ASTOLA ISLAND: Astola, also known as the Island of the Seven Hills, is the largest offshore island in Pakistan, situ- ated approximately 25km off the coastal area of Pasni in Balochistan. This piece of land in warm waters has immense potential for eco-tourism. Unfortunately, it has been neglected by the government. The island was declared a Marine Prote-cted Area (MPA) in 2017 to preserve and sustain its biodiversity. However, the government can still turn it into an eco-friendly tourist point by putting in place sustainable policies, ensuring sustainable tourism practices. It will attract a large number of tourists from Pakistan and around the world, and will boost Pakistan’s blue and green economy.

Najeeb Durrani
Loralai

TRAFFIC VIOLATORS: While driving on Sharea Faisal recently, I observed that 90 per cent of the motorcyclists were riding without tail-lights, 70pc without headlights and over 50pc without original number plates. Besides, those driving rickshaws and motorcycles violate traffic signals and drive on the wrong side, enhancing the risk of accidents. The city traffic authorities should issue a challan to the traffic violators, and deflate the tyres of their vehicles and confiscate those without number plates. Within a few months, most traffic problems in the city will be resolved.

Rasheed Barket
Karachi

FROM CANAL TO SCHOOL: It is unfortunate that many children in Sindh have to put their lives at risk in order to reach their schools. A recent viral video on social media showed schoolchildren crossing the Naseer Canal to reach their schools. They were seen carrying their bags on their heads, and crossing the canal while sitting on the shoulders of their relatives. That said, children in Sindh have already faced serious setbacks due to extreme weather conditions in the last few years. It is time for the authorities concerned to take immediate action to ensure safe transportation for these children.

Adan Younas
Islamabad

Published in Dawn, December 9th, 2024