Traditional Sindhi Horse Breed Facing Extinction Amid Modernization

Sanghar (Hasnain Ashiq Saand) Once a symbol of pride and culture in Sindh, the traditional Sindhi horse is now on the brink of extinction as modern means of transport have gradually replaced its utility.

According to a survey conducted across Tando Allahyar, Tando Adam, Berani, and adjoining areas, nearly 75 percent of Sindhi horses have vanished over the past three decades. Villages that once kept 30 to 40 horses now have barely one or two.

Experts and breeders note that rapid urbanization, road expansion, and the availability of buses, motorbikes, and cars have reduced the need for horses, forcing many owners to sell them and opt for vehicles instead. The trend has put this rare breed under severe threat.

Historically, the Sindhi horse was not only used for riding and races but also played a crucial role in government departments, including irrigation, revenue, and police services. Dedicated stables, budgets, and allowances once supported horse breeding and maintenance, while cultural festivals and fairs helped sustain traditional horse-riding competitions. However, these practices have dwindled in recent years.

The Sindhi horse is distinct for its elegant gait and unique walking styles, admired worldwide for their balance and grace. Despite this, very few breeders remain committed to preserving the bloodline, citing the high costs and long time required to raise a foal.

Animal rights activists and local historians have urged the Sindh government to take immediate steps for preservation. They warn that without intervention, this rare and culturally significant breed may soon disappear entirely from the province’s landscape.