Articles and letters may be edited for the purposes of clarity and space.
Seaside fireworks of Abu Dhabi
We lived by the seaside of Abu Dhabi and it was the boating race day of the city. We kept seeing the speed boats splitting through the sea all day long. Typically like every boat race night, I stayed awake in my bed until I heard the crackling echoes of the fireworks in the sea. I tiptoed out of my bedroom and ran on the cold white marble floor towards the balcony.
The balcony overlooked the seaside corniche of Abu Dhabi, and from my apartment high above, the view felt like a scene straight out of a novel. Shimmering, colourful fireworks lit up the sea, transforming it into a dazzling display of vibrant, multicoloured glitter. It was my ultimate happy hour, watching the grandeur of the fireworks held from inside the sea. The echo of the sound of fireworks basked in the magnanimous glory of the sea. This was Abu Dhabi, the city that sparkled in the sea when night arrived.
It was the early 90s when we had freshly moved to Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates. The city at the time was already booming with multiple nationalities and truly cosmopolitan. More like the Dubai you know of today, except that Abu Dhabi saw the glitterati way earlier. This was the place they called the perfect blend, between the east and the west. State of art sky scrapers of the time, right next to the seaside, offered a picturesque setting for the eyes.
The times were simple yet exquisite in nature, there were no phones with screens at the time and people interacted with their surroundings a great deal. The long walk at the beach after a long day at work was the luxury activity of the residents. Every night there was a wooden ferry that would be lit up with lights and played music to take the passengers across. It was coorniche the beach at the capital that came to life every evening, the time to rejoice and forget your worries. They were the simple pleasures of enjoying a shawarma by the beach and listening to the musical ferry in the background.
SADIA BUKHARI
Via email
Fight for power
PTI has recently called on its workers and senior party leaders to gather in Islamabad on 24th November. The senior leaders of PTI are now under pressure to confront this critical situation alongside their workers. Meanwhile, rumors are circulating that if PTI leaders fail to show up with their workers, they may face expulsion from the party. This declaration, reportedly made by Khan and Bushra Bibi during a media interaction, has created chaos among the party’s senior leadership.
Amid this turmoil, the primary demand remains clear: a return to power through Khan’s release from jail. However, it is not merely about securing his freedom—it is a fight for power. PTI leaders have vowed not to leave the capital until Khan is released. The pressing question is how the government will respond on 24th November.
The Administration and law enforcement agencies, including military personnel, must take strict measures to ensure order during PTI’s arrival in Islamabad. A crackdown should be applied to those violating the law in their pursuit of power. The government’s leniency in treating these actions as a challenge to national progress has contributed to the ongoing instability.
These recurring political dramas are tarnishing Pakistan’s image, particularly among nations seeking stronger ties with the country to foster a sustainable and prosperous future. A lasting solution to these frequent protests is essential. The government’s response to this protest call on 24th November will determine whether Khan will be released or if more workers will join him behind bars due to these persistent disruptions.
SADAM HUSSAIN
Ghotki, Sindh
Appeal to CDA Chairman
I would like to bring to the kind attention of Chairman, Capital Development Authority, a potential spelling error on the signage for “Sumbal Road” in F-10, Islamabad. The name appears to be derived from the flower Sumbul (commonly associated with fragrant plants such as Nardostachys jatamansi). However, the spelling on the boards reads as “Sumbal,” which seems incorrect.
I kindly request the CDA to verify the intended name and correct the spelling on all relevant signage if necessary. This small step will enhance accuracy and reflect the cultural significance of the name. Thank you for your attention to this matter.
M FAZAL ELAHI
Islamabad
