SHORTAGE OF AMBULANCES: There is a serious shortage of ambulance services in Turbat. In emergency situations, every second is precious and any delay can worsen a patient’s condition or even cost a life. The shortage of ambulance affects not only the residents of Turbat, but also people from nearby areas who depend on the city’s hospitals for emergency treatment. The government should increase the number of ambulances and ensure that they are fully equipped, properly maintained and available round the clock. Trained emergency staff should also be appointed to provide timely assistance. Access to emergency medical transport is a basic public service, and no one should be deprived of it.

Ayesha Munir Ahmed
Turbat

POSTAL CHARGES: The revised postal rates for international mail available on the website of Pakistan Post as well as at the Islamabad General Post Office (GPO) have not been communicated to many post offices. The rates came into effect on March 12, while many post offices continue to insist on charging the old rates. According to the relevant notification, postal rate for a 50gm letter had been reduced from Rs400 to Rs250. However, post offices in F-6, F-7, F-8 and DHA phase 2 insist on charging the old rates. This is a serious lapse on the part of Pakistan Post.

Jawwad Zaki
Islamabad

WIDENING EDUCATIONAL GAP: Poor infrastructure, teacher shortages and administrative shortcomings have disrupted the functioning of several schools and affected learning in the local college in Awaran. The academic crisis is further aggravated by the presence of ghost schools, longstanding neglect and corruption. Balochistan has the highest number of out-of-school children in Pakistan, exceeding three million, with the Awaran district carrying a significant share of this burden. Community-led education initiatives, incentives for teachers serving in remote areas, and the use of technology for remote learning can help bridge the educational gap.

Naseeb Baloch
Awaran

Published in Dawn, August 1st, 2026