PROTESTS ON HIGHWAY: This is with reference to the letter ‘Blocking roads’ (March 8). Recently, some unknown protesters blocked the main highway in Hub, demanding justice for their loved ones. Such blockades are unacceptable for travellers who remain the prime victim during such protests. In some cases, protesters have even refused to give way to ambulances, putting precious lives at risk. Unfortunately, people suffer terribly as they are unable to reach their destinations on time. This is not only time-consuming, but also frustrating. The authorities must take immediate action to prevent such disruptions.

Shahque
Hub

LOSING MORALITY: Our society is fast losing the human element. Interests now dictate relationships. Everyone is practical and looks for benefits. No doubt, many people in the modern age have a fear of missing out (FOMO). They are lost in an unknown competition with friends and relatives. FOMO is being aggravated by social media and technology usage. Another significant issue that has arisen from social media usage is the negative effect on children due to excessive screen time. All such factors have a dehumanising effect on society. Only through revamping the lost morality in society can we succeed in living in harmony.

Dr Iftikhar Ahmed Khoso
Jacobabad

SILTATION IN TARBELA: This is with reference to the report ‘Wheat crop at risk as dams nearly dry’ (March 8). The primary purpose of Tarbela reservoir was to provide irrigation water, with hydropower generation as a secondary function. Therefore, preventing siltation was a key factor in shaping the reservoir’s operating rules, which initially required lowering the water level to 1,300 feet above sea level each year to flush out accumulated silt. However, this rule was abandoned in the late 1990s to protect the hydraulic surfaces of the hydropower plant from the abrasive effects of silt. As a consequence, Tarbela has now lost nearly 50 per cent of its storage capacity.

Muhammad Akram Khan
Lahore

Published in Dawn, March 26th, 2025