KARACHI:
The catastrophic floods of 2022 have left enduring footprints in Pakistan, impacting a significant portion of the population and disrupting the communication infrastructure. Highways, bridges and other vital structures were irrevocably destroyed. While temporary post-flood recovery efforts were made, the infrastructure and communication systems remain incompletely restored, leading to ongoing challenges in the affected areas.
Last week, while travelling home in Mankiyal Valley, I encountered a perilous situation when the chairlift I was using to cross River Swat became stuck due to a rope malfunction. With strenuous struggle, I did manage to reach the other side of the river, albeit with injuries. Many individuals rely on such hazardous chairlifts daily, as they are the only means of crossing the River.
These pressing issues demand immediate attention, as the lives of thousands are at risk due to these faulty chairlifts. I urge the relevant authorities to address these matters as a priority to prevent further tragedies, such as the horrific chairlift incident in Battagram last year.
Shams Ud Din
Swat
Published in The Express Tribune, March 26th, 2024.
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