The government must direct their attention to Thar, where over 250 children have died because of famine. It is the responsibility of the media to bring to light the reasons that have caused this famine. Politicians who consider Thar to be part of their constituency must take immediate action to provide relief to the residents. Moreover, the government must invest in infrastructural development in Thar by constructing hospitals, clinics, schools, and other institutions to facilitate its residents. It is high time that this barren area of land is developed into a proper city and its residents receive modern day facilities.
Politicians can use their money to bring about a change in Thar however; they only spend it during election time to gain votes. Ever wonder when a certain real estate tycoon who can build housing schemes in metropolis cannot construct a basic housing society in Thar? This is a politically created famine and has nothing to do with the environment. There are certain reasons why Thar is continuously facing famine. First, the concerned authorities do not want this area to be developed and they do not want its residents to gain education or awareness because their lack of awareness compels them to vote for the politicians who promise for a better future. Politicians use this illiteracy for their advantage. Second, the people of Thar have isolated themselves from the rest of Sindh because of their cultural traditions. They must accept change and connect with regional areas to grow.
The people of Thar do not want relief money, they need infrastructural development because they cannot afford to fall victim of famine each year. Politicians who are raising their voice against terrorism should understand that famine in Thar is a product of criminal negligence, which is also a form of terrorism because the definition of terrorism states that it is “the use of violent acts to frighten the people in an area as a way of trying to achieve a political goal.”
MUHAMMAD OMAR IFTIKHAR
Karachi
