NUISANCE ON ROADS: The dictionary describes container as a portable compartment in which freight is placed (as on a train or ship) for convenience of movement. Pakistani government some-

how hit upon the idea of using this hollow rectangular box to block free movement of commuters, especially in Islamabad. The box, ironically, is used the world over to boost trade. In Pakistan, it slows down the economic activity. Every other day, one is irked to come across such blockades obstructing/delaying road movement to offices, schools, hospitals and markets. It definitely does not check the protestors, but it does project a besieged government in the capital.

Haroon S. Pasha
Islamabad

SUPPORTING MOSQUES: In addition to their conventional use, mosques are supposed to be the community centres. Historically, mosques fall under ‘Shamlat Deh’ land, which is collectively owned by people, and it is deemed to be the collective duty of the people to bear the expenses of the day-to-day management of mosques. Last month, the Lahore Electric Supply Company (Lesco) sent a hefty bill of Rs56,000 to a mosque in my area of residence. Since the total collection from the people was way less, the prayer-leader had to pay a large amount himself. It is the duty of the people to maintain mosques in their respective localities.

Muhammad Mohtasim
Lahore

DEALING WITH TAX-EVADERS: The recent strike by traders exposed a dire situation. The current economic turmoil, exacerbated by the strike against the Federal Board of Revenue’s (FBR) Tajir Dost Scheme, is a stark reflection of the systemic failures and entrenched interests undermining Pakistan’s economic stability. This situation is untenable. The government must enforce the tax scheme with uncompromising rigour. Traders must meet their tax obligations, and the government must ensure that revenues are used for public welfare. Political parties should focus on genuine solutions rather than exploiting crises for political leverage.

Majid Burfat
Karachi

Published in Dawn, September 11th, 2024