HALL FOR SCHOOL: The Govern- ment Boys’ High School, Tijaban, is facing multiple issues, such as lack of teachers, a library, a hall, and classrooms. The students cannot manage or arrange any programme, examination or meeting in the school due to the absence of a hall. In the recently-held matriculation examination, the students had to travel long distances to sit the exam elsewhere. There are several students who cannot afford this financial burden or do not know how to ride a bike or drive a car. The government should set up a hall at the school immediately.

Bilal Ahmed
Tijaban

SALES TAX ON CARS: The recent surge in the rate of general sales tax (GST) by 25 per cent on 1,400cc cars, coupled with currency devaluation, has dealt a severe blow to the local automobile industry. Sales have plummeted by 30pc, affecting manufacturing and employment. This decline translates to decreased tax revenue, while energy prices and financing rates continue to soar. With over 40pc taxation on each local car sold, it is only logical to assume that imported cars will become a priority for the buyers. The customers would be greatly benefitted if the authorities reconsider such policies, engage in a dialogue, and seek sustainable solutions that foster growth rather than stifle it.

Qasim Haider
Karachi

UTILITY BILLS: The increasing burden of utility bills is pushing a significant portion of the population towards a precarious financial situation. As such, the recent surge in gas bills has caused a significant hardship to countless families, especially those with limited income. Moreover, this additional financial pressure has forced them to make impossible choices, often sacrificing basic necessities, like food or medicines, to keep their homes warm. The authorities concerned would do well to consider a reduction in utility bills to alleviate the growing financial burden on consumers to some extent. People deserve this much.

M. Abid Hafeez
Lahore

Published in Dawn, March 19th, 2024