I recently stumbled upon an article that attempted to find the beauty in the ugliness that is Karachi. Had the subject of this article been anything but Karachi, I would’ve commended it. Even if that article had only touched upon the tragedy that is Karachi and then attempted to find beauty in it, I would’ve applauded it. To my dismay, however, that article took a very privileged and unrealistic approach.
Karachi: A Tragedy
Karachi is the economic hub of Pakistan and has an estimated GDP of $164 billion however despite this Karachi fails to meet the very basic standards of living that any city should ensure for its residents. This city fails to protect its youth which makes up a majority of the population. It fails to protect its elderly who fought for this city. It fails to protect its women who gave birth to its inhabitants and it also fails to protect itself from ethnic, sectarian, and gender-based violence. Karachi fails its Karachiites, not once and not twice but time and again.
Our City
Our houses and buildings, we adorn with CCTV cameras which attempt to protect us from thieves and our women from rapists. Our walls, we cover in political propaganda’s which reminds us of how promises were made and promises were broken. Our streets, we decorate with potholes and the remnants of chewed up betel leaves that fail to cover up the blood that was spilled there. Our city continues to bleed while some still insinuate that there is no need to ask what good is left of the city.
Karachi: A Beautiful Tragedy
I obviously don’t mean to imply that there is nothing good about this city. Its people are the best thing and without them, this city would’ve crumbled in on itself a long time ago. Its busy life is another; It provides a distraction and holds immense attraction. The broken bustling roads and crowded buildings also contribute to making Karachi home. Home to 14.91 million people. Home to 1.6 million refugees. Home.
Karachi is undoubtedly beautiful. From its pink skies to its beaches. From its expensive cafes that serve a cup of coffee for over Rs. 500 to its dhabbas which sell a cup of piping hot tea for under Rs. 50. From its people to the street animals which will chase your cars or attempt to nuzzle up against your feet while you make a quick purchase at a corner store. Karachi, however, is also a tragedy crumbling in on itself. From the deteriorating infrastructure to the diminishing quality of life. From the blood that runs through the streets to the echoes of gunshots. From the daily hustle-bustle of life to death.
Conclusion
One thing, however, is unmistakable, this city makes sure that no matter whatever comes, it’s terribly great. Every single bit of it, worth a story to be written and remembered. A tragedy, in itself, which is beautiful and devastating at the same time.
One thought on “Karachi: a Beautiful Tragedy but Still a Tragedy”
Wow, I’m in awe of how the writer conveyed all the emotions we feel living in this city.