Maria Imran 
The abrupt interest in the Gatar law has brought about a bigger debate that transcends much deeper than a missing manhole cover. The law is, at its most fundamental level, an expression of urban frustrations, cities at war with the simple safety, low enforcement and a culture of lawlessness that frequently results in tragedy. Offering long sentences and huge fines, the authorities are gambling on the fear as a deterrent. The issue is whether it is possible to repair broken systems using the power of fear.
Urban Safety: Punishment vs Prevention
Proponents of the Gatar law explain that it sends a long overdue message that lawbreakers of the law will no longer be taken lightly as far as public safety is concerned. Strict punishment can disrupt organised crime in the area of theft and cause scrap dealers and contractors to reconsider. This shock-and-awe method can have an immediate effect in cities where the enforcement has always been relaxed.
However, critics indicate that such laws as the Gatar Law can be easily turned into a mere symbol unless more serious problems are addressed. Structural issues that cannot be resolved by punishment include poor monitoring, slow replacement of covers, and lack of accountability in civic agencies. Unless the infrastructure audits, real-time reporting, and the local enforcement capacity are improved, harsh laws may disappear as soon as the people change their focus.
Ultimately, safer cities require a compromise, e.g. severe laws with solid enforcement, open governance, and active urban maintenance. Punishment might be the beginning of the discussion, wherein prevention is the maintenance of safety. Visit homepage for more updates.
