Ratta Amral cemetery falls into despair

Citizens have to pick their way through overgrown vegetation to reach loved ones’ graves

RAWALPINDI:

The Ratta Amral cemetery, managed by the Rawalpindi Municipal Corporation (RMC), has fallen into a state of disrepair due to negligence. The cemetery, which is meant to be a solemn resting place for the deceased, has become overgrown with grass and wild herbs, resembling more of a forest than a cemetery.

This neglect has made it increasingly difficult for citizens to visit the graves of their loved ones.

Grass and wild herbs have encroached upon the graves and paths throughout the cemetery. The paths, intended to provide access to the graves, are now barely passable, and the lighting that is supposed to illuminate the way has been left in a state of disrepair.

The lack of maintenance by the RMC has resulted in the cemetery presenting an unsightly and impractical scene.

Citizens who visit the Ratta Amral cemetery face numerous challenges due to the overgrowth. The tall grass and wild herbs obscure the graves, making it hard for visitors to locate and reach the graves of their loved ones. The paths that once provided clear access are now overrun, causing visitors to navigate through thick vegetation.

Residents have voiced their concerns over the deteriorating state of the cemetery. They have pointed out that the municipal corporation has failed to fulfil its responsibilities of maintaining the cemetery, which includes cutting the grass, removing weeds, cleaning the roads, and repairing the lights.

They have also urged the municipal corporation to take immediate action to restore the cemetery.

Published in The Express Tribune, June 4^th, 2024.