Author: Hafsa Nouman Siddiqui
The people of Karachi want to live sustainably, but it’s difficult. The people have uneven access to resources, an incapable and unjust government, and must balance fast growth with taking care of its people’s needs. This bustling metropolis faces a complex journey toward balancing its rapid growth with the sustainability needs of its diverse inhabitants.
Resource Distribution Inequality:
Among Karachi’s diverse population, the marginalized communities confront the harshest barriers to sustainable living. They frequently lack reliable access to fundamental needs, from fresh, locally sourced food to the most basic utilities such as clean water and electricity.
Misrepresentation in Critical Processes :
Another pressing concern is the lack of representation. These same communities often don’t get a say in decisions that affect them. For example, local fishermen suffer because of pollution in the sea, but their problems aren’t always listened to. Take the case of the fishermen’s community from Ibrahim Hyderi, their livelihood is severely impacted by the coastal pollution, yet their cries for help often go unheard.
Some locals shared their stories with Tribune.com here’s one; Hajiyaani from Ibrahim Hyderi used to earn from shrimp peeling, but sea pollution affected her family’s income. Now, she and her daughter work as domestic helpers to support their family in a one-room rented house.
Economic Barriers:
Earning a meager wage that barely keeps them afloat, these communities in Karachi struggle in adopting sustainable options. This limited budget makes it challenging to access eco-friendly products or invest in energy-efficient home upgrades.
Lack of Education and Awareness:
Adding to these issues is limited environmental education and awareness among the masses. Marginalized communities in Karachi, like in many parts of the world, often find themselves at the center of limited access to quality education and increased vulnerability to environmental disasters. With restricted access to quality education, environmental topics are sidelined. As a result, these communities, most affected by environmental issues, remain under-equipped to address them effectively.
In closing, enhancing Karachi’s infrastructure through investments is essential for under-resourced areas. True progress can only be achieved with inclusive policymaking. The government needs to raise minimum wages. By promoting fair trade and embedding environmental education in our schools, we can ensure both economic and knowledge equity for a brighter future.