This trend has been further accelerated by recent incidents such as the accident on Karachi’s Karsaz Road.
Over the past few years, Pakistan has been facing a crisis marked by economic instability, political unrest and security challenges. Inflation has soared to record levels, increasing public discontent. Political infighting has deepened rifts, especially since the ouster of Prime Minister Imran Khan in 2022. The country’s foreign exchange reserves have dwindled, increasing its reliance on an IMF bailout, putting further strain on the economy. Pakistani social media users have posted videos highlighting the dire situation, including some showing the country’s troubles.
Some of the recent incidents were posted with the hashtag #FailedStatePakistan and quickly gained popularity on X, sparking debate on social media platforms as they reflect a growing belief that the state is on the brink of collapse.
Pakistani users have posted videos about crime, corruption and, most notably, the tragic accident on August 19 on Karachi’s Karsaz Road, in which a speeding SUV struck and killed two pedestrians.
According to The Dawn, on Monday evening, a speeding Toyota Land Cruiser driven by Natasha Danish hit three motorbikes and a car on Karsaz Road in the city, then overturned, killing 60-year-old Imran Arif and his 22-year-old daughter Amna and injuring three others.
Amna Arif and her father tragically lost their lives in an accident in Karsaz. The accident happened when a Prado collided with their motorbike. The culprit was identified as Natasha Ali Mohammed.
Amna Arif studied at Karachi University.
Let’s spread the word and use the power of social media to bring justice. #FailedStatePakistanpic.twitter.com/i7dMzSdBE9— Jawad Malik (@jawadmalik6785) August 20, 2024
The driver was subsequently arrested and charged with negligence resulting in death, and she was jailed for 14 days.
Another tweet using the hashtag claimed it was indicative of corruption in the country, especially in the military.
Other videos offer a disturbing contrast, with a man setting himself on fire over alleged police corruption and failure to arrest a suspect, and politicians indulging in extravagant mujra dances and spending money lavishly amid the country’s continuing poverty crisis.
Pakistan is in a deep economic crisis. People are surviving by begging and borrowing. The poor Awam are on the brink of starvation.
Meanwhile, Pakistani politicians are enjoying the Mujra dance and spending ample money on it.
This is #FailedStatePakistan! @amritabhinder@kakar_harshapic.twitter.com/F1KfyUk2dV
— Arushi Bhat (@BhatArushi) August 20, 2024
With Pakistan struggling with economic decline, political instability and growing social unrest leaving many Pakistanis worried about the country’s future, the hashtag has evolved into a digital forum where people can air their frustrations, fears and calls for change.
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