Heavy school bags burdening children in Karachi
The Editor,
KARACHI: I wish to draw attention to a serious issue affecting schoolchildren in the city—the excessive weight of school bags. Even very young students are required to carry heavy loads daily, causing back and shoulder pain at an early age.
This growing concern demands immediate attention from both educational institutions and authorities. In many countries, digital learning tools and e-books have significantly reduced the physical burden on students. Similar measures can be adopted here, such as introducing e-books or designating certain days when children are not required to carry full school bags.
It is essential for the government and school administrations to take practical steps to ease this burden and safeguard the health of our children.
Abdul Rehman
Karachi
Caution needed in implementing anti-begging laws
The Editor,
Assalamualaikum,
I wish to express my views regarding the recent law against begging introduced in Pakistan. While it may be necessary to curb professional beggars and organized criminal networks, the issue must be handled with caution.
Many individuals are forced into begging due to poverty, unemployment, and lack of education. Therefore, it is not always a matter of choice but a result of difficult living conditions.
At the same time, strict action must be taken against those who exploit children for begging. However, legislation alone is not enough. The government should also focus on rehabilitation, education, and employment opportunities to address the root causes.
Abdul Rehman
Rising drug addiction among youth
The Editor,
Assalamualaikum,
Through your esteemed newspaper, I wish to highlight the growing problem of drug addiction among the youth in Pakistan. Many young boys and girls are falling victim to drugs due to peer pressure, stress, and negative influences.
What often begins as curiosity soon turns into a serious addiction. This issue not only harms individuals and families but also contributes to rising crime rates in society.
The easy availability of drugs and lack of awareness further worsen the situation. Authorities must take strict action against drug networks and launch awareness campaigns to protect the younger generation.
Abdul Rehman
Delays in BRT Red Line continue to trouble Karachiites
The Editor,
Assalamualaikum,
I wish to express serious concern over the continued delays in the BRT Red Line project in Karachi. Initially launched to ease public transport issues, the project has instead become a source of daily frustration, particularly for commuters on University Road.
Despite being announced years ago, the project remains incomplete, and the recent cancellation of the construction contract has added further uncertainty. Traffic congestion, damaged roads, and dust pollution continue to cause inconvenience.
While the decision to cancel the contract may be justified, it reflects poor planning and weak oversight. Authorities must ensure transparency, proper management, and strict monitoring of future contractors.
Karachi deserves a reliable transport system, not endless delays.
Abdul Rehman
Karachi turning into a heat trap
The Editor,
Assalamualaikum,
I wish to highlight a serious environmental concern—the rapid transformation of Karachi into a “heat trap.” Once known for its greenery, the city is now becoming a concrete jungle.
Massive construction projects and commercialization have led to the loss of thousands of trees. As a result, the urban heat island effect is intensifying, making summers increasingly unbearable.
Trees play a vital role in reducing heat, improving air quality, and maintaining ecological balance. Unfortunately, non-native species like Conocarpus and Eucalyptus are often planted, which may harm the environment.
Authorities must mandate green spaces, protect old trees, and promote urban forestry initiatives such as Miyawaki forests. Immediate action is necessary to preserve Karachi’s environment.
Abdul Rehman
Economic stability must reflect public relief
The Editor,
Assalamualaikum,
I wish to highlight the growing disconnect between Pakistan’s economic indicators and the ground realities faced by citizens. While reports suggest economic stabilization, the common man continues to struggle with rising inflation, high utility bills, and reduced purchasing power.
Figures presented by institutions like the IMF may show improvement, but they fail to reflect the hardships faced by ordinary people. Economic recovery should be measured not only by statistics but also by the well-being of citizens.
The government must prioritize relief measures and ensure that economic stability is inclusive and sustainable.
Abdul Rehman
Smart traffic signals can improve Karachi’s traffic system
The Editor,
Assalamualaikum,
The introduction of smart traffic signals in Karachi is a positive step towards improving the city’s traffic management system. This technology, based on artificial intelligence and sensors, can monitor traffic flow and adjust signal timings accordingly.
Such a system can reduce waiting time, lower fuel consumption, and help control air pollution. It may also assist in enforcing traffic laws through automated monitoring and e-challans.
However, for its success, uninterrupted electricity supply and strict anti-encroachment measures are essential.
Abdul Rehman
Disclaimer: This illustration reflects general public concerns and is intended for awareness purposes only.
