Malir: The Sayad Hashmi Reference Library is going to be torn down to pave the path for the construction of Malir. Official authorities came to Malir Town, which is located along the Malir River, and marked the library and several other villages for demolition.

Authorities have started the demolition of Goth Ghulam Mohammad, the situation in close proximity to the library.

The construction of the Malir Expressway has led to the destruction of several villages in Malir and has raised environmental concerns. Despite this, Sindh government remains determined to proceed with the project, which is seen as detrimental to both people and the environment.

Hafeez Baloch, a prominent activist, has been outspoken against the construction of Malir Expressway, asserting that it constitutes a serious environmental violation. He argues that initiating construction within the Malir River exacerbates the climate crisis, especially considering that Pakistan is ranked as the fifth most vulnerable country to climate change.

Instead of addressing climate concerns, the government is prioritizing the construction of the Malir Expressway, which adversely affects both locals and the environment.

“Now, the government is coming to ruin the library, which is the sole source of education in Malir Town,” stated Hafeez.

Ghulam Rasool Kalmati who has diligently cared for the library for years, expressed his anguish and sorrow upon discovering the markings on the walls of the library indicating its impending demolition.

“I am at a loss for words to convey my anger and sorrow,” he lamented. “Seeing the library, which we built with our own hands, on the brink of destruction, just breaks my heart,” said Ghulam.

Despite its significance as a valuable resource for researchers and students, Sindh government has not allocated any funds to support the library. Ghulam says, “Yes, we have indeed received markings showing the library is going to be demolished soon.”

Hafeez stated that the government was ruining everything in Malir with the construction of the Malir Expressway, leading to the destruction of Karachi city. He emphasized the importance of protecting the library as a vital source of knowledge. Hafeez expressed disappointment that the government was prioritizing projects that were harmful to the people and emphasized the necessity of preserving spaces like the library, which encouraged debate and knowledge.

“Today, they have initiated demolishing Goth Ghulam Mohammad – tomorrow, they will move on to library,” said Hafeez.