WRONG APPROACH: The reported plan of the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) to tax YouTubers and influencers at a rate of Rs195 per 1,000 views, instead of their actual income, is a flawed approach. High viewership does not automatically equate to high profit. Revenue depends on regional CPM rates, production overheads and platform cuts. A flat tax on views could bankrupt small-scale creators and students who are bringing much-needed foreign exchange into the country. The FBR should focus on a net-income-based model with clear exemptions for micro-influencers. The relevant authorities should take digital stakeholders on board to create a fair and transparent system that encourages entrepreneurship rather than penalising visibility unfairly.

Khateeba Moazzam
Karachi

DRIGH ROAD STATION: Pollution and sanitation problems have increased at the Drigh Road Railway Station in Karachi. Plastic bags, wrappers and household waste are littered near the railway tracks, road and market. In some places, there is so much garbage that the place looks like some designated garbage dump. A foul smell circulates in the air. Smoke and dust from heavy traffic and trains further pollute the air. Moreover, the level of noise at the station is unbearable. Outside, some people have set up food stalls without proper cleaning arrangements. The authorities should ensure proper sanitation in the area, increase regular cleaning, and launch public awareness campaigns so that people may understand the importance of cleanliness and may act accordingly.

Amna Mahmood
Karachi

HEAVY TRAFFIC: Tankers, trailers and trucks pass in front of the Dr Ziauddin Hospital in Karachi’s Clifton area. Since there is no permanent traffic signal, there is always a risk of major accidents. The road leading straight towards Bilawal Chowrangi has no U-turn, and vehicles often move on the wrong side, disrupting traffic flow. A pedestrian bridge at the spot can reduce the risk of accidents.

S.M. Asad
Karachi

Published in Dawn, May 26th, 2026