Safe disposal of infectious medical waste remains elusive in Karachi — II
Experts flag health risks as regulatory bodies defend their performance By Mukhtar Alam KARACHI: As concerns deepen over inconsistent and unsafe medical-waste handling across the city, professional bodies and regulatory officials have stepped forward to outline the challenges and responsibilities they believe must be addressed to prevent further risks to public health and the environment. PMA calls for urgent reform “The management of medical and infectious waste across Karachi’s healthcare facilities — including hospitals, laboratories, and maternity homes — remains largely inadequate,” said Dr Abdul Ghafoor, Secretary General of the Pakistan Medical Association (PMA). He noted that studies have repeatedly shown poor segregation practices, with hazardous waste often mixed with municipal garbage. “Collection, transportation, and final disposal remain deficient,” he said, adding that many facilities still dump waste in open areas or municipal landfills instead of using standard ...