KARACHI:
Jacobabad, once a flourishing city, now faces multiple problems. Out of all the problems, perhaps the biggest one is the non-availability of drinking water. For this city of around one million people, the citizens are forced to fetch water from faraway places. They pay Rs10-20 for a single canister. Fortunately, a water scheme, assisted by USAID and World Bank, is now underway. Despite a few hurdles, the water scheme has the potential to ease the sufferings of the citizens of Jacobabad.
The residents are also facing many health problems. Jacobabad is considered to be the highest concentration area for Hepatitis. The health facilities in the city, which are below par, are also one of the reasons why this disease is spreading in the area. Limited expertise, coupled with greed and corruption, has led to a situation where people do not get properly treated.
The local authorities have also failed to maintain a standard of drainage and waste management. Heaps of garbage are also adding to the spread of multiple diseases. The infrastructure within the city is anything but functional. The relevant authorities should shirk their lethargic attitude and make efforts to address these problems. There is need to save this city and its people.
Inamullah lashari
Jacobabad
