On August 14, 2018, we will be celebrating 71 years of independence. Homes, markets and neighbourhoods will be decorated with green and white flags. There will be official ceremonies, TV shows with patriotic themes, fireworks, parades and colourful celebrations all across the country.
As patriotic Pakistanis, we should celebrate this day with great enthusiasm and fervour, but this outpouring of love and zeal should not be limited to one day in August only.
Pakistan faces a plethora of challenges and we cannot remain oblivious to them. Water scarcity, power shortage, pollution, poverty, inflation, inadequate healthcare and illiteracy are some of the major issues that we are facing today. You need not wait till you become an adult to bring about important social changes within your homes, neighbourhood and society. All you need is knowledge, passion and willingness to do something great for Pakistan.
are some of the major issues that we are facing today. You need not wait till you become an adult to bring about important social changes within your homes, neighbourhood and society. All you need is knowledge, passion and willingness to do something great for Pakistan.
On this August 14, let us make some promises to our great homeland. Try to collect like-minded people who share your vision and passion or join platforms which offer ideas and assistance. But always remember to seek permission from your parents before joining any activity or associating with anyone. Your own personal safety is of paramount importance.
I will not waste water
Environment experts are warning that a massive water crisis awaits Pakistan and the country will suffer from extreme water shortage by 2025. This is a very scary situation and we need to evaluate our habits immediately.
As a society, we need to think of water as a precious commodity. In addition to steps like using a cup of water to brush our teeth, not letting unlimited water flow down the drain and using buckets to bath and wash cars, we also need to train our household staff in water conservation.
If every household trains their maids, drivers and other domestic helpers, we can conserve thousands of gallons of water annually. Do research on how other communities are managing water scarcity, using techniques such as rainwater harvesting and see which steps can be implemented in your home.
I will not waste electricity
It is a sad reality that we are not careful about saving our precious resources. Carpool, walk or use bicycle wherever and whenever possible. You already know about turning the lights, ACs and fans off when going out from a room. Ask your parents to install solar panels, LED bulbs and tube lights which do not consume a high amount of energy.
Before going to bed at night, make sure all extra lights are off and electric appliances unplugged (except for the fridge of course). Use house plants for a cooler interior and better air quality. Do you know that just by getting up early and sleeping at a reasonable time at night, we can save a lot of electricity!
I will plant trees
Trees are very important for a healthy, pollution-free environment. In Pakistan, the natural forest cover is about two per cent instead of the required 25 per cent, causing air pollution, increased heat waves and loss of habitat for wildlife.
Nowadays, there are many tree plantation campaigns going on. Actively participate in one near your area or simply ask your parents and other adults to help you plant more trees and plants in your neighbourhood. Plant a sapling and name it after a family member or a favourite celebrity. Love it and care for it well.
In five years, imagine having a towering Shahid Afridi neem tree or Lionel Messi mango tree or Roger Federer palm tree growing in your street!