Karachi is facing a worsening stray dog crisis, with 19 people losing their lives and nearly 29,000 dog bite cases reported across the city so far in 2025, health officials confirmed.
Areas such as Landhi, Korangi, DHA, Mehmoodabad, Orangi Town, and Malir have seen a sharp rise in stray dog populations, triggering daily attacks and growing fear among residents. Locals say stepping outside, especially in the evenings, has become increasingly dangerous for women, children, and workers.
Karachi’s major hospitals are struggling to handle the surge in cases. Indus Hospital reports around 150 dog bite patients daily, having treated over 16,000 cases this year, with eight rabies-related deaths. Jinnah Hospital has recorded nearly 13,000 cases and 11 deaths, with about 100 patients arriving every day.
Medical experts warn that rabies is fatal once symptoms appear. Early signs include headaches and anxiety, but the disease quickly progresses to hydrophobia and aerophobia, after which survival becomes impossible.
Doctors link the unchecked growth of stray dogs to poor waste management, as overflowing garbage dumps provide food and shelter, allowing dogs to breed rapidly.
Dr Muhammad Aftab Gohar, manager of the Rabies Prevention Clinic at Indus Hospital, said rabies cases are rising annually. He stressed that immediate wound washing for at least 10 minutes, followed by timely vaccination, offers 100 per cent protection if done correctly.
According to World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines:
Residents describe living “hostage” to stray dogs, with children chased during play, cyclists attacked, and workers bitten while commuting. Many demand proper shelter homes, vaccination drives, and effective waste management, saying relocation alone has failed as dogs return.
Health experts and citizens agree that without coordinated action by municipal authorities, healthcare providers, and communities, Karachi’s stray dog menace will continue to claim lives and disrupt daily life.