DESPITE everything that is written and said about Karachi, I found it to be the true city of lights. During my first visit to the city recently, I found the sounds, sights and vibes of it more appealing than I had imagined. It was a delightful experience on all counts. I regret that there are many good things about Karachi that are never highlighted in the media. I found the city so seriously attractive and charming that I wish to visit it again and again.

The city is the best tourist destination for people from across Pakistan owing to its markets, beaches and historical buildings. The only element that came as a disappointment was my visit to the historical Empress Market. Behind the splendour of the building, there is a sense of utter neglect within the market.

The visual grandeur of the Empress has been eclipsed by haphazard rows of shops. The torn sheets used as shelter from the sun and rain act as irritants to the visual beauty of the interior of the building. The meat shops presented a horrible look with foul smell all around. The shops have encroached upon the walkthroughs, and the pedestrians have to brave through a narrow way inside the market. The lawns outside are also mismanaged and need improvement.

This splendid and historical building could be made more attractive and captivating if the irritants are taken due care of. The authorities concerned should devise a plan for maintaining the beauty of this exceptional building to make it more attractive to the tourists.

Muhammad Sayyad Alam Khan
Peshawar

Published in Dawn, March 11th, 2024