ISLAMABAD IN SEARCH OF WASTE DISPOSAL SITE SINCE 6 DECADES

* Over the past sixty years, the absence of a modern landfill has left residents vulnerable to persistent environmental dangers

* People living in I-10 and I-9 are at greater risk of exposure to noxious odors and health problems, as both sectors are located in industrial zones

* Capital Waste Management Company (CWMC) is being established with the goal of enhancing sanitation standards in the federal capital: Chairman CDA

By Mahtab Bashir

ISLAMABAD: Lalarukh, a resident of I-10, becomes frustrated by the lingering unpleasant odor that greets her every time she ascends to the rooftop in search of a breath of fresh air. She is expressing dissatisfaction with the city's industrial nature, which is causing pollution through smoke and water issues that are bothering residents. The unpleasant odour from the dumping site in sector I-11 is considered a criminal act committed by the Capital Development Authority (CDA), the city's sole civic agency, she maintains.

Despite paying taxes like other residents, as a housewife, I found it impossible to enjoy fresh air. The civic agency has shown clear favoritism towards the elite sectors by focusing all its development efforts on them, neglecting areas like the dumping site in I-11 sector. Lalarukh stated that this discrimination is unfair and needs to be addressed.

With the increasing global interest in using waste to produce electricity and reduce environmental pollution, the people of Islamabad, the federal capital, are facing concerns over the strong stench coming from the dumping ground at I-11. This offensive odor not only carries health hazards but also damages the city's reputation as an eco-friendly destination. Despite the city's sizable population of three million, the Capital Development Authority (CDA) has faced challenges in setting up a suitable landfill or waste disposal site, worsening the problem.

File Photo: Dumping Site at I-12 

Due to the lack of attention from the CDA, Islamabad is currently lacking a proper landfill site. As a temporary solution, the civic agency has been disposing of waste in the Losar area of Rawalpindi near Chakbeli for approximately two years. The contract for this arrangement has recently been extended for an additional six months.

Every six months, CDA renews its contract with Rawalpindi Waste Management Company (RWMC). Recently, the CDA announced an extension of the contract from April 4 to October 3, 2024. As part of the agreement, the CDA will pay RWMC a tipping fee of Rs1,350 per tonne for waste management services.

The Capital Development Authority is responsible for collecting and disposing of garbage and waste from the city. Currently, they dump the collected waste at I-11 before transporting it to Losar. However, the CDA is now working on establishing a new transfer station at I-9, which will be located within the premises of the sewage treatment plant. The construction of this transfer station is expected to be completed in six months (till October, 2024).

Despite previous discussions about creating a proper "scientific landfill" site, the CDA has not followed through on these plans. Instead, they are now considering establishing a landfill site in Losar after acquiring the necessary land through the Rawalpindi administration. This new site will provide a more efficient and environmentally friendly way to manage the city's waste.

Challenges have arisen with the establishment of a landfill site in Islamabad, causing the civic agency to resort to temporary solutions. Initially, waste was being disposed of in I-12, then moved to I-11 and Sangjani, and now a new site near Rawat called Losar has been designated. However, the transition away from the I-11 and I-12 dumping site is still incomplete.

"We are currently in the process of acquiring land in Losar to establish a suitable landfill site," stated Mashooq Ali Shaikh, director sanitation MCI. He mentioned ongoing discussions with Rawalpindi authorities regarding this matter. The CDA board has granted a six-month extension to the agreement with RWMC. Previously, the CDA had suggested potential sites at Kuri and Dhoke Jando near Nicholson’s Monument. In 2018, an additional option was proposed at Sangjani, utilizing ditches created by stone crushers in the hills. However, this proposal was rejected by the environmental authorities. The lack of a proper landfill site in the capital was brought to the attention of the Islamabad High Court, leading to a directive for the CDA to address the issue.

The residents of I-11 and I-10 have expressed disappointment over the absence of a scientific landfill in the city which consists of approximately three million residents. They criticized the CDA's handling of waste management, calling it questionable. Despite assurances from both the CDA and the federal government representatives in court, no progress has been made towards developing a suitable landfill site. The accumulation of garbage not only poses a threat to the city's environment but also endangers the health of its citizens, they maintained.

"In this urban center, luxurious five-star hotels and towering skyscrapers could be constructed, however, it is puzzling to me why the CDA is neglecting this matter of public significance," Akmal, a resident of I-11 said. Additionally, in the rural areas surrounding Islamabad, individuals were indiscriminately disposing of waste in open spaces and water channels. "While this may have been a minor issue when the population of Islamabad was smaller, it has now escalated into a major concern due to rapid urbanization and expansion of the capital city. Inadequate waste management leads to water, soil, and environmental contamination, as well as the proliferation of various illnesses," he explained. "Despite its establishment in 1960, the CDA has yet to establish a modern landfill facility similar to those in other cities," he emphasized.

File Photo: Waste Disposal Site at I-11

According to an official from CDA, the civic agency annually spends more than two billion rupees on waste management. He mentioned that if a proper landfill site is established, the CDA could generate revenue by utilizing the waste for energy projects. Previously, the CDA used to dispose of solid waste in the residential area of I-12 before being directed by the court in 2022 to relocate it outside the residential zone. The court also mandated the CDA to ensure that no waste is dumped in temporary locations within residential areas since October 4, 2022.

Subsequently, the CDA temporarily moved their waste disposal operations to Losar. Earlier, the CDA had identified a potential landfill site at Kuri based on the recommendation of an international consultant. An access road was constructed leading to the site, but in a surprising turn of events in 2011, the CDA and environmental authorities decided to abandon the project. It was alleged by some officials at that time that the CDA scrapped the Kuri landfill project to please housing scheme owners. Since then, the CDA has been relocating their temporary landfill site from one location to another.

Talking to this scribe chairman CDA, Chaudhary Muhammad Ali Randhawa said that, “Capital Waste Management Company (CWMC) is being established with the goal of enhancing sanitation standards in the federal capital.” He said that following the model of Lahore Waste Management Company (LWMC), CWMC will focus on managing solid waste. This specialized company will execute the integrated Solid Waste Management programs set forth by CDA.

Upon its establishment, he maintained, the company will be operational citywide, with different waste disposal categories designated throughout. Residential areas, commercial zones, households, hospitals, and green spaces will all have separate waste disposal systems. In addition to waste management, the company will also work on enhancing solid waste infrastructure, such as constructing a landfill site.

Chairman said, “Land acquisition for this purpose is already in progress. Operating the waste transfer station and establishing recycling and material recovery facilities are also within the responsibilities of Capital Waste Management Company.”

ENSURING POLITICAL STABILITY & ECONOMIC PROSPERITY IS KEY TO SAFEGUARDING PAKISTAN’S RICH CULTURE, HERITAGE & LANGUAGES

Let's keep the conversation going on prime time!

MAHTAB BASHIR

mahtabbashir@gmail.com

0333 53 63 248

ISLAMABAD: The speakers in a festival has emphasised the importance of maintaining political stability and economic prosperity as crucial factors in preserving Pakistan’s dwindling culture, heritage, and languages. They also highlighted the need for media outlets to provide ample airtime for discussions on these important issues during prime time slots.

The event titled "Preserved Cultures Literature Festival", hosted by the Area Study Centre (ASC), Quaid-i-Azam University (QAU) in partnership with the American Studies Club and Preserved Cultures, participants stressed the importance of conserving and promoting Pakistan's national heritage, culture, and endangered languages.

This inaugural festival at QAU was a groundbreaking event that placed a strong emphasis on the promotion and conservation of Pakistani culture, literature, and various languages. Melaosho, a non-profit organisation committed to tackling environmental challenges in order to promote sustainable development, graciously supported the festival.

Khalilur Rehman giving Talat Hussain a briefing on the crafts items displayed at the Melaosho stall.

Despite scorching heat, vibrant Holi celebration happening other part of the varsity, and the busy yet controversial day of 9th May, this one-day event drew a large crowd of individuals from various schools of thought. The event featured book stalls aimed at promoting literature and preserving traditional cultures. The Cultural and Literary Fest covered a wide range of topics, including a discussion led by renowned journalist and anchorperson Syed Talat Hussain and Mutiullah Jan on the role of media in championing culture, literature, and regional languages.

Attendees were treated to a captivating "Heritage Walk" showcasing the diverse regional cultures. The intricate works of celebrated miniature artist Syed Najamul Hassan Kazmi were on display, delighting the audience. Hailing from Skardu, Kazmi shared insights about his art, language, and literary background with the attendees, further enriching their cultural experience.

During the event, Prof. Dr. Ravish Nadeem provided an insightful analysis of the poetry styles in Urdu prose, shedding light on the evolution of the progressive movement and contemporary Urdu literature. Prof. Dr. Tahir Jamil and Dr. Manzoor Ahmed explored the shades of Sindhi and Saraiki languages, emphasising the importance of nurturing and promoting provincial and regional languages.

Noted free verse poets Sarmad Sarosh, Shoaib Kiani, Dr. Ravish Nadeem, Salim Akhtar, alongside MPhil students Ahmed Ali and Tahreem Sadat from the Area Study Center, captivated the audience with their mesmerising poetry recitation in a “Mehfil-e-Mushaira”. Their emotions packed poetry left a profound and enduring impression on all those in attendance. The students filled with a deep love for poetry eagerly asked the poets to recite their poems; they (students) loved the most- showing their strong desire to hear the beautiful words.

Earlier, renowned anchorpersons and V-loggers, Syed Talat Hussain and Matiullah Jan highlighted the issue of identity crisis plaguing our society. They emphasised that our culture is struggling to thrive due to unfortunate circumstances, and that true cultural prosperity can only be achieved through complete assimilation. It was noted that while we may be beginning to embrace various languages as dialects, it is crucial that we also elevate the status of our languages in academic circles and embrace them as distinct entities. Only then can we overcome the challenges posed by our ongoing identity crisis.

Hussain elaborated by stating that the local and regional media play a crucial role in promoting national heritage and literature. He cited America as a prime example where journalism predominantly focuses on showcasing local culture through newspapers and news channels. In contrast, he highlighted that in our country, there are only a handful of channels and newspapers that prioritize promoting regional heritage. Despite these limitations, he emphasised that dedicated journalists can still contribute to this cause.

Speaking on the occasion, Khalilur Rehman, the Chief Organiser of the festival, CEO Preserved Cultures, and a student of MPhil ASC, QAU, expressed concern over the rapid decline of cultural heritage and languages in Pakistan, particularly in the northern regions. “While major languages receive some attention, the cultures and languages of remote areas are often overlooked. The goal of Preserved Cultures is to raise awareness about these issues and urge governments and stakeholders to take action to preserve Pakistan's heritage,” Rehman emphasised.

It is crucial for us to prioritise the protection of our languages and culture. This is the primary mission of Preserved Cultures,” he concluded.

JOURNALISTS RAISE VOICE FOR THE RESTORATION OF ISLAMABAD'S PRISTINE GREEN CHARACTER

Pledge to highlight the importance of preserving City's ecological gems amidst the evolving urban landscape through digital media platforms

A session on 'Understanding Environmental Journalism' 

* Why should Pakistan sign on to commitments like the MDGs and SDGs if we cannot meet the targets, only to face potential embarrassment?

* Climate change is a divisive issue pitting the southern and northern regions against each other: Afia Salam, Environmental Specialist/ Journalist 

* In order to create a high-quality production that effectively conveys a specific issue, it is essential to have top-notch content, presented in a clear and simple: Talha Ahad, Multimedia Journalist/ Documentary Filmmaker

* Every journalist should teach because engaging in teaching can enhance all skills, while online resources like Google Analytics certification offering valuable knowledge for digital marketing and monetization: Badar Khushnood, Digital Marketing & Monetization Expert 

 

ISLAMABAD: Environmental experts and journalists have urged legislators to take decisive measures to safeguard Islamabad's environment, which was once renowned for its abundant greenery and limited urbanisation. They have also emphasised the need for media organisations to dedicate prime time slots to educate masses about climate change and environmental destruction, while climate change concerns must be integrated into the national educational curriculum in order to preserve the natural ecosystem. 

Identifying the Climate Issues

This was the gist of a 3-day Sabz Journalism Fellowship Program (SJFP) in Islamabad organised by the Global Neighbourhood for Media Innovation (GNMI), in collaboration with the State Department, Embassy of United States.

The training, spearheaded by senior environmental journalist Afia Salam, sought to empower mid-career journalists, digital content producers, and filmmakers who are actively involved in reporting on climate-related issues across different media platforms.

Storyboarding & Digital Production (Startup) 

In his introductory address, Director Programs GNMI Husnain Raza said that environmental journalism serves a vital purpose in increasing awareness and influencing public perception regarding important environmental matters. He stated that GNMI’s goal with this training is to provide reporters and content creators with the necessary knowledge and abilities to enhance the coverage of climate-related news in Pakistan.

Participants explored a range of crucial environmental topics during a dynamic three-day training program, covering areas such as understanding the science behind environmental issues, distinguishing between climate and environment, acquiring skills in data-driven and investigative storytelling, mastering digital storytelling techniques, and devising effective strategies for audience engagement. The training incorporated hands-on activities aimed at enhancing participants' production skills, with a focus on integrating environmental perspectives into their reporting practices.

The Sabz Journalism fellows were fortunate to participate in training sessions conducted by well-known experts in the industry. These sessions were facilitated by Talha Ahad, the CEO and founder of The Centrum Media (TCM), a prominent digital news network, and Badar Khushnood, the co-founder of Bramerz and Fishry, successful digital startups in Pakistan.

Participants involved in gaining insights into climate change challenges and methods of reporting 

Dr. Bashir Ahmad, Director of the Centre of Excellence for Water Resources Research and Development (CEWRRD), Pakistan Agricultural Research Council (PARC), was one of the esteemed speakers at the training session. Joining him were Zeeshan Mangi, Deputy Chief of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Section at the Ministry of Planning and Development, along with seasoned broadcast journalists Tanzeela Mazhar and Absa Komal. 

A group photo at the end
Photographs credit Sajid 

Through these sessions, the fellows had the privilege of learning from the wealth of knowledge and experience of these experts. They gained valuable insights into the intricacies of digital news startups and effective marketing strategies for enhancing their digital news platforms, particularly in the realm of environmental reporting.

Journalists in Islamabad have noted that the growing urban population is worsening the impacts of climate change, leading to the city's transformation into a concrete jungle. They highlighted that as the city expands, deforestation of the Margala hills and increased construction are leading to higher emissions and diminishing green spaces.

IRAN’S “TRUE PROMISE” VS. U.S “IRONCLAD SUPPORT”: A FAILURE OF INTERNATIONAL SYSTEM

Mahtab Bashir
0333 53 63 248
mahtabbashir@gmail.com
Islamabad

Iran strikes Israel on Sunday 

Iran's first direct attack on Israeli soil in response to a deadly strike in Damascus has heightened the clandestine war between the two regional foes. Along with Iran's proxies and allies, assaults on Israeli positions were carried out, resulting in blaring sirens in different areas and reports of explosions in the skies above Jerusalem. Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi warned Israel against impulsive retaliation, emphasizing that any such action would prompt a swift and more forceful reaction.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) of Iran carried out a significant retaliatory attack with drones and missiles in response to Operation 'True Promise' against specific locations within Israel. Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, the Israel military spokesperson, stated in a televised address that Iran launched over 300 ballistic missiles, drones, and cruise missiles towards Israel, surpassing the initial estimate of over 200 launches.

What we know so far:

· Israel launched an attack on the consular section of Iran's embassy in Damascus on April 1st.

· In response, Iran carried out retaliatory strikes on April 14th, causing at least 12 injuries, including a 7-year-old child.

· The Israeli army reported "minor damage" to an air base during the incident.

· US & UK supported Israel in shooting down most of Iran's attacks.

· Iran has stated that the retaliatory actions have been completed, but warned Israel against any further responses.

· US expressed concerns about the escalation of a crisis in the Middle East.

· The UNSC has scheduled a meeting at Israel's request to address the situation.

· Iran has called in the British, French, and German ambassadors to discuss their perceived double standards.

· Pakistan has urged to exercise utmost restraint in the current circumstances.

The tensions arose following an airstrike on Iran's consular annex in Damascus on April 1st, which led to threats of retaliation from Iran. Despite repeated warnings from Washington regarding imminent reprisals, it remains uncertain how Israel will respond to Iran's aggression. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant emphasized the importance of staying vigilant, suggesting that the conflict was far from resolved.

Iranian people showing wrath against Israel

US President Joe Biden reaffirmed America's steadfast support for Israel but signalled a preference for diplomatic resolutions over military escalations in the region. The White House expressed a desire to avert further crises in the Middle East, urging all involved parties to show restraint. The Israeli military reported that over 300 drones and missiles were launched towards Israel, resulting in injuries to 12 individuals. Nonetheless, most of the projectiles were intercepted before reaching Israeli territory, thanks to aid from the U.S, Jordan, U.K and other allies.

The international community has called for calm, with the United Nations Security Council set to convene for an emergency session addressing the escalating conflict.

The current situation presents a critical moment for the global community. Instead of coddling Israel, the Western alliance must intervene to stop it from escalating tensions further. Any future military actions by Tel Aviv against Iran could lead to an all-out war, which must be avoided at all costs.

Benjamin Netanyahu shaking hand with Joe Biden

The solution is clear: Israel must immediately halt the violence in Gaza, which is the main cause of the current conflict in the Middle East. Also, Israel must stop targeting other sovereign nations like Iran, Lebanon, and Syria. If the West continues with its aggressive rhetoric, it will only empower Israel and potentially drag the US and Europe into a war with Iran and its allies. It appears that Benjamin Netanyahu may be seeking to shift focus away from the Gaza crisis by provoking a confrontation with Iran, even if it means involving American forces. Skilled diplomacy is crucial at this moment to prevent a catastrophic clash.

Dr. Munawar Hussain, an International Relations expert at Quaid-i-Azam University in Islamabad, has identified five significant insights regarding recent events in the Middle East, particularly in response to Iran's recent airstrikes on Israel.

According to Hussain, the recent Iranian airstrikes carried out on Israel have brought to light the vulnerabilities in the deterrence systems of Israel, the U.S, and their allies in the Middle East. These attacks have demonstrated that Iran possesses not only the capability, but also the determination and resolve to challenge and confront its adversaries in the region.

Dr Munawar Hussain, ASC, QAU 

Secondly, it represents a total breakdown in all forms of diplomacy. As the world transitions from a unipolar to a multipolar system, the global order is deteriorating rapidly. Dr. Munawar Hussain expressed his belief that diplomacy at every level has proven to be a complete failure.

Thirdly, the recent increase in tensions represents a glaring and disappointing display of incompetence on the part of the united Nations, which has neglected to denounce Israel's heinous actions in Gaza over the past half-year. However, it is (U.N) quick to express condemnation following Iran's strikes on Israel. The U.N's role is often likened or recokned similar to that of the failed League of Nations, Dr. Munawar said.

Fourthly, the narrative of Western humanism has been effectively silenced and ignored. The unwavering support of the West towards Israel, without any sense of fairness or balance, has resulted in nothing but utter disaster.

And the last but indeed not the least, the failure of international morality is exemplified by the actions of the U.S and its allies, who have unwaveringly supported Israel to the point where I
srael has openly rejected the authority of the United Nations and other international bodies. This blatant disregard for global standards of ethics is both concerning and disheartening.

Dr. Munawar suggested that Pakistan should strengthen strategic partnerships with key countries such as China, Russia, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Brazil, South Africa, and Iran. While it is important to improve cooperation (working relations) with the U.S , Canada, India, Afghanistan, and other Western nations in order to advance and thrive in the future.

Mahtab Bashir is a journalist and a student of M.Phil, Area Study Centre, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad.

ISLAMABAD ALL SET TO UNVEILS ITS MASCOT NAMED "'MARGO"

The astute cheetah strives to elevate the reputation of ICT and celebrate its rich cultural heritage

Mahtab Bashir
mahtabbashir@gmail.com
Islamabad
0333 53 63 248

The federal capital is to have an official mascot called MarGo, with the goal of enhancing the city's image and recognizing its cultural heritage. MarGo, a fusion of "Mar" from Margalla Hills and "Go" signifying growth and prosperity, embodies a cheetah symbolizing dynamism and progress in Islamabad.

Adorned with trendy sunglasses and a stylish muffler, MarGo represents sophistication and modern style, reflecting the cosmopolitan atmosphere of the city.

This move follows a global trend seen in cities like New York with the Statue of Liberty and London with its iconic red double-decker buses, which have become symbols of their landscapes and cultures.

The civic agency has planned to strategically place MarGo in key locations throughout the city to establish it as a recognizable symbol of Islamabad.

From busy markets to peaceful parks and government buildings, MarGo will warmly welcome both tourists and locals. Besides its symbolic importance, MarGo is expected to boost tourism and encourage civic pride in Islamabad.

By uniting the diverse community of the capital under one symbol, MarGo aims to be a beloved icon representing the shared goals and accomplishments of the city.

MarGo possesses an irresistible charisma and universal appeal that is sure to captivate everyone who comes across it, solidifying its reputation as a timeless emblem of Islamabad's vibrant essence and cultural legacy.

AFTAB MAKEN LEAVES DUNYA (MEDIA GROUP)

"Don't be sad because it's over, be happy because it happened."

Early days at Dunya in 2012

After an incredible journey of 12 years of shared moments and memories, we bid farewell to our colleague, a senior journalist, an incisive and shrewd Aftab Maken as he navigate paths beyond our workplace.

Maken Sain! As you say goodbye to Dunya News, I want to take a moment to acknowledge the exciting new chapter you are about to embark on. Like a skilled protagonist in a captivating novel, you are leaving this office to embark on a new adventure, chasing after a better opportunity that awaits you in another realm of professional growth.

I am filled with a mix of emotions. Mr. Maken, it is with a heavy heart that I wave you goodbye, but also with a sense of gratitude and admiration for the incredible journey we have shared together over the past 12 incredible years at Dunya News.

Our time working side by side has been nothing short of remarkable. From the very beginning (Aug 2012), it was evident that we were destined to achieve great things together. Through countless projects, challenges, and triumphs, we have grown both personally and professionally, pushing each other to reach new heights.

On Sunday at office

Your unwavering dedication and commitment to excellence have been an inspiration to us all. Your expertise and knowledge have been invaluable, and I am grateful for the countless lessons I have learned from you. Together, we have tackled complex problems, celebrated victories, and navigated through the ever-changing landscape of our (media) industry.

As you leave the office after 12 years of dedicated service, I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt appreciation for all that you have done. Throughout your time here, you have not only been a valuable colleague but also a true friend to everyone.

One of the most remarkable qualities about you is your kind heart. You have consistently shown generosity and thoughtfulness towards me, going above and beyond to make me feel valued and cared for. Your willingness to spend your own money to treat me to lunches, dinners, over a cup of tea has left an indelible mark on me. Your genuine concern for others has not only brightened our days but also fostered a sense of camaraderie and unity among us.

At Area Study Centre, Quaid-i-Azam University 

Beyond your generosity, your dedication to your work has been truly inspiring. Your commitment and professionalism have set a high standard for all of us to follow. Your wealth of knowledge and experience has been invaluable, and you have always been willing to share your expertise and lend a helping hand whenever needed.

Another highlight of our journey was when we decided to pursue our M.Phil. degree together from Quaid-i-Azam University (QAU). The countless hours spent studying, researching, and supporting each other amid the ups and downs of our professional journey (side by side) was not an easy task. With you Mr. Maken, I was able to cross all hurdles comfortably. Because of your punctuality, I made you waiting for hours, from NUML metrobus stop to Majeed Huts (now demolished) and from the central library of QAU to NIPS huts or anywhere I promised to join. But, I have never received that expected wrath from you once. While our academic affairs (now close to an end) will forever be etched in my memory, it is a testament to our shared determination and thirst for knowledge.

At Information Service Academy,  PID as the chief guests  

Mr. Maken, as you embark on this new chapter of your life, I want to extend my heartfelt wishes for success and fulfillment. May your path be filled with exciting opportunities, personal growth, and the realization of your dreams. I have no doubt that you will continue to excel in all that you do, leaving an indelible mark wherever you go.

While it saddens me to bid you farewell, I am comforted by the knowledge that our bond extends beyond the confines of our workplace. I hope that our paths will cross again in the future, allowing us to reminisce about the incredible memories we have created and experienced together.

Thank you for being an exceptional colleague, mentor, and friend. The impact you have had on my professional journey is immeasurable, and I will forever cherish the moments we shared.

With the young officers of Information Group at ISA

I will miss your presence in the office, but I am excited for the opportunities that lie ahead for you. Wishing you all the best in your future endeavors. May the same kindness and warmth you have shown be reciprocated in every aspect of your life. Stay in touch, and remember that you will always have a special place in my heart.

It feels hard to imagine my work environment without the presence of you Maken Sain. Though this may be the end of our professional journey together, our friendship and memories will forever endure. Farewell, dear colleague.

With heartfelt anticipation and excitement for your future!

Mahtab Bashir is Islamabad based journalist, who strongly believes this is the right time to abolish the Media Studies department(s) from universities across Pakistan.

HEALTHCARE PROVIDERS URGE TO USE KIND WORDS, SHOW EMPATHY TOWARDS PATIENTS, ATTENDANTS

Mahtab Bashir
0333 53 63 248
mahtabbashir@gmail.com
Islamabad

Healthcare providers need to use kind words in soft voice and show empathy towards patients as people only go to the hospitals when they are in pain and require love and affection in addition to proper medical treatment, health experts said on Sunday.

“Kind words, soft voice and empathy is the perfect recipe for the cure and treatment of patients while arrogant physicians and healthcare workers lose their ability to effectively treat sick people”, Prof. Shahzad Ali Khan, Vice Chancellor, Health Services Academy (HSA) said while speaking at launching of thematic calendar titled ‘languages of love’.

The 25th thematic calendar titled titled “Mohabat Ki Zubanain” carrying introduction of 12 leading languages spoken in entire Pakistan has been prepared by the Jahan-e-Maseeha Adbi Forum (JMAF), an off-shoot of pharmaceutical firm PharmEvo and its launching ceremony was addressed and attended by renowned literary personalities as well as top healthcare professionals from Islamabad and Rawalpindi.

A Mushaira was also held at the unveiling ceremony of the thematic calendar, which was presided over by renowned poet Iftikhar Arif while several other poets including inam-ul-Haq Javed, Afzal Khan, Ajmal Siraj also presented their poetry and verses.

Prof. Shahzad Ali Khan maintained that pain and agony compel a sick person to go a healthcare provider but the patient equally needs empathy and kindness in addition to proper medical treatment of diseases.

 
“Studies have shown that kindness and empathy fuel recovery of the patients while arrogance, harshness and cold attitude by the healthcare providers often delay recovery and even result in deaths of the patients”, Prof. Khan observed.

Lauding the Jahan-e-Maseeha Adbi Forum and pharmaceutical firm PharmEvo for selecting ‘languages of love’ as the theme of their 25th calendar, he said there is a saying that hospital walls have heard more prayers then worship places including mosques, churches and temples and urged healthcare providers to talk softly to patients and their attendants who need encouragement and empathy.

He maintained that fine arts has an important connection with scientific innovations as most of the scientific innovations came from Eastern Europe which was hub of art and literature and urged doctors, nurses and paramedics to spare some time for studying literature, listening to music and indulging in some healthy activity.

Advising healthcare providers especially doctors and nurses to learn as much languages as possible, he said talking to patients and their attendants in their own languages also increase their confidence on healthcare providers, adding that nowadays people were losing their faith in doctors and healthcare providers due to their commercial attitude and approach.

Renowned poet and Iftikhar Arif lauded Jahen-e-Maseeha Adbi Forum for their efforts in promoting art and literature among Pakistani physicians as well as common people, saying it was commendable to see some people and organizations which are striving hard to promote art, literature, book reading culture, poetry and linguistics in the country.

“Jahan-e-Maseeha Adbi Forum is the off-shoot of pharmaceutical firm PharmEvo, which is promoting literature and poetry in the country. Creation of thematic calendars on diversified themes after months and years of research is a commendable effort”, Iftikhar Arif added.

He said launch of a literacy piece on the theme of uniting people of Pakistan through languages of lover on 16th December was a commendable effort as it will the nation to learn from the past mistakes.
Prominent poet, journalist and linguist Ajmal Siraj said after a year-long research, they had come up with a thematic calendar on the theme of Pakistani languages, saying their research revealed that most of the regional languages in Pakistan were not only stable but they were evolving and progressing with the creation of literature and poetry in them.

He maintained that Pakistani regional languages were playing an important role in cultural diversity and keeping the country united, adding that as a multi-lingual country, Pakistan was contributing to the high quality literature and poetry on globally.

Deputy CEO of the pharmaceutical firm PharmEvo Syed Jamshaid Ahmed said for the last 24 years, they were preparing thematic calendars, holding book fairs, publishing books on art, literature and poetry and holding Mushairas to promote the soft image of Pakistan and promote ethics in the field of medicine marketing.

“It is the 25th calendar in 24 years history of PharmeEvo. We started as a small company and now we are the 17th largest company in Pakistan, which believes in ethics, healthy competition and creation of a healthy society”, he added. He maintained that they were among only three companies which were WHO –prequalified and producing medicines of international standards.

He also felicitated the team behind creation of thematic calendar saying it takes several months and even years to conduct research for coming up with pieces of art and literature and added that they were trying to create a positive impact on the society.