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9 May: Dark day
On 9 May, we are once again reminded of a dark day in our history, when our national security was compromised, our security forces were challenged and we felt a sense of shame as a nation. It was a nightmare when PTI supporters attacked the Corps Commander’s House in Lahore and targeted Peshawar Radio Station. We were left with no choice but to make arrests. That day, our nation felt ashamed.
The protest wasn’t just about the arrest of Imran Khan; it seemed to be directed against the state itself. Following Imran Khan’s arrest on 9 May, his supporters and workers protested across the country, but it wasn’t a peaceful protest; it turned into a day of chaos in Pakistan’s history. We felt ashamed as a nation when Imran’s supporters chanted anti-state slogans, suggesting that the incident may have been incited by Chairman PTI.
Nevertheless, we seek a fair inquiry into the events of May 9th. The nation demands accountability for the perpetrators.
AREEBA ALTAF
Larkana
Heat wave in Karachi
I am writing to express my deep concern about the extreme heat waves that have been plaguing the city of Karachi. The scorching temperatures have had a devastating impact on the residents, posing serious health risks and affecting the overall well-being of the community.
The frequency and intensity of these heat waves have been alarming, making it increasingly difficult for people to cope with the extreme conditions. The lack of proper infrastructure and limited access to reliable electricity exacerbates the situation, leaving many vulnerable individuals without access to cooling systems or adequate shelter.
The consequences of these heat waves are far-reaching. Heat-related illnesses, such as heatstroke and dehydration, have become all too common. The elderly, children, and those with pre-existing health conditions are particularly susceptible to the dangers posed by extreme heat. It is crucial that immediate measures are taken to protect the most vulnerable members of our community.
In order to address the pressing issue of extreme heat waves in Karachi, urgent action from the government and relevant authorities is essential. Prioritizing proactive measures is crucial, including improving urban planning to incorporate more green spaces and increasing shaded areas citywide. Moreover, investing in public awareness campaigns to educate residents on heat-wave safety measures and establishing accessible cooling centres during extreme heat events are vital steps to alleviate the impact on the community.
Furthermore, addressing the underlying factors contributing to climate change and global warming is paramount. Encouraging sustainable practices, such as promoting renewable energy sources and reducing carbon emissions, can help mitigate the long-term effects of extreme heat waves. The well-being and safety of Karachi’s residents must be a top priority, necessitating collective action and community engagement to ensure a more resilient and sustainable future for the city.
ABDULLAH AMMAR
Karachi
Educational milestone
Recently, an event was inaugurated at Government Boys’ Primary School, Siddiqui Colony, Larkana. The program, attended by political and social figures, marked a significant milestone as the first of its kind for a govt school in the area.
It featured cultural performances by students, games, competitions and enthusiastic participation from students, parents and locals. This proactive approach by the Headmaster of the school, Mr Zahoor Abbas Samo, signifies a crucial step towards advancing education in Larkana, particularly in the public sector. It presents an opportunity for government institutions to demonstrate their capabilities which have often been undervalued and overlooked.
This initiative sets a cohesive precedent for other educational institutions. It’s a commendable stride towards the future of Larkana and such educational endeavours deserve recognition and replication. I applaud this initiative and hope to see similar initiatives from other educators.
AREEBA ALTAF
Larkana
Box letter
Women harassment
Women’s harassment has become a paramount issue in Pakistan, surpassing even terrorism. Urgent attention from the government is crucial regarding this alarming matter. Women face harassment in various forms, including sexual assault, physical violence, forced marriage and more. According to a United Nations report, 32% of women in Pakistan experience harassment. Despite widespread spousal abuse, the government has not effectively addressed the issue. One major form of violence against women that Pakistan struggles with is sexual harassment in the workplace. Therefore, it is highly recommended that effective measures be taken to address this issue.
BISMA MUJEEB
Karachi
