SUMMARY of the Article “Urban Flooding,” by Dr Noman Ahmed, Dawn, July 25th, 2024


The article by Dr. Noman Ahmed addresses the critical issue of urban flooding in Karachi, particularly in light of the expected torrential rains in early August. Various government tiers, including the chief minister and the president, have emphasized the need for immediate and effective preparations to mitigate the damage caused by flooding. The Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) is tasked with managing the main storm drains but faces significant challenges due to limited financial and technical resources. One of the primary causes of urban flooding is the uncoordinated real estate development, especially in areas designated for livestock rearing, urban farming, and forestation. Anti-encroachment efforts have largely failed to improve water drainage. Historically, Karachi’s development, including its storm drainage system, was well-planned during the British colonial period, integrating land surveys and rainfall assessments to manage rainwater effectively. However, these practices were not institutionalized post-independence, leading to the current dysfunction. The idea of using the sewerage system for rainwater disposal is also problematic due to the informal settlements along major nullahs. Illegal sand mining, encroachments, and the dumping of solid waste have further disrupted the natural and manmade storm drains, reducing their capacity. The article underscores the need for comprehensive solutions, including regular maintenance of drainage systems, prevention of waste dumping, strengthening of embankments, dredging of watercourses, and the separation of sewerage from drainage systems. The » Read More…


Airport Security Force ASF Act 1975 MCQs Quiz | PDF Download


The Airport Security Force (ASF) Act of 1975 is a law that explains how the Airport Security Force ASF in Pakistan should work to keep airports safe. This law is very important because it helps protect everyone at the airports, including passengers and workers. If you are studying for the FPSC Test and exams or want to learn more about this important law, the Airport Security Force ASF Act, 1975 MCQs Quiz in very important in this regard. This quiz has 50 multiple-choice questions; you can see the answers after clicking the options. The Airport Security Force ASF Act 1975 Download button is at the page’s end. » Read More…


SUMMARY of the Article “Giving up is good sometimes,” by Rafia Zakaria, Dawn, July 24th, 2024


The article explores the notion of giving up through the lens of President Joe Biden’s decision to not seek re-election for a second term. This surprising move by the leader of the world’s most powerful nation serves as a starting point to discuss the broader theme of relinquishing goals or positions that one has worked for all their life. The piece highlights the rarity of powerful individuals voluntarily stepping down, as such roles often lead to a belief in their own indispensability. The central question revolves around knowing when to hold on and when to let go, even if it seems counterintuitive. People often justify quitting through various rationalizations, but the true challenge lies in recognizing when continuing is futile or harmful. The article uses the example of a neurosurgeon who, despite extensive training and a prestigious career, chose to leave the profession due to the moral injury of failing to relieve patient suffering. This narrative underscores that decisions to quit can be complex and » Read More…


 SUMMARY of the article “Crisis of Governability,” by Umair Javed, Dawn, July 22nd, 2024


In the article “Crisis of Governability,” Umair Javed explores the deteriorating control of the Pakistani state over its political and economic landscape, as analyzed by scholars Adeel Malik and Maya Tudor. They predict a deepening ‘crisis of governability,’ marked by the current regime’s low societal acceptance and diminishing ability to enforce its agenda. Actions such as coercion against PTI members, Imran Khan’s continued incarceration, and manipulation of the 2024 elections have led to widespread unpopularity and mistrust in the regime, extending to the military establishment. Economically, despite some positive indicators, public perception remains grim due to plummeting real wages and limited growth opportunities, exacerbated by rising taxes and electricity tariffs. The state is perceived as only proficient in self-benefiting practices, failing to achieve sustained economic growth or meaningful reforms. The regime’s struggle is evident in its inability to manipulate election outcomes effectively, with the judiciary emerging as a site of resistance. Scholars attribute this crisis to societal changes like » Read More…


 SUMMARY of the Article “Education Crisis,” by Nazir A. Jogezai, Dawn, July 22nd, 2024


The article discusses the recent decision by the Balochistan government to increase the budget for higher education institutions (HEIs), which is expected to resolve long-standing issues, such as delayed salaries for employees and the introduction of full scholarships for PhD students under the Benazir Bhutto Scholarship Programme. Despite this positive development, the article highlights the ongoing crisis in the governance and management of HEIs in Balochistan, exacerbated by financial collapse and a heavy reliance on aid and grants. Mismanagement has led to spending on construction and salaries, with little investment in profit-making ventures, human development, or research. This has resulted in HEIs becoming financially unstable and unable to contribute effectively to society. The crisis is attributed to various stakeholders, including lawmakers, policy makers, and university administrations, who have prioritized quantity over quality, leading to financial mismanagement and demoralized teaching faculty. The article criticizes the increasing use of contractual staff, reduction in remunerations, rising student fees, and limited scholarships, which have further weakened the HEIs. It calls for a shift towards rational resource utilization, academic management, and profit generation, rather than expansion into remote areas. The article also emphasizes the need for the Higher Education Commission » Read More…