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.
Water crisis: Next big issue
The water crisis in Pakistan looms as one of the most pressing and complex challenges facing the nation. With a rapidly growing population, water scarcity is becoming a harsh reality. Pakistan’s per capita water availability is diminishing and the situation is exacerbated by the mismanagement of water resources, outdated irrigation systems and inadequate infrastructure for water storage.
Moreover, the contamination of water sources due to industrial, agricultural and domestic pollution poses serious health hazards and reduces the availability of clean drinking water. Climate change further compounds the problem, with irregular rainfall patterns and the melting of glaciers in the Himalayas affecting the flow of critical rivers. In addition to these internal challenges, trans-boundary issues with neighbouring India over shared rivers add complexity to the management of water resources.
Addressing this multifaceted crisis demands comprehensive solutions, including improved governance, modernization of irrigation practices and investment in water storage infrastructure, water recycling, pollution control and international cooperation. The water crisis in Pakistan underscores the urgent need for sustainable water management and responsible resource usage to secure the well-being of its people and the stability of the region.
ZEESHAN ALI
Sukkur
Unjustified water charges
As a statutory body, both Cantonment Board and DHA, are empowered to collect property tax, water charges, security, conservation charges etc., from residents living in their area of jurisdiction. This simultaneously places upon them responsibility to provide basic services, install water meters, upgrade electricity distribution system, such as replacement of overhead transmission lines to underground system, provide security etc from taxes and charges collected from residents, located in their respective areas.
As it is the Property tax, Conservancy Charges, Water Charges etc collected by these two statutory bodies is much higher than that levied by city or municipal administration and the provincial governments. Seeking additional charges for installation of Metered Meter Water units, or other such upgradation is unjustified and unilateral demand. Taxes collected from residents are for providing these services. There should a system of checks and balances to protect rights of civilian residents in these localities.
The imported Chinese made Metered Water Units being installed cost about Rs 5,000 to Rs 8,000 per unit, but DHA Lahore is collecting Rs50,000 from each One-Kanal resident. In any case, there should be some consideration for senior citizen residents, especially those above 70 years age, who are already facing hardships, unable to meet expenses.
MALIK TARIQ ALI
Lahore
Still existing?
Is it impossible to eliminate polio in the world and in Pakistan this year? It had almost been considered eradicated, but the recent seven cases from Pakistan and Afghanistan have dashed that hope. Both countries continue to report cases.
It’s worth noting that Bannu district in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, has recently reported polio cases, with 20 cases in 2022. So, why are these two countries facing setbacks? Is it due to weaknesses in the authorities’ efforts? According to the Health Minister, recent tests showed that 90% of the samples were imported from Afghanistan.
To truly achieve polio eradication in these nations, all relevant authorities must work diligently. They need to focus on improving the healthcare system and ensure that each region of the country has access to polio vaccines. The only effective way to eradicate polio is through vaccination, and it must be made accessible to all citizens to make Pakistan polio-free.
SHAHNAWAZ MEERAN
Peshawar
Increasing harassment
I am writing to express my deep concern about the alarming increase in harassment cases within educational institutions in Pakistan. It is distressing to note that these incidents, affecting both students and staff, have become more frequent in recent times.
This issue demands urgent attention from both authorities and society. Harassment in educational institutions not only jeopardizes the well-being of the victims but also hampers the overall learning environment. It can lead to long-lasting psychological trauma and hinder students’ academic progress.
The first step in addressing this issue is to ensure strict enforcement of existing anti-harassment policies and the creation of safe reporting mechanisms for victims. Institutions should conduct regular awareness programs to educate students and staff about the consequences of harassment and the avenues available to seek help.
Furthermore, fostering a culture of respect and inclusivity is essential. It is incumbent upon all of us to encourage open dialogue, empathy and support for those affected by harassment. Together, we can work towards creating a safer and more nurturing environment within our educational institutions.
It is high time that we take collective action to combat this issue and protect the future of our nation. Let us unite to put an end to the rising cases of harassment in Pakistani educational institutions.
MUHAMMAD ISMAIL
Via email
