APROPOS the report ‘Twin islands along Karachi’s coast are not viable for development’ (Oct 11). The report has highlighted an important issue.

It is unfortunate that the authorities have not bothered to take serious action against marine pollution for years despite repeated entreaties from the public and the issue being raised ad nauseum in media.

This has robbed the citizens of the Karachi of a natural ocean-front which was known for a beauty in its own. The permanent stench mentioned in the report is a perennial reminder of the injustice meted out to our coastline. The stench is present wherever one goes along the beach be it a hotel or the different clubs that have sprung up. The situation is in sharp contrast to the beaches and coastline in other countries.

One hopes the federal and provincial environmental agencies and marine experts are alarmed by this situation and are taking measures to rectify the matter.

Altaf Noor Ali
Karachi

Published in Dawn, October 19th, 2020