The tanker mafia in Pakistan has turned water — one of our most basic needs — into a privilege. Major cities like Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad face severe shortages while private water tanker operators exploit citizens by charging exorbitant prices. Instead of ensuring a fair supply, the authorities have allowed these mafias to thrive, making clean water inaccessible to many. The root of the problem lies in poor water management, corruption and lack of enforcement. Many areas receive little to no municipal water, forcing people to rely on private tankers. Illegal hydrants extract groundwater unchecked, worsening the crisis. As a result, citizens pay heavily for what should be a basic right.
The government must take immediate action by improving water infrastructure, regulating private tanker rates and shutting down illegal hydrants. Strict policies and accountability are needed to ensure every citizen gets affordable access to clean water. Water is a necessity, not a luxury and urgent intervention is required.
Sakina Murtaza
Karachi
Iran’s decision to opt for negations instead of military confrontation with the US is a sensible option. The latter,...
If inflation is indeed declining, it is important to ensure that the benefits of this trend are actually passed on to...
This letter refers to the editorial ‘Pope of the people’ . As the title suggests, the late Pope Francis was a...
History has witnessed the rise and the fall of great powers. After World War II, the world entered into the cold war...
In every flourishing society, merit serves as the cornerstone of progress. A nation cannot move forward if its most...
Cheating during board examinations is a widespread problem in Pakistan and undermines the integrity of the country’s...
