THE Islamabad-Rawalpindi metro bus project is still incomplete. But those who are executing this unneeded project want to add a feather to the cap of Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif as early as possible.

The project will cost Rs44.6bn. With such a huge amount of money, a good number of much-needed old and new projects could have been undertaken and completed.

Water is a serious problem for the twin cities. With much less amount, one or two small dams could have been built for the supply of drinking water to the capital city, as well as to Rawalpindi.

Only two public-sector hospitals cater to the need of the federal capital’s citizens and the adjoining Azad Kashmir and Northern Areas. A part of this huge amount could have been spent on an additional health facility.

Despite being the federal capital, the city does not have its railway station. Passengers go to the Rawalpindi station for travelling to other cities.

The transport system for community within the city is deplorable. Smoke-emitting wagons and Suzuki vans run on a few routes. One can’t even think of going from one sector to the other using public transport.

With less money, a respectable mode of transport (fleet of new buses and wagons) could have easily been provided.

Last but not least; the poor condition of existing roads and streets could have also been made better by spending a few million rupees.

Anis

Islamabad

Published in Dawn, May 30th, 2015

On a mobile phone? Get the Dawn Mobile App: Apple Store | Google Play