A NOTE from the Lahore Development Authority on Saturday said that the counters processing compensation claims for people who will be displaced by the orange train in the city would remain open on Sunday.

Not only this, the LDA press release rather quietly reminded all concerned that these counters had been set up temporarily.

The obvious message was for the claimant to make a dash for the money on offer lest the ‘temporary’ offer was withdrawn.

Also read: Orange train project: Most compensation seekers dissatisfied with offer

The essential element of speed was very much there, which would once again elicit calls for caution from those who believe in a measured and disciplined approach towards doing a job, any job, in order to avoid problems.

The government has chosen to answer the criticism of the orange train project with a brisk processing of claims. It is probably hoping that the positive vibes emanating from some of those who are paid against the loss of their home or business will act as an effective answer to the critics.

But just as there are instances where the compensation has been to the satisfaction of a claimant, not only has there been protest by those who blame the officials of underestimating the value of their property, there are other, newer dimensions that need to be taken into consideration.

There is some kind of a formula that promises to pay the land cost, structure cost and, over that, 15pc acquisition charges to the affected people. But these efforts by a government at its most persuasive will still leave quite a lot of room for doubts and unease among those who are to lose their home and employment because of the fancy train.

There is fear among the affected lot that could lead to some apprehensions regarding the compensation scheme. The process has to be more transparent not only for those who are to be compensated but for everyone around. Otherwise, the rumours that are already doing the rounds will get more vicious over time.

Published in Dawn, February 9th, 2016