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.
Increasing dengue attacks
In a disheartening turn of events, Rawalpindi civic agencies have recently issued a show-cause notice for their severe incompetency in managing our anti-dengue drive. This is an alarming and deeply disappointing occurrence, especially considering the current situation in Rawalpindi, with over 662 confirmed dengue cases and still many under treatment. The gravity of the situation is further intensified by the conducive weather conditions in Pakistan, which have enabled the proliferation of dengue mosquitoes, making the masses even more vulnerable to infection.
It is truly unfortunate that despite facing such horrifying odds, little to no effort has been directed towards an effective campaign. The lack of implementation of necessary methods to combat and prepare for dengue epidemics is a matter of great concern. We had the framework, knowledge, and equipment needed to battle against dengue, but action has been either delayed or neglected altogether. This lack of preparedness and responsiveness is both unjustifiable and inexcusable.
The show-cause notices issued to civic bodies will undoubtedly increase pressure and refocus attention on the lack of proactive measures taken. It highlights the need for strengthened coordination, strict enforcement of standard operating procedures and comprehensive public awareness campaigns. The evidence of negligence must not go unnoticed and punitive measures should be taken to hold those responsible accountable. This step is not just a matter of administrative failure; it concerns the health and wellbeing of the entire population. In the face of the ongoing downpour and favourable conditions for dengue transmission, it is crucial to expedite field activities to prevent the spread of the disease. Measures should be taken to increase bed capacity to accommodate affected patients promptly. However, it is essential to go beyond mere planning but ensure the successful implementation of these measures. Proactive measures, such as regular visits to dengue wards by doctors and consultants, are critical to providing the necessary care and attention to affected individuals.
Munawar Siddiqui
Lahore
Street crime
I am writing to express my deep concern about the alarming rise in street crime in Pakistan, which has become a pervasive problem affecting the safety, security and economic well-being of our nation. It is imperative that we address this issue promptly to safeguard the life and livelihood of our citizens.
Street crime has reached unprecedented levels, causing anxiety among people who cannot even keep their mobile phones safe while venturing outside. The fear of having one’s belongings snatched by criminals has become an unfortunate reality for many. This not only jeopardizes the safety of our people but also has adverse effects on Pakistan’s economy.
Recent reports paint a grim picture of the situation. Karachi, for instance, witnessed a staggering 60,580 incidents of street crime in the first few months of 2023, with 20,406 cases of mobile phone snatching alone. With a crime index of 42.51, our nation’s internal security is under serious threat, affecting not only the common citizens but also the business community.
Street crimes like rape, robbery, assault, burglary, larceny, and auto theft are most rampant in urban areas, where the majority of our population resides. This poses a significant challenge to maintaining law and order in our cities.
In the light of these troubling statistics and the adverse effects on our society, it is imperative that the government takes swift and effective action to bolster security forces, particularly in urban areas. Strengthening law enforcement agencies and increasing their presence in these regions is essential to curb the rising tide of street crime.
RAHIM DAD
Turbat
Ghost teachers
“I want to draw attention to the issue of ‘ghost teachers’ in Pakistan, specifically in Balochistan and Sindh, which has raised serious concerns about corruption within the education system. These ‘ghost teachers’ are receiving salaries without fulfilling their duties honestly. Because of such ghost teachers, students develop a negative perception about teachers and educational institutions.
In Karachi, the Sindh Education Department has taken action against these government employees and even suspended the salaries of 144 teachers known as ghost teachers. According to Pakistani laws, the state is obligated to provide essential education to every child under the age of sixteen. Sadly, provinces like Sindh and Balochistan are failing to do so, with 2.7 million students being deprived of education in Balochistan alone, where 72% of boys and 83% of girls are not attending schools.
In Sindh, around 6.2 million children are affected due to ghost teachers. Poverty has already pushed many members of the public away from the education system. This alarming issue is pushing the country towards an unfortunate context. Authorities are urged to take strong actions to protect the future of these young students from such devastating consequences.”
SADIA M IQBAL
Via email
Box letter
Mobile addiction
Mobile addiction is a pressing issue among teenagers in Pakistan, with a study in Karachi revealing that 51.5% of Smartphone users are addicted. This addiction is causing detrimental effects, including headaches, weakened eyesight, sleep disorder, depression, social isolation, stress and aggressive behaviour. Mobiles, originally designed to connect us with loved ones, have become overwhelming distractions. We urge the government to take necessary steps to address this growing problem and implore users to break free from this devastating addiction.
KHADIJA ASGHAR
Karachi
