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.
Crackdown on thieves
As a result, there is now a government crackdown against electricity theft across the country, which according to media reports, comes up to eight million units of stolen electricity.
From the Karachi Electric (KE) removing 17,500 kundas (hooks) from Korangi to Lahore Electric Supply Company (Lesco) region catching 330 electricity thieves, the crackdown continues. A report compiled by an intelligence agency on power theft and line losses worth billions of rupees in various electric power distribution companies (DISCOs) of the country has revealed that the staffs have neither modern devices nor training to stop power theft.
As per this report, electric supply companies are unable to catch new software for electricity theft through modern chips in the meter. The report also states that a major cause of line losses is excessive length of 11KV lines, faulty conductors, damaged transformers, excessive length of LT lines and poor material, overloading of transformers beyond their capacity.
Experts say that without the government expanding the distribution and transmission of energy, making sure that line losses are managed, and electricity theft is controlled, a short-term crackdown will not bring about any long-term results.
Another issue is the payment to the IPPs and the burden that is being borne by electricity consumers through taxes for capacity payments. We also need to ensure that electricity consumption is reduced because we don’t have enough money to buy fuel to generate it. With the IMF’s strict conditions, the price of electricity, gas and petroleum prices will keep increasing frequently and it will be difficult for people to manage it with such high inflation. It is incumbent upon the government that this issue be resolved as soon as possible because the financial burden on the people through indirect and direct taxes is unfair.
MUNAWAR SIDDIQUI
Lahore
Gender equality
Gender equality is when people of all genders have equal rights, responsibilities and opportunities. Everyone is affected by gender inequality-women – men- children etc. People say girls and boys are equal, but this equality is like a film with many sequels. In every part they talk about women power and rights, but they are treated like a weak person, with no power to handle their fights. The reality of this film equality is that everything is fake in it with no certainty.
It is the bitter truth. In this film reality is the only thing which is missing to all those fake people who comment different lines on us. Pakistan ranks 142 countries out of 146 countries in WEF’S global gap report. It should be stopped and people should treat everyone equally and they should change their thoughts that women can’t do anything.
MARYAM SOHAIL
Hyderabad
Change challenges
Climate change is a significant global concern. It’s driven by various factors, including human activity and natural events like volcanic eruptions. Before human intervention, climate change occurred at a slower pace.
However, with the arrival of humans on Earth, the rate of climate change has surged. This acceleration is primarily due to deforestation, industrialization and urbanization. These activities have encroached upon forested areas, disrupting wildlife habitats.
The destruction of forests to make way for industries and residences has had a profound impact on wildlife. Many animals and plants depend on these forests for their survival. When their habitats are destroyed, these species become vulnerable. International agencies are working to protect threatened wildlife, but more action is needed.
SHERJAN BALOCH
Turbat
Box letter
Clean water
I am writing to draw attention of the relevant authorities to a growing concern that is affecting the lives of countless residents in Karachi – the looming crisis of clean water access. Access to clean and safe drinking water is a fundamental human right, yet in Karachi, it is increasingly becoming a luxury. The city faces acute shortage of potable water, and the water that is available often falls short of acceptable quality standards. This situation poses severe health risks to our citizens, particularly vulnerable communities. The reasons behind this crisis are manifold, including outdated infrastructure, inefficient water management and contamination of water sources. As a result, Karachi’s residents are forced to rely on alternative, often unsafe, water sources, leading to waterborne diseases and exacerbating the burden on healthcare facilities. This situation is not just a humanitarian concern; it is an economic challenge as well. A lack of access to clean water can hinder productivity, impact educational outcomes and contribute to a cycle of poverty for many. I urge you and your department to prioritize this issue and work towards comprehensive solutions. Investment in infrastructure, water treatment facilities and rigorous monitoring are essential steps to ensure clean water access for all Karachiites. In doing so, we can not only mitigate a crisis but also improve the quality of life and the overall well-being of our city’s residents.
SHAMIM SHAH FAISAL
Karachi
