Non-communicable diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, cancers, respiratory diseases, diabetes, and mental disorders, and injuries have become the major causes of morbidity and mortality in Pakistan. Tobacco use and hypertension are the leading attributable risk factors for deaths due to cardiovascular diseases, cancers, and respiratory diseases.

This has reference to the excellent article entitled “Cauvery Dispute: A Lament and a Proposal” (EPW, 30 March 2013) by Ramaswamy R Iyer on the history, complex dynamics and current status of the Cauvery River dispute. I run a conservation foundation in Bangalore and, as much of our work is along the river, I have had an opportunity to see the issue up-close. As Iyer points out, there is considerable political capital to be had in helping the dispute fester; this makes any sort of solution unacceptable to one state or the other. (Letters)