BOYCOTT CHALLENGES: There are challenges being faced by the people with respect to the campaign about boy-cotting pro-Israeli products. One of the main difficulties is the lack of available alternatives. Even when such alternatives exist, they are often of poor quality. Consumers are also unaware of the local products they can choose instead of the goods on the boycott list. Vendors are reluctant to stock locally manufactured products, fearing it may result in financial losses. To address these challenges, the government should give tax cuts to local companies so that they may make better products at lower prices. Also, the public must be educated about local options.

Naheed
Karachi

THE RIGHT STEP: There is reason to welcome the recent decision by the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (Nepra) related to multi-year tariff for K-Electric (KE). The new seven-year tariff brings some much-needed stability and a roadmap for KE. The reduced return on equity and efforts to hold KE accountable for improving per-formance show that the regulator is taking a balanced approach. If implemented properly, this decision can help KE plan better, invest in upgrading the system, and reduce power outages. Strong oversight and regular progress checks are needed, but the recent step is in the right direction.

Bilal Noor Khan
Karachi

MATERNITY HOMES: Illegal mate-rnity homes operating in almost every street of Baldia Town are mostly unauthorised establishments functioning without any licence. People who cannot afford costly treatment, or are unaware of their malpractices, choose them as they offer services at an affordable rate. These maternity homes do not follow safe and hygienic practices. Lack of training and skills during delivery cases leads to severe blood loss, failure of vital organs and even death. Women also complain of many diseases after their delivery from these illegal setups. The relevant authorities must seal all these maternity homes.

Areeba Shahzadi
Karachi

Published in Dawn, June 5th, 2025