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Naik Mohammad Mahfuz Shaheed: A Symbol of Fearlessness

Fariyal Mir

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Naik Mohammad Mahfuz was a brave soldier which fought fearlessly in the Indo-Pak war of 1971. His machine gun was destroyed but he continued to head towards the enemy bunker and was captured and stabbed brutally on the night of 17th December 1971.

Mohammad Mahfuz shaheed opened his eyes for the first time on the 25th of October 1944 in Pind Malakan district Rawalpindi. He got into Army on the 25th of October 1962. After being trained he joined the 15th Punjab Regiment. During the 1971 war, the unit was deployed in Wagha-Attari Sector where Lance Naik Muhammad Mahfuz participated in the famous Pul Kunjry operation and captured the area. He was a true soldier who remained in the first line fighting and inspired the enemy as well.

 During the fight, his machine gun was destroyed to weaken him but Muhammad Mahfuz was not the one to stay back and advanced towards an enemy bunker and jumped inside. He grasped an enemy soldier and downed him to death. Then the enemy soldiers approached at the stances and stabbed the legend with bayonets on the hour of the night of 17th December 1971. By the next morning, a cease-fire was ordered and one of the enemy commanders himself praised the brave martyr and handed over his dead body wrapped in Pakistani flag. This is a lifetime achievement for the living soul, his family, and the whole nation.

He received Nishan-e-Haider for his performance during the war. And his people replaced the name of their district with his name.

This line defined the notion of martyrdom:

“The tyrant dies and his rule is over, the martyr dies and his rule begins.”

Pakistan

Why Can’t We Make PIA Soar Again? It’s Time for Accountability and Vision

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Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), once a symbol of national pride and a beacon of excellence in aviation, is now a struggling entity, facing severe operational and financial challenges. Over the decades, PIA has seen its reputation erode due to mismanagement, political interference, corruption, and a lack of long-term strategic vision. The question that looms over the nation is: Why can’t we make PIA soar again, and what will it take to restore its lost glory?

A Glorious Past, A Struggling Present

PIA was once at the forefront of innovation in the global aviation industry. It was the first airline in Asia to induct a jet aircraft and played a crucial role in launching other major airlines. The organization was known for its exemplary service, skilled workforce, and state-of-the-art fleet. Unfortunately, this prestigious image has been overshadowed by a series of setbacks that have brought the national carrier to its knees.

Root Causes of PIA’s Decline

  1. Political Interference: One of the major factors contributing to PIA’s decline has been excessive political meddling. Successive governments have treated PIA as a tool for political patronage, often making appointments based on loyalty rather than merit. This has led to inefficiency and a bloated workforce that burdens the airline’s financial stability.
  2. Lack of Accountability: Corruption and mismanagement have plagued PIA for years. From questionable procurement practices to poor financial management, the lack of accountability has allowed inefficiencies to thrive. The absence of a culture that holds officials responsible for their actions has exacerbated the situation.
  3. Operational Inefficiencies: Overstaffing, outdated technology, and aging aircraft have made PIA one of the least efficient airlines in the region. High maintenance costs, poor scheduling, and frequent delays have diminished the trust of passengers, leading to a decline in customer loyalty.
  4. Financial Mismanagement: The financial woes of PIA are no secret. Mounting debts and continuous losses have made it difficult for the airline to invest in fleet modernization or improve service quality. Despite government bailouts, the airline continues to struggle financially, raising concerns about the sustainability of its operations.

The Need for Accountability and Vision

To revive PIA, a comprehensive reform plan focused on accountability, transparency, and a clear vision for the future is necessary. Here are some strategies that can help turn PIA around:

  1. Professional Management: The airline needs to be run by aviation experts and industry professionals, free from political interference. Appointing competent leadership with a proven track record in the aviation sector is crucial for steering the airline in the right direction.
  2. Streamlining Operations: Reducing operational inefficiencies, right-sizing the workforce, and investing in modern technology can significantly improve the airline’s performance. A data-driven approach to managing routes and optimizing flight schedules will help enhance profitability.
  3. Fleet Modernization: An aging fleet not only incurs high maintenance costs but also impacts passenger safety and comfort. Investing in new, fuel-efficient aircraft will not only improve service quality but also reduce operational costs in the long run.
  4. Customer-Centric Approach: Restoring passenger trust is paramount. This can be achieved by improving on-time performance, enhancing in-flight services, and ensuring a seamless travel experience. Listening to customer feedback and adapting to their needs will go a long way in rebuilding PIA’s reputation.
  5. Transparency and Governance: Implementing strict measures to ensure transparency in financial and operational dealings is essential. Independent audits and stringent anti-corruption policies must be enforced to root out corruption and mismanagement.

A National Responsibility

Reviving PIA is not just about saving an airline; it’s about restoring national pride. As a national carrier, PIA represents Pakistan on the global stage. A well-functioning PIA can boost tourism, create jobs, and contribute significantly to the country’s economy. It is time for all stakeholders, including the government, aviation authorities, and the citizens of Pakistan, to demand accountability and work towards a shared vision that can make PIA soar once again.

The road to recovery is not easy, but with the right leadership, commitment to transparency, and a relentless focus on excellence, PIA can reclaim its status as one of the leading airlines in the world. The time for action is now; Pakistan deserves an airline that truly reflects the nation’s potential and aspirations.

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