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.
Parks after sun-set?
Certainly, when Ummah was acting according to commands of the Holy Book, led the world and when left, others came forward and are ruling presently. Scientifically it is well-proven that after sun-set body tissues majorly start to sleep till morning, again, start working actively till noon. And, then, take a bit of rest (Qaloola).
Energy is the main pillar for economic activity and due to serious crises our factories were/are going to close one by one; students have no bulbs for study… On the other side we start jogging in parks on lighting of begged finance from IMF and the likes – shame, shame. Pakistan’s power generation will remain on top of the country’s plight for a long period, due to non-build-up of any major dam.
The government intends to close business centers at 8pm whereas, All Pakistan Traders Association (APTA) called on authorities to review the decision which seems illogical and nonsense de facto. Though APTA laments that people used to visit markets after 6 pm, yet the government is not bound to listen to such illogical demands of APTA in the public interest. So, it is suggested to competent authority (to-go-ahead) without any hesitation.
Oh’ time has come that if any person/association tries to give any loss to property and life must be handled with iron hands like China, where, if a person dares to throw a stone towards administration, rebut comes with shoot (instantly), nothing else – if crime is proved. So, now, time has come that Pakistan (also) act upon this formula for controlling such crises.
Even rich countries like the US/Europe could not afford such an illogical style of life to keep malls/parks open till 10/11pm and even late. So, it is strongly suggested to the government to announce once for all, for closing of parks/malls after sun set. Anyhow,to provide beautiful parks for the public is the basic responsibility of the government – no argument (!!).
M AZAMMINHAS
Islamabad
A workable manifesto
With the government in its final three months of this term before the next general election, it is clear that all the parties within the PDM alliance have now started campaigning for the coming general election. They are trying to gain support for themselves for the next polls. Instead of rising slogans all parties would be better off developing a concrete approach on critical economic issues faced by the country.
Tangible solutions are needed to improve the economic situation in the next year, and policy reforms and a clear trajectory would help in addressing the real concerns of the population. In the 2018 election, PTI claimed for “Tabdeeli” and “New Pakistan” but those proved mere political slogans. This time only a workable manifesto would be appealable to people not slogans.
QAZI JAMSHED SIDDIQUI
Lahore
Historic Karachi Zoo
Pakistan’s oldest (145-year old) and largest Zoo, “Gandhi Garden”, Karachi calls for urgent attention of Mayor Karachi, Murtaza Wahab. This historic Zoo is in a sad state of disrepair, due to neglect and dearth of resources. For many of us who have fond memories of this once great centre of recreation, its current utterly hapless condition is truly heart-wrenching. There is an urgent need to salvage this historic place … don’t consign it to oblivion … save it for posterity. What should be done? I would suggest, the Karachi Zoo (Gandhi Garden) should be converted into a theme park similar to Universal Studios, Singapore. The
Universal Studios Singapore is one of the best theme parks in Singapore. With 28 thrilling rides, exciting attractions, and spectacular shows, the park is spread across 49 acres and is divided into seven fun zones. Needless to say this initiative, if undertaken, will become a source of entertainment and recreation for the entertainment-starved, young and old, people of not only the unparalleled city of Karachi but also for visitors from across the other cities of the country.
This gargantuan project, I suggest, may be developed on a build-operate-transfer basis. This theme park, once built, should be renamed either as “Jinnah Amusement Park” or “Abdul Sattar Edhi Amusement Park”.
M FAZAL ELAHI
Islamabad
Manipur violence
It is a matter of national shame that Manipur continues to burn even after the armed forces have stepped in. What we have witnessed in Manipur in the last 30 days has been unprecedented violence and large-scale displacement. It is deplorable that the State government has failed in its duty to protect the people. The government must take up all relief, rehabilitation and confidence-building measures at once and push hard to restore peace.
The fissures and unrest in Manipur between the Meitei community and tribals, is an unfortunate development. Therefore, it is a shame to witness people resorting to despicable acts. There ought to have been serious attempts to facilitate dialogue and discussion. There needs to be reason and debate in a civilised manner.
JUBEL D’CRUZ
Mumbai, India
Box letter
Unsafe route
I am writing to express my concern over the poor condition of the Johi-Chandan Mori Road. Every day, thousands of individuals use it. Since the flood of 2022, the local government has not rebuilt the road. Due to the numerous potholes and cracks on the road, driving is hazardous and challenging. The road has totally collapsed in several spots due to flooding. A young man who lost control of his motorcycle on this route on 12 June 2023, died after suffering severe injuries. This is merely one of numerous occurrences that occurred along the route. In addition to the situation, poor roads have also increased the number of thefts. Thieves take advantage of people being forced to drive slowly on the road, making them easy targets. I urge the local government to repair this road and consider building a bridge from Johi to Chandan Mori, as this would provide an alternative route in case of another flood situation. A bridge would also reduce the distance and travel time between Johi and Dadu and facilitate trade and commerce.
MUMTAZ ALI
Karachi
