BRAND OBSESSION: People in our society are often judged by the brands they wear, the restaurants they visit, and the expensive gadgets they own. This obsession has created a toxic envir-onment and an unnecessary burden for those who cannot afford expensive items. Many students and young people face teasing and bullying because they do not use branded items. Under social pressure, people try to spend beyond their means to feel ‘included’ or to ‘maintain’ their image. This materialistic mindset is harmful. As such, brands do not define a person, but confidence, intelligence and hard work do. We must stop judging people for what they own, and value them for who they are.

Ashna Hassan
Karachi

ACCIDENTS IN GWADAR: There has been an alarming rise in traffic accidents in Gwadar due to overspeeding. The local administration, including police, has failed to take effective measures. The poor implementation of traffic laws has made the roads increasingly unsafe for the people. Strict traffic regulations, better law enforcement, and awareness campaigns are needed to prevent road traffic accidents. The authorities must work towards making Gwadar’s roads safe again.

Khudadad Shahdad
Gwadar

GREAT PROJECT: The newly built Shahrah-i-Bhutto is a project that will facilitate intra-city commute by cutting down traffic congestion on the main Sharea Faisal. However, the gover-nment can add finesse to it by considering a few suggestions. The road in Shah Faisal Colony leading towards Shahrah-i-Bhutto has numerous encroachments, which should be removed along with double parking of vehicles to allow a smooth flow of traffic. Owing to this, the roundabout before the exit towards the expressway remains choked during rush hours. Deployment of traffic police can help overcome this problem. Reduction in toll tax would encourage commercial car drivers to use the road. These suggestions would serve the cause.

Capt (retd) Abid Hasan
Karachi

Published in Dawn, March 13th, 2025