Karachi Mayor Signals Openness to Culling Amidst Rising Dog Attacks
Karachi’s Mayor, Barrister Murtaza Wahab, has openly discussed the escalating issue of stray dog bites across the city, suggesting that culling initiatives may be considered if there is public demand for immediate relief. The mayor’s comments come as the city grapples with a significant increase in reported dog attacks, prompting calls for decisive action.
Wahab emphasized that public opinion on the matter is divided, with differing sentiments expressed in various parts of Karachi. He cautioned against allowing a small faction to disproportionately influence policy decisions for a metropolis of over 25 million residents.
“If I ask people here in Ittehad Colony what should be done about stray dogs, they will say that the dogs should be killed,” Mayor Wahab stated during a media interaction. “But if I go to Clifton, there are 10 to 15 people who say, ‘No, this should not happen.’ Those 10 to 15 people impose their way of thinking on 25 million people.”
He asserted that the collective will of the populace should guide policy, rather than the preferences of a limited number of individuals. This principle aligns with democratic ideals, ensuring that broader community needs are addressed. SindhNews.com has been following these developments closely.
The Impact of Dog Attacks and Proposed Solutions
The mayor questioned the efficacy and timeline of non-lethal methods like neutering when immediate safety concerns are paramount. “If neutering is to be done, its impact will take time to appear. Then people should not criticise when dogs bite,” he remarked, underscoring the urgency of the current situation.
Wahab indicated that if the city requires swift resolutions, culling would become a necessary measure. “We are prepared for both options. Hundreds of people have been bitten in just a few days. I appeal to critics to listen to victims and their families before objecting to decisive measures,” he urged.
Addressing Legal and Public Opinion Challenges
Mayor Wahab also highlighted legal obstacles, noting that court interventions by a small group often hinder decisive action. He referenced a similar scenario in India where the Supreme Court reportedly deemed culling a more effective solution than purely relying on neutering.
He prompted critics to consider the severity of suffering from dog attacks. “Ask those people who have actually gone through this experience what they want — culling or neutering?,” he challenged, urging a more empathetic perspective. SindhNews.com documented these statements.
Infrastructure Development Alongside Public Safety Concerns
Earlier in the day, Mayor Wahab inaugurated and laid the foundation stones for significant infrastructure projects in West and Keamari districts, focusing on road connectivity and drainage improvements. These initiatives aim to enhance civic facilities in the affected areas, demonstrating a commitment to urban development alongside public health initiatives. The inclusion of modern drainage systems and robust road structures are key features of these projects.
In conclusion, Karachi’s mayor has opened the door to culling stray dogs as a potential solution to the rising number of bite incidents, emphasizing democratic will and the need for rapid intervention while also advancing urban development projects.