SHELTERS FOR PILGRIMS: The tragic fatalities during Haj this year once again underscored the severe impact of the climate change phenomenon on human life. The fatalities were largely due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures, exacerbated by the lack of air-conditioned shelters. Many pilgrims had no refuge from the searing heat. The sight of pilgrims walking with umbrellas, dousing themselves with water, and struggling to perform rituals highlighted the severity of the situation. The Saudi authorities need to provide adequate shelter and resources to safeguard the pilgrims from escalating temperatures.

Zaimal Arif
Turbat

COST PROBLEM: The government has repeatedly said that it aims at increasing the ratio of tax to gross domestic product (GDP) to 13 per cent by 2027, as the current rate of less than 10pc is unsustainable. While the aspirations are impressive, I wonder if anybody in the government, especially the finance minister, has taken a look at the recent expenditure numbers. Even if we were to magically increase the tax-to-GDP ratio to 30pc by tomorrow, our expenses remain uncovered. In private-sector parlance, we have a cost problem, not a revenue issue. And I see nothing in the recent budget that aims at decreasing costs to a substantial extent.

Hasan Raza
Karachi

TOXIC MILK SCOURGE: The unchecked sale of chemically tainted milk in dairy shops is wreaking havoc on the health of innocent citizens, leaving a trail of ailments and sufferings. It is appalling that unscrupulous individuals are being allowed to peddle harmful milk with impunity, putting profits over people’s health. The government’s inaction in this regard is not only a betrayal of public trust, but also a violation of its constitutional obligation to protect its citizens and their wellbeing. The authorities concerned should take swift and decisive action to address this toxic milk scourge, and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.

Riaz Ali Panhwar
Hyderabad

Published in Dawn, June 29th, 2024