Sunday, September 30, 2007
Black faces, white faces + APDM’s weapon
Black faces, white faces
A PESHAWAR lawyer, Advocate Khursheed, sprayed black paint on the face of Ahmed Raza Kasuri, an advocate for the federation. Khursheed said that he was provoked by Mr Kasuri’s outburst at a TV talk show where he said that when he could make an example of Z.A. Bhutto, Aitzaz Ahsan and Muneer Malik could meet the same fate.He said there could be no other civilised reaction against Kasuri. Every action invites a reaction of the same intensity; but no one can be deprived of the right of expression.However, there should be a difference between freedom and unbridled expression.…Lack of tolerance has become the hallmark of society; hence we are braving unpleasant, undemocratic and non-parliamentarian reactions, which are dangerous, and everyone should be concerned. These should be stopped. This can only be done when we build a tolerant, healthy and democratic society.…The absence of democratic and healthy values and norms and a situation where justice is not dispensed and excesses against the people are on the rise makes one intolerant. Instead of blaming the people, there is a dire need to make conditions conducive to justice, freedom of expression and tolerance. If there are healthy conditions, the reaction of the people will be healthy. There are many people who are black while others are white. But it is their character that determines…Regardless of the fact that Mr Kasuri’s provocative, condemnable outburst invited insult, we conclude that Mr Khursheed should learn a lesson, be accountable to himself and admit his mistakes. —Awami Awaz (Sept 28)
APDM’s weapon
TO BLOCK the re-election of Gen Pervez Musharraf, the All Parties Democratic Movement... has decided that all its legislators would resign en bloc from the national and provincial assemblies on Oct 2...The alliance has decided that the legislators would hand over their resignations to the central leaders of the parties in the APDM, while members of the provincial assemblies would send their resignations to the provincial heads on Sept 29. Maulana Fazl announced that the NWFP chief minister would send an advice to the governor on Oct 2 seeking dissolution of the provincial assembly. ... the government has options to block the APDM strategy regarding the dissolution of the NWFP assembly.Though such a decision was not expected from Maulana Fazlur Rahman…his approval is quite surprising. The decision would have a far-reaching impact on the country’s politics, if it works well. If the NWFP assembly is dissolved, it may affect the presidential elections...If the NWFP assembly is dissolved, there would still be some legal and political complications. Even after the resignations, the presidential elections would be held. What are the options before the APDM?When the APDM announced the resignations, its leaders and activists were arrested. Like previous governments, this regime too resorted to excesses and the use of force. However, the CJP took suo motu notice and these workers were released. It was judicial activism for which the people had been waiting for the last 60 years.— Ibrat (Sept 28)
Selected and translated by Sohail Sangi
Saturday, September 8, 2007
Sindhi Press-2 ( Sep 2007)
Sindhi Press-2
Tameer-e-Sindh
Election Commission is to announce presidential election as President Gen Pervez Musharraf’s term draws closer whereas apex court is seized of this contentious issue as well after having admitted Jamat-e-Islami chief Qazi Hussain Ahmed’s petition for regular hearing. It asked president’s counsel to disclose when president’s term will come to an end. While legal discussion is adjourned, controversy outside court gains momentum.
Pending the court verdict, manoeuvring for president’s re-election is in final phase as his allies are poised to get him re-elected in uniform from existing parliament though chances are getting dim. Perhaps that’s was why government-Benazir Bhutto parleys continue in this backdrop for getting Musharraf re-elected though sans uniform.
Besides political activities at home, countries like US and UK which spearheaded war on terror are keen to have Musharraf re-elected for another term in their own interest.
A constitutional and legal method can only decide Musharraf’s eligibility of holding offices of president and army chief for second term. Some fundamental queries need answers. Whether constitution allows Musharraf to continue for another term or not for another term? If so, then will he doff uniform? A government employee neither can indulge in politics even after two years of retirement nor can he contest presidential election. Since no government employee constitutionally can become president, he too can’t hold two offices.
Constitutionally, post-presidential election’s announcement EC is bound to follow constitutional process for presidential election. Any constitutional deviation would make it doubtful. Given present complex situation the country could ill afford any controversial decision so constitutional line should be adopted to find solution. (Sept 6)
Awami Awaz
Thanks to artificial wheat shortage by traders threat of price hike looms large over common man. Before advent of holy month of Ramdhan prices of edibles have registered increase. Analysts hint at more wheat shortage that would see further surge in prices. Apparently traders and hoarders had government’s backing as government remains silence spectator.
Government itself seems to be instrumental in increase in prices of petrol, electricity and gas that led to rise in transport fares and cost of production. Reports suggest that government is contemplating a further raise in tariffs of electricity, gas and patrol.
Traders already increased sugar prices and any review of rates of flour and other commodities or flour crisis by government would break the backbone of common man.
The government’s role in market economy is that of regulatory body to ensure balance between supply and demand. Regrettably during last five years of present regime people kept raising hue and cry against record price hike while policies of government have led to further deprivation of masses. It is price hike that is mainly contributing to social decay in shape of unemployment and poverty in our society. Besides, rising crime, violence and an upward tendency in suicides is also largely due to inflation.
Contrary to ground realities discussed above the present rulers continue to make claims that they will emerge victorious in forthcoming general elections on the basis of their performance. People demand a change in policies that may lead to provision of relief to common man. (Sep 6)
----------- Selected and translated by Sohail Sangi
===================================================================
Others voice
Sindhi Press-1
http://www.dawn.com/2007/09/02/ed.htm#5
Adjustments must be for the people
Daily Kawish
THE ‘deal’ has emerged as a critical issue. The PPP-Musharraf dialogue is not only of topical importance in politics, it is also a hot topic in the media. There are also reports about meetings between Musharraf’s aides and the Sharifs.After initially maintaining a silence on the Benazir-Musharraf meeting, both confirmed it. Benazir’s version was that a meeting was held but no agreement was reached. While speaking to PML-Q members at the CM Punjab House, Musharraf said that if the opposition was strong, it would create problems for the government. He asserted that as a result of his meeting with Benazir, the opposition has been divided. But political analysts interpret the meeting as an indication of his weakness.Meanwhile, mistrust between Nawaz Sharif and Benazir has deepened as a dent has been created in their grand alliance. Musharraf who is facing a crisis has had to take the initiative. He admitted that his meeting with Benazir was a political strategy which has brought him success.Musharraf lamented that his B team had deserted him. The team, which negotiated with Benazir, comprised his non-political subordinates. A patch-up with Benazir suits him. Notwithstanding his earlier claim that Benazir’s and Nawaz Sharif’s political role is over, Musharraf has had to make a move to seek an understanding with the PPP…We do not say that the government should not have political contacts with any party or the PPP should not attempt a reconciliation with the government. But these adjustments should not have a restricted discourse.This adjustment should not be for them to accommodate each other. It should be in the larger interest of the people. — Aug 29
Why foreigners decide our political fate
Daily Ibrat
SAAD Hariri, son of a former Lebanese prime minister, brokered the deal between Nawaz Sharif and Musharraf as a result of which the former lived eight years as a royal guest instead of languishing in jail.As the situation in the country changed and the apex court allowed the Sharif brothers to return home in keeping with the law and the Constitution, a shadow was cast on the deal.There are many influential foreign personalities who are engaged in bringing about a settlement among Musharraf, Nawaz Sharif and Benazir.In the case of the Benazir-Musharraf deal, officials of the US State Department … and former British Foreign Secretary Jack Straw had also played a role.Interestingly our intelligentsia who are deadly opposed to the influence and intervention of the US in Pakistan’s domestic affairs and consider it as negating our sovereignty, do not adopt a stand when it comes to guarantees, reconciliatory efforts or deals involving a Muslim country.It is regrettable that whenever a political understanding or deal is concluded it is through foreign intermediaries. This amounts to deciding each partner’s share in the power cake and this is settled outside the country.Later, this is formalised through elections. This exercise is just a ritual. How can one describe this but as a deplorable state of affairs?The people of Pakistan have no role in the political change that is brought about through these foreign intermediaries. Political changes in Islamabad are decided in Washington DC, with Saudi Arabia being the guarantor and are stringed from Lebanon.— Aug 28 –– Selected and translated by Sohail Sangi
Tameer-e-Sindh
Election Commission is to announce presidential election as President Gen Pervez Musharraf’s term draws closer whereas apex court is seized of this contentious issue as well after having admitted Jamat-e-Islami chief Qazi Hussain Ahmed’s petition for regular hearing. It asked president’s counsel to disclose when president’s term will come to an end. While legal discussion is adjourned, controversy outside court gains momentum.
Pending the court verdict, manoeuvring for president’s re-election is in final phase as his allies are poised to get him re-elected in uniform from existing parliament though chances are getting dim. Perhaps that’s was why government-Benazir Bhutto parleys continue in this backdrop for getting Musharraf re-elected though sans uniform.
Besides political activities at home, countries like US and UK which spearheaded war on terror are keen to have Musharraf re-elected for another term in their own interest.
A constitutional and legal method can only decide Musharraf’s eligibility of holding offices of president and army chief for second term. Some fundamental queries need answers. Whether constitution allows Musharraf to continue for another term or not for another term? If so, then will he doff uniform? A government employee neither can indulge in politics even after two years of retirement nor can he contest presidential election. Since no government employee constitutionally can become president, he too can’t hold two offices.
Constitutionally, post-presidential election’s announcement EC is bound to follow constitutional process for presidential election. Any constitutional deviation would make it doubtful. Given present complex situation the country could ill afford any controversial decision so constitutional line should be adopted to find solution. (Sept 6)
Awami Awaz
Thanks to artificial wheat shortage by traders threat of price hike looms large over common man. Before advent of holy month of Ramdhan prices of edibles have registered increase. Analysts hint at more wheat shortage that would see further surge in prices. Apparently traders and hoarders had government’s backing as government remains silence spectator.
Government itself seems to be instrumental in increase in prices of petrol, electricity and gas that led to rise in transport fares and cost of production. Reports suggest that government is contemplating a further raise in tariffs of electricity, gas and patrol.
Traders already increased sugar prices and any review of rates of flour and other commodities or flour crisis by government would break the backbone of common man.
The government’s role in market economy is that of regulatory body to ensure balance between supply and demand. Regrettably during last five years of present regime people kept raising hue and cry against record price hike while policies of government have led to further deprivation of masses. It is price hike that is mainly contributing to social decay in shape of unemployment and poverty in our society. Besides, rising crime, violence and an upward tendency in suicides is also largely due to inflation.
Contrary to ground realities discussed above the present rulers continue to make claims that they will emerge victorious in forthcoming general elections on the basis of their performance. People demand a change in policies that may lead to provision of relief to common man. (Sep 6)
----------- Selected and translated by Sohail Sangi
===================================================================
Others voice
Sindhi Press-1
http://www.dawn.com/2007/09/02/ed.htm#5
Adjustments must be for the people
Daily Kawish
THE ‘deal’ has emerged as a critical issue. The PPP-Musharraf dialogue is not only of topical importance in politics, it is also a hot topic in the media. There are also reports about meetings between Musharraf’s aides and the Sharifs.After initially maintaining a silence on the Benazir-Musharraf meeting, both confirmed it. Benazir’s version was that a meeting was held but no agreement was reached. While speaking to PML-Q members at the CM Punjab House, Musharraf said that if the opposition was strong, it would create problems for the government. He asserted that as a result of his meeting with Benazir, the opposition has been divided. But political analysts interpret the meeting as an indication of his weakness.Meanwhile, mistrust between Nawaz Sharif and Benazir has deepened as a dent has been created in their grand alliance. Musharraf who is facing a crisis has had to take the initiative. He admitted that his meeting with Benazir was a political strategy which has brought him success.Musharraf lamented that his B team had deserted him. The team, which negotiated with Benazir, comprised his non-political subordinates. A patch-up with Benazir suits him. Notwithstanding his earlier claim that Benazir’s and Nawaz Sharif’s political role is over, Musharraf has had to make a move to seek an understanding with the PPP…We do not say that the government should not have political contacts with any party or the PPP should not attempt a reconciliation with the government. But these adjustments should not have a restricted discourse.This adjustment should not be for them to accommodate each other. It should be in the larger interest of the people. — Aug 29
Why foreigners decide our political fate
Daily Ibrat
SAAD Hariri, son of a former Lebanese prime minister, brokered the deal between Nawaz Sharif and Musharraf as a result of which the former lived eight years as a royal guest instead of languishing in jail.As the situation in the country changed and the apex court allowed the Sharif brothers to return home in keeping with the law and the Constitution, a shadow was cast on the deal.There are many influential foreign personalities who are engaged in bringing about a settlement among Musharraf, Nawaz Sharif and Benazir.In the case of the Benazir-Musharraf deal, officials of the US State Department … and former British Foreign Secretary Jack Straw had also played a role.Interestingly our intelligentsia who are deadly opposed to the influence and intervention of the US in Pakistan’s domestic affairs and consider it as negating our sovereignty, do not adopt a stand when it comes to guarantees, reconciliatory efforts or deals involving a Muslim country.It is regrettable that whenever a political understanding or deal is concluded it is through foreign intermediaries. This amounts to deciding each partner’s share in the power cake and this is settled outside the country.Later, this is formalised through elections. This exercise is just a ritual. How can one describe this but as a deplorable state of affairs?The people of Pakistan have no role in the political change that is brought about through these foreign intermediaries. Political changes in Islamabad are decided in Washington DC, with Saudi Arabia being the guarantor and are stringed from Lebanon.— Aug 28 –– Selected and translated by Sohail Sangi
Friday, April 20, 2007
Thar coal: issues and options
By Sohail Sangi
China and Pakistan have recently entered into an agreement to launch work on the Thar coal project. The Chinese company, Shenhau group will undertake the project on Build-Own-Operate (BOO) basis and will be responsible for investment, construction and operation, while Pakistan will provide it with the project site and necessary infrastructure.The Chinese company would set-up a power plant of 330MW by extracting coal from an area of 50sq km. The entire mining area is spread over 9100sq km with rich reserves that may last for more than 30 years.Thar coalfield is spread over 9100sq km with the dimensions of 140km (north south) and 65km (east west) in Thar. There are 2,700 million tons measured deposits; 9395 million tons indicated, 50,706 million tons inferred, and 112705 million tons hypothetical deposits making a total 175.506 billion tons. The studies have confirmed the thickest coal bed is called, the Thar coal. It is present between 150 and 203 meters depth. The seam attains a maximum thickness of 22.1 meters with around 15 meters in most of the area. The cumulative coal thickness varies between 7.15 and 36.00 meters. The thickness of overburden varies from 114 to over 200 meters and sand dunes above the average ground level in the area increased by another 30 meters. These deposits will be dug out by open pit mining process, which is much economical than other underground hazardous mining methods. The coalfield rests directly on relatively shallow, rifted basement rocks of the pre-Cambrian age.Qualitative analyses: Thar coal is classified as lignite A-B. The quality has been determined on the basis of chemical analyses of more than 2000 samples. The moisture and ash contents of Thar coal when compared to other lignite deposits of the world show that these are quite favourable for power generation. The average chemical analyses of coal samples from the entire area percentage wise are as under:The moisture (AR) 46.77 per cent, the ash (AR) 6.24 per cent, volatile matters (AR) 23.42 per cent, volatile matters (DAF) 58.91 per cent, the fixed carbon (AR) 16.66 per cent, sulphur (AR) 1.16 per cent and the heating value (AR) 5774 Btu/lb.Potential use of Thar black gold: Pakistan spends Rs66 billion on the import of furnace oil, annually. The coal exploration and development will give rise to use it as an alternative source of power generation. Thus, the country can save Rs4-5 billion by utilizing the domestic coal reserves. By using coal in the cement industry, about 50 per cent saving on the import of furnace oil bill of Rs240 million in short term, and 100 per cent in the long term can be achieved. This will also result in 30 per cent reduction in the cost of production.The quality and the vast reserves of Thar coal are suitable for power generation. The low ash and to some extent the sulphur contents and the reasonable heating value are plus points. The sulphur content is certainly much lower than other coals of Pakistan. Hence, its use in power generation will have lesser detrimental effects on the environment. The proven reserves for the establishment of four power generation units (4000MW) would last for a period of 30 years, or so. Besides, the Thar coal can possibly be used to produce smokeless briquettes for commercial use and in cement and sugar industry as a substitute for furnace oil or gas.Exploration background: The former prime minister, Benazir Bhutto, performed the groundbreaking ceremony of the 1320MW coal-fired power plant in January 19,1995. This plant was to be established at the village Thahario Halepoto near Islamkot town of Tharparkar district, by a Hong Kong based company of Gordon Woo. Unfortunately, in 1995-97, two most powerful lobbies pro-Kala Bagh Dam and oil importing companies were believed to be at loggerhead with the Sindh Coal Authority (SCA) and the government of Sindh. Consequently, the proposed coal-based power plant that was supposed to be established in Thar was first shifted to Keti Bandar and later on was shelved. The SCA is assigned to carry out feasibility study of the Thar coal for assessing the extraction cost and selling price of the coal for power generation and other uses. This study will be completed in 2003. Coal as a fuel presently costs 60 t0 65 paisa per kWh that is far cheaper than the furnace oil.Meanwhile, the Geological Survey of Pakistan has awarded the contract to Bakht Business to sink an exploratory shaft in Thar coalfield for preparing a final bankable feasibility for the coal mining. These samples will be used for carrying out combustion engineering tests during the exploratory process to determine the suitability level of coal in using it in the power generation, cement, and the sugar industries.Besides, the Chinese experts will also carryout 120-130 more bore holes in all four blocks of the Thar field during its feasibility study, besides carrying out technical and financial studies. This indicates that the Chinese group is being awarded the contract before the completion of studies to determine the extracting cost and the selling price of coal, as well as its various uses.Issues and options: While utilizing the coal reserves it will be necessary to have a critical view for the mining, the technology to be used for power generation and other related questions. This is very important because some products of coal combustion have detrimental effects on environment. The burning of coal produces carbondioxide, among other byproducts. Environmentalists believe that, owing to the widespread use of coal and other fossil fuels, the amount of carbondioxide in earth’s atmosphere could increase to such an extent that changes in the climate will occur. The sulphur and the nitrogen in coal form oxides during combustion that can contribute to the formation of acid rains. However, sulphurdioxide emissions from new the coal-fired facilities are now controlled in many countries.The experience of Lakhra may not be repeated, where power plant is on death throes and the coal is being used in brick kilns. It is hoped that with the utilization of coal, the destiny of Thar will change, therefore the wealth generated through black gold should be utilized in this backward area and its people. When we talk about maximum benefits that does not only mean jobs, royalty, compensation of lands etc., but also productive and developmental investment to change the agriculture and livestock breeding of the area which may result in sustainable development of the area. How this will be done? How money will be spent and how much local people will actually be benefited. There are some reservations, which require proper answer.1. The underground mining can result in black lung disease for miners, and the sinking of land over mines, and the drainage of acid into water tables, therefore all requirement regarding safe coal mining may be fulfilled. Surface mining would require careful reclamation, and the land would render unproductive. This includes the methodology of mining, reducing damages and the apprehensions.2. The clean technology should be used because burning of coal produces carbondioxide, among other byproducts.3. How this wealth would be spent? Who will own and control the wealth produced by the black gold? There are reports that the Sindh Coal Authority is being sidelined and the Geological Survey of Pakistan and the federal ministry of petroleum and natural resources have practically taken over the things. This indicates that the federal government is going to take over the control of the minerals.4. What local people will get in terms of facilities, jobs, royalty, compensation for their land, and overall compensation for environment/eco-system.5. Only construction of few roads and setting up shops of consumer items or few unskilled jobs would not change the pattern and the economy of this backward area. Two things are worth mentioning, among which one is Badin district, which is known as mini Dubai due to its oil wells, but nothing has been changed for the common man of the area. The other is Bhitt Jabal of Dadu district, where infrastructure of road etc., has been laid but the pattern of economy for the common man has not been changed. Are we going to repeat the above two experiences in Thar or is there more in the bag for the Thari people?There is a need to develop alternate source of living. This can be achieved by developing water resources for the agriculture, and the cattle breeding, as Saudi Arabia and some other countries have done by utilizing the wealth generated from the oil. The coal is the last hope for the development of this backward area, which is hit by droughts periodically due to the scarcity of rains, therefore it should be properly and carefully utilized.
China and Pakistan have recently entered into an agreement to launch work on the Thar coal project. The Chinese company, Shenhau group will undertake the project on Build-Own-Operate (BOO) basis and will be responsible for investment, construction and operation, while Pakistan will provide it with the project site and necessary infrastructure.The Chinese company would set-up a power plant of 330MW by extracting coal from an area of 50sq km. The entire mining area is spread over 9100sq km with rich reserves that may last for more than 30 years.Thar coalfield is spread over 9100sq km with the dimensions of 140km (north south) and 65km (east west) in Thar. There are 2,700 million tons measured deposits; 9395 million tons indicated, 50,706 million tons inferred, and 112705 million tons hypothetical deposits making a total 175.506 billion tons. The studies have confirmed the thickest coal bed is called, the Thar coal. It is present between 150 and 203 meters depth. The seam attains a maximum thickness of 22.1 meters with around 15 meters in most of the area. The cumulative coal thickness varies between 7.15 and 36.00 meters. The thickness of overburden varies from 114 to over 200 meters and sand dunes above the average ground level in the area increased by another 30 meters. These deposits will be dug out by open pit mining process, which is much economical than other underground hazardous mining methods. The coalfield rests directly on relatively shallow, rifted basement rocks of the pre-Cambrian age.Qualitative analyses: Thar coal is classified as lignite A-B. The quality has been determined on the basis of chemical analyses of more than 2000 samples. The moisture and ash contents of Thar coal when compared to other lignite deposits of the world show that these are quite favourable for power generation. The average chemical analyses of coal samples from the entire area percentage wise are as under:The moisture (AR) 46.77 per cent, the ash (AR) 6.24 per cent, volatile matters (AR) 23.42 per cent, volatile matters (DAF) 58.91 per cent, the fixed carbon (AR) 16.66 per cent, sulphur (AR) 1.16 per cent and the heating value (AR) 5774 Btu/lb.Potential use of Thar black gold: Pakistan spends Rs66 billion on the import of furnace oil, annually. The coal exploration and development will give rise to use it as an alternative source of power generation. Thus, the country can save Rs4-5 billion by utilizing the domestic coal reserves. By using coal in the cement industry, about 50 per cent saving on the import of furnace oil bill of Rs240 million in short term, and 100 per cent in the long term can be achieved. This will also result in 30 per cent reduction in the cost of production.The quality and the vast reserves of Thar coal are suitable for power generation. The low ash and to some extent the sulphur contents and the reasonable heating value are plus points. The sulphur content is certainly much lower than other coals of Pakistan. Hence, its use in power generation will have lesser detrimental effects on the environment. The proven reserves for the establishment of four power generation units (4000MW) would last for a period of 30 years, or so. Besides, the Thar coal can possibly be used to produce smokeless briquettes for commercial use and in cement and sugar industry as a substitute for furnace oil or gas.Exploration background: The former prime minister, Benazir Bhutto, performed the groundbreaking ceremony of the 1320MW coal-fired power plant in January 19,1995. This plant was to be established at the village Thahario Halepoto near Islamkot town of Tharparkar district, by a Hong Kong based company of Gordon Woo. Unfortunately, in 1995-97, two most powerful lobbies pro-Kala Bagh Dam and oil importing companies were believed to be at loggerhead with the Sindh Coal Authority (SCA) and the government of Sindh. Consequently, the proposed coal-based power plant that was supposed to be established in Thar was first shifted to Keti Bandar and later on was shelved. The SCA is assigned to carry out feasibility study of the Thar coal for assessing the extraction cost and selling price of the coal for power generation and other uses. This study will be completed in 2003. Coal as a fuel presently costs 60 t0 65 paisa per kWh that is far cheaper than the furnace oil.Meanwhile, the Geological Survey of Pakistan has awarded the contract to Bakht Business to sink an exploratory shaft in Thar coalfield for preparing a final bankable feasibility for the coal mining. These samples will be used for carrying out combustion engineering tests during the exploratory process to determine the suitability level of coal in using it in the power generation, cement, and the sugar industries.Besides, the Chinese experts will also carryout 120-130 more bore holes in all four blocks of the Thar field during its feasibility study, besides carrying out technical and financial studies. This indicates that the Chinese group is being awarded the contract before the completion of studies to determine the extracting cost and the selling price of coal, as well as its various uses.Issues and options: While utilizing the coal reserves it will be necessary to have a critical view for the mining, the technology to be used for power generation and other related questions. This is very important because some products of coal combustion have detrimental effects on environment. The burning of coal produces carbondioxide, among other byproducts. Environmentalists believe that, owing to the widespread use of coal and other fossil fuels, the amount of carbondioxide in earth’s atmosphere could increase to such an extent that changes in the climate will occur. The sulphur and the nitrogen in coal form oxides during combustion that can contribute to the formation of acid rains. However, sulphurdioxide emissions from new the coal-fired facilities are now controlled in many countries.The experience of Lakhra may not be repeated, where power plant is on death throes and the coal is being used in brick kilns. It is hoped that with the utilization of coal, the destiny of Thar will change, therefore the wealth generated through black gold should be utilized in this backward area and its people. When we talk about maximum benefits that does not only mean jobs, royalty, compensation of lands etc., but also productive and developmental investment to change the agriculture and livestock breeding of the area which may result in sustainable development of the area. How this will be done? How money will be spent and how much local people will actually be benefited. There are some reservations, which require proper answer.1. The underground mining can result in black lung disease for miners, and the sinking of land over mines, and the drainage of acid into water tables, therefore all requirement regarding safe coal mining may be fulfilled. Surface mining would require careful reclamation, and the land would render unproductive. This includes the methodology of mining, reducing damages and the apprehensions.2. The clean technology should be used because burning of coal produces carbondioxide, among other byproducts.3. How this wealth would be spent? Who will own and control the wealth produced by the black gold? There are reports that the Sindh Coal Authority is being sidelined and the Geological Survey of Pakistan and the federal ministry of petroleum and natural resources have practically taken over the things. This indicates that the federal government is going to take over the control of the minerals.4. What local people will get in terms of facilities, jobs, royalty, compensation for their land, and overall compensation for environment/eco-system.5. Only construction of few roads and setting up shops of consumer items or few unskilled jobs would not change the pattern and the economy of this backward area. Two things are worth mentioning, among which one is Badin district, which is known as mini Dubai due to its oil wells, but nothing has been changed for the common man of the area. The other is Bhitt Jabal of Dadu district, where infrastructure of road etc., has been laid but the pattern of economy for the common man has not been changed. Are we going to repeat the above two experiences in Thar or is there more in the bag for the Thari people?There is a need to develop alternate source of living. This can be achieved by developing water resources for the agriculture, and the cattle breeding, as Saudi Arabia and some other countries have done by utilizing the wealth generated from the oil. The coal is the last hope for the development of this backward area, which is hit by droughts periodically due to the scarcity of rains, therefore it should be properly and carefully utilized.
Short mango season
By Sohail Sangi
IT WAS surprising that we had a short mango season this year. Previously, we had this juicy fruit at least for four months ending September, but this year even in the month of July it seems that the mango season is in the last stage, and will last only for one or two weeks more. There are many issues and constraints, which need to be tackled.The crop covers about 100 thousand hectares of land, mostly in Sindh and southern Punjab. All prize varieties of northern and central India thrive well in Pakistan and are far superior in taste, flavour and other characteristics.After the consumption in Pakistan, mango is exported to other countries. Only five percent of total production is sent to selected markets. Among the traditional buyers, Dubai picks up at least 18000 tons, while Saudi Arabia, Oman and UK are other major importers. On production, the country stands on the sixth number while it covers 7.5 per cent share in the international market. This is a very low share and needs to be increased. According to Export Promotion Bureau (EPB) sources, the earning from exports of 47000 tons mango was estimated worth $7 million in 1999. It was around $8 million next year. During 2000-2001 Pakistan exported 53443 tons worth $16.54 million showing an increase of 43 per cent over 99-2000. The EPB expects mango exports to rise by 25 per cent during this year. Last year 53444 tons of quality mangoes were exported, thus earning a foreign exchange of $17 million.Last year, Pakistani mangoes fetched more prices in the international market as compared to the previous season. Our mango was sold at the rate of $2.90 per kilograms in 2000, but the price has gone up to $3.83 per kg in year 2001. Some delegations were also sent to Italy, Turkey, Holland, and Germany to explore new markets for angoes and response from these countries was encouraging. In fact, tremendous export opportunities exist for Pakistani mangoes in the Middle East, and Europe, but inefficient and improper post harvest operations have resulted in spoilage of production. It is estimated that the Pakistani farmers are losing about 3.5 million tons of fruit worth $1.5 billion, due to faulty harvesting and post-harvest operations.The farmers are not getting proper guidance, encouragement and marketing, so they are unable to improve their produce in qualitative as well as in quantitative terms. There is also lack of knowledge among the growers about how best to maintain their orchards.Kachhelo farm (Mirpurkhas), known for producing high quality mangoes, has almost been destroyed, because of the continuous water shortage. The size of the fruit has been reduced, and the taste has deteriorated. Previously, it produced “Sindhri” variety which weighed 1800 grams (1.75 kg) per fruit.In Sindh, mango production, is increasing , as more and more land is being brought under cultivation of this crop and over all production is rising. But per hectare yield is not on the increase, and it is less as compared to Punjab. Figures show that in 1980-81 per hectare yield was 7.773 tons, which decreased in 1999-2000 and stood at 7.372 tons. While in Punjab, it was 12.337 tons in 1980-81 and in 1999-2000, stood at 12.475 tons.During the last 20 years, area brought under cultivation of the mango crop has nearly doubled, as in 1980-81 mango was cultivated on 57,200 hectares, which went up to 94,100 hectares in 1999-2000. Likewise, production was 5, 466,000 tons in 1980-81 and 937,700 tons in 1999-2000. Punjab has a lead in mango production, as it has doubled its under cultivation area in last 20 years that is from 22,200 hectares in 1980-81, to 48,400 hectares in 1999-2000 and production from 273,900 to 603,800 tons. Sindh is on number two, as it increased under cultivation area from 34,400 to 43,500 hectares and production from 267,400 to 320,700 tons.Growers said that due to ill-conceived official policies, they were unable to attain the required yield potential of this crop and were sustaining huge financial losses. Despite lack of patronage and encouragement from government side in research and other related fields, the over all production of the mango has increased. This indicates a clear growth in demand for this fruit in the market. The growers are bringing more area under cultivation under mango. They are carrying research and experiments to introduce new varieties, as well as carrying research on how best to preserve the old varieties on their own. The experience of Khair Mohammad Bhurgri, a grower from Mirpurkhas is one example, after Kachhelos, who has developed a variety, which will produce fruit that extends the fruiting and harvesting season.Orchards face ‘destruction’ : The persisting water shortage has proved to be destructive for mango orchards. It is feared that there will be less mango production this year. Mango orchards had been without water for the entire pre and post- flowering period and even at the crucial stage of fruit setting the canals in Sindh and southern Punjab remained closed for most of the time. This has resulted in an irreparable loss to mango production. Reports from Tando Allahyar, Matiari and Mirpurkhas suggest that mango trees standing on some 20, 000 acres of land faced destruction due to shortage of water. Trees have been infected with various diseases at the flowering stage. Black, blue, and white fly hyper had attacked the crop, which resulted in falling of flowers. Experts observed that due to persistent shortage of sweet canal water, the underground water table has risen and brackish water has come up that has reduced the resistance of the trees.Mirpurkhas, supposedly a prime mango area is suffering from drought. Reports suggest that out of 8000 acres, only 4000 acres received water once a year, while only 3500 acres received water four times while for achieving good production of fruit 18 waters a year are required. This will result in improvement in size and taste of the fruit. The survey further revealed that on an average, a acre having 36 trees, some 15 trees were empty while 5 had nominal fruit and 16 trees had about 50 per cent fruit It was also observed that because of the shortage of water, fertilizer could not be used. Consequently, the mango trees became weak and affected fruit in quality and quantity both. Such trees produce a fruit of lower quality. It is apprehended that the mango fruit which had emerged as a foreign exchange earner item since last few years will not be exported in required quantity, at the same time, this seasonal juicy fruit will not be available and enjoyed by the poor and middle class people.The problems of mango growers can be easily divided into two major categories; first, pre-harvesting and the second post -harvesting. The first category relates to cultivation, selection of variety, research, usage and availability of water, fertilizers, pesticides etc. The second category is related to picking, handling, grading, storage and marketing. Presently, no guidance is available to the growers for these two categories of pre-harvesting and post-harvesting operations from the government side.In so far as research in government sector is concerned, there is a very pathetic situation. Sindh Horticulture Research Institute in Mirpurkhas announced its newly developed mango variety namely “Mehran”, three years back, but till today it has not been released. The researchers of the institute claim that this variety will give production throughout year. Japan gifted machinery for research on pests of mango. This machinery is rotting at Karachi since the last many years, as it is not being used by the government, nor it is given to growers for the benefit of production.Keeping in view the continuous water shortage, which proved to be destructive to this fruit, the proposed water research institute must promote water technology for its judicious use besides promoting the use of hydrometers to register water needs of trees and feedback to growers in this regard.The unregulated growth of nursery business in itself has encouraged malpractice. There is a need to regulate the nurseries that provide mango plants to discourage plantation of varieties susceptible to various diseases and to impose quality control mechanism. As a first measure in this regard registration of the nurseries is recommended. The registration of nurseries is also required to grow true-to-type fruit. The unregistered nurseries have been frequently supplying lots, having unfavourable genetic characteristic of wrong varieties, which needs to be checked.Most of the mango exporting countries promoted one or two varieties for export. We can follow the strategy to increase our share of mango export in the world market. Some generic and branded insecticides and fungicides are recommended for mango orchards for rationalized use of chemicals according to international requirements. So far, the pesticide firms have been promoting the chemicals left over in their stocks after the cotton season. Most of the pesticides meant for the cotton plant had a very harmful result when sprayed on mangoes. Instead of consulting the pest experts, spray is being conducted by the workers of some pesticide companies.The EPB is paying attention towards mango production since the last three years. There is a need to include growers in foreign delegations. But before sending abroad, the growers should be imparted proper knowledge and training.
IT WAS surprising that we had a short mango season this year. Previously, we had this juicy fruit at least for four months ending September, but this year even in the month of July it seems that the mango season is in the last stage, and will last only for one or two weeks more. There are many issues and constraints, which need to be tackled.The crop covers about 100 thousand hectares of land, mostly in Sindh and southern Punjab. All prize varieties of northern and central India thrive well in Pakistan and are far superior in taste, flavour and other characteristics.After the consumption in Pakistan, mango is exported to other countries. Only five percent of total production is sent to selected markets. Among the traditional buyers, Dubai picks up at least 18000 tons, while Saudi Arabia, Oman and UK are other major importers. On production, the country stands on the sixth number while it covers 7.5 per cent share in the international market. This is a very low share and needs to be increased. According to Export Promotion Bureau (EPB) sources, the earning from exports of 47000 tons mango was estimated worth $7 million in 1999. It was around $8 million next year. During 2000-2001 Pakistan exported 53443 tons worth $16.54 million showing an increase of 43 per cent over 99-2000. The EPB expects mango exports to rise by 25 per cent during this year. Last year 53444 tons of quality mangoes were exported, thus earning a foreign exchange of $17 million.Last year, Pakistani mangoes fetched more prices in the international market as compared to the previous season. Our mango was sold at the rate of $2.90 per kilograms in 2000, but the price has gone up to $3.83 per kg in year 2001. Some delegations were also sent to Italy, Turkey, Holland, and Germany to explore new markets for angoes and response from these countries was encouraging. In fact, tremendous export opportunities exist for Pakistani mangoes in the Middle East, and Europe, but inefficient and improper post harvest operations have resulted in spoilage of production. It is estimated that the Pakistani farmers are losing about 3.5 million tons of fruit worth $1.5 billion, due to faulty harvesting and post-harvest operations.The farmers are not getting proper guidance, encouragement and marketing, so they are unable to improve their produce in qualitative as well as in quantitative terms. There is also lack of knowledge among the growers about how best to maintain their orchards.Kachhelo farm (Mirpurkhas), known for producing high quality mangoes, has almost been destroyed, because of the continuous water shortage. The size of the fruit has been reduced, and the taste has deteriorated. Previously, it produced “Sindhri” variety which weighed 1800 grams (1.75 kg) per fruit.In Sindh, mango production, is increasing , as more and more land is being brought under cultivation of this crop and over all production is rising. But per hectare yield is not on the increase, and it is less as compared to Punjab. Figures show that in 1980-81 per hectare yield was 7.773 tons, which decreased in 1999-2000 and stood at 7.372 tons. While in Punjab, it was 12.337 tons in 1980-81 and in 1999-2000, stood at 12.475 tons.During the last 20 years, area brought under cultivation of the mango crop has nearly doubled, as in 1980-81 mango was cultivated on 57,200 hectares, which went up to 94,100 hectares in 1999-2000. Likewise, production was 5, 466,000 tons in 1980-81 and 937,700 tons in 1999-2000. Punjab has a lead in mango production, as it has doubled its under cultivation area in last 20 years that is from 22,200 hectares in 1980-81, to 48,400 hectares in 1999-2000 and production from 273,900 to 603,800 tons. Sindh is on number two, as it increased under cultivation area from 34,400 to 43,500 hectares and production from 267,400 to 320,700 tons.Growers said that due to ill-conceived official policies, they were unable to attain the required yield potential of this crop and were sustaining huge financial losses. Despite lack of patronage and encouragement from government side in research and other related fields, the over all production of the mango has increased. This indicates a clear growth in demand for this fruit in the market. The growers are bringing more area under cultivation under mango. They are carrying research and experiments to introduce new varieties, as well as carrying research on how best to preserve the old varieties on their own. The experience of Khair Mohammad Bhurgri, a grower from Mirpurkhas is one example, after Kachhelos, who has developed a variety, which will produce fruit that extends the fruiting and harvesting season.Orchards face ‘destruction’ : The persisting water shortage has proved to be destructive for mango orchards. It is feared that there will be less mango production this year. Mango orchards had been without water for the entire pre and post- flowering period and even at the crucial stage of fruit setting the canals in Sindh and southern Punjab remained closed for most of the time. This has resulted in an irreparable loss to mango production. Reports from Tando Allahyar, Matiari and Mirpurkhas suggest that mango trees standing on some 20, 000 acres of land faced destruction due to shortage of water. Trees have been infected with various diseases at the flowering stage. Black, blue, and white fly hyper had attacked the crop, which resulted in falling of flowers. Experts observed that due to persistent shortage of sweet canal water, the underground water table has risen and brackish water has come up that has reduced the resistance of the trees.Mirpurkhas, supposedly a prime mango area is suffering from drought. Reports suggest that out of 8000 acres, only 4000 acres received water once a year, while only 3500 acres received water four times while for achieving good production of fruit 18 waters a year are required. This will result in improvement in size and taste of the fruit. The survey further revealed that on an average, a acre having 36 trees, some 15 trees were empty while 5 had nominal fruit and 16 trees had about 50 per cent fruit It was also observed that because of the shortage of water, fertilizer could not be used. Consequently, the mango trees became weak and affected fruit in quality and quantity both. Such trees produce a fruit of lower quality. It is apprehended that the mango fruit which had emerged as a foreign exchange earner item since last few years will not be exported in required quantity, at the same time, this seasonal juicy fruit will not be available and enjoyed by the poor and middle class people.The problems of mango growers can be easily divided into two major categories; first, pre-harvesting and the second post -harvesting. The first category relates to cultivation, selection of variety, research, usage and availability of water, fertilizers, pesticides etc. The second category is related to picking, handling, grading, storage and marketing. Presently, no guidance is available to the growers for these two categories of pre-harvesting and post-harvesting operations from the government side.In so far as research in government sector is concerned, there is a very pathetic situation. Sindh Horticulture Research Institute in Mirpurkhas announced its newly developed mango variety namely “Mehran”, three years back, but till today it has not been released. The researchers of the institute claim that this variety will give production throughout year. Japan gifted machinery for research on pests of mango. This machinery is rotting at Karachi since the last many years, as it is not being used by the government, nor it is given to growers for the benefit of production.Keeping in view the continuous water shortage, which proved to be destructive to this fruit, the proposed water research institute must promote water technology for its judicious use besides promoting the use of hydrometers to register water needs of trees and feedback to growers in this regard.The unregulated growth of nursery business in itself has encouraged malpractice. There is a need to regulate the nurseries that provide mango plants to discourage plantation of varieties susceptible to various diseases and to impose quality control mechanism. As a first measure in this regard registration of the nurseries is recommended. The registration of nurseries is also required to grow true-to-type fruit. The unregistered nurseries have been frequently supplying lots, having unfavourable genetic characteristic of wrong varieties, which needs to be checked.Most of the mango exporting countries promoted one or two varieties for export. We can follow the strategy to increase our share of mango export in the world market. Some generic and branded insecticides and fungicides are recommended for mango orchards for rationalized use of chemicals according to international requirements. So far, the pesticide firms have been promoting the chemicals left over in their stocks after the cotton season. Most of the pesticides meant for the cotton plant had a very harmful result when sprayed on mangoes. Instead of consulting the pest experts, spray is being conducted by the workers of some pesticide companies.The EPB is paying attention towards mango production since the last three years. There is a need to include growers in foreign delegations. But before sending abroad, the growers should be imparted proper knowledge and training.
Concern over religious militancy, lawlessness
April 12, 2007
By Sohail Sangi
SINDHI PRESS DIGESTTHE major issues covered by the Sindhi press during the past week were the Lal Masjid standoff in Islamabad and the Saarc summit held in New Delhi.Dailies Koshish and Tameer-i-Sindh, expressing alarm over the fanaticism of Taliban votaries in the federal capital, say if no action is taken against the militants, they will get bold enough to spread their net.“The extremists would then turn the country into a laboratory for trying out their obscurantist ideas,” the Koshish warns.Dailies Ibrat, Awami Awaz and Kawish have editorialised on the Saarc conference. The Awami Awaz praises the Saarc secretariat for conceding that the organisation has failed to achieve its objective of resolution of major issues.The daily says `it is time to analyse the failure’, suggesting that the host country (of the summit) should be made responsible for the implementation of the decisions..The Kawish says the member countries will have to change their attitude for resolution of major disputes.The newspaper also deals with the high incidence of kidnapping for ransom in Sindh, saying the recent wave shows that outlaws enjoy total impunity in the province.The paper cites reports that police are negotiating a deal for the recovery of Omparkash, a boy from Jacobabad, while the case of Abdul Razaq got entangled in a dispute of jurisdiction between two police stations. “It seems that a handful of outlaws are stronger than the state.”The Kawish opposes any deal with the criminals as it entails the grant of `illegal facilities and privileges’. At the same time, the newspaper opposes police operation against dacoits as it has `never yielded results’.Daily Awami Awaz condemns the baton-charge on students of Karachi’s Urdu University, saying that students were agitating merely for the holding of classes regularly. “Education is the right of every citizen and to protest for it is a fundamental right, too.Therefore the use of violence against students is unjustifiable.”The paper writes that the Urdu University incident seems to be of a pattern as `lawyers, journalists and teachers have been facing the wrath of the state recently’.The Awami Awaz feels that there are some police officers who think protests disturb the rulers. “To save their own skin, they feel no compunction in roughing up innocent people agitating for their rights.”The Ibrat, praising the activism shown by the judiciary of late, urges it to reopen the Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto case. The paper says this action would allow the state machinery to do some `soul-searching and self-accountability’.The Tameer-i-Sindh terms unrealistic President Pervez Musharaf’s statement about missing activists. The president said in a public meeting last week that almost all the missing persons had gone to Afghanistan for jihad.The paper says these peoplehad been picked up by secret agencies, and were not produced before any court of law. “It is better to avoid such assertions and produce the missing people in court,” the Tameer counsels the president.
By Sohail Sangi
SINDHI PRESS DIGESTTHE major issues covered by the Sindhi press during the past week were the Lal Masjid standoff in Islamabad and the Saarc summit held in New Delhi.Dailies Koshish and Tameer-i-Sindh, expressing alarm over the fanaticism of Taliban votaries in the federal capital, say if no action is taken against the militants, they will get bold enough to spread their net.“The extremists would then turn the country into a laboratory for trying out their obscurantist ideas,” the Koshish warns.Dailies Ibrat, Awami Awaz and Kawish have editorialised on the Saarc conference. The Awami Awaz praises the Saarc secretariat for conceding that the organisation has failed to achieve its objective of resolution of major issues.The daily says `it is time to analyse the failure’, suggesting that the host country (of the summit) should be made responsible for the implementation of the decisions..The Kawish says the member countries will have to change their attitude for resolution of major disputes.The newspaper also deals with the high incidence of kidnapping for ransom in Sindh, saying the recent wave shows that outlaws enjoy total impunity in the province.The paper cites reports that police are negotiating a deal for the recovery of Omparkash, a boy from Jacobabad, while the case of Abdul Razaq got entangled in a dispute of jurisdiction between two police stations. “It seems that a handful of outlaws are stronger than the state.”The Kawish opposes any deal with the criminals as it entails the grant of `illegal facilities and privileges’. At the same time, the newspaper opposes police operation against dacoits as it has `never yielded results’.Daily Awami Awaz condemns the baton-charge on students of Karachi’s Urdu University, saying that students were agitating merely for the holding of classes regularly. “Education is the right of every citizen and to protest for it is a fundamental right, too.Therefore the use of violence against students is unjustifiable.”The paper writes that the Urdu University incident seems to be of a pattern as `lawyers, journalists and teachers have been facing the wrath of the state recently’.The Awami Awaz feels that there are some police officers who think protests disturb the rulers. “To save their own skin, they feel no compunction in roughing up innocent people agitating for their rights.”The Ibrat, praising the activism shown by the judiciary of late, urges it to reopen the Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto case. The paper says this action would allow the state machinery to do some `soul-searching and self-accountability’.The Tameer-i-Sindh terms unrealistic President Pervez Musharaf’s statement about missing activists. The president said in a public meeting last week that almost all the missing persons had gone to Afghanistan for jihad.The paper says these peoplehad been picked up by secret agencies, and were not produced before any court of law. “It is better to avoid such assertions and produce the missing people in court,” the Tameer counsels the president.
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