Everyone has a special relationship with his or her city. For some, the city is where they spent their childhood; for some, it is home to their family and friends, and for some, they love the beauty and culture of the city. I am from Quetta, the capital of Balochistan, the south-western province of Pakistan. The city is a very different from other large cities of Pakistan. It is a city of the high mountains with its bracing climate and has beautiful valleys and people from various cultures. To me, it is not only a city in the real sense, but has its own identity and beauty. Though the city is facing many problems, yet it has many things to be proud of.

Natural Beauty, The True Identity of Quetta

The most beautiful characteristic of Quetta that I would mention without any hesitation is "Natural beauty" Quetta itself is a city of mountains and possesses a climate that is quite distinct from many other areas of Pakistan. Winter in Quetta has a charm of its own, chilly winds, clear cold mornings, and snow culminate in creating a picturesque setting. Perfect for nature lovers, cold lovers I think Quetta is amazing.

There are several beautiful sites near Quetta. Hanna lake, Urak and other valleys are beautiful places for those who love natural beauty. The tall mountains and the beautiful open views are best to get rid of the busy city life. Quetta is famous for its fruits and apples, grapes, apricots and cherries are the famous fruits of this city. According to me, nature has given a lot to this city and if it gets its due importance in the form of tourism, Quetta can definitely be made a most beautiful tourist spot in Pakistan.

The people here, different cultures, one city

While buildings and streets are proof of a city's existence, a city can be proven by the lives of the people living in it. Quetta is one such city that is enriched with the culture of its people. Here you can find people that speak different languages and come from different backgrounds. Khajaki, Brahui, Pashto, Balochi, Urdu are the languages that we can hear in Quetta. These languages have different histories and cultures attached with them and that's what makes Quetta special.

What I like most about my countrymen is their not only compassionate and kind-hearted, but their hospitability as well. In our culture, it is a matter of pride and great satisfaction to respect our guests and be there for someone when they are in deep waters. Most times, we go the extra mile for the sake of others in spite of having very little resources. There is a certain charm about the local culture, food, clothing and lifestyle of this country. Anyone coming to Quetta will be enchanted and mesmerized not just by its natural landscape but also by its people and culture.

What does Quetta lack?

All cities, naturally, have their advantages and some problems that need to be addressed. Quetta is no different. In my opinion, the most important thing that this city requires is improved planning, and new infrastructure, and we need to upgrade our basic facilities and necessities. As the city's needs and population increase, multiple quarters of the city are struggling with various issues regarding roads, traffic, sanitation and water supply. One such problem which needs to be seriously addressed is the water shortage.

Another thing where Quetta needs a lot of work is to get good opportunities for the youth here. We have so much of talented youth here, but we are short on them to have better quality education, up to date skills training, employment and business opportunities. I think if we had more better education institutes, libraries, sports clubs and business start-up opportunities, our youth would unleash their full potential and get the maximum benefit.

My Dream, A Better Quetta

I would not say that Quetta is a perfect city and without any issues; rather it has vast scope of growth. Nonetheless, we should not dismiss how beautiful city of Quetta is and its left to be unruly. In my view, the government and the people of this city should contribute to make it a better place. Better designing and planning of roads, provision of pure drinking water, developed roads, better and modern educational institutes and healthcare centres, employment of youth can bring the city to some brilliant shape.

Imagine a Quetta where youngsters do not have to look at the cities of the outside world for hope, where families can peacefully rest in their beloved city, where tourists can freely visit the beautiful sites without fear, and where sincere and serious efforts are employed to maintain the beauty of the environment. Quetta has all its charms; they just need to be improved, and realized.

Finally, I do not believe that loving my city means overlooking its flaws. If anything, to love one's city is to want it to improve and to be more aware of its issues. Mountains, the climate, and delicious food have contributed to Quetta's identity, but most important of all its people. I hope that from now onwards Quetta will strive to grow and to be known for more than its natural beauty.

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