THE extensive use of currency notes in Pakistan is an expensive, quick-to-depreciate and unhygienic reality. This often results in our wallets being filled with germ-infested, crumpled notes.

In other countries around the world, currency bills for smaller amounts have been replaced with coins, which are more durable, better for the environment and difficult to counterfeit.

I would like to propose that the same be done in Pakistan. The 500, 1000 and 5000 rupee notes should be retained, while the other smaller denominations: 10, 20, 50 and, 100 rupee notes should be replaced with coins.

This way the government will be promoting greater hygiene, while higher denomination notes will be more durable, less prone to damage and deterioration and thus reduce the cost currently borne by the State Bank in printing currency.

Asad Ansari
Karachi

Published in Dawn, April 9th, 2020