I read with interest the article “Bringing PIA back to life” (Feb. 6) by Nadeem M. Qureshi. I agree with the writer that the privatization of the Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) should not be seen as the government’s attempt to reduce the burden on the national exchequer. It is an indication of the government’s failure in effectively managing the affairs of the PIA.

Many people believe that privatization is an effective way to ensure quality service to the consumers. In Pakistan’s context, however, we cannot make such claims. The question is: Did the government take any measures to address the problems facing the ailing PIA before reaching this conclusion?

The strategy that the writer has mentioned in his article may appear to be too idealistic but I strongly believe that it is the only way out of the current crisis. State-owned organizations in Pakistan are mercilessly used for political gains due to which they fail to deliver. Same is the case with the Pakistan Steel Mills, which has become a white elephant and is likely to meet the same fate. Privatization is not the answer to all our problems. As the writer has correctly said that we need to introduce the concept of effective corporate governance in our country.

Unfortunately, we have developed the habit of politicizing every issue. The PIA can regain its lost glory and for that to happen the government should take concrete measures to root out corruption. The other day, the government revealed its plan of launching a new airline. What is the use of such measures? We cannot manage an existing airline and are shamelessly talking about launching a new one.