The escalator at the University of Peshawar Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) station has been out of order for several weeks, causing significant inconvenience to the commuters, particularly the elderly and those with disabilities. The lack of this essential facility makes it difficult for such individuals to navigate the stairs, adding to their hardship. Despite several complaints, the BRT management has paid no heed to the issue. The authorities should take immediate action, and have the damaged escalator repaired in the larger interest of the public. This is with reference to the report ‘KMC is authorised to take action against illegal construction: mayor’ (Nov 3), according to which the mayor of Karachi has decided to take action against illegal constructions in Hasrat Mohani Colony, Mehmoodabad Nala and Ghousia Colony. Unfortunately, the discriminatory attitude towards these three residential areas is rather disappointing. Is there a specific reason to target these areas when there are other areas right under the mayor’s nose where five-storey buildings have been constructed, with the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) machinery doing nothing; absolutely nothing. It is high time the mayor and the KMC administration under him took official action without having any fear or favour. I posted on the social media about the rising level of pollution in Lahore back in 2016. It is disappointing that eight years later, Lahore’s air quality index is touching unprecedented levels. What have subsequent governments been doing in this regard all these years? Where are the international health bodies? No politician, judge or armyman has taken notice of this deadly condition, affecting millions. People are unable to breathe freely. If there is no one left to live a healthy life, nothing else will matter.