THIS refers to the article ‘Federation’s orphan’ (Feb 25). It truly depicts the sad, heart wrenching state of affairs in my city Karachi.

Having spent almost all of my adult life in Karachi and also getting a chance of living in Punjab from early childhood till getting my master’s degree from Quaid-i-Azam University, I can safely say it is almost impossible to understand Karachi unless you have lived and spent a reasonable time in this (potentially) magnificent city.

Its demographics are completely different from the rest of the country. The majority of Karachiites belong to the Urdu-speaking community. They are the ones who have been having generations after generations living in this city.

However, having a vote bank in Karachi does not give a party strength in parliament to make decisions for the welfare of this city.

So what is the solution? Can we afford to put up a blind eye to the devastating state of affairs of this mega city? Will loose comments and accusations against Karachi by people who have never practically even seen this city make things any better? Why can’t we think of a solution which is acceptable to all?

If a patriot’s words are to be heard at any forum, I would suggest making Karachi a second capital of the country. Make it the federation instead of orphan. The Netherlands, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Malaysia are a few countries which have two capitals. It will release Karachi of the shackles of who owns and who doesn’t debate. It will be given its due share for the development it deserves.

Many are huge fans of Ayub Khan but shifting the capital from Karachi to Islamabad was the worst disservice he could do to this country. Karachi and its people have been pushed into a black hole from which they cannot get out unless someone takes strong and courageous steps.

Arshia Azhar
Rawalpindi

Published in Dawn, March 19th, 2018