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Bastions of corruption
When roads get inundated and washed out after normal rainfalls, or food shortages occur despite claims of bumper crops of wheat, sugar etc., and bridges collapse for no reasons at all, and newly built airport terminal buildings or other taxpayer-funded buildings etc., start leaking or develop cracks etc.; all this points out to massive corruption in respective provincial or federal government departments. It points to substandard construction in nexus with corrupt contractors and government officials. The quantum of corruption within different works and services departments is directly proportional to the occurrence of failures in the projects carried out by them.
Monsoon rains are a regular feature in the subcontinent. The average annual rainfall in all federating units of Pakistan, is far lesser than in countries in SE Asia and Far East, like Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, BD, Philippines, Singapore etc. The roads in these countries don’t get washed out as frequently as they do in Pakistan. Punjab has the heaviest downpour of monsoon rains, followed by KP, Sindh and Balochistan. However, the quality of roads, recently constructed during past few decades in Pakistan’s financial capitol Karachi is very substandard and so is their rainwater drainage system.
Some works departments have become so notorious that they have been nicknamed as Money Earning Systems. What is sad is their patronage by provincial governments and others. Pakistan’s biggest Land Mafia Don is a creation of one such notorious works department. This policy of awarding government contracts to powerful contractors associated with these controversial works and services department must cease, and this process becomes more transparent and accountable. Projects funded by public money must be audited for leakages.
ALI MALIK TARIQ
Lahore
Absurd language
KP Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur would have been better off reflecting inwardly before pointing an accusatory finger at those already facing unprecedented dangers for simply doing their jobs. In a public meeting, he loudly branded journalists as “brokers” and “sellouts,” making serious, unfounded allegations and implicitly endangering the lives of those present by directing PTI workers toward them.
Unfortunately, PTI Chairman endorsed these absurd and filthy remarks against journalists, even dismissing PTI leaders who attempted to apologize on Gandapur’s behalf. His sarcastic remarks about constitutional institutions and Punjab’s Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz further highlight his irresponsible rhetoric. This behaviour does not reflect the demeanour of a provincial leader but rather exposes populist tactics. Since assuming the chief ministership, Gandapur has faced corruption allegations from a cabinet member and PTI MPAs.
The violent speech is only a diversion from poor governance or rampant corruption in his own province. Instead of promoting violence, The PTI leadership would be better off using their own narrative to make a strong case in the courts and public. Threat for breaking of a jail gate and get release of an accused is neither lawful nor moral. Excited workers can clap for Gandapur and Marwat but people would be influenced by his good governance and performance only.
MUNAWAR SIDDIQUI
Lahore
Driving job opportunities
Despite Pakistan’s ongoing development, the country faces significant challenges due to the current economic situation and a rapidly growing population. It is crucial for the government to focus on creating new industries and job opportunities for young people. Instead of providing excessively high pensions, which should be adjusted based on actual needs, resources should be allocated to invest in businesses and generate employment opportunities.
Many people are choosing to leave Pakistan due to the lack of job opportunities and the economic instability. With the country’s financial reserves depleting rapidly, economic issues are exacerbating. This instability is leading some individuals to resort to crimes such as robbery and violence out of desperation. As economic conditions worsen, the gap between those who have opportunities and those who do not widens, further fuelling social unrest.
There are various strategies the government could employ to address these problems, but currently, much of the effort is directed toward public relations rather than substantive action. The initiatives announced often fall short in terms of skill development and practical implementation. It is essential for the government to move beyond mere announcements and ensure that these plans are effectively executed to create real and sustainable change.
To achieve this, the government must focus on practical measures that can genuinely improve the economic situation and provide opportunities for all citizens. By doing so, they can foster a more stable and prosperous future for Pakistan.
ROYYAM SAQIB
Islamabad
