Pakistan is grappling with a multitude of challenges, including a severe economic downturn, political instability, skyrocketing inflation, widespread hunger, and persistent terrorism. Despite these issues, and missing its GDP growth targets, the country has witnessed a surprising surge in its donkey population, which reached 5.9 million in the fiscal year 2023-24.
In an unusual turn of events, the Pakistani government has taken a unique approach to combat a rat infestation in the Parliament House. Facing the daunting task of controlling the rodent population within the legislative building, the Capital Development Authority (CDA) has devised a plan that leverages the natural predatory instincts of hunting cats. This strategy involves deploying these feline hunters and installing specially designed netted windows to prevent rats from entering sensitive areas. The government has allocated a budget of Rs 1.2 million for this unique pest control initiative.
Meanwhile, Pakistan’s economic crisis deepens. The country teeters on the brink of collapse, heavily reliant on IMF bailouts to sustain a rapidly deteriorating economy. Rampant corruption within the administration has exacerbated the crisis, inflicting severe hardship on the general public. This isn’t a new phenomenon; Pakistan has a history of boom-and-bust cycles, leading to 22 IMF bailouts since 1958. The current debt stands at $6.28 billion, pushing the nation towards a sovereign default. The economic downturn has resulted in acute shortages of essential commodities like wheat, threatening food security.
The impact on ordinary citizens is severe. Families are forced to move their children to less expensive schools, and economists forecast job losses, social unrest, and a shrinking GDP. Experts attribute Pakistan’s fiscal woes to its heavy dependence on foreign aid and grants, which has undermined its fiscal health. Successive governments have been criticized for failing to broaden the tax base and diversify revenue streams.
