THIS is with reference to the report ‘Man kills wife, three kids before committing suicide’ (Jan 23). According to a survey, between 15 and 35 individuals take their own lives in Pakistan every day.

Shockingly, Pakistan is ranked 72nd globally, with a suicide mortality rate of 9.8 per 100,000 population. What is even more concerning is the year-on-year increase in the suicide mortality rate. According to the World Health Organi-sation (WHO), there were 7.3 suicides per 100,000 in 2019, which rose to 8.9 in 2020, and 9.8 in 2022.

It is worth noting that data regarding suicides in Pakistan is considered unreliable, like any other statistics of sensitive nature. Sadly, such tragic incidents have become all too common in cities and towns across the country. However, there seems to be a notable lack of action, particularly on the part of the government.

One of the primary contributors to this distressing trend is poverty, coupled with unemployment. While each govern- ment professes a commitment to the task of alleviating poverty, reality presents a contrasting narrative. It is disheartening to witness the persistent rise in suicide rates attributed to economic struggles.

When, if at all, will those responsible for the countless lives lost due to poverty and unemployment-related suicides be held accountable? Is the prospect of someone addressing this issue destined to remain a mere pipedream?

Urgent and comprehensive action is needed to tackle the root causes of this worsening crisis, and it is imperative that society, if not the government, takes swift and effective measures to provide support to those vulnerable individuals who find themselves trapped in the throes of dread, despair and darkness.

Hussain Ahmad Siddiqui
Islamabad

Published in Dawn, February 24th, 2024