Safety at work
March 15, 2021
This refers to the news report ‘Six colliers killed in Balochistan mine explosion’ (March 13). These colliers trapped 1,000 feet underground when methane gas exploded. These people were working at a coalfield in Marwar. The accident highlights gross negligence on the part of the relevant authorities. It is the responsibility of the government to ensure the safety of miners. In one year, 192 miners lost their lives in 72 different incidents.
The chief minister of Balochistan should personally intervene and punish those who did not ensure safety practices. The Balochistan government is also requested to compensate the families of the victims.
Quality education
March 10, 2021
This refers to the editorial ‘Inadvisable SNC’ (March 9). There is no denying that the federal government can only provide guidelines and not force provinces to implement the Single National Curriculum (SNC). In case it does, it will go against the spirit of the 18th Amendment. At present, Pakistan’s economic growth is unsatisfactory. This situation calls for the urgent attention of the higher authorities who should redesign the curriculum in such a way that help the country records economic growth. It can be only achieved through investing in research and development. There is no lack of talent in Pakistan. It is the responsibility of the federal and provincial governments to focus on the education sector and allocate funds not less than five percent of GDP to the sector to ensure quality education. It is expected that concerted efforts by each province, if implemented in true letter and spirit, will bring fruits of progress and prosperity
Regrettably, this has not happened for the first time. The country learnt nothing from earlier episodes.
The power breakdown raises many questions. How is the Guddu power plant, which transports full electricity in summer without tripping, was unable to transmit less than half the electricity in winter? And why are the three important power companies being run without managing directors?
The government should reveal the actual cause of the breakdown and stop playing the blame game. It should set up vigilance squads, and appoint professionals with knowledge about technical issues.
It should immediately expel all top officials appointed on the basis of nepotism who are unable to handle technical problems.