We have not only failed to maintain the projects started by the British, but have initiated only few
ISLAMABAD: Seventy-one years have passed since independence from the Britishers. They committed atrocities to suppress freedom movements. People remember those atrocities.
However, they tend to forget the network of canals and railway systems built by the Britishers. No matter how much development was initiated by them they are still considered as plunderers and intruders, and rightfully so.
Unfortunately, although it has been a long time since independence, those who assumed power cannot match the development done by the British. We have not only failed to maintain the projects started by the British, but have initiated only few. Canals are in a shambles while many places have become garbage dumps.
The railway system remains badly neglected. Development should not move ahead just for the sake of it. Rather it needs to be carefully thought out. What are the major priorities? How will it benefit the nation in the long run? These are all questions that need to be assessed before sailing forward with the idea of development.
It is time for our government to stop the blame game of cursing the past rulers and take solid steps for betterment of the people and the nation. Freedom was a right that our ancestors fought long and hard for. It is only fair that we take positive steps for the progress and development of the nation.
Raja Shafaatullah
Published in The Express Tribune, July 28th, 2019.
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