TURMOIL IN PANJGUR: Once a symbol of educational excellence and social vibrancy, Panjgur has now fallen into chaos due to targeted killings, robberies, poverty, illiteracy and lack of basic facilities. The district has been deprived of internet for more than two years, crippling every sector. Healthcare remains dismal. Despite having representation in provincial and federal legislatures, the district has seen no improvement. Instead, conditions have worsened with time. Growing inflation has made basic goods almost unattainable, pushing the already vulnerable population into deeper distress. Without visionary leader-ship and sincere efforts, the district risks sliding further into violence and despair.

Noman Arbab Baloch
Panjgur

SMOKING HAZARD: After the 18th Amendment, health, among other subjects, was delegated to the provinces. Unfor-tunately, 16 years later, provincial governments seem to be least bothered by the smoking endemic. Though we do not see cigarette advertisements in media, smoking remains a major public health issue in Pakistan. The provincial governments have to come up with appropriate legislation on tobacco control. Currently, the focus is on clamping down on illicit cigarettes, while it should be on providing adult smokers effective and affordable cessation options and making every effort to keep the young away from smoking.

Junaid Ali Khan
Islamabad

HOSPITALS IN RURAL AREAS: In most rural areas of Balochistan, such as Dasht, there are no well-equipped hospitals. People are forced to travel long distances for treatment, and poor families cannot afford this cost. Even in some areas where facilities exist, there is often a shortage of trained doctors, medicines and equipment. This inaccessibility frequently leads to mortality and delayed diagnosis. The government should strengthen local first-responder networks and provide funding for rapid ambulance services so that the people may reach urban trauma centres during emergency.

Muzzamil Karim
Turbat

Published in Dawn, August 6th, 2026