One of the largest slums in all
of South Asia, Lyari is the oldest locality of Karachi. One of the main issues
facing Lyari and Lyari dwellers is a common one is most densely populated areas
in the world, the problem of over population. When there are more consumers than
resources then the issue comes to the fore. Plus the people are not that well
educated which causes many aimless, desultory youngsters to join criminal gangs
and pickup arms. The lack of a solid foundation like good education, inculcation
and proper guidance is missing in Lyari. The sprouting of drug dealers, gangs
and criminals of all sorts has made life very difficult for ordinary people and
made eking out a living a Sisyphean task.
Many gangs in Karachi operate under a political umbrella and Lyari is no
exception. In order to eradicate criminal elements, not just the government but
all political leaders must not associate with these gangs. With no political
patronage and the aegis of the government the criminals won’t have a safe haven
and will either be in prison or on the run.
Another issue facing Lyari is a lack of support for the sportsmen of Lyari.
Replete with talent in football, boxing and other sports, most sportsmen and
youngsters lose interest or fall behind without any equipment, training
facilities etc.
Connected to this issue is the issue of health as water is mostly contaminated
and garbage is strewn everywhere, attracting all manner of vermin and germs.
The authorities need to devise a plan for Lyari to bring clean potable water to
people’s homes and regular trash pickups.
Thankyou,
Yours faithfully,
Huzaifa Shah,
University Of Karachi.