FREELANCERS’ WOES: Despite having a low literacy rate, Pakistan is doing great in the world of freelancing. Pakistani freelancers earn around $25-35 per hour. The average age of these free- lancers is no more than 25-30 years. Unfortunately, the government is least concerned about widening the scope of freelancing and addressing the problems of freelancers in the country. These young freelancers are based in Pakistan and every dollar they earn lands in the country. The government should prioritise them because the more they earn, the more money is generated that will strengthen the national economy. Many freelancers face trouble while receiving dollar-based payments owing to the absence of many digital payment platforms that do not operate in Pakistan. Regrettably, no government has ever tried to see what can be done in this regard. The government should encourage freelancers and resolve their concerns.

Mohammed Saleem
Hub

FIRE RESILIENCE: Recent fire incidents in Karachi have heightened anxieties, and emphasised the urgent need for a comprehensive approach. This entails regular fire audits and systematic evaluation of buildings’ fire safety measures, including evacuation procedures. The implementation of fire audits in Karachi holds immense significance for several reasons. Timely and comprehensive assessments are essential to contribute to the overall resilience of Karachi in the face of fire- related emergencies. It is a our collective responsibility to work towards creating a safer and more secure environment for everyone in the city.

Dr Intikhab Ulfat
Karachi

BETTER DISCRETION: This is with reference to the photograph of Masjid Al-Haram that was part of a Haj advertisement (Nov 28). As we are well aware, newspapers are often consigned to trash after being read. Thus, using images of sacred religious symbols should be with due care and discretion.

Muhammad Taha
Lahore

Published in Dawn, December 24th, 2023