SINCE the population in Pakistan has increased significantly and, further, there is a tendency towards urbanisation, all big cities are being converted into mega cities.

The mortality rate has also increased. But, unfortunately, there is not a single city except Islamabad where proper graveyards are available. In most of the cities graveyards are located in short congested dirty areas mostly inundated by sewer and rainwater. Wild animals and dogs are frequently seen roaming around. They have also become hideouts of criminals and unscrupulous persons exercising black magic within the graveyards. The sanctity of human bodies is being tarnished.

The government should allocate at least 1,000 acres of land in all four corners of the cities at least at a distance of 10km. It should be supervised by municipal corporations, and a supervisor with four labourers should be posted with a small office to provide them shelter and keep record of the bodies laid down for rest.

The land should be planed and proper drainage should be available so that filth from drainage and rain may not accumulate.

DR FATEH M. KHAN
Hyderabad