RESPECTING THE FLAG: During the recent Asian Games in Japan, a Bangladeshi cricketer was seen stepping forward to pick up a fallen Pakistani flag, displaying a profound lesson in grace, dignity, upbringing and sportsmanship. This gesture presents a stark contrast to how our national flag is often treated by us, especially during and after Independence Day celebrations every year. If an athlete from a foreign country shows our flag such reverence, we must reflect on why we so frequently fail to show the same level of respect ourselves. Respect for the state begins with how we treat our flag.

Shamoon Alam Khan
Karachi

MOUNTING EXPENSES: Government schools in Pakistan offer free education, but for many low-income families, the real cost of education lies in expenses that are rarely counted — uniforms, shoes, stationery, school transportation and informal contributions for exams or school events. For a family with two or three children enrolled, these costs add up to become a significant monthly amount. The government’s Benazir Taleemi Wazaif programme is being expanded to include transport and meal support, and several provinces have distributed free uniforms in recent years, which is commendable. However, this support does not yet reach everyone who needs it. Such programmes should constantly expand further and should reach families more consistently.

Batool Fatima
Karachi

OPEN MANHOLES: Open manholes have become death holes for pedestrians, motorcyclists, children and those unfamiliar with any area. Walking on the roads post-sunset is a risky affair as open sewers and potholes are not visible in the darkness. Besides, the foul smell and heaps of garbage have made life miserable, affecting the environment of the area. A few days ago, a tragic incident took place on the Civil Hospital Road in Larkana. The irony is that nothing changes after every recurring incident. Sadly, no steps have been taken by the government to cover the manholes.

Syed Hassnain Ali Shah
Larkana

Published in Dawn, October 8th, 2026