Pakistan: The land of pure
Pakistan is the land of pure. Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the founding father of Pakistan and his illustrious followers worked hard to create an independent state for the Muslims of sub-continent. After the great efforts, Pakistan was created on 14th August 1947.
Pakistan Resolution Day 23rd March 1940
23rd March is the day of jubilation for Pakistanis. 75 years ago on this day, Pakistan Resolution was passed at Iqbal Park Lahore. The resolution clarified that due to religious and cultural differences, Muslims of sub-continent want a separate homeland. Pakistan Resolution became the basis for the creation of Pakistan.
Aim of the founding Fathers of Pakistan
Founding fathers of Pakistan had an aim to create a separate homeland for the Muslims of sub-continent, where justice will prevail and minorities will be treated equally. Pakistan was perceived as a paradise on earth, where state will look after its citizens. Pakistani citizens would have the access to the better nutritional, educational, medical and housing facilities.
Pakistan Housing 1940-2015
Many houses of 1940 can be seen in Pakistan. If we compare the housing of 1940 to that of 2015, we can clearly identify that people had much better housing facilities in 1940. The major factor in the decline of Pakistan housing standards is the unchecked population growth. The other factor is the negligence by the government to provide the affordable & decent housing to its citizens. Pakistan is facing the housing problems even after 75 years of struggle.
Pakistan Housing Problems
Pakistani housing is highly unaffordable
A common Pakistani cannot afford a decent home due to the unchecked price inflation. Average annual salary in Pakistan is 25,000 PAK Rupees, whereas small house of size 1000 sq. ft. in Pakistan costs 2,500,000 PAK Rupees. Income to house price ratio in Pakistan is 1:10, whereas world affordable house price to income ratio is 1:4. This clearly shows that Pakistani housing is highly unaffordable.
Housing shortage in Pakistan
Pakistan is facing the shortage of 10 million houses. Pakistan needs to build 1 million houses every year, but we are just building 200,000 houses per year. This housing shortage is resulting in the high house price. Housing shortage in part is due to the less developed housing sector of Pakistan. Government has just started the affordable housing developments, but the efforts are very limited.
No decent home standards in Pakistan
There are no decent home standards in Pakistan as is the case in the developed countries. 60% housing stock in Pakistan has passed its use-able life. 40 million Pakistanis have no access to the basic facilities like toilets. Many houses have no proper kitchens or living rooms. 70% Pakistanis are forced to live in the overcrowded slum dwellings.
Solving the Housing Problems in Pakistan
Firstly, Pakistan immediately needs to control its population. Fast population growth is a burden on the limited resources of Pakistan. Secondly, Pakistan needs to increase the house affordability. This can be achieved by increasing the salaries. Thirdly, Pakistan needs to start building the houses in bulk quantity. Housing development should be included in the government policies. The government should also assist the developers and general public in building the houses. Fourthly, Pakistan should adopt the decent home standards. Houses should have proper wash rooms, toilets, kitchens, separate living rooms and bedrooms.