Quest for change: Pind Dadan Khan at a crossroads

The transformative journey of region’s most backward tehsil is fraught with challenges

PIND DADAN KHAN:

Nestled amidst the heart of Punjab, the tehsil of Pind Dadan Khan has seen its population growth nearing 0.7 million.

Often labelled as the most backward tehsil in the region, Pind Dadan Khan is now at the centre stage of a transformative narrative, shaped by both challenges and aspirations.

At the epicentre of this tale stands the ambitious dual carriageway Jhelum Road project, a vision set in motion three years ago by the then federal minister Chaudhry Fawad Hussain better known as Fawad Chaudhry. Backed by a substantial budget of Rs16 billion, this venture, though commendable, faced a stumbling block — a shortfall in funding that cast a shadow over its completion.

Championed by Chaudhry, the road project, along with the trauma centre in Toba, the passport office, and the EOBI office in Pind Dadan Khan City, symbolises the vigour of his leadership.

The wheels of development also set in motion with the initiation of the Jalalpur-Kundwal Canal during Chaudhry’s tenure, marking a promising chapter in the region’s progress. Yet, the journey to completion of these endeavours has been fraught with challenges.

Despite the commendable efforts, projects linger in delays, awaiting the release of full funds. Only the Jalalpur-Kundwal canal, with the backing of the World Bank, forges ahead, signalling hope for the tehsil’s future.

Beyond the infrastructure hurdles, the tehsil grapples with the critical issues of drainage and clean drinking water. The failure of the sewage system, introduced by former MPA Chaudhry Nazar Hussain Gondal, reveals a need for larger pipes. The absence of a sanitation and drainage system compounds the woes, highlighting the collective responsibility of the community and the Municipal Committee.

The Tehsil Headquarters Hospital, a vital lifeline for the community, faces its own set of challenges. A lack of specialist doctors, attributed to inadequate accommodations, leaves residents without essential medical care. Outdated medical equipment further exacerbates the situation, leaving the hospital functioning as more of a “post office” than a healthcare facility.

As one navigates through the myriad issues plaguing the city – from Wapda hanging wires to the precarious drop in gas pressure – it begs the question: Who shoulders the responsibility for the tehsil’s backwardness?

The call to action resonates – it is time to select representatives committed to eradicating backwardness, representatives who transcend mere photo sessions and embody true sincerity.

Amidst the shadows of neglect, Pind Dadan Khan’s potential flickers. A reflection in the neighbouring districts of Mandi Bahauddin and Chakwal serves as a stark reminder of what is achievable.

It beckons the residents to look beyond political affiliations and make informed choices, for in the power of their votes lies the transformative key to propel Pind Dadan Khan into a future unbound by backwardness.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 5^th, 2024.