Faulty proposal

The government is considering outsourcing our three largest airports - Karachi, Islamabad and Lahore – to international operators. These airports are profitable, generate huge funds for the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) and, in my opinion, offer satisfactory service. Therefore, one does not understand the rationale behind outsourcing profitable assets. The decision, if implemented, will not only risk financial damage to the CAA but would result in the outflow of scarce dollars in the shape of dividends and profit repatriation.

The authorities should instead focus on outsourcing smaller, loss-making airports that are a burden on CAA finances. Alternatively, the government should consider outsourcing other loss-making entities like Pakistan Railways, PIA, Pakistan Steel Mills and many power-distribution companies that are responsible for the massive circular debt.

Arif Majeed

Karachi