Disorder on Display

Asem Mustafa Awan

Rawalpindi: In the seemingly ordinary picture of an illegal rickshaw stand in front of a hospital entrance in Rawalpindi lies a microcosm of chaos that demands urgent attention from policymakers. A closer look at this snapshot reveals a multitude of issues, each pointing to the alarming absence of state governance and the urgent need for corrective action.

At first glance, the blatant disregard for traffic regulations and the establishment of an illegal rickshaw stand right outside a hospital entrance raises questions about law and order. The fact that this is happening just meters away from a police checkpoint adds another layer of concern. The picture is a stark reminder that law enforcement seems to be missing in action, even in the immediate vicinity of a police presence.

The broader implications of this snapshot extend beyond traffic violations. It unravels a narrative of lawlessness that should serve as a red flag for policymakers. The absence of effective law and order enforcement not only jeopardizes public safety but also erodes the very fabric of a functioning society.

The chaos depicted in the photograph extends to the healthcare system, with a teaching hospital—meant to serve the masses—surrounded by disorder. The illegal rickshaw stand not only obstructs the hospital entrance but also symbolizes the broader challenges faced by healthcare facilities across the nation. The compromising of public health and safety due to such violations should be a matter of grave concern for those shaping healthcare policies.

Furthermore, the picture sheds light on the disarray in education and examination processes, specifically the medical entrance test that has been rescheduled due to individuals using unfair means. The cancellation of an entire examination highlights the need for a robust and foolproof examination system. This incident raises questions about the integrity of educational institutions and the urgent need for reforms to ensure a fair and transparent examination environment.

In essence, this seemingly ordinary picture captures a web of interconnected issues—traffic mismanagement, lawlessness, healthcare challenges, and education system flaws. It serves as a stark reminder to our policymakers that the state of affairs depicted here demands immediate attention and strategic interventions. It is a call to action for those responsible for shaping policies to address the root causes and restore order, safety, and integrity to the systems meant to serve the public.

In essence, this seemingly ordinary picture captures a web of interconnected issues—traffic mismanagement, lawlessness, healthcare challenges, and education system flaws. It serves as a stark reminder to our policymakers that the state of affairs depicted here demands immediate attention and strategic interventions. It is a call to action for those responsible for shaping policies to address the root causes and restore order, safety, and integrity to the systems meant to serve the public.

The writer is a journalist based in Islamabad and writes on a wide range of issues.

Photo Credit: Khurram Butt