Neglecting F-11

Behind the only petrol station in F-11 in Islamabad lie two public facilities. These are largely unknown to residents of this sector, in large part due to their neglect by CDA and the National Library. These two institutions are meant, respectively, to maintain the Gymnasium and the Public Library. The Gym’s equipment broke down some years ago. New expensive equipment has now been in place for over a year, and there are three to four salaried staff without work. The opening of the Gym has been held up as the CDA cannot seem to find the right VIP to inaugurate the facility. This is according to government officials who work in the neighbourhood.

A month ago the roof of one of two reading rooms of the library was torn apart by high winds. Despite complaints, the CDA has failed to repair it. Finally, the Environment Directorate of the CDA after setting up nearly eight potentially nice parks near the above facilities has neglected them. This lack of concern carries over to the city’s largest green area, the Fatima Jinnah Park. Hardly any money is spent on the upkeep of existing parks. The new mayor and the CDA chairman should rectify this gross neglect of Pakistan’s only planned city.

Q Isa Daudpota

Islamabad