KARACHI:
In 2017, Pakistan’s population was estimated to be 151 million with an estimated annual growth of 1.9%, equaling a 2.9 million population growth per year. Overpopulation, especially in developing countries, is indicative of over-urbanisation which adversely impacts the growth of a country.
Unfortunately, a vast majority is hesitant to explore the option of using contraceptives as they are fearful of suffering from harmful side effects. This reason has been cited as the major hurdle in meeting family planning goals in Pakistan. Another issue that arises is that of contraceptives going against our religious beliefs, which is another commonly held misconception. In the past, the government has successfully launched media campaigns regarding birth control. However, these have been of little use as a significant proportion of women in Pakistan do not have exposure to mass media or are easily coerced in believing religious hoax. Overpopulation has long been ignored in our country despite that fact that it has caused countless consequences such as increasing the burden on existing resources, exacerbating climate change and causing unemployment.
Therefore, controlling the population of Pakistan is a positive step towards achieving not only a healthier economy, but also an improved lifestyle for families. While there are some organisations such as Rahnuma and Greenstar that are working towards educating the masses on the benefits of family planning, the focus of the government should be on establishing more clinics that cater to all classes. The first step that should be taken by the government is create facilities that are more accessible to the general public so that people are educated on the benefits of family planning and the importance of sexual health.
Sharif Sabith
Turbat
Published in The Express Tribune, October 20th, 2020.
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