Migration in crisis
Displacement disrupts lives, affecting physical well-being, emotions and possessions. Irregular migration routes, driven by the hope of a better life, often result in severe consequences and unfulfilled promises. Many migrants face shame, guilt and financial strain, leaving their families in distress.
The dangers of irregular migration are grave, with many experiencing horrific exploitation by smugglers and suffering from inhumane conditions. Migrants face violence from criminal groups, dangerous routes and potential death. Failed attempts often lead to significant debt and delayed plans for a better life.
Migration, though challenging, can be a force for good. Historical examples, from the Biblical Exodus to the migration of Persians to India and the Last Prophet’s (PBUH) migration, show how migration can lead to new opportunities. Recent migrations have also contributed to economic improvement.
Pakistan needs to educate the youth about the risks of illegal migration and the advantages of legal processes. Promoting skill development and entrepreneurship, alongside highlighting success stories of those who have prospered through legal means, can provide sustainable solutions. Government programs, community support and awareness of legal migration opportunities are crucial to reducing irregular migration.
ZAHRA KHALID
Karachi
Breast cancer treatment
Amygdalin is a naturally occurring chemical compound found in various plants, most notably in the seeds of apricots, bitter almonds, apples, peaches, cherries and plums. It is also known as vitamin B17. Studies on animals and in laboratories have shown mixed results regarding amygdalin’s effectiveness.
It may have a slight effect on certain kinds of cancer cells. It might also help relieve pain. Amygdalin is well-known in folk medicine for its various uses, including as an analgesic, antitumor, ant-diarrheal, antimicrobial, antioxidant antiviral, anti-inflammatory and its liver-protective activity.
Toxicity tests are crucial as any medicine is considered therapeutically valuable if it has fewer toxic effects. Amygdalin is toxic at higher doses, so its toxicity profile was checked at the gene level against the BRCA1 gene in breast cancer. This is significant because many drugs for treating breast cancer become resistant over time, making the development of new drugs crucial.
Amygdalin nanoparticles combined with zinc oxide have shown promise in controlling breast cancer at the genetic level. Due to the increasing resistance of microbes against various antibiotics, new drugs and dosage forms of Amygdalin are being developed to help control superbugs in the future.
A research study was conducted jointly by this scribe and Prof. Dr. Muhammad Ovais Omer at department of pharmacology & toxicology, university of veterinary & animal sciences, Lahore which showed that Amygdalin nanoparticles combined with zinc oxide have antibacterial potential against MRSA in vitro studies. This represents a new contribution to the field of antibiotics.
These nanoparticles also exhibited anti cancer activity against the MCF7 cancer cell line. The safety profile of Amygdalin nanoparticles combined with zinc oxide was evaluated against the BRCA1 gene in the MCF7 cell line and the Vero cell line.
REHANA AKBAR
Lahore
Wadi-e-Jannat
The beauty of Kashmir is truly fantastic. Last weekend, I went on a tour to this enchanting region. The river was aesthetically stunning and the serenity of its waves invoked a sense of peace and calm. The water flowed with great force and its chill provided a refreshing sensation. The weather was delightful and cool, with clouds drifting over the mountains, enhancing the scenery further.
Next, we travelled to Pir Chanasi, which is 8,000 meters above sea level. The journey to Pir Chanasi involved navigating extremely treacherous roads and it was very cold, especially at night.
Afterwards, we visited Neelam Valley. Upon entering, we saw the Neelum-Jhelum Hydropower Plant in Nausari. Our next stop was Keran, where the border between Pakistan and India is located. It was an intense experience to see the other side of the Line of Control (LOC). I observed people walking on the opposite side and couldn’t help but reflect on how similar their lives might be to ours. The realization that there is only a river separating us, yet we remain so distant, was both anxious and intriguing. I felt a sense of longing to connect with the people on the other side, just as I imagined they might be curious about us.
Overall, it was an incredible trip. Seeing Kashmir for the first time was a beautiful experience and the scenery is something I will never forget.
AREEBA ALTAF
Larkana
Keeping cool
During scorching summer months, the Balochistan Government has recognized the need to alleviate the sweltering heat for its residents by distributing ice. This proactive initiative aims to ensure public well-being and offer a refreshing escape from the relentless sun. By making ice readily available, especially during peak temperatures, the government is demonstrating a commitment to the comfort and safety of its people.
This thoughtful gesture not only provides physical relief but also showcases a caring and responsive approach to community needs. In times of rising temperatures, this cooling assistance serves as a beacon of support from the government.
JAMAL RAHIM
Hoshab
Box letter
Waterlogging, a chocked issue
Waterlogging is a major problem during the monsoons. The Municipal Corporation should make arrangements for regularly cleaning up the drainage pipes. Water logging occurs when pipes are chocked due to the garbage which flows into it with the rainwater. So, if the pipes are cleaned regularly, these would not be chocked and this problem would be minimised. Potholes should also be filled up before the onset of the monsoons. Sale of polythene bags should be banned, as polythene bags choke up the drains. Roads which get waterlogged every monsoon should be identified and water pumps should be installed to clear up the water.
JUBEL D’CRUZ
Mumbai, India
