WORK FROM HOME: With fuel prices rising steadily in Pakistan, the daily commute has become increasingly burdensome for many employees, parti-cularly in large cities where traffic jams are routine. In such circumstances, promoting work-from-home or hybrid work arrangements could offer a practical and timely solution. Remote work can help employees save commuting time and transportation costs while improving work-life balance. Employers may also benefit through reduced office space and operational expenses. In cities already struggling with congestion and pollution, even a partial shift towards remote work could reduce traffic, fuel consumption and environmental stress. The govern-ment should encourage such practices through enacting supportive policies.

Hamdan Siddiqui
Karachi

PENDULUM BALLS: Plastic pendulum balls, often marketed as simple toys, are being widely used by teenagers without any awareness of the risks involved. The fast swinging motion of these balls can generate significant force, and, when misused, they can cause serious injuries. Reports of hand fractures and painful impacts are increasing, especially among young users who treat this toy as a challenge rather than a risk. In addition to physical harm, the constant clicking and clacking sound produced by these pendulum balls creates irritation, affects concentration, and disrupts peaceful environments. It is the responsibility of all concerned to act before more harm is done.

Zeebjan Akther
Turbat

BRING BACK THE DOVE: The old citizens of Islamabad may recollect a white dove perched on a pillar at Zero Point till the mid-1980s, signifying the peace, safety and serenity of the capital. Later, due to widening of the road, this iconic symbol disappeared and with it we lost the peace of Islamabad. The recent historic peace negotiations hosted in Islamabad may be an occasion to bring back the dove and place it at Serena Chowk in remembrance of Pakistan’s initiative for global peace.

Haroon Sikandar Pasha
Islamabad

Published in Dawn, April 23rd, 2026