Preparations for Black Day on January 4 picking up
PT Report
Karachi, December 31: The people of Gojal Valley across Pakistan are preparing to observe January 4, 2011 as a Black Day. This day is being observed to to record protest and dissatisfaction over pace of the work related to drainage of the dammed river and delays in rehabilitation of the affected people.
Students and professionals in Karachi are going to protest by organizing a 4-day hunger strike in front of the Karachi Press Club, starting tomorrow, January 1, 2011.
A protest demonstration will also be held in Islamabad, where people from different parts of GB will hold a protest rally from China Chowk (Blue Area) to the National Press Club.
On another front emails are being written to prominent anchors and reporters of news channels to seek the media’s attention towards the issue.
Protest demonstrations are also being organized in Gilgit, Hunza and different parts of Gojal Valley.
Despite of the assurances made by senior officials about increasing pace of the work, there seems to be anger among the communities as they don’t trust the promises. “For one year our valley has been under siege and we still do not have a single doctor for a population of 25,000 people”, said a Karachi based activist. “We do not trust the promises and want to see concrete action”, he further said.
I agree on the protest. But it is important that you make the most of it You must decided on the issues you want to raise – make them the more serious & pressing ones. You should also demand for the appropriate Ministers concerned to meet with a delegation to present these points. I really think the medical issue is a big point to raise & is sure to be a good point to get the media’s attention.
Salam guys,
I am a freelance journalist from England researching the Attabad landslide. I am currently based in Islamabad, is the protest today (1st January)? What time exactly?
Hoping to see you there.
Black Day…..4th January
Join Us at Islamabad Press Club Tommorow at 2:00pm..
Solidarity for Black Day
Dear Gojali Brothers and Friends
We Hunza Gojali from GCC and Saudi Arab are supporting the protest for BLACK DAY
We The People of Gojal and Hunza & Gilgit Baltistan residing in the United States from North America and Canada are in Full Support of This Black Day 4th January. We salute to all our brothers and sister in this Cause. Raise Your Voice if not atleast let the govt bring one doctor to Gulmit for our help.What a bitter Experience for our Brothers & Sisters in this harsh cold weather.Let me Say People of Gilgit Baltistan are Brave and Strong.I pray this new year brings Peace,Progess and Unity to our Gilgit & Baltistan.
” HAPPY NEW YEAR 2011