There are many aspects of any reality but unfortunately we choose the one that suits our interests. Nowadays, there is a lot of hue and cry in media regarding the Orange Line Metro Train Project in Lahore. Some people are raising apprehensions that this train would destroy the architectural beauty of archeological sites of Lahore. Unfortunately, almost every development project in our country is met with intense criticism by the media and the opposition. It seems that we have developed a habit of criticising everything. However, one must look into the harsh reality which is quite evident in our daily life.
The truth is that the Punjab government under Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif has initiated this project to provide state of the art traveling facility to the people of Lahore who are deprived of standardised commuting facilities. The track of this international standard project passes close to the busy roads, thickly populated areas and historical buildings so that more and more citizens may take benefit from this modern travelling facility. For the protection of archeological sites, this Metro Train has been given underground passage in these areas. In the guidance of archaeological experts, the government of Punjab has ensured the safety of these archaeological buildings at all costs.
There is an objective reality out there but we view it through the spectacles of our misbeliefs, stigmatic attitudes and self-asserted values. Therefore, it is requested that to stop all this criticism as a sound and effective transport system is essential to pave the way for the socio-economic development of countries like Pakistan.
SYED ALI QASIM
Lahore
