectiveness has led to accusations of inefficiency and, in some cases, alleged misappropriation of funds.

Furthermore, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) that receive national and international funding for malaria control are also facing scrutiny.

Mr Sarwan alleged that these organisations are failing to transparently distribute essential resources like mosquito nets, exacerbating the problem.

The widespread nature of the disease has cast a shadow on the transparency and accountability of all entities involved in malaria prevention and control efforts, questioning the impact of their considerable budgets.

The Thatta DHO, while confirming the 1,445 cases in June, stated that Thatta district has demonstrated “considerable improvement” in its efforts within Sindh.

He also mentioned that a report to this effect has already been issued.

Published in Dawn, July 23rd, 2025