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.
Unmasking intolerance
My heart aches and I can’t find he right words as I write this. We, as a nation, are in distress about something terrible that happened in Jaranwala, a city near Faisalabad. This recent incident has shocked the nation and raised serious concerns about the prevailing sense of intolerance and violence. The incident, involving a heinous act of vandalism, highlights the urgent need for societal introspection and a collective condemnation of such actions. Acts of violence and destruction have no place in a civilized society and the incident in Jaranwala is a stark reminder of the consequences of unchecked aggression. It is crucial for individuals, communities and authorities to come together and unequivocally denounce such acts, irrespective of the perceived motivations behind them. Such incidents not only tarnish the reputation of the country but also foster an environment of fear and discord among its citizens. It is important to recognize that the incident in Jaranwala is not an isolated event. It underscores the broader issue of minority rights in Pakistan. Not only have we destroyed a Church in Jaranwala but we are destroying the white part of Pakistan’s flag and Jinnah’s dream of a pluralistic. Inaction by the state emboldens extremists to kill minorities with impunity. Today it’s them, tomorrow it will be us from the majority.
This is a darker day in our history than the events of May 9th, when homes, places of worship and the sacred books of our Christian brothers were desecrated. Those who exploit or mistreat individuals accused under this blasphemy law face equitable consequences.
UNZILA TAHIR HUDA
Karachi
Migratory birds, poultry industry
Pakistan is home to diverse range of avifauna, including many water birds that use the country as a stopover during their migration. According to reports, 85% of winter visitors are ducks and shoreline waders. Among them, the Eurasian teal (Anas crecca), one of the most abundant dabbling ducks in the world, migrates to Pakistan in winter season to breed and escape harsh weather conditions.
Migratory birds rely on stored energy and nutrients to fuel each flight and need to rapidly restore the necessary energy required at their resting sites along the routes of migration. Recent research conducted under the supervision of Dr. Saima Ashraf at the Department of Anatomy & Histology at the University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences (UVAS) have uncovered new information about the high capacity of migratory birds to process and digest the ingested feed.
The study evaluated the structural modifications in the gastrointestinal tract of migratory ducks, which enable them to adapt during stopovers. The results showed that migratory teals have stronger immunity and metabolic rates compared to local duck species. This is because the different components of the intestinal wall and spleen are better developed in migratory ducks. These findings have important implications for the poultry industry. Migratory ducks can have better meat quality compared with local species if they are reared under standard poultry diets. By understanding the adaptations that enable migratory ducks to process feed more efficiently, the poultry industry can take advantage of this natural wonder and produce healthier meat. In conclusion, the Eurasian teal is a natural wonder of Pakistan’s wetlands, and this research has provided valuable insights into the adaptations that allow these birds to survive in their environment. This information has significant implications for the poultry industry and could contribute to the production of higher-quality meat.
AMMARA YOUNAS, DR SAIMA ASHRAF
Via email
Without clean water
Majority of village people in and around Malir, Karachi are utilising unhygienic water for cooking, drinking and washing. Few people have resources to filter or boil unclean water. This unclean water is causing serious health problems to people and particularly children. Many children under five have died due to this situation. Would Karachi Mayor pay some attention to this serious issue, as that would save thousands of lives.
ASMA NASIR
Via email
Impact of social media
In recent years, the rise of social media has revolutionised the way we connect, communicate, and share information. It has brought people from different corners of the world closer, facilitated social movements and empowered individuals to express their voices. However, as a concerned citizen, I feel it is crucial to highlight the significant challenges and potential drawbacks associated with this digital age phenomenon. The prevalence of social media platforms has led to a surge in cyber bullying and online harassment.
The virtual realm, shielded by anonymity, emboldens some individuals to engage in hurtful, malicious behaviour without facing immediate consequences. The impact of cyber bullying on mental health, particularly among the youth, is deeply troubling and demands attention from both public and policymakers. Moreover, the propagation of misinformation and fake news on social media platforms is a growing concern. With the ease of sharing information, false narratives can spread like wildfire, influencing public opinion and undermining trust in traditional media outlets.
This misinformation can have far-reaching consequences, impacting critical issues such as public health, elections, and societal harmony. In conclusion, social media is a double-edged sword. hile it has revolutionised communication, its unregulated use has given rise to various challenges that demand our attention and collective action.
HASSAN JAN
Via email
