Articles and letters may be edited for the purposes of clarity and space.
Pak solar energy policy
The discourse surrounding the adoption of solar energy in Pakistan has been increasingly clouded by conflicting statements and ambiguous policies. On one hand, the government appears to be championing solar energy (solarization) and providing facilities to encourage its utilization. Conversely, there are disconcerting projections suggesting the potential imposition of taxes on electricity generated from solar energy, which could negate its benefits for users. This dual messaging creates uncertainty and apprehension among current and prospective solar energy adopters.
To address these concerns, the government must urgently clarify its policy. This is particularly critical for those already contending with electricity shortages, load shedding and overbilling. The fear that investments in solar energy might become futile or even detrimental needs to be addressed decisively. Ambiguous statements exacerbate these fears, making it difficult for individuals and businesses to commit confidently to solar energy solutions.
Additionally, sources from power companies indicate that there is ongoing consideration of a proposal to allow net metering connection holders to utilize 50% to 70% of their electricity from distribution companies (DISCOs).
This proposal, if enacted, requires clear communication to prevent misinterpretation and ensure that its intended benefits are realized. When the public is informed about the advantages of a particular method and encouraged to adopt it, the policy should be consistent and genuinely beneficial.
GULAB UMID
Turbat
Karachi’s health at risk
I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the ongoing issues faced by the residents and commuters of Karachi due to the delayed construction of the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Red Line project. The revised deadline of June 2026 for the completion of this project is unacceptable and will only exacerbate the suffering of millions of people who rely on this route for their daily commute.
The ongoing construction work has caused severe disruptions, including dug-up roads, open drains and excessive dust, posing serious health hazards. The dust and smoke generated by the jammed traffic are causing severe health issues, particularly respiratory problems and eye irritation. Moreover, the mental wellbeing of the people is also affected due to the stress and anxiety caused by the daily struggle to navigate through the congested and hazardous roads.
It is unacceptable that the residents of Karachi have to endure these hardships for an extended period due to the delay in the Red Line project. The government must take immediate action to expedite the construction process and provide alternative solutions to mitigate the impact on the people of Karachi.
USAMA GHULAM RASOOL
Karachi
Don’t
abuse the environment
Ours is an abundant ecosystem which needs to be nurtured. We must make proactive sustainable and environmental friendly choices. We cannot go on abusing the environment and expecting it to nurture us in return. How we treat the environment is how the environment will treat us. An onslaught on the health and life of the environment is also an onslaught on our health and life.
Only when we stop burning fossil fuels will temperatures stop rising and we will be able to experience a stable climate again. It will be a new normal, we can’t go back to the old stable climate since the beginning of the Industrial Revolution.
JUBEL D’CRUZ
Mumbai, India
Business boost
It is nearer to impossible for a state to keep providing financial aid to people for an indefinite period of time until and unless people earn and pay taxes. Given the current economic situation of Pakistan, it is suggested to the incumbent PM to instruct his financial team to work out a plan which should enable people to start their business based on loan facility provided to them by government.
Let’s admit that Pakistan is not in a position as of now to provide white collar jobs to degree holders. Change the mind set. Instead of leaving the country in search of a job, be an entrepreneur
The UK is known as nation of shopkeepers. What’s wrong in it if an educated person runs a grocery store or a Juice and refreshment corner? Last but not least, resume yellow cab scheme. It was a good one. I believe with strict check and balance, in one year time, new small scale businesses will tone down poverty level and people and Pakistan shall prosperous
SHAHZAD LODHI
London
Box letter
Child labour
The social evil of poverty perpetuates in Pakistani society, giving rise to problems such as child labour. Due to poverty, parents force their children into child labour, paving the way for violence, exploitation, neglect and abuse (VENA) of children. The solution to VENA lies in Child-Friendly Spaces (CFS), where children can go in their spare time and enjoy extracurricular activities. Additionally, there is a dire need to bolster the dilapidated governance landscape in order to fight the social evil of poverty
MARIA ZULFIQAR
Islamabad
