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Supply of sewage water
What facility was left to be given to the people of Karachi that sewage water is mixed with pure water and supplied to them? Can it be imagined and digested that sewage water is mixed with plain water and supplied to the residents of North Karachi Sector-8, which creates a horrible situation for the residents to tackle, as it impures underground tank water?
Once sewage water comes into the underground tank, it becomes contaminated and the water does not remain useful anymore. It needs complete overhauling and cleaning of the underground tank before filling it again with pure water. This aggravates the situation as it happens every now and then, and one cannot clean the underground tank every time. As a result, people are forced to use impure water through which one could not perform ablution to offer prayers, cannot cook food and nor could drink it.
This is a serious issue that needs immediate remedial action so that residents of North Karachi Sector-8 may get pure water for daily usage to cook food, drink it and take baths to stay healthy. Not everyone can afford to buy mineral water for drinking purposes and water tanks for cooking food and bathing. Authorities concerned are requested to please look into this grave matter and resolve it at the earliest.
FAISAL ANSAR
Karachi
Unfair trial
Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto was executed in 1979, and on 5 March 2024, the apex court announced that he didn’t receive a fair trial. This injustice resulted in the loss of a man with a golden heart. Mr. Bhutto wasn’t just a great personality, he was also a remarkable human being. His death remains one of the biggest shocks for Pakistan, especially for his party.
For many years, Bhutto’s case remained pending. Now, after its hearing, a unanimous opinion has come from a 9-member judicial bench. I personally express my gratitude to the judiciary for not only delivering justice but also making us proud of their decision. I appreciate the concerned party leaders. This is indeed a big victory for the PPP. However, the alarming thing is if our Constitution is not secure, what else are we secure to? If our laws are not secure, then our national security and the security of our country are at stake.
AREEBA ALTAF
Larkana
Misuse of antibiotics
The looming threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Pakistan poses a serious threat to public health. Misuse and overuse of common antibiotics such as amoxicillin and ciprofloxacin contribute significantly to this growing problem. Patients often rely on their own prescriptions, making matters worse. The effects are profound, threatening the effectiveness of important antibiotics such as Azithromycin and Augmentin.
This abuse not only weakens the effectiveness of these medications but also exposes individuals to severe side effects. From gastrointestinal disturbance to allergic reactions, the indiscriminate use of antibiotics increases health risks. Primary interventions are to educate the public on the cautious and careful use of antibiotics, emphasize prescription adherence and discourage self-medication. Concerted efforts are vitally important to preserve the potential of these life-saving medicines and will ensure a healthier future for the people of Pakistan.
IMAD UD DIN KHAN
Lahore
Weekend programme dismay
I am writing to bring attention to some pressing concerns regarding the facilities at Karachi University’s weekend program. It is understood that individuals who work during weekdays may choose weekend programs to pursue further education without disrupting their work commitments. However, this should not imply that they are not entitled to basic facilities, especially considering the significant fees paid for the program. Unfortunately, the current situation has left many of us feeling disappointed.
Firstly, it has come to my notice that there is a lack of a canteen facility during the weekend program. This absence not only inconveniences students but also hampers their overall experience. I urge you the authorities to consider implementing a canteen service to cater to the basic needs of those attending the weekend program.
Secondly, the unavailability of a shuttle service during weekends poses a significant challenge for students commuting to and from the university. This gap in transportation services needs urgent attention to ensure the accessibility and convenience of the weekend program for all participants.
Thirdly, the condition of washrooms on campus is alarming. The facilities are not only unclean but also in a state of disrepair, making them unsuitable for use. Maintaining proper hygiene is crucial for the well-being of students, and I request prompt action to address and rectify this issue.
I believe that addressing these concerns promptly will significantly enhance the overall experience of students participating in the weekend program at Karachi University. The attention of the concerned authorities towards these matters is highly appreciated, and I trust that they will take the necessary steps to improve the mentioned facilities.
UNZILA ANAS
Karachi
Box letter
Ramadan disparities
As Ramadan approaches, so does the rapidly growing inflation in the country. The escalating prices of foods and fruits during Ramadan in Pakistan have become a pressing concern for many households. As families prepare to observe this holy month, the rising cost of essential items adds an additional burden, setting the country apart from some of its Muslim counterparts. While Ramadan is a month of spiritual reflection and communal solidarity, the economic strain on Pakistani families is palpable. Compared to other Muslim countries, where measures are often taken to stabilize prices during this sacred period, Pakistan faces unique challenges in curbing the inflationary trends. One contributing factor to the soaring prices in Pakistan is the intricate web of supply chain issues. From farm to market, logistical hurdles and inefficiencies lead to increased costs that eventually get transferred to the consumers. This stands in contrast to some other Muslim nations that have implemented effective supply chain management to ensure affordability during Ramadan. Moreover, local economic conditions and external factors such as global market fluctuations impact the prices of imported goods, including fruit. Pakistan’s dependence on imported fruit during Ramadan exposes consumers to international market dynamics, making them susceptible to price volatility. In contrast, certain Muslim countries have strategic reserves and mechanisms in place to stabilize prices during Ramadan. Government interventions, subsidies and effective policies contribute to creating a conducive environment for consumers during this sacred month.
UNZILA ANAS
Karachi
