SIUT launches Pakistan’s first state-of-the-art pediatric hospital for free cardiac & urology care

A game-changer in pediatric healthcare in Pakistan

KARACHI: In a major breakthrough for Pakistan’s healthcare landscape, the Sindh Institute of Urology and Transplantation (SIUT) has launched the Mariyam Bashir Dawood Children Hospital — a 14-story, purpose-built pediatric medical facility providing free treatment for congenital heart and urological conditions. Built at a staggering cost of over Rs. 7 billion, with additional support from the Sindh government, this new center marks a critical milestone in accessible, high-quality pediatric care.

Addressing a critical need — Pediatric cardiac and urological disorders in Pakistan

Each year, 80,000 to 100,000 children in Pakistan are born with congenital anomalies, such as heart defects and kidney-related disorders. If left untreated, these conditions can lead to lifelong disability or even death.

However, access to advanced care is severely limited, and private treatments can cost between Rs. 500,000 to Rs. 3 million — well beyond the reach of most families. SIUT’s new facility is designed to bridge this gap, making world-class treatment completely free, upholding the institution's belief that healthcare is a fundamental human right.

Cutting-edge facilities for lifesaving pediatric surgeries

The Mariyam Bashir Dawood Children Hospital is one of the most advanced pediatric surgical centers in South Asia. Key highlights include:

• Dedicated surgical units for congenital heart defects (CHD), including Adult CHD
• Dialysis and transplant services for pediatric kidney failure patients
• Hybrid cardiac catheterization labs for non-invasive diagnostics and interventions
• Modular operating theatres meeting global standards of sterility and precision
• Advanced diagnostic imaging and intensive care facilities

All services are provided entirely free of cost, aligned with SIUT’s decades-long mission of dignified, accessible healthcare under the visionary leadership of Prof. Adib Rizvi.

Philanthropy meets vision — The role of Mariyam Bashir Dawood family

This revolutionary project was made possible through the philanthropic support of the Mariyam Bashir Dawood family, whose contributions were instrumental in bringing the hospital to life. Combined with strategic backing from the Sindh provincial government, this public-private partnership sets a new precedent for social impact in healthcare.

A living philosophy: Healthcare as a human right

Since its founding, SIUT has remained rooted in the principle that no one should be denied medical treatment due to financial constraints. This new hospital is a bold reaffirmation of that belief, promising free, world-class pediatric care to every child in need, without discrimination.

What this means for the future

This facility is expected to serve tens of thousands of children annually, not only from Karachi and Sindh but across Pakistan. It aims to:

• Reduce infant and child mortality linked to treatable congenital issues
• Provide relief to overwhelmed private facilities
• Set a benchmark for other public-sector medical initiatives nationwide

For families, caregivers, and medical professionals, the message is clear: World-class pediatric treatment is now available, accessible, and free at SIUT’s new hospital. Visit the SIUT website or contact their helpdesk for further information.