PLIGHT OF KARACHI: Karachi has been declared among the world’s least liveable cities in the Global Liveable Index 2026, ranking at 170 out of 173 countries. For a government that has ruled the city and, indeed, the province, for the last 18 years, this must be an eye-opener. Karachi is the largest city of the country and the biggest contributor to the federal and provincial revenues, but its infrastructure has been collapsing for years. The metropolis has turned into a large squatter settlement. The residents of the city have been suffering for decades, but there is no hope of any betterment.

Arif Majeed
Karachi

Growing CHILD ABUSE: Child sexual abuse is among the most horrific crimes, leaving victims with life-long physical and emotional trauma. It is the prime responsibility of the government to ensure that child sexual offenders receive strict punishment under the law. Equally important are speedy trials, better protection for victims and effective law-enforcement. On the other hand, effective public awareness campaigns and education can also help prevent abuse and encourage people to report suspicious behaviour. The authorities concerned should strengthen child protection measures and enforce the existing laws effectively so that every parent and child may live without fear.

Rabia Malik
Karachi

CREDIT CARD FEE: The credit card bill I received in July included an advance annual fee totalling Rs14,950. This came without any prior notice. I called the bank helpline to ask for the cancellation of the card, but was surprised to hear that the card could be cancelled only after I had paid these charges. I simply fail to understand the logic of having to pay advance charges for the coming year even when I have no intention to keep the credit card. This is an outrageous, arbitrary action by the bank which clearly writes its own rules and implements them as if there is no government authority in the country.

Imtiaz Piracha
Karachi

Published in Dawn, July 31st, 2026