Articles and letters may be edited for the purposes of clarity and space.
Impact of overpopulation
Pakistan has grappled with multiple hardships due to population growth. Overpopulation can lead to various challenges, including strain on resources like food and water, environmental degradation, deforestation, increased pollution and heightened competition for jobs and housing. It can also contribute to social and economic issues, impacting the overall setting of society.
Sustainable population management and resource allocation are crucial to address these concerns. Regrettably, the matter has been completely overlooked by authorities. I earnestly implore relevant authorities to look into the matter as soon as possible.
MAHNAZ AMAN
Karachi
Self-respect should be priority
Self-respect is cornerstone of one’s identity and well-being, serving as compass that guides decisions and interactions with the world. It embodies a deep appreciation for oneself, acknowledging inherent worth and dignity. Cultivating self-respect involves a harmonious blend of acknowledging strengths, accepting imperfections, and setting healthy boundaries.
At its core, self-respect hinges on recognising one’s value, irrespective of external validations. It’s about embracing individuality, strengths, and flaws alike, without allowing external opinions to overshadow one’s intrinsic worth. This doesn’t mean disregarding constructive feedback, but rather filtering opinions to align with personal growth rather than diminishing self-worth. Moreover, self-respect nurtures the courage to uphold personal principles and values, even when faced with challenges or societal pressures. It’s the inner voice advocating for authenticity, refusing to compromise integrity or beliefs for external validation or acceptance. This integrity fuels a sense of confidence and assurance in one’s actions, fostering genuine connections and respect from others. Setting boundaries is another crucial aspect of self-respect. It involves recognizing and communicating personal limits, whether in relationships, work, or daily interactions. By establishing boundaries, individuals honour their needs and protect themselves from being taken advantage of or manipulated, thus preserving their dignity and self-worth.
MISBAH SHAIKH
Karachi
Street parking
I am writing to highlight pressing issue of street parking in our country. The situation leads to traffic congestion, compromises pedestrian safety and affects overall urban experience. Local authorities must invest in well-designed parking facilities and implement effective management strategies.
Public awareness campaigns promoting responsible parking practices and alternative commuting methods are also crucial. Addressing street parking challenges will not only enhance urban life but also contribute to overall city development.
ISRA AFTAB
Islamabad
Water borne diseases
The threat of waterborne diseases to public health in Pakistan is significant, and the population is facing increasing challenges related to water contamination and its associated illnesses. To prevent the spread of these dangerous diseases, it is crucial to raise awareness and take proactive measures as the country struggles with this pressing issue. Pakistan faces a major problem with waterborne diseases due to the widespread contamination of drinking water sources. The poor sanitation infrastructure and the discharge of untreated sewage into water bodies have resulted in high levels of bacterial and parasitic contamination, making a large portion of the population at risk of waterborne illnesses.
The occurrence of illnesses like cholera, typhoid fever, hepatitis A, and diarrhoea is incredibly distressing. The healthcare system is already under strain due to these ailments, which not only cause significant morbidity and mortality but also place a heavy burden on it. Children are particularly at risk, with waterborne illnesses being the main cause of illness and death among young people in the country.
The situation is especially dire in rural areas where access to clean water and proper sanitation facilities is limited. Waterborne diseases are more likely to be contracted due to the lack of clean water, which perpetuates a cycle of illness and poverty. Furthermore, the challenges are compounded by the impact of climate change on water sources, resulting in a greater need to address this issue promptly.
A multi-faceted approach is required to tackle the problem of waterborne diseases. To combat the spread of these illnesses, a comprehensive strategy must include investments in water treatment facilities, improved sanitation infrastructure, and public health education.
Moreover, promoting hygiene habits like hand washing and safe water storage can have a significant impact on decreasing the prevalence of waterborne illneses.
The government and local and international organizations must work together to prioritise initiatives that ensure all segments of the population have access to clean and safe drinking water. Furthermore, performing regular water quality testing and monitoring can aid in identifying contamination hotspots and facilitating timely interventions to secure public health.
SHAYHAQ CHAKIR
Awaran, Balochistan
Box
Preserving our
national language
I pen this letter to underscore the pivotal importance of pre
serving and celebrating our national language Urdu, a cultural gem that is an integral part of our shared heritage. Urdu, with its roots deeply embedded in the historical and literary legacy of our nation, deserves our collective attention and commitment. First and foremost, Urdu serves as a bridge that connects us to our past. Its poetic expressions, classical literature, and historical significance weave a narrative that links generations. By nurturing Urdu, we preserve the wisdom and creativity of our forebearers, ensuring that the tapestry of our cultural identity remains vibrant and rich. Furthermore, Urdu is a testament to diverse influences that have shaped our society. Its synthesis of Persian, Arabic, Turkish, and indigenous languages reflects the historical intermingling of cultures and civilizations. In safeguarding Urdu, we embrace our pluralistic history and foster a sense of unity in diversity. In the contemporary context, Urdu plays a crucial role in fostering inclusivity. As a language that transcends regional boundaries, it serves as a common ground for communication among people of varied linguistic backgrounds. Promoting Urdu education not only preserves our linguistic diversity but also enhances cohesion and understanding.
NOOR UL AIN SULTAN
Rawalpindi
Islamabad
