Rush at passport offices
LAST year I had a chance to pay a visit to two offices of passport in Islamabad to get my passport renewed. The overall experience was a bitter one as compared to the one I had six years ago in Islamabad — the second home for many politicians and bureaucrats who are not at their best. It is a common impression of many.
What astonished me at these passport offices was a large number of people not in proportion with Islamabad’s population. There were people of both genders from all walks. They did not look satisfied. Their faces had signs of anxiety.
The first question comes to mind: why such a large number of people are about to leave their country. It is worth mentioning here that, according to reports and statistics, only six per cent Americans, a country with more than 320 million population, go abroad.
It is obvious that the present bitter circumstances at every level in the country are compelling people to leave Pakistan regularly and on a daily basis. It is a bad omen and a negative indicator for Pakistan.
The fact is not realised and examined yet but, in fact, it is a crucial factor to be examined and evaluated before somebody labels our nation as suffering with ‘leave Pakistan syndrome’.
DR MUKHTAR ALI
Kurram Agency
Did the author realize that 6 years ago was probably different because Musharaff was running the country and there was something called order. Is it so hard to recognize that mans achievements without slapping him with the charge of dictator?
same here in India…long lines at the passport office as if everyone wants to leave India…After all we are brothers…
Living in Canada, as a dual national (Pakistani-Canadian), I wish Pakistanis get over the general election democratic exercise, in a smooth manner. Democracy is the only way to progress. Long live Pakistan – its suffering but determined people! In spite of all difficulties and problems, Pakistanis keep it up!
You want to know the real reason why there is so much rush in the passport office, as compared to the population of Islamabad? One of the reasons is, that there are not many government offices, which can process the application for a passport, in Australia, the post masters in all post offices, are authorized to process passport applications. Post offices, being located in every locality and not just a few ones in the whole country. And Australians issue far more passports, as compared to Pakistan.
What is their final destination- one of those Western countries or Austalia, I suppose?
Did it occur to you just now? ‘leave Pakistan alive’ is a going on for a long time.
This has been going on for at least 20 years. Why are you so surprised given the state of affairs in the country. Lucky are those who can travel and settle abroad and over time sponsor their family members.