Sir: In history, Shikarpur was once called the ‘Paris of Sindh’. Like Paris and London, the city had covered markets. Shikarpur had an independent-electricity generating power plant that had much potential to supply uninterrupted electricity to whole city. The city management used to spray fragrant water in the streets and markets.
However, at present, Shikarpur is not less than the city of garbage, pollution and stagnant water. The worst sanitation system and damaged roads are prominent and undeniable facts of Shikarpur. Moreover, poor urban planning and the absence of an adequate garbage and waste disposal system have turned Shikarpur into the Pakistan’s filthiest city. Load-shedding, on the other hand, has engulfed the whole city. The city’s historic power plant is no more functional. Not only have these issues engulfed Shikarpur at all, but its people have also been pulled into a quandary. The city administration has completely ignored Shikarpur, once the Paris of Sindh.
In a nutshell, Shikarpur has been under constant threats of such life-threatening problems for a long time. The issues are very serious and posing threats to the survival of the helpless people. However, with the proper will and determination, the city administration jointly with Sindh government can address these issues. The authorities concerned must strengthen the Shikarpur Water and Sewerage Board to nip these issues in its buds. Public awareness to promote clean and healthy environment is highly appreciated. In this way, Shikarpur, once the ‘Paris of Sindh’, can revise its history much better than before.
DR KAMRAN MUSTAFA KOREJO
Shikarpur