Daily The Patriot edition of 04-09-22

CM appeals to the Affluents and Philanthropists to donate

By Staff Reporter

LAHORE: Chief Minister Punjab Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi said that the Punjab government is determined for the rehabilitation and settlement of the flood affectees. “A massive havoc was wreaked due to recent floods and I reached the flood affected areas first of all. I witnessed the destruction being caused due to flood with my on own eyes in the flood affected areas of Rajanpur, Taunsa and DG Khan. I was present in the flood affected areas with the Chief Secretary and the whole team of Punjab government and even now relief activities are going on in the flood affected areas with continuity. Rescue 1122 did a lot of hard work in the affected areas and actively participated in the relief activities. Provincial Ministers as well as Members National and Provincial Assembly launched the rehabilitation work with complete dedication and endeavour, CM stated.” CM in his video message appealed to the affluents and the philanthropists to generously contribute their donations in the account of CM Flood Relief Fund being opened in the Bank of Punjab. Imran Khan also appealed to give donations for the flood affectees during the telethon session. The CM said that the Bank of Punjab's system is open and that a transparent mechanism has been developed to track the amount being deposited in the bank. The CM Flood Relief Fund's funds will be distributed to the deserving parties in a transparent way, the CM assured. The money being deposited into the CM Flood Relief Fund, CM reaffirmed, would be transparently utilised on the rehabilitation of our flood-affected brothers and sisters.

LAHORE: Chief Secretary Punjab Kamran Ali Afzal is presiding over the meeting on dengue control.

Karachi by-polls: ECP directs IG Sindh to withdraw transfer of cops

By Staff Reporter

ISLAMABAD: The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has directed Inspector General of Police (IG) Sindh to withdraw transfers of police officers from Karachi constituencies where by-elections are scheduled on September 25. The provincial election commissioner has sent a communique to IG Punjab informing him that there is a ban on transfer and postings on three constituencies of National Assembly in Karachi that is NA-239, NA-246, and NA-237. It said that SSP Shabbir Ahmed, SP Muhammad Imran were transferred despite a ban and therefore their transfers should be withdrawn immediately. It is important to note that the Sindh government also posted SP South Muhammad Imran outside of Karachi while transferring SSP District South Shabbir Ahmed to Larkana. Following feedback from the Sindh administration, the Pakistani Election Commission recently agreed to postpone the local government elections in Karachi. The chief election commissioner made the decision based on information from the district administration and election commissioner Sindh. However, the ECP has not yet determined whether to postpone the by-elections, which will go place as scheduled on September 25 in 11 constituencies across the nation, including three in Karachi.

Agents take cut from compensation money for flood survivors

By Staff Reporter

KARACHI: The Sindh police have registered cases against 15 agents found involved in taking a cut from the compensation money given to flood victims under Prime Minister’s Relief Fund, it has been reported on Saturday. The agents took a cut before handing out the money to deserving families in Sukkur and Larkana. At least 150,000 families were nominated to receive aid under the PM’s relief program as per the information shared by Director Riaz Soomro. It has been learnt that the agents subtracted amounts before handing out the relief amount to the 150,000 families thereby spurring legal action against them. Each family was meant to receive Rs25,000 through the relief package. “So far, nearly Rs4 billion have been disbursed to the needy families,” Soomro said. According to him, the PM relief programme in the Sukkur and Larkana region qualifies almost 300,000 families for assistance. Shehbaz Sharif, the prime minister, offered a Rs. 15 billion handout for flood victims in Sindh over a week ago. At the Sukkur Barrage, the prime minister was speaking to reporters while being flanked by Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah and federal ministers Bilawal Bhutto and Syed Khurshid Shah. He said the situation demanded putting politics aside and assisting the flood victims in overcoming their tribulations. During the tour, PM Sharif also made an airborne survey of the flood-affected regions of Sukkur, Rohri, Khairpur, Faiz Ganj, Kot Diji, and Thari Mir Wah and voiced grave worry over the loss of life and damage to infrastructure. The prime minister said the grant by the federal government would help the Sindh government carry out relief and rehabilitation activities.

QUETTA: Balochistan Parliamentary Secretary for Minority Affairs Khalil George see damage of the house due to recent flood at Hanna Bypass.

LAHORE: Provincial Minister Dr. Yasmeen Rashid addressing the participants of the event at a local hotel.

Sindh CM visits Sehwan, takes aerial view of drowned native village

By Our Correspondent

SEHWAN: Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah on Saturday took an aerial view of Jhangara and Bajara villages during his visit of the shrine city of Sehwan. It is to be mentioned here that Bajara has been native village of Murad Ali Shah and Jhangara and Bajara have also submerged in the ongoing floods in Sindh. The chief minister while flying over the area, flooded with water to the end of the sight, made video of the region that was looked like a gigantic lake. Provincial minister Taimur Talpur was also accompanied with the chief minister of Sindh. According to CM Shah, "These villages have submerged as a result of the rising level of water at Manchhar Lake." The bottom part of Aral Bund was also examined by the chief minister. According to the chief minister, the Indus River was flowing at Guddu Barrage at a rate of 5,32,634 cubic seconds while it was at a high flood level at Sukkur Barrage at a rate of 5,59,998 cubic seconds. Shah continued, "The water level is rising at Manchhar Lake, which has flooded several Taluka Sehwan villages. The defensive embankment has developed breaches, he claimed. He continued, "The folks have fled their homes and want to remain at the protected embankments.

Rehabilitation of the flood victims and provision of relief goods is the top priority: Balighur Rehman

By Staff Reporter

LAHORE: A well-known social and business personality Jalaluddin Roomi called on Governor Punjab Muhammad Balighur Rehman at Governor House Lahore today. Rehabilitation and financial assistance of school children in the flood-affected areas of South Punjab came under discussion during the meeting. Speaking on the occasion, Punjab Governor Muhammad Balighur Rehman said that rehabilitation of the flood victims and provision of relief goods is the top priority at the moment. He said that the Federal and Provincial governments are working together to provide relief to the flood victims. Governor Punjab said that it is the duty of all of us to help the flood victims in this difficult time. He said that trucks of relief goods were dispatched to the flood hit areas of South Punjab with the help of philanthropists from Governor House, adding that Insha Allah this series will continue till the rehabilitation of the flood victims. Businessmen, according to Governor of Punjab Muhammad Balighur Rehman, not only contribute significantly to the nation's economy but also perform commendable social work. He was grateful for Jalaluddin Rumi's foundation, which provided access to clean water and supported schoolchildren's educational costs. Jalaluddin Rumi stated that they are now distributing food, money to the worthy kids, and other supplies in the schools of the flood-affected areas. The major priority, according to him, should be to address the people of South Punjab's educational, social, and health issues.

Quetta-Sibi highway opens for all kinds of traffic

By Our Correspondent

QUETTA: The National Highway Authority (NHA) on Saturday opened the Quetta-Sibi Road for traffic. According to NHA, the Bibi Nani bridge was swept away by flood waves in the recent monsoon rains due to which it was closed for traffic since the past few days. After a week of hard work, the NHA staff restored the Quetta-Sibi National Highway through an alternate route. Abdul Quddus Bizenjo, the chief minister of Balochistan, praised the NHA's efforts and predicted that once the national highway reopens, trade activities will follow. Damage from floods has spread over the entire nation. Apart from governments failing to take sufficient action to stop the catastrophe, experts attribute melting glaciers and increased heavy rains as one of the key causes. Balochistan, the largest province in the nation, is still flooded in the majority of its areas as of the time this story was filed. Scores of people have lost their lives, with the National Disaster Management Authority pinning the number of deaths above 1,000. Many people residing in the rural areas have lost their houses and loved ones. The government with the help of aid from foreign countries is trying to mitigate the damage caused by the devastating floods.

British HC visits flood relief camp in Nowshera

By Staff Reporter

NOWSHERA: British High Commissioner Christian Turner on Saturday visited flood-hit villages in Nowshera, where a UK charity, Islamic Relief, is providing lifesaving aid to flood-affected people. The High Commissioner also visited the village of Kakol Abad and met with the affected communities. He expressed his sorrow at the losses incurred during the flooding and assured them of the UK’s continued support, said the spokesperson of the British High Commission in Islamabad. Speaking to the media, British High Commissioner Christian Turner said: "The people I have met today are strong and will rebuild. But they need urgent support with water, sanitation, and shelter. The UK is helping provide that. The standard you walk past is the standard you accept. " Accompanied by Islamic Relief Worldwide’s CEO Waseem Ahmad and Islamic Relief Pakistan’s Country Director Asif Sherazi, the High Commissioner witnessed first-hand the devastating impact of the climate catastrophe. Expressing solidarity with the people at the camp, the British High Commissioner reaffirmed the UK’s commitment to Pakistan and observed the community’s challenges and efforts to support those affected. He visited Nowshera, days after the UK announced an additional £15 million to help affected communities. This money will be spent for urgent lifesaving support and will go towards water and sanitation, shelter and home repairs, and primary healthcare, especially for women and girls. Asif Sherazi, the country director for Islamic Relief, addressed the media at the time and stated, "The situation is getting worse by the day and is now worse than the damage caused by the floods of 2010." Since August 3, we have been onsite, supplying shelters, clean water, monetary assistance, food, and hygiene supplies to those in need across the nation. We have already provided 30,000 people with life-saving aid, and in the coming week, that number will quadruple. The goal of our emergency reaction is to aid 500,000 people. Given the scope and severity of the demands, we welcome the UK's increased assistance for the DEC appeal as well as the humanitarian response. We implore the governments of the UK and other nations to increase financial support for the recovery period as well. The UK government has stated it will match pound for pound the first £5 million in public donations, as part of the total £15 million pledge. Islamic Relief is a member of the Disasters Emergency Committee (DEC), which launched the Pakistan Floods Appeal to raise money for relief efforts.

Every family in flood-hit areas to get one-month ration: Sindh govt

By Staff Reporter

KARACHI: Sindh Minister for Information Sharjeel Memon Saturday sought proper coordination for streamlining relief goods to all flood victims in the province and asked the welfare organizations to coordinate with the local administration for reaching out to every affectee. Addressing a presser, Sharjeel Memon asked the NGOs and philanthropists to approach local administration or PDMA for coordination. “It should not be like this that some people are getting more goods while the others are abandoned completely,” he said, adding that a uniform distribution could only be ensured if through proper coordination among the welfare organisations and the local administration. Additionally, he mentioned that there have been some reports of relief supplies being stolen in flood-affected areas. He noted that these events might be prevented if local government was notified and given the required protection. To reach every impacted person, he stated, "all stakeholders aiding flood victims must coordinate."

Recording private conversation yielded no result: Shaukat Tarin

By Staff Reporter

KARACHI: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Senator Shaukat Tarin has said that recording the private conversation yielded no result. Talking to the media on Saturday, he said that his answer to the accusers is that their objective was to spend money on the people. "Democracy will suffer a loss by distributing the certificates of treason. We provided the relief to the people by standing before the IMF," he maintained. The PTI senator said that his audio taped discussion was distorted and that he was not a traitor. He criticised the administration and claimed that the IMF's requirements would make life harder for the average person. "Inflation will rise, according to the government itself. We once stood before the IMF and defended our citizens. In September, we would have bid the IMF farewell "He announced. According to Shaukat Tarin, the price of power has increased to Rs50 per unit. "The cost of gas is about to rise. Dollar prices have once again begun to rise. Russia should supply us with affordable oil, "he added.

Punjab govt transfers its eight officials

By Staff Reporter

LAHORE: The Punjab government on Saturday made transfers and postings of eight of its officials. The provincial government withdrew its notification for the transfer of Imran Bashir to Sialkot as additional deputy commissioner, revenue; Awais Mushtaq was appointed in his place instead. Similar to this, Tanvir Murtaza was appointed in place of Additional Deputy Commissioner Revenue (Muzaffargarh) Captain (r) Muhammad Shah Rukh, who was made an officer on special duty (OSD). In a similar manner, Tariq Mehmood Awan was appointed as additional commissioner consolidation, Bahawalpur, and Nauman Afzal Awan was posted as additional deputy commissioner revenue, Chakwal; Syed Usman Muneer Bukhari was made additional deputy commissioner general, Sahiwal; Qamaruz Zaman Qaiserani was appointed as additional secretary primary healthcare, south Punjab.

Police determined to address public’ issues on priority: SP

By Staff Reporter

ISLAMABAD: Superintendent of Police (SP) Saddar, Kamran Amir Khan has said that the Islamabad capital police was organizing open katchehries to address the issues of the public. He was addressing the participants of an open Katchehry at Ramana police station. The Katchehry was organized under the direction of Inspector-General Islamabad Police Dr. Akbar Nasir Khan and DIG (Operations). The concerned police officers including the SDPO, SHOs, members of conciliatory committees, ulema and notables of the area were present on the occasion. At the outset of the proceedings, the participants shared their grievances and also gave suggestions to resolve them. The SP issued orders on the spot to address the issues of the participants and assured them that their suggestions will be taken into account. Addressing the gathering, SP Saddar said the police were determined to resolve the issues faced by the residents. He said the Open Katchehries were helpful in maintaining direct relationships with the public. The SP claimed that improved police tactics contributed to a drop in crime in the city. However, he claimed that the police were making efforts to further reduce crime. He requested their assistance in helping the police reduce crime in the area. He stated that any anyone with a complaint could come to him for resolution. Additionally, he requested that anyone observing any strange behaviour surrounding them immediately contact the authorities. Speaking at the event, SSP (Operations) Malik Jameel Zafar stated that the police have been working to safeguard the inhabitants' lives and property. He claimed that actions were being taken to increase the conciliatory committees' level of activity. The participants of the gathering thanked IG Islamabad and DIG (Operations) over organizing the Open Katchehry.

Eight suspects held during search operation

By Staff Reporter

ISLAMABAD: Islamabad Capital police conducted a search and combing operation in the jurisdiction of Noon police station, a police public relations officer said. He said that, following the special directives of IGP Islamabad Dr. Akbar Nasir Khan, search and combing operations are being conducted in different areas of the city, to ensure the safety and security of the Islamabad citizens. Following these orders, a search and combing operation was conducted in the PS Noon areas by local police, CTD and Quick reaction teams under the supervision and SP I.Area . Eighteen suspects were moved to the police station during the search operation for verification, and eight homes were inspected. Large quantities of weapons and ammunition were also found during the search operation, and cases were opened against the offenders. The goal of the search and combing operations, according to IGP Islamabad Dr. Akbar Nasir Khan, is to increase security in the Federal capital. To continue these activities in their respective zones, all zonal officials received instructions. Additionally, participation from the public is requested when the police are checking.

MIPD organized Teaching and Learning Excellence Awards Ceremony 2022

By Staff Reporter

ISLAMABAD: Millennium Institute of Professional Development MIPD and Department of International Qualifications, Curriculum and Assessments at The Millennium Education group organized Teaching and Learning Excellence Awards Ceremony 2022 to honour, award, and appreciate teachers for their excellent teaching performance and significant contribution towards enhancing the quality of teaching and learning nationwide. The Millennium Education Group places great emphasis on reflective teaching, improving learning experiences, and cultivating effective practices. It is all about providing world class learning opportunities to the teachers. It aims to provide the teachers with a platform to express themselves not only as educators, but also to discover the hidden potential in each one of them that leads to the discovery of their ultimate identity. Teaching & Learning Excellence Awards 2022 were presented for securing distinctions in Foundation courses, MIP, and for being star teachers in Pearson Edexcel iPrimary and Cambridge Check Point Examinations. Awards were also distributed among Programme leaders for Cambridge International Certificate in Teaching and Learning CICTL, and Cambridge International Certificate for teaching with Digital Technology CICTDT. The ceremony was concluded with the distribution of TMUC Service Excellence Awards. The ceremony was graced by Prof. Quintin McKellar CBE, Vice Chancellor & Chief Executive University of Hertfordshire, United Kingdom. Prof. Quintin McKellar CBE, the honourable chief guest, stressed the teachers' wide-ranging responsibilities in an era of interrelated dimensions and emphasised that community, opportunity, and flexibility are the fundamental elements of greatness in education.

ISLAMABAD: Deputy Chairman Senate, Mirza Muhammad Afridi in a group photo with students at 19th Convocation 2022 of National University of Modern languages (NUML).

First humanitarian assistance flight from France arrives in Islamabad

By Staff Reporter

ISLAMABAD: First humanitarian assistance flight from France has arrived in Islamabad on Saturday. According to a statement issued by Foreign Office Spokesperson Asim Iftikhar Ahmad, it was received at Islamabad International Airport by Minister of Health Abdul Qadir Patel along with representatives from Ministry of Foreign Affairs & National Disaster Management Authority. The aircraft was carrying relief material including high-capacity water pumps, tents and survival & hygiene equipment. The relief assistance from France is welcomed with warmth and gratitude. Speaking to the media on the occasion, Abdul Qadir Patel expressed his gratitude to the French government for standing by Pakistan and extending support to it in this difficult hour. According to Abdul Qadir Patel, France also delivered large dewatering pumps and medications as part of the humanitarian help package. He claimed that France had also deployed a medical and expert team. According to the minister, Pakistan appreciates French aid for flood victims. According to Abdul Qadar Patel, the federal government is working relentlessly to provide relief and rehabilitation for the afflicted populace in conjunction with the provincial governments. He claimed that we are utilising all of our resources to provide flood victims with medical care.

National Flood Response Coordination Center holds first meeting to review flood response

By Staff Reporter

ISLAMABAD: The first meeting of the newly formed National Flood Response and Coordination Center (NFRCC) was held in Islamabad under the chairmanship of Ahsan Iqbal on Saturday. The meetingFederal Minister Ahsan Iqbal, who is the deputy chairman of the body. The meeting — which is still underway — was briefed about the ongoing disaster mitigation and relief efforts throughout the country. Participants included the director general of ISPR, the chairman of the Flood Commission, the NDMA Cchairman, and representatives from the Met Department. In order to improve efficient communication between government decision-makers, climate and science specialists, and those executing on-the-ground rescue operations, such as the nation's military and self-help groups, the government established the National Flood Response and Coordination Center.

Two seeking justice for murdered relative killed in twin cities

By Staff Reporter

ISLAMABAD: A woman and her brother were mercilessly killed while going to nominate the killers of woman’s son in police station Khanna radius Rawalpindi. According to details, a man was killed last month. On their way to nominate the killers to the police in Khanna station, the mother along with her brother were also put to death. The mother was requested to write a statement on a piece of stamp paper when she went to the police station with her brother to report the murderers.

ISLAMABAD: Additional Secretary Foreign Affairs Mumtaz Baloch Vietnam Nguyen Tien Phong cutting cake on the occasion of 77 National Day of Vietnam ceremonies.

BMP warns of food crisis; calls for mobilizing resources to support relief efforts

By Staff Reporter

ISLAMABAD: The Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry’s Businessmen Panel (BMP) has warned that a food crisis could be imminent followed by the floods, which have caused widespread devastation, calling the world to work with the government to mobilize resources for immediate response to support the country’s relief efforts. FPCCI former president and BMP Chairman Mian Anjum Nisar said that the initial economic losses from floods in Pakistan could surpass $10-12 billion, as unprecedented flash floods caused by abnormal monsoon rains have washed away crops, infrastructure and bridges, killing thousands and affecting more than 30 millions. He asked the government to identify priority needs, including food security, agriculture and livestock, health, water, sanitation, hygiene, shelter, and nonfood items. The country’s agricultural sector, especially in Sindh and Balochistan, has been hit the hardest with the finance ministry also recently warning that production of major crops would be affected due to the floods. He said 100% of the cotton crop in Sindh, which accounts for30% of the crop in Pakistan, has been destroyed, which amounts to losses of at least $1 billion, which will cascade through the economy, he said. He said it might take five years to rebuild and rehabilitate the South Asian nation of 200 million people, which will be facing an acute challenge of food shortage. We need to work continuously with federal and provincial authorities to identify how we can help financing the growing needs as the extent of the disaster evolves, and mobilize further finding for the large relief, rehabilitation and reconstruction efforts that are to come in the recovery phase. Presently, country needs billions grant to support the government of Pakistan’s emergency relief efforts amid widespread floods across the country. He said that the whole business community stands with the people of Pakistan during these difficult times, as we are committed to working with the government and other development partners to help Pakistan overcome the devastating impact of this natural disaster and provide immediate relief to affected families. We require teams to also help assess the damage caused by floods to draw up plans to support longer term rehabilitation efforts and strengthen communities’ climate resilience, he said. Pakistan has seen flash floods, landslides, and glacial lake eruptions as a result of the heavy rainfall. In just three weeks in July, the nation experienced more than 60% of the typical annual monsoon rainfall. More than 1100 deaths have been reported from the floods, which are expected to have affected over 30 million people. Almost 500,000 people are currently living in rescue camps.

Franco-Pakistan’s trade and development policies are expected to strengthen

By Samra Athar Kakakhel

ISLAMABAD: From its inception, Franco-Pakistan relations were warm and cordial relation; both countries had diplomatic ties shortly after Pakistan's independence. France was one of the first non-Muslim states to recognize Pakistan, opening its embassy a few months after Pakistani independence. We remember that the first French ambassador to Pakistan presented his credentials in April 1948. Goodwill messages were exchanged between the leaders of the two countries, with Pakistan's founder, Quaid e Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, honoring France. He addressed the first French ambassador to Pakistan that “The magnificent history of your great country and its achievements are well-known to the world. In common with other nations, we in Pakistan have admired the high principles of democracy that form the basis of your great state. The cry of liberty, fraternity, and equality which was raised during your great revolution and officially adopted by your great Republic had its repercussions throughout the world, as is known to every student of history. These ideals and these principles are still keeping up the hopes of many downtrodden nations.” France considered Pakistan a "state deserving of attention". It was a major foreign supplier to the Pakistan Armed Forces. France had been an important partner in the early 1960s, particularly for the PAF and the Navy. We actually remember France delivering the first batch of Mirage jets as well as submarine technology to Pakistan.From 1967 to the 2000s, the Pakistan Air Force was France's greatest customer, purchasing a large number of fighter and commercial aircraft. In early 1990, the PAF bought a batch of the used Mirage fighters, followed by the signing of a contract for 40 fighter aircraft.The Navy also has a long-standing defense relationship with France, which is best recognized for its purchase of the Daphne class and the submarine technology transfer of the Agosto class which was signed in 1994. Pakistan always desiredthe same degree of cooperation in non-military domainsas France. The Pakistani government aimed to produce a draft roadmap aimed at renewing and strengthening Pakistan-France bilateral ties in all domains, including politics, economics, education, culture, science and technology, and counter-terrorism. For friendly relations, there ought to be a proper strategic plan to team up with Pakistan and support initiatives for increased scientific and technological cooperation, particularly in the fields of environment, climate change, green technologies, information and communication commerce, digitalization of economies, Financial technology, and agriculture, engineering, medical sciences, humanities, social sciences, and management sciences. To continue development assistance in connection with Sustainability, Pakistan must be recognized and encouragedto follow the EU’s best practices and concepts. Recognize specific programs by having signed required agreements between academic institutions, higher education institutions, and industries in both countries.

President urges politicians to encourage people to help flood affectees

By Staff Reporter

ISLAMABAD: President Dr Arif Alvi on Saturday said that politics and floods were not a zero-sum situation and urged the politicians to mobilize people, prioritize relief activities and continue with their constitutional efforts to strengthen democracy through national discourse. In an apparent reference to the country's recent crisis in the aftermath of the floods, the president urged legislators to stimulate philanthropic action and mend the economy on his Twitter handle. "Politics and flooding are not a zero-sum game." The best service politicians can provide is to mobilise people, prioritise relief operations, stimulate philanthropic response, rebuild the economy, and continue constitutional efforts to improve democracy through national conversation," the president tweeted.

Only bloody revolution or elections can remove the ruling elite: Imran

Says can turn into ‘cornered tiger’ if pushed against the wall

By Our Correspondent

BAHAWALPUR: Former prime minister Imran Khan on Saturday said “a bloody revolution” or “elections” are the only way to remove the ruling elite imposed on the nation. The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chairman, speaking to a large crowd in Bahawalpur, emphasised how the Sharifs, Zardari, and Maulana Fazlur Rehman are a sickness that the country is suffering from. He insisted that the current government was not elected to lower inflation, but rather to defend their ill-gotten wealth. Reiterating his appeal for new general elections, Imran stated that the country will continue to suffer since no one knows where it is going. "We are mired in the quicksand of debt," the ex-prime minister stated, pinning hope on abroad Pakistanis for always offering assistance to their home country in times of need. The PTI president went on to suggest that the only way abroad Pakistanis will return their money is if they know the country's legal system is functioning. Imran Khan has warned the government that if he is pushed up against a wall, he will turn into a "cornered tiger." The PTI Chief expressed gratitude to God for reawakening our nation. He went on to say that a person who believes in God is never fearful of anyone else. He went on to say that there is a renegade politician in Bahawalpur who was with the PTI for three years before defecting. Never vote for such traitors again, Bahawalpur, he added. In response to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Imran Khan stated that the country works hard, but politicians like him steal and launder money out of the country. Maryam Nawaz used to declare that she has no property anywhere in the world, and that she is so impoverished that she should be placed in the Ihsaas programme, he added.

Tarar criticises political shows during floods

By Our Correspondent

LAHORE: Special Assistant to Prime Minister Attaullah Tarar chastised the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) for holding political rallies while one-third of the country was under water. He told a press conference here that the Punjab administration was uninterested in resolving the flood victims' problems. He claimed that the Punjab chief minister did not visit impacted districts to express solidarity with the beleaguered people. He urged all political parties to avoid playing politics over the floods and instead work together to provide assistance and rehabilitation to the victims. He noted that the federal government and the departments involved were actively engaged in relief efforts. He claimed that the floods caused devastation in the country, citing Pakistan as one of the countries hardest afflicted by climate change. He hailed friendly countries such as the UAE, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia for their assistance to Pakistan. He claimed that the deals reached by the former PTI government were to blame for the country's inflation. He claimed that a recent IMF study held the PTI government accountable for the true cause of the country's present economic woes. According to Attaullah Tarar, the existing government does not believe in victimhood politics; nonetheless, no one may be allowed to criticise the institutions. In response to a question, he stated that the federal coalition government was utilising all resources for flood victims and that the government would not sit until every flood affected person was fully rehabilitated. In response to another query, he stated that a control room had been established at the National Disaster Management Authority to evaluate losses caused by floods, and that every conceivable compensation would be paid for total restoration of the affected districts.

Shaukat anticipates ramble in gas tariff, taxes soon under IMF bestow

Calls out government to stop issuing felony certificates

By Our Correspondent

KARACHI: Former finance minister Shaukat Tarin predicted on Saturday that gas prices will rise by 53 percent, and that the government would impose additional taxes. Shaukat Tarin, speaking at a press conference in Karachi, said the increase in gas prices and taxes is part of the IMF agreement inked by the existing government. "They negotiated a difficult deal with the IMF," he added, adding that even that did not help the rupee, which had only made a tiny rebound against the US dollar for two days before the greenback made a stronger comeback. He said that the incumbent government had acquired a $9.4 billion loan in just four months. "We have never bowed down to the IMF and have instead fought alongside them to achieve relief for our people." Shaukat Tarin has begged the government not to raise power and gas prices right away because the country is being devastated by flash floods. “Increase the tariff of utilities phase-wise rather than doing it in a go,” he said. He also offered assistance to the government and stated that the entire nation must unify in the face of the floods. "We are willing to collaborate with them to address the flood crisis," Tarin stated. On Saturday, the International Monetary Fund (IMF) imposed harsher structural requirements on Pakistan as part of the implementation plan for qualifying the next loan tranches totaling $3 billion. According to a report on the completion of the extended fund facility (EFFseventh )'s and eighth reviews, the global lender has imposed eight new targets on Pakistan, as well as new dates to meet the activities. The IMF has requested Pakistan to ensure electronically filed tax and asset details of officials, cabinet members, and lawmakers and make them public in order to restart the IMF programme. The Fund has asked the government to discontinue subsidies received during the Imran Khan administration. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has requested that the tariff on petroleum goods be increased from Rs30 to Rs50. According to the estimate, an additional Rs855 billion should be collected from the public by increasing the petroleum duty. The administration has also pledged to reinstate the general sales tax (GST) on gasoline items. According to the source, "a 10.5 percent sales tax will be applied on petroleum products." Meanwhile, the electricity tariff could reach Rs26 per unit due to the IMF's directive to reduce subsidised rates for electricity.

UAE, Qatar special planes carrying relief goods arrive in Karachi

By Our Correspondent

KARACHI: Four planes delivering relief supplies for flood victims arrived in Pakistan on Saturday, as the country remains ravaged by monsoon rains that caused flash floods, killing over 1,000 people and displacing millions. Planes delivering relief supplies have arrived at the Jinnah International Airport in Karachi from Doha and the UAE, with the latter also providing a field hospital to treat victims suffering from water-borne infections. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has welcomed relief supplies from Muslim-friendly countries. Pakistan is getting flood relief supplies from around the world, including Qatar, the United Arab Emirates, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia. President Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) has pledged complete help for flood victims in Pakistan. The authorities of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) had contacted Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa and pledged 20 aircraft delivering relief supplies for flood victims.

Zulfi Bukhari withdraws his UK nationality

By Staff Reporter

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Zulfi Bukhari has withdrawn his British nationality; he shared withdrawal documents approved by the British Home office on media. According to reports, the PTI leader was a dual national with passports from both Pakistan and the United Kingdom. 'Now I'm just a Pakistani, my passport has no visas, and I can't leave Pakistan,' he explained. He went on to say that he would now fight for "true independence" alongside PTI Chairman Imran. People were predicting that Khan might escape the nation if the PTI govt was overthrown, he added.

AJK PM stresses on adopting environment-friendly lifestyle

By Staff Reporter

ISLAMABAD: Sardar Tanveer Ilyas Khan, Prime Minister of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, stated on Saturday that adopting an environmentally friendly lifestyle was the most effective method to address key challenges of our day, such as climate change, flooding, and earthquakes. Sardar Ilyas said in a statement issued here that adopting a sustainable environment-friendly lifestyle, as well as conserving water resources and soil fertility, was critical to reducing climatic repercussions. Constructions that violate building codes, he said, will not be permitted in Azad Kashmir under any circumstances. He stated that the government was investigating the causes influencing the natural environment and that a complete policy would be developed in this regard. The AJK PM stated that it was critical to eliminate environmental contamination and raise awareness about environmental protection. He called global warming the greatest threat to humanity and stated that ruthless deforestation, depletion of water resources, indiscriminate dumping of garbage in springs and lakes, deliberate attempts to destroy rivers and canals, and erecting illegal structures all pose serious threats to the environment. He stated that, given the conditions, there was an immediate need to focus on planting more trees, stopping unlawful structures, and paying close attention to recycling in order to maintain our ecosystem.

Mushaal appeals Kashmiris to help flood stricken Pakistanis

By Staff Reporter

ISLAMABAD: Mushaal Hussein Mallick, Chairperson of the Pakistan Peace and Culture Organization, has urged Kashmiris in Pakistan and around the world to come up and assist their Pakistani brothers and sisters during this difficult time. Speaking to reporters outside a flood relief camp set up by Pakistan Sweet Homes, the National Press Club, and the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists here on Saturday, she reminded Kashmiris that when there was an earthquake in Kashmir, the people of Pakistan kindly supported them. As a result, she stated that the flood victims were in agony today, as the storm wreaked havoc across the country, and that they should play their part in this trying time. According to Mushaal, the floods have displaced millions of people and washed away the majority of their goods. She claimed that over 20 lakh acres of crops had been flooded, and that over five million cattle had been washed away. The Chairperson stated that there may be a food crisis in the coming days as a result of the devastation caused by the severe rains and accompanying disastrous floods and that Kashmiris residing in or outside Pakistan should assist the flood-affected people. Mushaal swore that the Kashmiri people would not abandon their Pakistani brothers and sisters during this difficult time and would provide all possible assistance to pull them out of danger.

New provinces proposal to destroy federation, says Raza Rabbani

By Staff Reporter

ISLAMABAD: Former Senate Chairman Mian Raza Rabbani slammed PTI head Imran Khan's call to declare each division of the country a province on Friday, calling it a cheap attempt to heal ties with the establishment, which has long lobbied for it. Addressing a lawyers' conference in Sargodha, the PTI chief stated that every division of the country, in his opinion, should be made into a province. He stated that the country was divided into 32 divisions, with Punjab having ten, Balochistan eight, and Sindh and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa each having seven. He believes that if each division is regarded like a province, the country's problems can be properly addressed. Mr Rabbani responded to the announcement by saying, "Such a plan shall exacerbate the internal fault lines and destroy the federation." "Provinces are formed based on linguistic, ethnic, and cultural affinity, not administrative divisions," he explained. "This will affect the federal framework of the 1973 Constitution." "It's an attempt to resurrect one unit, not Ayubian style, but Musharraf's local government," he explained. The Ayubian and Mushrraf one unit model of government, according to Mr Rabbani, had been tried and failed. "This will result in vertical and horizontal polarisation in the body politic and society," he said. "The provinces' natural resources will be under the supervision of Islamabad, the federal government." "Oil and gas, which the provinces have a 50 percent share of under the Constitution, will come into the hands of the federal government," he stated. He stated that Article 160 of the Constitution, which addresses the NFC, will need to be modified. This is the main source of disagreement. "It will be a repeal of the 18th Amendment," he said. Furthermore, he stated that the parliamentary form of governance will be abolished. "A presidential or quasi-presidential form of government will be established," he stated. Mr Rabbani slammed Mr Khan, saying, "Sometimes he (Imran) talks of dividing Pakistan into three parts; what is the political goal behind this?" Is the institution on board? "Is the talk of the PTI gaining a two-thirds majority in the upcoming elections linked to giving it the authority to rewrite the Constitution, reliving the Ayubian era?" he wondered.