THIS is with reference to a number of letters published in these columns recently about the spread of rabies in Sindh, including Karachi. Rather than an isolated tragedy, every case reflects a systemic failure. Rabies is nearly cent per cent fatal, but it is also almost cent per cent preventable if managed correctly and in time.

Karachi presents a grim picture. Just days ago, in Korangi’s Juma Goth area, a single rabies-infected dog bit at least 20 people in one day, creating panic and chaos. Hospitals were overwhelmed, victims arrived bleeding, and a teenage girl succumbed to the infection.

Despite repeated assurances by the relevant authorities, stray dogs continue to roam freely in residential areas and markets, at bus stops and around schools. The provincial government claims that over 250 rabies centres are functional, that thousands of dogs have been vaccinated and neutered, and that helplines, mobile apps and awareness campaigns are in place. High-level meetings are held, figures are shared, and budgets worth millions are announced. Yet, on the ground, the situation remains unchanged. Dog bites continue unabated, vaccines are either unavailable or improperly administered, and emergency responses are painfully slow. This gap between policy and practice raises serious questions.

An equally troubling silence comes from certain activist groups and NGOs. Whenever authorities attempt to remove or control stray dogs in Karachi, strong voices emerge in the name of animal rights, often halting operations. Animal welfare is important and deserves respect, but compassion cannot be selective.

Across the world, rabies control follows a balanced approach: mass dog vaccination, strict waste management, regulated breeding, effective surveillance, and guaranteed access to timely treatment for bite victims. Sindh needs to move beyond symbolic actions and adopt the integrated, evidence-based model with urgency.

Syed Oun Abbas
Karachi

Published in Dawn, March 2nd, 2026