News Updates Pk

A major shipment of alcohol reportedly intended for distribution on New Year's Eve was intercepted by police in Lahore. The raid took place at the Model Town Caddery Parking lot, following a tip-off, Express News reported. The police, led by Naseerabad authorities, discovered a total of 140 bottles of liquor from a person named Ashraf, who was present at the location. Upon questioning, Ashraf admitted to bringing the alcohol for distribution at various locations, to supply to people celebrating New Year’s Eve. A case has been registered, and an investigation is underway. Meanwhile, the Additional IG Traffic Punjab issued special directives regarding traffic management for the New Year's Eve celebrations, ensuring that only a limited number of vehicles are allowed on major roads. Extra traffic personnel will be deployed across key highways to manage the heavy influx of vehicles during the event. On the other hand, Karachi Police have issued a stern warning to citizens about the ...

Cold and dry weather is set to continue across most parts of Sindh, with misty and foggy conditions expected in the central and upper districts of the province. Meanwhile light rain or snow is expected at isolated places in north-western Balochistan, Upper Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, and Gilgit-Baltistan during the evening and night, The latest weather forecast indicates that continental air is prevailing over most parts of the country, with a shallow westerly wave likely to affect the western and northern regions from Tuesday evening. In Karachi, sunny weather will prevail, with temperatures ranging between 9°C and 11°C. The humidity level will be at 51%. However, foggy conditions are expected to dominate in cities like Nawabshah, Sukkur, and Mohenjo-Daro, with temperatures dropping to as low as 2°C in Mithi and 3°C in Mohenjo-Daro. Meanwhile, Dadu will experience sunny weather with temperatures around 5°C to 6°C, and Hyderabad will see pleasant sunny conditions with temperatures ranging from...

In 2024, Pakistan's security forces and law enforcement agencies conducted an impressive 59,775 counter-terrorism operations across the country, resulting in the death of 925 terrorists, Express News reported on Tuesday. The operations, which were primarily intelligence-based, marked a significant achievement in the fight against terrorism. The authorities also apprehended hundreds of individuals, further dismantling terrorist networks and their support systems. The operations were part of a coordinated effort to tackle the growing security challenges, especially in regions where extremist elements have been active. A large portion of these successful missions targeted terrorist hideouts, training camps, and key facilitators. The year saw a strong focus on high-value targets, with 73 of the killed terrorists classified as being among the most wanted. These included notorious figures such as Fida Rahman (known as Lala), Ali Rahman, and Abu Yahya. Notably, the year also witnessed the...

A list of 108 gifts received by former Prime Minister Imran Khan during his time in office was presented in the Toshakhana 2.0 case on Monday. The case was heard by Judge Shahrukh Arjumand in a special court at Adiala Jail. Imran Khan appeared in court for the hearing, accompanied by his legal team, including Bushra Bibi, Salman Akram Raja, Barrister Gohar, and Faisal Chaudhry. A key witness from the Cabinet Division, representing the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), also testified in court. During the proceedings, the witness was cross-examined by Bushra Bibi’s lawyer, Arshad Tabraiz. The cross-examination is expected to continue in the next hearing, with Khan’s lawyer, Salman Safdar, also set to question the witness. The prosecution submitted the list of 108 gifts received by Imran Khan during his tenure, which was officially recorded by the court along with a register of the gifts. The hearing was adjourned till January 2. Earlier this month, a trial court fina...

As 2024 comes to a close, Pakistan stands at a critical juncture, grappling with a divided political landscape, economic challenges, and escalating security risks. The year has been marked by ongoing protests, judicial involvement, and terrorist incidents, all creating an air of uncertainty. As 2024 comes to an end, let's reflect on the key events that have defined the nation's political landscape this year. Tensions with western neighbours Tensions between Pakistan and Iran soared on January 17 following a missile attack launched by Iran in Balochistan, which it claimed targeted terrorist sites. However, the strike, which hit Pakistani soil, was swiftly condemned by Islamabad as an "unprovoked violation" of its airspace. In a strong diplomatic response, Pakistan recalled its ambassador to Iran the following day, signaling its deep dissatisfaction with Tehran’s actions. The Pakistani government strongly condemned the violation of its sovereignty and demanded accountab...

At least 16 people have lost their lives and dozens more have been injured in traffic accidents that occurred in different parts of the country. According to a statement from the Motorway Police, a bus traveling on the M-14 motorway near Fateh Jang was involved in an accident, killing 10 passengers and injuring 7. Initial reports indicate that the accident was caused by driver negligence. Upon receiving news of the incident, a large contingent of motorway police quickly arrived at the scene and transferred the bodies and injured to the THQ hospital in Fateh Jang. The bus, which was traveling from Bahawalpur to Islamabad, was severely damaged in the crash. Meanwhile, in Sindh’s Naushahro Feroze district, a collision between a van and a trailer near the Moro area resulted in 6 fatalities and 15 injuries. Rescue teams rushed to the site and transferred the victims to a nearby hospital. Reports indicate that the condition of 10 of the injured, who were sent to Nawabshah, is critic...

Hafiz Naeem ur Rehman, the chief of Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan, has accused the country's leadership of prioritising US approval over addressing domestic challenges, such as poverty and inequality. "Even freedom from prison and power rely on the US," he remarked during a public address in Lower Dir. "Over 100 million people are living in poverty, yet our rulers are indulging in luxury." Calling for unity among Pakistanis, Hafiz Naeem highlighted that his party respects all religions and sects, emphasising that "only a system based on the Quran and Hadith can bring prosperity to this country." In a scathing critique, he labelled the US as the "world's greatest terrorist" and questioned its silence over Israeli atrocities in Palestine. "Rivers of blood are flowing in Palestine, yet the United Nations and the US remain indifferent to the bodies of Palestinian children." The Jamaat-e-Islami chief reiterated his party's mission to ...

Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb has acknowledged the numerous economic challenges facing the country, stating that there is no "magic wand" to resolve issues overnight. However, he assured that government efforts are yielding results, with inflation reduced to around 5% and interest rates expected to reach single digits in the near future. Addressing a press conference in Kamalia, Punjab, Aurangzeb said, “The country's problems are immense, and there is no instant solution. However, we are committed to ensuring economic stability. Interest rates, currently high, are being brought down to a more business-friendly level, which will have a positive impact on the economy." He emphasised that reducing interest rates further from 23-24% to 8-9% would significantly ease the burden on businesses and encourage growth. Criticising the outdated budget-making process, Aurangzeb remarked, “Our system is flawed. People come to Islamabad for two to three months, some of their c...

Protests organised by the Majlis Wahdat-e-Muslimeen (MWM) in response to the ongoing crisis in Parachinar, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Kurram district, continues to paralyse various parts of Karachi on Sunday. The ongoing protests have paralysed traffic, leaving commuters struggling to navigate through major roadblocks. Traffic police have advised citizens to take alternate routes, but these roads are also facing heavy congestion due to the protests. According to traffic police, the central protest is taking place at the Numaish Chowrangi, where both sides of Abu al-Hasan Isfahani Road and Abbas Town are blocked. Protests have also impacted traffic at Five Star Chowrangi in North Nazimabad and at Samama Shopping Center on University Road. Further disruptions have been reported at Kala Chapra near Shaheed-e-Millat Road, where both sides of the road are closed. There is also an ongoing protest on the Surjani Town Road, and traffic is blocked near the Incholi area on Shahrah-e-Pakistan. In G...

The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has predicted cool and sunny weather for Karachi over the weekend and the coming days. The lowestt temperatures in the metropolis are expected to range between 8°C and 10°C, with relative humidity fluctuating between 35% and 55%, providing pleasant conditions for outdoor activities. The forecast shows clear skies and no signs of rain. These conditions will persist through Saturday, Sunday, and Monday, making it an ideal time for residents to enjoy Karachi’s winter charm. Other districts in Sindh, including Thatta, Badin, and Hyderabad, will also experience similar weather, with minimum temperatures ranging from 8°C to 12°C. Dadu and Sukkur are expected to record some of the lowest temperatures, dipping to 4°C, accompanied by relatively high humidity levels of up to 95%. PMD experts attribute the cooler conditions to prevailing dry continental air, which has reduced cloud cover and intensified winter’s grip across the province. The ongoing co...

Protests continue to disrupt traffic in Karachi with demonstrations, called by the Majlis-e-Wahdat-e-Muslimeen (MWM), held at mutiple locations to express solidarity with the people of Parachinar in Kurram district, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Despite a peace agreement signed earlier today to address tensions in the region, the protests have led to significant traffic blockages across multiple parts of the city. According to the traffic police, 13 locations in Karachi are currently affected by the protests, with major roads including Numaish Chowrangi, Abu al-Hasan Isfahani Road near Abbas Town, Five Star Chowrangi in North Nazimabad, and Samama Shopping Center on University Road all closed to traffic. Other affected areas include Shahrah-e-Faisal near Kala Chapra, Malir 15 Bridge, Surgani Town Road, Shahrah Pakistan in Ancholi, and Kamran Chowrangi in Gulistan-e-Johar, Express News reported. Earlier during the day a Kurram grand jirga (tribal assembly) was convened in Kohat. The assembly ...

A peace agreement was reached during a grand jirga (tribal assembly) convened to address the ongoing situation in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa province's Kurram district. The meeting, held in Kohat, concluded with both parties signing a peace accord, marking a crucial step towards restoring stability in Kurram, Express News reported. According to the terms of the agreement, both factions have agreed to surrender heavy weapons to the government. The final decision and official announcement of the agreement are expected to be made later today by the Commissioner of Kohat. The signing of the peace agreement had been delayed previously due to the incomplete participation of the jirga members. However, both parties have now agreed on several key points of the accord, paving the way for peace in the region. In yesterday's Jirga chaired by Commissioner Kohat, Mutassim Baullah and held at Kohat Fort, various points were discussed. The administration has stated that until heavy weapons are remove...

The Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL) has announced the discovery of new oil and gas reserves in the Shah Bandar block located in the Sujawal district of Sindh. The company disclosed the details of the discovery in a formal communication to the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX). According to the statement, the Jhamp East X-1 well in the Shah Bandar block is yielding daily production of 10 million standard cubic feet of natural gas (MMSCFD) and over 150 barrels of light oil. The natural reserves from the well have a pressure of 2,800 pounds per square inch (PSI) as the extracted gas is being processed at the Sujawal gas processing plant and integrated into the Sui Southern Gas Company’s system, enhancing the supply of natural gas in the region. The Shah Bandar block has a consortium of stakeholders, with PPL holding a 63% share, Mari Petroleum owning 32%, while Sindh Energy Holding and Government Holdings (Private) Limited each hold a 2.5% stake. Earlier, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has di...

The backlog of pending passports across Pakistan has been successfully cleared, according to Mustafa Jamal Qazi, the Director General of Immigration and Passports. During a surprise visit to the passport production unit, the DG reviewed the printing and issuance process and provided an update on the progress. Since July 1, a record total of 3,376,510 passports have been printed, including 776,451 in the normal category, 1,896,403 in the urgent category, and 703,656 in the fast-track category, he noted. DG passport credited the hard work and dedication of the production team, which worked continuously to meet the high demand and achieve this significant milestone. With the backlog now cleared, citizens are advised to directly collect their passports from regional passport offices without waiting for notifications through message or email, as the delivery process has been completed. said DG. Qazi also emphasised that the timely issuance of passports will continue, aiming to provide conve...

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has urged the Afghan government to adopt a firm policy against the Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP), asserting that a double standard will not be tolerated. Addressing a meeting of the Federal Cabinet, the Prime Minister emphasised that Pakistan’s military and law enforcement agencies were fully mobilised to combat terrorism, citing recent incidents in which Pakistani security personnel were targeted. He recalled the recent tragic event in which 16 Frontier Corps (FC) personnel were martyred, and the subsequent elimination of insurgents in North Waziristan, which also resulted in the martyrdom of a Pakistani army major. The Prime Minister highlighted the importance of Pakistan’s relationship with Afghanistan, describing it as a neighbouring and brotherly country. He reiterated that Pakistan desires stronger ties with Afghanistan, particularly in the areas of trade and economic cooperation, which could help foster mutual prosperity. However, he expressed co...

Imran Khan, founding chairman of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), has acknowledged that the current government has managed to stabilise Pakistan’s struggling economy, which was on the verge of collapse, Express News reported. While speaking to the media from Rawalpindi's Adiala Jail, Imran stated, "The government has successfully prevented the economy from becoming bankrupt." When questioned by journalists about whether he was conceding that the government had improved the economy, Imran responded, "The economy has been stabilised, and it has been saved from bankruptcy, but it has not seen growth yet." Meanwhile, a delegation from PTI’s negotiation committee arrived at Adiala Jail to meet with Imran Khan. The committee will brief him on the progress made during the first round of talks, sources confirmed. The delegation includes key PTI leaders such as Omar Ayub, Sahibzada Hamid Raza, Allama Nasir Abbas, and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur...

Bushra Bibi, the wife of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan, has been granted interim bail in three more cases related to the party's November 26 protest in Islamabad. The interim bails were approved by Judge Shabbir Bhatti at a District and Sessions Court in Islamabad on Thursday. The court approved bail pleas against surety bonds of Rs50,000 until January 13, 2025, Express News reported. Bushra Bibi appeared in court with her legal team for the hearing of cases registered against her at Tarnol Police Station and Ramna Police Station, involving a total of four first information reports (FIRs). This follows a recent ruling by an Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Rawalpindi, which granted her interim bail in 32 other cases related to the same protest. These cases were filed across several police stations in Rawalpindi, Attock, and Chakwal. Earlier on December 23, an accountability court in Islamabad postponed its verdict in the £190 million corruption ...

Pakistan airstrikes in Afghanistan's eastern Paktika province killed at least 46 people, including women and children, according to the Taliban's spokesperson, Zabihullah Mujahid, on Wednesday. The strikes, which took place late Tuesday night in the Barmal district, also left six others injured. Mujahid condemned the attack, describing it as “clear aggression,” and reaffirmed that the Taliban government would not leave such actions unaddressed. The Afghan defence ministry issued a statement condemning the airstrikes, stating that the Islamic Emirate would defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity. This follows a series of deadly cross-border exchanges between Pakistan and Afghanistan since the Taliban's takeover of Kabul in 2021. Tensions have escalated, particularly in the border regions, where Pakistan has been battling a surge in militant violence. According to a resident of Barmal, Maleel, the airstrikes devastated several homes, with one bombing killing 18 membe...

At least two people lost their lives and four others were injured in an improvised explosive device (IED) blast in the Dasht area of Turbat, Balochistan, on Wednesday, according to police reports. The explosion also caused significant damage to a vehicle, officials confirmed. The deceased and the injured were promptly transported to a nearby hospital for medical assistance and post-mortem procedures. Providing further details, law enforcement agencies revealed that the remote-controlled device detonated as the victims were traveling in the vehicle. The deceased have been identified as Zaman and Umer Zahoor. The injured, who are currently receiving treatment, include Naeem, Javed, Ameen, and Waheed. Authorities are investigating the incident, and security measures in the region have been heightened to prevent further occurrences. from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/FvOy5RB

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has announced the introduction of Pakistan's first-ever Minority Card, which will provide financial assistance to underprivileged members of the minority community, ensuring their sustenance with financial support every three months. While addressing a Christmas ceremony at Lahore’s largest church, House of Prayer, Maryam Nawaz said the Minority Card would be launched at the beginning of 2025. She promised to provide as much financial help as possible to the minority community, ensuring they do not have to depend on others for support. Maryam Nawaz further said, “The state is like a mother, and as your Chief Minister, I am like a mother to you. A mother never discriminates between her children. There is no difference in my heart and mind based on religion. Muslims, Christians, Hindus, Sikhs, and people of all other religions are the pride of my life.” She emphasized that the protection and development of the people of Punjab was her respons...

Security forces have killed 13 terrorists in an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in the Sararogha area of South Waziristan district, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said on Wednesday. The operation, carried out by Pakistani troops based on intelligence reports, successfully targeted the location of the terrorists, the military's media wing said. The ISPR said that khwarij were reportedly involved in numerous terrorist activities, including attacks on security forces and the killing of innocent civilians. Following the operation, a sanitization effort is underway in the area to ensure that any remaining militants are eliminated. "Pakistani security forces remain committed to eradicating the threat of terrorism and maintaining peace and stability in the region," the statement added. Earlier on  December 21, 16 brave soldiers of Pakistan’s security forces embraced martyrdom, while eight militants were neutralised during a fierce exchange of fire in South Wa...

Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly (NA), Omar Ayub, on Tuesday explained why he did not participate in the negotiations with the coalition government. Speaking outside the Peshawar High Court (PHC) during a court appearance, Omar Ayub stated that he was attending hearings related to cases filed against him under Form 47. “I was at the Peshawar High Court yesterday, which is why I couldn’t participate in the negotiations,” he said. Omar Ayub criticised the media, saying, “A newspaper ran a big story claiming I didn’t go for negotiations. I request the media to verify things a bit more. We are hopeful the negotiations will be successful.” Later, the PHC granted Omar Ayub a one-month transit bail. Justice Ejaz Anwar presided over the hearing on Omar Ayub’s transit bail applications. Counsel for the petitioner, Advocate Alam Khan Adeenzai, informed the court that the petitioner is the Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly and cases have been registered against hi...

As snowfall begins in Murree Hills, the City Traffic Police has issued a set of precautions for tourists traveling to the region. The hill station recorded a minimum temperature of -1°C and a maximum of 8°C. Chief Traffic Officer Murree, Mughees Ahmad Hashmi, assured that traffic authorities are fully prepared to assist visitors. He emphasised the importance of safety and advised travelers to take necessary measures before heading to Murree. The minimum temperature recorded was -1C, with a maximum of 8°C.         View this post on Instagram                       A post shared by Rai Sajid Hussain Tanha (@raisajidhussaintanha) To manage the anticipated increase in tourist traffic, the City Traffic Police has implemented several measures to prevent congestion. Around 200 traffic wardens have been deployed to handle the expected volume of vehicles and maintain a smooth flow of traffic. As snowy weather app...

The federal government has announced a public holiday for Wednesday, December 25th, 2024, on account of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah's birth anniversary. All banks and other institutions will remain closed on this day, as per the notification. Meanwhile, the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) also issued a notification confirming that banks will be closed for the day in observance of both Quaid-e-Azam Day and Christmas. The central bank's announcement indicates that all financial institutions, including commercial banks, will be closed on December 25 as per the government's directive. Pakistan will celebrate the birth anniversary of its founder, Quaid-e-Azam, with immense enthusiasm and respect. The day will begin with gun salutes in both the federal and provincial capitals, followed by a dignified changing of the guard ceremony at the Quaid's mausoleum in Karachi. Across the nation, official events and ceremonies will take place to honor the Quaid's life, political s...

As the project to install Safe City cameras enters the final phase, the City Traffic Police (CTP) has decided to issue e-challans for violating traffic rules from January 1, 2025. With Safe City cameras, heavy fines will be imposed on those who violate traffic rules on major highways. After the e-challan is issued, the challan will be received on the violator's mobile phone and home address. Sources in the Safe City Control Room told the Express Tribune that the plan to install Safe City cameras in Rawalpindi like other cities of Punjab has entered the final stage. Effective use of Safe City cameras will keep a close watch on traffic violations along with the identification of criminals. Under the Safe City project, Safe City cameras have been installed on all major highways, and business centres and connected to the control room in inner cities. From which 27/7 monitoring and recording process has also started. Sources said that cameras have become fully functional in inner city a...

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) sources have told Express News that Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has met with UAE Cricket Board Chief Sheikh Al Nahyan last night. During the meeting, Dubai Stadium was finalised as the neutral venue for the ICC Champions Trophy under the hybrid model. Sources revealed that the discussion also included easing visa processes for Pakistani fans and emphasised ICC and PCB collaboration on other logistical issues. Sheikh Al Nahyan assured full cooperation on all matters during his meeting with the PCB chairman. Previously, the PCB had explored options for neutral venues in Dhaka, Bangladesh, and Colombo Stadium but logistical challenges led to the UAE being finalised. Notably, Sheikh Al Nahyan is currently in the Ghotki district of Sindh. Earlier Mohsin Naqvi announced that a decision on a neutral venue for the Champions Trophy is expected today (Sunday), while also hinting at promising news for Karachi related to the tournament. Speaking to the media after inspec...

The Karachi Water and Sewerage Board (KWSB) and the police, in a joint operation, have sealed an illegal water hydrant in Chakara Goth, Korangi, and arrested one suspect, Express News reported. According to the spokesperson of the SSP Korangi, the operation was launched over complaints of severe water scarcity that Karachi was facing during the past few weeks. The police, along with KWSB officials, shut down the illegal hydrant operating in Korangi Number One, and arrested Nauman, son of Munir Ahmed, who was allegedly involved in the illegal water business. Three other suspects—Rafiq, Abdullah Korijo, and Ahmed—managed to flee the scene, and efforts are underway to capture them. A case has been registered against the arrested individual and the absconding suspects, and authorities are making efforts to apprehend the fugitives. The water crisis in Karachi had escalated recently, prompting protests by local residents. On Saturday, members of the Jamaat-e-Islami party held protests at 15 ...

A Pakistan Army soldier was martyred and four terrorists were killed after security forces foiled an infiltration attempt along the Pakistan-Afghanistan border in Khyber district, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, during the night of December 19-20, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said in a statement on Saturday. According to the ISPR, security forces engaged the terrorists in the Rajgal area after detecting their movement. During the ensuing gunbattle, 22-year-old sepoy Amir Sohail Afridi, a resident of Khyber district, fought courageously and embraced martyrdom. The ISPR also reiterated Pakistan's concerns over cross-border terrorism, stressing Islamabad's repeated requests to Kabul’s interim government to prevent the use of Afghan territory by terrorists carrying out attacks against Pakistan. Previously, security forces successfully carried out an operation in Tank district, killing seven terrorists, including a key member of the banned militant group ‘Fitna al-Khawarij’. Accor...

The temperature in Karachi dropped to 9.2°C on Friday night as the city continued to experience a cold wave. According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), the chill is being caused by the northeast winds from Balochistan, which have been sweeping over the city. These winds have intensified the cold, making the weather noticeably colder in Karachi. The weather forecast for the next 24 hours predicts continued cold and dry conditions in the city. The humidity level in Karachi today is recorded at 48%, contributing to the overall chill in the air. With temperatures expected to stay low, residents of Karachi are bracing for a few more days of cold weather. Chief Meteorologist, Sardar Sarfraz, confirmed on Friday that while the winds are strong, they will not cause any dust storm-like conditions. The current cold spell is expected to persist, keeping temperatures on the lower end of the scale for the coming days. from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline...

Karachi is currently experiencing a cold wave as a high-pressure system blankets most of Pakistan, including Sindh. According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), the city's winds are expected to reach speeds of 15 to 20 kilometers per hour today, with gusts potentially exceeding 25 kilometers per hour in the outskirts. Chief Meteorologist, Sardar Sarfraz, confirmed that while the winds are strong, they will not cause any dust storm-like conditions. The cold air is expected to cause the temperature to drop to single digits, with the thermometer potentially reaching as low as 9°C. The current cold spell is expected to persist, keeping temperatures on the lower end of the scale for the coming days. This weather system is contributing to a significant dip in temperatures across the region, making it an unusually cold period for Karachi. Residents are advised to take precautions against the chilly weather, particularly in the evenings and early mornings when the temperature...

The Islamabad authorities have announced the schedule for winter holidays in schools and educational institutions in the federal capital. According to a notification issued on Friday, all public and private schools in Islamabad will remain closed from December 21 (Saturday) to January 5, 2025. Educational departments in other provinces have also issued their winter vacation schedules. In Punjab, winter vacations will begin on December 23 and schools will reopen on January 13, 2025. In Sindh, educational institutions will observe winter holidays from December 21 to December 31, with both public and private schools closed during this period. In Balochistan, winter vacations started on December 16 due to the cold weather. According to the Balochistan Education Department, schools, colleges, and universities will remain closed in 20 districts, including Quetta, starting from December 16. Schools in areas with colder temperatures will remain closed until February 28, 2025, while those in re...

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has ordered the government to provide details of the prime minister and foreign minister’s foreign visits since the filing of Dr. Afia Siddiqui’s clemency petition in the United States. The order was issued during a hearing of the case regarding Dr. Afia Siddiqui’s release and return to Pakistan, based on a petition filed by her sister, Dr. Fouzia Siddiqui. The hearing was presided over by Justice Sardar Ejaz Ishaq Khan. Dr. Fouzia Siddiqui appeared via video link, while the petitioner’s lawyer, Imran Shafiq, and former Senator Mushtaq were present in court. The Additional Attorney General and representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs also attended the hearing. The court reviewed a declaration presented by Dr. Afia Siddiqui’s U.S. lawyer, Mr. Clive Smith, and commended his efforts. IHC directed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to submit a detailed report on Mr. Smith’s declaration and to address the matter on a diplomatic level. Justice Khan rem...

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) has suspended a Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) notification that made it mandatory for defence analysts to obtain approval from the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) before appearing on television channels. The court heard the case regarding the PEMRA notification, which stipulated that only retired officers of the armed forces could participate in TV programs, provided they received prior permission from ISPR, Express News reported. The notification, issued in 2019, had drawn criticism for placing restrictions on retired defence personnel's media participation. During today’s proceedings, Justice Babar Sattar issued a written order against the notification, noting that PEMRA’s legal counsel did not appear in court. An associate lawyer, citing the illness of a senior counsel, requested a postponement. Based on the arguments presented during the hearing, the court decided to suspend the PEMRA notification. The Islamabad Hig...

A fire broke out once again at Rimpa Plaza on Karachi's MA Jinnah Road, but was extinguished within hours. Firefighters, including four vehicles and a snorkel truck, were promptly deployed to the scene. The fire, which sent large plumes of smoke into the air, was successfully brought under control without any casualties. Initial reports suggest that the fire may have been caused by a short-circuit in electrical wires, but the exact cause is still under investigation. Fortunately, no individuals were reported trapped in the building. Authorities are continuing to assess the situation, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available. Earlier this month , a fire had erupted at Rimpa Plaza on MA Jinnah Road in Karachi, causing significant disruption. The blaze, which had started on the fourth floor housing spare parts godowns, offices, shops, and a clinic, was eventually extinguished after hours of efforts. Rescue 1122 teams, including two ambulances, fo...

The US Ambassador to Pakistan Donald Blome reaffirmed his country's commitment to strengthen bilateral relations in trade and education sectors as well as in the job market of both the countries. During his two-day visit to Karachi on December 17 and 18 he held meetings with the leaders of different organisations including trade and business, Sindh Human Rights Commission (SHRC), Network of Organizations Working for People with Disabilities Pakistan (NOWPDP). He emphasised the importance of shared goals of economic opportunities and respect for human dignity. Bloom also joined business leaders at a dinner and stressed the need for expanding trade and investment opportunities and invited Pakistani businesspeople to participate in the Select USA 2025 Investment Summit. "The United States is committed to supporting Pakistan's economic development," he said, adding: "Our mutual prosperity depends on free, open, competitive markets where trade and investment can thriv...