Dirty skies: The invisible cost of conflict

This is with reference to the cover article “Dirty skies: The invisible cost of conflict” by Benazir Raz (YW, April 11th).

We often see war as something far away that only affects people and places it is centred on. But the writer explained that its effects also spread through the air we breathe and the environment we live in. It is quite disturbing, but true.

The article was an important reminder that the damage caused by conflict is not only visible on land, but also in the air around us and lasts for a very long time.

Imran Shah,
Islamabad

II

The cover article “Dirty skies: The invisible cost of conflict” by Benazir Raz was eye-opening as it explained how war not only destroys buildings and lives, but also harms nature in ways we cannot always see.

Pollution, smoke and chemicals spread through the air and can even affect countries far from the conflict zone. Indeed, damage in one place can gradually reach others through air, rain and climate change. This makes the impact of war much greater than we realise and reminds us that no country is truly untouched by its consequences.

Sana Fatima,
Khairpur

Respect beyond status

This is regarding the article “Respect beyond status” by Ayesha Ilyas (YW, April 11th).

The article carried the message that society often forgets the dignity of people working in cleaning and various domestic services. These individuals play an essential role in keeping our surroundings functional and liveable.

I agree with the writer that every job has value, and no one should be judged by the nature of their work or their financial status. Respect should be given to people as human beings first, not based on what they earn or the position they hold.

Hina Abdul Saeed,
Hafizabad

Speaker of the week

This concerns the story “Speaker of the week” by Wasfa Khan (YW, April 25th). The story highlighted that people often focus too much on being perfect, especially while speaking in front of others.

Because of this, many people stay silent or feel afraid. But instead of preparing speeches or memorising difficult words just to impress others, one should speak naturally, confidently and from the heart.

This idea was presented well in the story through the main character, Naeel, who was original while speaking in the school assembly.

Saad Hussain,
Larkana

Published in Dawn, Young World, May 23rd, 2026