KARACHI: In the heart of District East, Karachi, lies Welfare Colony—a marginalized area plagued by the silent curse of contaminated water. For over 15 years, residents have been forced to rely on saline bore water, as no clean water supply exists in the area. The devastating impact of this prolonged exposure has left every household with at least one “patient.”
Skin diseases, gallstones, joint disorders, kidney problems, and gastrointestinal ailments are rampant in the community. Children are frequently afflicted with rashes and fungal infections, while adults struggle with chronic pain and organ damage.
“Every family here has someone who is unwell because of the water we drink,” shared Sajjad Qureshi, a local resident. “Fungal infections are the most common, and they affect nearly everyone in our community. We desperately need free medical camps to address these issues.”
The Qureshi community, the majority in Welfare Colony, is grappling with poverty, making it nearly impossible to afford costly private treatments for these illnesses. Many avoid government hospitals due to inadequate and unsatisfactory healthcare services, leaving the community without access to reliable medical care.
Amid these challenges, the Karachi Water and Sewerage Services Improvement Project (KWSSIP), in partnership with the National Rural Support Programme (NRSP), has brought a glimmer of hope. Their initiatives aim to provide clean water solutions, rehabilitate the deteriorating sewerage system, and empower the community through mobilization and awareness campaigns.
“We are grateful for the initiatives being taken. Clean water and proper sewerage are not just needs but rights for every human being. These efforts bring hope to a community that has suffered for far too long,” said Ramzan Qureshi, another resident of the colony.
The situation in Welfare Colony highlights the urgent need for clean water and accessible healthcare in underserved communities. With consistent support and sustained intervention, there is hope that this neglected neighborhood can overcome its long-standing challenges, paving the way for healthier lives and a brighter future.
