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Express Tribune
04-04-2025
- Express Tribune
No smooth drive
Karachi, the largest city in Pakistan and the 12th largest in the world, has a population of over 20 million. Naturally, such a massive population requires that much space and a proper transportation system. Unfortunately, the city's public transport is anything but efficient. We still have old buses. People take them only to save money, not for comfort. Many of these buses have unreliable schedules, forcing passengers to look for alternatives. And even when you manage to board one, the reckless driving makes it seem like the drivers don't even care about their own lives, let alone their passengers. Then comes the rickshaw, where drivers justify their high fares by blaming fuel prices or the lack of CNG. This forces many people to turn to a lawless creature — Chingchi. These rides stop wherever they please, ignoring traffic rules and blocking lanes without a second thought. If Karachi's buses were modern, safe and well-maintained, many people who currently prefer bikes or private cars just to avoid this chaotic transport system would willingly switch to public transport, which would also help reduce traffic and pollution. A proper transport system isn't just a need — it's a necessity for a city of this scale. As a Karachiite, it's a request to put some attention on this issue. Sania Niaz Karachi
Express Tribune
20-03-2025
- General
- Express Tribune
A city of struggles, yet of kindness
Yes, Karachi is suffering from countless problems — pollution, poor infrastructure and a broken public transport system. The daily struggles are enough to make anyone frustrated and exhausted. But despite all these hardships, the spirit of Karachiites remains unmatched. When it comes to helping each other, this city never fails to amaze. Today, I witnessed a small incident that left a big impact on me. A man on a bike was carrying packets of oil when, unfortunately, they fell, spilling oil all over the road. The slippery surface caused one or two bikers to lose balance and fall. But instead of just watching, people quickly responded. Some rushed to help those who had fallen, while others immediately started covering the oil with sand. Someone placed tires on both sides of the spill as a warning. A man stood in front, waving at incoming traffic to prevent further accidents. Even a rickshaw driver stopped without hesitation. He took out a small cloth — probably meant for dusting — and started absorbing the oil, trying to stop its spread. It seemed like such a small effort against such a big spill, but it reminded me of that little bird that carried water in its beak to drop it over the flames in an attempt to extinguish the fire set for Hazrat Ibrahim (AS). When asked why it was making such a small effort, it replied that it simply wanted to contribute to putting out the fire and that it could not just remain silent. Its actions were its proof that it had at least tried. This is just one of those countless examples of the kindness and resilience that live in this city. Despite all the chaos, Karachi is still full of people who care. It's not just a city of problems — it's a city of beautiful people with beautiful hearts. Sania Niaz Karachi
