Articles and letters may be edited for the purposes of clarity and space. They are published in good faith with a view to enlightening all the stakeholders. However, the contents of these writings may not necessarily match the views of the newspaper.
Tolerance and openness
The Caretaker Chief Minister of Punjab has sent pleasant waves of tolerance and openness in his statement regarding the facilitation of Sikh Yatrees from all over the world as they visit their religious sites in the province. The announcement of the reconstruction of the road that connects Lahore and Kartarpur by the CM is just one initial display of resolve in this matter.
This act of religious tolerance must bloom in a situation where a few instances of targeting minorities have sent shock waves across the country. On one hand, this tolerance paves the way for religious tourism and, on the other, it helps set a positive image of the country. The soft image of a country is strengthened through such steps. Pakistan will win a soft spot in the hearts and minds of the Sikh community worldwide. Apparently a small gesture, it carries a bigger impact.
The inauguration of the Kartarpur Corridor in 2019 was a historic day that left the Sikhs overjoyed. Now this fresh commitment towards Sikh Yatrees is a seed-in-sowing. This is also a message to the Modi Sarkar to lift the Visa restrictions on all Pakistani intending citizen who wish to meet their nears and dears living in India. This would also nourish a harmonious and peaceful atmosphere among two neighbouring countries.
QAZI JAMSHED SIDDIQUI
Lahore
Urbanisation challenges
As one of Pakistan’s largest and most vibrant cities, Karachi has experienced rapid urbanization in recent years. While this transformation has brought economic opportunities and cultural diversity, it has also led to several critical issues that demand immediate attention.
Firstly, the strain on infrastructure and public services is evident. The city’s roads, sewage systems, and public transport are struggling to keep pace with the expanding population. This affects the quality of life for residents and hampers economic growth.
Secondly, the housing crisis looms large. With an influx of people seeking better opportunities, affordable and adequate housing has become scarce. Informal settlements have proliferated, posing health and safety risks.
Lastly, environmental degradation is a significant concern. Pollution levels are rising, green spaces are shrinking, and the city is increasingly vulnerable to natural disasters.
Addressing these urbanization challenges requires a comprehensive approach that involves urban planning, infrastructure development, and policies promoting sustainable growth. It is essential to prioritize investment in critical areas such as public transport, sanitation, and affordable housing. By working together, we can ensure that Karachi’s urbanization is a force for positive change, creating a city that is inclusive, resilient, and environmentally sustainable.
SHAMIM SHAH FAISAL
Karachi
Afghanistan’s diplomatic landscape
Diplomatic efforts regarding Afghanistan have been ongoing since the Taliban’s return to power. Iran hosted a conference to improve security and economic conditions, while the Economic Cooperation Organization (ECO) and India also held meetings. The “Samarkand Dialogue” and UN talks in Doha aimed to address various issues, but Afghanistan’s recognition as a government remained a challenge.
The US had direct talks with the Taliban in Doha, focusing on economic issues, security, and women’s rights. Afghanistan’s mineral wealth and strategic location make it attractive to regional players, such as China and India. Russia has interests due to its Central Asian ties. Pakistan plays a central role in Afghan affairs, and the fight against groups like ISIS remains a challenge. Afghanistan’s inclusion in the CPEC could stabilize the region.
Key concerns include women’s rights, inclusivity, drug trafficking, terrorism, development and global connectivity. Engagement with the Taliban is recognized as necessary to address these issues. Each regional player has its own interests in Afghanistan, and the Taliban understands this. They have managed economy, acknowledge mineral wealth and aim to deal with legacy issues like TTP.
RAHIM DAD
Peshawar
Eye infection
Through this letter, I want to draw the attention of the government officials on the spreading of eye infection rapidly in the interior Sindh. Eye infection has gone viral and has infected almost everyone but it is very sad to know that still the government has not taken any precautionary measures. Talking on media channels and posting on social media sites about treatment is very simple but working on the baseline is very difficult.
There are not any precautionary campaigns or awareness sessions by the government. I don’t know why government officials are sleeping. Virus symptoms are very simple but people living in the countryside are not well aware about symptoms. Virus spreads at a very fast rate in schools also. Government should take some serious measures to control this spreading virus and should alert all hospitals for rapid response to the patients.
ANTHONY SAHOTRA
Larkana
Box letter
Teachers’ role
The world celebrates Teachers’ Day to honour teachers for their sincere efforts in imparting knowledge to students. Teachers’ Day celebrations are meant to convey the message that we care for the teachers, just as they care for us. On this day, students often dress up like their teachers and teach their juniors in classes, in the same way they have seen their teachers doing. Sometimes, teachers also sit in the classrooms and act like students, reliving the time when they were students themselves. This creates a bond of understanding between the teachers and the students. Teachers play a major role in shaping a child’s career. Since children spend a lot of time in school in their formative and impressionable years, teachers wield a great influence on them. In most cases, countries celebrate a local educator or an important milestone. This is the primary reason why different countries celebrate this day on different dates of the year, unlike many other International Days. However, most of the countries celebrate the Teachers’ Day on October 5.
JUBEL D’CRUZ
Mumbai, India
