POWERLESS LIBRARY: Jaffarabad, a district in Nasirabad Division, has an estimated population of 600,000, with a low literacy rate of 35.53 per cent. Although the district lacks many basic educational facilities, the shortage of electricity in its sole public library has made the situation worse. During hot summer days, it becomes very difficult for students to study in such an environment. Despite our repeated complaints to the relevant authorities, no serious action has been taken so far. The officials concerned should take the issue seriously and ensure uninterrup- ted electricity supply to the said library.

Name withheld on request
Jaffarbad

EIDUL AZHA AMID HEAT: Eidul Azha in extreme summer temperatures presents serious public health challenges. Rising temperatures accelerate meat spoilage, increase bacterial growth and raise the risk of food-borne diseases. Workers involved in slaughtering and handling meat face dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Lack of basic arrangements, such as shaded working areas, clean water and proper waste disposal, often worsens these risks. Poor hygiene practices further increase the chances of infection and environmental contamination. These issues are preventable. The relevant authorities must set up proper slaughtering facilities, and ensure effective waste management. Citizens also have a respon- sibility to maintain hygiene, handle meat safely, and take precautions against heat.

Hina Bibi
Karachi

SMOKING CESSATION: In this day and age, it is surprising that smokers remain visible in public places. Many of these are individuals who understand the harms of smoking and want to quit, but do not know how. Pakistan has almost no framework in place for helping adult smokers quit smoking. Availability of an effective and affordable cessation service is critical. Pakistan needs to provide such services at the local, district and provincial levels. This will be a great help to smokers, and a step towards making Pakistan smoke-free.

Junaid Ali Khan
Islamabad

Published in Dawn, May 25th, 2026