THE ONLY NEEDED AMENDMENT: Currently, there is much hullabaloo going on about constitutional amendments that are of no interest to the common man. However, the only constitutional amen dment required at the moment is the one that bounds the government to provide easily accessible and potable water to every Pakistani household, free primary educ-ation to every child, and health insurance against minimal charges to each and every Pakistani. Furthermore, under the very proposed amendment, any prime minister failing to provide these basic facilities within one year of assuming office shall cease to hold office.

Khayyam Durrani
Karachi

TOLL TAX HIKE: The recent hike in toll tax of Lyari Expressway to Rs50 is mind-boggling as there has been no improvement in services. The expressway requires repairs at various segments. To start with, there is no proper fencing which poses a serious risk to both the commuters as well as the residents of adjacent localities. Moreover, the police patrolling is also unsatisfactory. There is a lack of proper lighting and security, especially at night, making the commute further perilous for the motorists. The expressway is dotted with beggars. People are paying more, but receiving the same substandard service. If the National Highway Authority (NHA) is collecting higher toll taxes, it should also provide a safer, smoother and more secure journey.

Syed Muhammad Shahid
Karachi

VOLATILE SITUATION: The rising tension between Iran and Israel poses several challenges to the region and Pakistan, such as abrupt and steep rise in terrorism in certain areas. In this scenario, Pakistan must devise an effective strategy in order to mitigate the impact. Further, the possible practical solutions include making the National Counter Terrorism Authority (Nacta) active. There should be a mechanism in place to ensure border trade continues regar-dless of the situation. These and other measures are necessary for Pakistan.

Pir Syed Muhammad Shah
Lahore

Published in Dawn, October 20th, 2024