PM Shehbaz Sharif to participate in CICA summit in Kazakhstan
PM forms ministerial committee on energy conservation roadmap
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will participate in the 6th Summit of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia (CICA) being held in Astana, Kazakhstan, on 12-13 October. The prime minister will be accompanied by members of the cabinet and senior officials; Foreign Office Spokesperson said in a press release on Tuesday.Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will address the plenary meeting of CICA on 13 October. He will elaborate upon the significance of CICA as a unique forum for promoting interaction, understanding and collaboration amongst countries across Asia to address common challenges. He will also highlight Pakistan’s perspective on regional and global issues. On the sidelines of the summit, the prime minister will hold bilateral meetings with the leaders of various CICA Member States aimed at fostering greater cooperation, particularly in the fields of trade, investment and ”The Prime Minister’s participation in the CICA Summit attests to the importance attached by Pakistan to promoting connectivity and economic cooperation in Asia, in keeping with the objectives enshrined in the CICA Charter,” the spokesperson further added.CICA is an intergovernmental process comprising 27 countries from all across Asia. Established in 1992, it focuses on promoting peace, security and socio-economic development in the Asian continent. Pakistan is one of its founding members.CICA offers an invaluable platform for advancing the objectives of regional stability and prosperity through dialogue and win-win cooperation.It promotes confidence building measures under five broad domains: economic dimension, environmental dimension, human dimension, new challenges and threats, and military-political cooperation. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday directed to constitute a high-powered committee to formulate long, medium and short-term strategies on the Energy Efficiency and Conservation Measures Implementation Roadmap, proposed by the Power Division. The committee, to be headed by Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif, will consist of members including Commerce Minister Syed Naveed Qamar, Minister for Industries and Production Syed MurtazaMehmood, Minister for Railways KhawajaSaadRafiq, Minister for Planning Ahsan Iqbal, Minister for Law AzamNazir Tarar, Minister for Information Marriyum Aurangzeb, Minister for Climate Change Sherry Rehman and Minister for Board of Investment Ch. SalikHussain. -- PR
Alvi not to make mockery of sensitive issue of the appointment of COAS: Irfan Siddiqui
In 2019, Imran did not consult then opposition leader (current PM) Shehbaz or other opposition parties to extend the tenure of army chief
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz (PML-N) Senator Irfan-Ul-Haq Siddiqui on Tuesday asked President Dr Arif Alvi not to make mockery of sensitive issue of the appointment of new Chief of Army Staff (COAS). Talking to media outside Parliament House, he said the then government did not consult the opposition on the extension of (incumbent army chief) in 2019. In 2019, Imran Khan did not consult the then opposition leader (current Prime Minister) Shehbaz Sharif or other opposition parties to extend the tenure of the army chief. He was asked to comment on President Alvi's suggestion that the Army Chief should be appointed by consensus and after wider consultation. Senator Irfan Siddiqui said that this proposal was a clear deviation from the Constitution of Pakistan and such a proposal was not expected from the President. Siddiqui also contested the claim of the President that the PTI government had consulted the then opposition in 2019 to extend the army chief’s tenure. President Arif Alvi has deviated from the constitutional requirements by proposing a wider consultation regarding the appointment of the Army Chief. He asked the President to avoid floating such unconstitutional proposals. A draft amendment to the Army Act was shown to the opposition by former law minister Farough Naseem and former defence minister Pervez Khattak when the extension of army chief issue had landed in the Supreme Court and formal legislation in this regard was being sought. Also asking the opposition that they (opposition) have no authority to modify it, (and to just) support or oppose it. Senator Siddiqui said the then opposition supported the bill due to its own reasons, it cannot be called a consultation at all. Senator Irfan Siddiqui asked the President not ridicule the appointment to a sensitive position by presenting proposals that contradict the constitution.
12 Maj. Gen. of Army including DG ISPR Babar Iftikhar promoted to Lt Gen.
By Staff Reporter
RAWALPINDI: 12 Major Generals of the Pakistan Army including Director General Inter-Services Public Relations (DG ISPR) Major General Babar Iftikhar has been promoted to the Rank of Lieutenant General. According to the state-run TV channel, those promoted to the rank of Lieutenant General from Major General include Lieutenant General Inam Haider Malik, Lieutenant General Fayyaz Hussain Shah, Lieutenant General Nauman Zakria, Lieutenant General Zafar Iqbal, Lieutenant General Ayman Bilal Safdar, Lieutenant General Ahsan Gulrez, Lieutenant General Aamer Raza, Lieutenant General Shahid Imtiaz, Lieutenant General Munir Afsar, Lieutenant General Babar Iftikhar, Lieutenant General Yousaf Jamal, and Lieutenant General Kashif Nazir.
Sachi Baat
Dr. AQ Khan himself gave the credit for the nuclear blasts to the then PM Nawaz Sharif, says SK Niazi
President rejected the statements of Imran Khan, thus proving that Imran Khan is a liar: Waheed Alam Khan, Due to the incompetence of the current provincial government, the situation in Swat is deteriorating: Hidayat Ullah Khan, Lies cannot last long; President Arif Alvi has extended the narrative of Imran Khan and asked to conduct an inquiry: Zafar Ali Shah
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: SK Niazi, Chief Editor, of Pakistan Group of Newspapers, talks on the program "Sachi Baat". He stated, "Our nation does not remember its benefactors; Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan Mohsin is Pakistan; PML-N takes credit for nuclear blasts; Dr. Abdul Qadir Khan himself gave the credit for the nuclear blasts to the then Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. On the current politics of Imran Khan, SK Niazi stated, "People stand with Imran Khan's narrative. Imran stands alone against 8 parties. Imran talks about getting real freedom (Haqiqi Azadi). In current politics, Mr. Waheed Alam Khan and the Awami National Party's Hidayat Ullah Khan participated and presented their views. Yesterday was Dr. Abdul Qadir Khan's first anniversary, and I would like to pay special tribute to Mohsin Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan. On the conspiracy of cipher and Imran Khan’s narrative, he stated, "President Arif Alvi rejected the statements of Imran Khan, thus proving that Imran Khan is a liar. Imran Khan hides the truth and talks contrary to the facts. While Hidayat Ullah Khan stated, "I pay tribute to the services of Mohsin Pakistan Dr. Abdul Qadir Khan." Before 2013, there were many explosions in KP. When our government came, the situation in Swat was very bad in 2013. When Hamari came, we negotiated with the Taliban. At that time, there were a large number of refugees in Swat, with the efforts of the government, the situation became normal and people returned to their homes. Our party has sacrificed a lot for the country and terrorism. Barrister Saif does not know the ground facts in KP. Due to the incompetence of the current provincial government, the situation in Swat is deteriorating. People protested against terrorism in Swat today. People have woken up against terrorism. In 2013, our government resolutely fought terrorism. To counter the questions and present his party's representation, PTI leader Zafar Ali Shah participated in "Sachi Baat". People are standing with Imran Khan. The President of the State has denied the statement. His statement was shown without context. He further said, "Lies cannot last long; Alvi has extended the narrative of Imran Khan and asked to conduct an inquiry into cipher. The President's statement was distorted. Nawaz does not hold unparliamentarily talks against his opponents.
Imran, 10 others booked in foreign funding case
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has registered a case against Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) chief Imran Khan and 10 others over accusations of receiving foreign funding. The case has been registered by the FIA Corporate Banking Circle. The case’s First Information Report (FIR) stated that the accused including former premier Imran Khan violated Foreign Exchange Act and all of the nominated persons were beneficiaries of the private bank account. The nominated persons also included Sardar Azhar Tariq, Saifullah Niazi, Syed Younus, Aamer Mehmood Kiani, Tariq Shaikh and Tariq Shafi, whereas, the manager of the private bank was nominated. According to the FIA, PTI had a private bank account titled Naya Pakistan, whereas, the bank manager had illegally permitted the accused to operate the account. It read that $2.1 million had been deposited by Abraaj Group, whereas, PTI had submitted Arif Naqvi’s affidavit to the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) that the company deposited the huge sum of money to the political party’s bank account. The FIA stated in the FIR that the affidavit was false and counterfeit. The political party had also received funds from Wootton Cricket and the head of the private bank facilitated the accused by providing suspicious records. PTI leader Hamid Zaman had made key revelations during the interrogation of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) in the prohibited funding case. The probe report was submitted by the FIA to the local court in the previous hearing that claimed Zaman opened three bank accounts with the PTI leadership.
ISLAMABAD: Chairman Pakistan Media Group SK Niazi, presenting his book “Halqa-e-Ahbaab” to ANP Central Leader, Chairman of Senate Standing Committee on Housing and Works, Senetor Haji Hidayatullah.
Ahsan stresses generous donations of blankets, quilts for flood-stricken people
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: Minister for Planning and Development Ahsan Iqbal on Tuesday asked the citizens across the country to generously donate blankets and quilts for the flood-stricken people to save them from cold as the winter season was fast approaching. Speaking on a point of order at the Joint Sitting of the Parliament, he said generous donations should be given to especially flood-hit people residing in cold areas to provide them some solace. He said water had not yet receded in dozens of districts as over 30 million people were rendered homeless due to the flash floods and devastating rains. The philanthropists, non-governmental organizations and others should come forward to help the flood affected people. Earlier speaking on the point of order, Mohsin Dawar demanded the issuance of production orders of Ali Wazir, a member of the National Assembly from South Waziristan. Ali Wazir was behind the bars, while PTI Chairman Imran Khan and Shehbaz Gill were roaming free despite “speaking against institutions”, he added.
Bonded labour is increasing, DVCs dysfunctional in Sindh
By Ghulam Mahdi Baloch
KARACHI: Hari Welfare Association (HWA) has demanded to activate the District Vigilance Committee in all districts of Sindh, especially in flood-hit areas of provinces. This was stated by President of HWA Akram Khaskheli along with Peasant leader Rai Chand, Member of Vigilance Committee of Sindh Human Rights Department Paryal Mari, advocate and Naghma Sheikh of The Knowledge Forum (TKF) at a press conference at Karachi Press Club on Tuesday. Khaskheli said that Sindh and the federal governments have turned a deaf ear to peasants and workers who lost their crops, wages, cattle and houses during rains and floods started in August 2022. HWA also said that after the devastation of flood and rainwater, the government has failed to remove water from the main towns of Sehwan, Dadu, Larkana, Thatta and Badin districts. He said Sindh government has failed to protect peasants and workers during and after the rains and floods, which has caused peasants and workers to become easy prey to greedy and exploitative landlords. HWA feared that in the absence of government support most peasants and farm workers have started working under informal terms and conditions determined by landlords, in which poor families are getting loans/peshgi/advance to survive through their tough times. It said that such sharecropping informal arrangements result in debt bondage, which was already on the rise without being monitored and checked by the district vigilance committees. In 2021, 14 District Vigilance Committees were formed in only 14 districts of Sindh under the Sindh Bonded Labour System Abolition Act 2015, but none of these are functional; thus, there is no monitoring of the implementation of the Act. However, during and after floods, there is a dire role of the DVCs. HWA said that there are thousands of peasants and rural workers’ families in 17 districts of Sindh without adequate shelter, work, work opportunities, minimum wages, and safe drinking water, health and education services. It added that governments rather than helping to restore their lives by providing them with shelters and livelihood opportunities have turned a mass of flood-affected peasants and rural workers into beggars. HWA also claimed that millions of children and their adult family members require food, safe drinking water and social security support; if not provided with these, around 500,000 million children under 5 years old may die by the end of 2022 due to malnutrition, hunger, water-borne diseases (especially diarrhoea), malaria and cold. HWA urged federal and provincial governments to provide relief and support to peasants and rural workers rather than rich landlords. Also take extra-ordinary measures to remove water from centres of the many rural districts of Sindh, and provide houses/shelters and state lands for cultivating crops. HWA also demanded that governments should immediately compensate peasants, and farm workers for the loss of their livelihoods, houses, cattle and lives.
First Women University in chakwal in private sector launched
By Staff Reporter
CHAKWAL: The foundation stone of the first women's university in district Chakwal has been laid and the admission of female students in ten different faculties has been started in it. In this 28 kanal wide central campus, rooms have been allocated for the accommodation of fifty students initially while the district Scholarships are also being provided for the intelligent and deserving students of Chakwal, and the fee structure has also been kept very low. This was expressed by Madam Satara Asghar, Principal of Milestone Institute of Arts and Sciences, in Live from Chakwal Press Club Studio told while thinking the institute's academic director Prof. Sohail Akram was also present on this occasion, while among the senior journalists, Chairman of the Chakwal Press Club Khawaja Babar Saleem Mehmood, DM Minhas, and Malik Nasir Qamar were also present. Khawaja Babar Saleem Mahmood said in the initial conversation that, Alhamdulillah, the literacy rate of Chakwal district is 95% and the establishment of a university for women in the private sector at Kallar Kahar is a great step which will greatly enhance the knowledge base of the entire area. I will bring it forward. Professor Sohail Akram stated that the aforementioned educational institution was established following a thorough survey.Senior Journalist DM Minhas said that the establishment of the University of Chakwal is a historic step that will make Chakwal district a university town in the near future. It is the central location of Chakwal in Rawalpindi Division and students from faraway areas can get an education. Chakwal will come.
Sindh CM creates housing company with Rs500m seed money to construct collapsed houses
By Staff Reporter
KARACHI: Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah in his meeting with the World Bank delegation led by its Country Director Najy Benhassine discussed the provision of targeted subsidies to the small growers for agricultural inputs such as seed and fertilizer so that they could plant their upcoming rabi crop, particularly the wheat. “Our government [Sindh] is keen to rehabilitate and strengthen growers, particularly the small ones so that their submerged agricultural lands could be made fit for plantation,” he said and added the growers have suffered a huge loss during the Kharif crops in which their standing crops were washed away. Shah said that $100 million may be allocated for the agricultural subsidy for the Rabi crops which was agreed upon in the meeting; however, Minister Agriculture Manzoor Wassan was directed by the CM to hold a departmental meeting with the Agriculture Sector Experts of the World Bank for developing modalities.
Punjab govt to continue mission of public service: Parvez Elahi
By Staff Reporter
Lahore: While the opposition is engrossed in spreading propaganda, the government would continue the mission of serving the people and providing necessary relief to them. In a statement issued on Tuesday, Chief Minister Punjab Chaudhry Parvez Elahi said that numerous steps have been taken for facilitating the masses. Punjab has started the Ehsaas ration discount program with 100 billion rupees and under this program, eight million deserving families are getting flour, pulses, cooking oil and ghee up to 40% cheaper. People of three flood-hit districts have also been included in this program; he added and maintained that it is the vision of our leader Imran Khan. People deprived of social protection are the responsibility of the State; he emphasised and added that the Ehsaas ration discount program is a big step towards achieving the goals of poverty alleviation and welfare State. Parvez Elahi noted that the national health card is one of the flagship programs of the incumbent government. 2.2 million Patients have been treated free of cost at a cost of Rs.50 billion. Meanwhile, cancer patients are provided with the facility of treatment through cyber knife technology and this would provide much-needed relief to them. He said that more than 54,000 cancer patients have been treated through the national health card program, while more than 4,83,000 kidney patients have also received free treatment. Through the national health card, every resident of Punjab has been provided with free treatment while the treatment of other diseases was being included in the national health card program, he added. It is my mission to ensure the provision of quality medical facilities to every citizen of the province, he emphasised. The CM said that a 25 billion relief has been given to the people by ensuring a 100 % decrease in the ratio of stamp duty. For public convenience, the rate of stamp duty has been fixed at 1% across Punjab. By reducing the rate of stamp duty, urban property registration and transfers will increase. This would provide relief to citizens and the government would get more revenue, he said. This step will promote the construction industry and create new employment opportunities. The provincial government has taken this decision in the wider public interest, he concluded.
Muslim Council of America announces campaign in US debts of flood-affected Pakistan
By Staff Reporter
LAHORE: The Muslim Council of America has announced the launch of a campaign in the United States to waive the debts of flood-affected Pakistan. In this regard letters will also be written to US senators, members of Congress and officials of other financial institutions including theInternational Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank. Chairman Muslim Council of America Rana Zaman Saeed ,while talking to the media along with Central Secretary General Rashid Mehmood Supra said that there is no other example in the world of the destruction caused by floods in Pakistan, therefore, the time has come that not only all the international powers including the United States should fully support Pakistan, but all the international organizations including the International Monetary Fund (IMF), World Bank should also announce to waive off all the debts of Pakistan to ensure full assistance to the flood-affected poor people and construction of their houses. Rana Zaman Saeed said that philanthropists from all over the world should also go beyond the spirit of serving humanity and help the flood-affected families in Pakistan. Secretary General Rashid Mehmood Supra said that there are a large number of Pakistanis in the whole world, including USA, who have been given a lot of wealth by Allah, and it is their duty to go ahead and build houses for the affected families of Pakistan and assist them in this hour of need. This Pakistan belongs to all of us, we all have to work together to make it strong and get rid of the problems. He said that the federal and provincial governments of Pakistan also have the responsibility to overcome political and personal differences and unite to help the flood victims.
Malala Yousufzai arrives in Pakistan to visit flood-hit areas
By Staff Reporter
KARACHI: Nobel laureate Malala Yousufzai on Tuesday landed in Karachi to visit the flood-hit areas of Sindh. Twenty four-year-old Malala, who holds the distinction of being the youngest Nobel Peace Prize winner in history, is being accompanied by her parents during the trip amid strict security. This is the second time that the 2014 Nobel peace prize winner has visited Pakistan. Malala, a Pashtun girl from Pakistan Swat Valley, got shot in the face by the Taliban when she was just 15 for refusing to waive off her right to education and has since resided in Birmingham where she was airlifted for treatment after the assassination attempt. The shooting drew widespread international condemnation. She has become an internationally recognised symbol of resistance to the Taliban’s efforts of denying women education and other rights. In 2014, Yousafzai became the youngest recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize at the age of 17 in recognition of her efforts for children’s rights.
Court room of Regional Police Officer heard appeals against punishments given to police officers and employees
By Staff Reporter
Multan: The Court room of the Regional Police Officer heard the appeals against the punishments given to the police officers and employees. Inspector Javed Hussain Gilani's appeal was rejected; Assistant Sub-Inspector was demoted and made Head Constable. Constell's appeal dismissed, appeals of others also rejected. Police officials who commit irregularities in investigation matters do not deserve any discount. Justice is being ensured on merit. Rifat Mukhtar Raja. Regional Police Officer Rifat Mukhtar Raja organized a courtroom in the office where he heard appeals against the punishments given to police officers and employees and issued orders on the spot. He said that irregularity in investigation matters is intolerable, involved police officers and employees do not deserve any concession. All resources are being used to ensure justice to the people. The appeals of the police officers and employees were heard in Ordal Room. On this occasion, RPO Multan Rafat Mukhtar Raja said that the process of punishment in the police department is based on transparency.
Sindh gets back control of three Karachi hospitals
KARACHI: Sindh government has got back control of three Karachi hospitals from the federal government after three years. According to details, the control of Jinnah Hospital, NICVD, and the NICH was handed over to the Sindh government due to the tireless efforts of provincial health minister Dr Azra Pechucho.
Court Notice
In the Court of Judge, Banking Court No. 5 Lahore Old State Bank Building OPP G.P.O, Shahrah-e-Quaid-e-Azam Lahore. Suit No. 372/2022. United Bank Limited Plaintiff Muhammad Hafeez (defendants). Summons U/S 9(5) of the Financial Institutions (Recovery of Finances) Ordinance, 2001. (Ordinance No: SL VI of 2001). Summons to Muhammad Hafeez son of Muhammad Rafique House No7 Street no 9 Prem Galli Taj Company Railway Road Lahore . Whereas the aforesaid plaintiff has instituted a suit against you and others for the recovery of 350,733/11. Summons U/S 9(5) of Ordinance No XL VI of 2001 referred to above is hereby issued requiring you to make within 30 days of the service of this summon an application for leave to defend the suit U/S 10 ibid. Take notice that on your failure to file such application within time specified above the Banking Court shall pass a decree as prayed for in the plaint, in favour of the plaintiff Banking Company. Next date for the further proceedings, in the case has been fixed on 25- 10-22. Given under my hand and seal of the court this 5-10-2022. Judge Banking Court no.5, Lahore
Court Notice
In the Court of Judge, Banking Court No. 5 Lahore Old State Bank Building OPP G.P.O, Shahrah-e-Quaid-e-Azam Lahore. Suit No. 371/2022. United Bank Limited Plaintiff Muhammad Rafique (defendants). Summons U/S 9(5) of the Financial Institutions (Recovery of Finances) Ordinance, 2001. (Ordinance No: SL VI of 2001). Summons to Muhammad Rafique son of Muhammad Ali Sakin House No130 Hamza Factory Izhaar Shaheed Road Shah pur Kanjaran Lahore . Whereas the aforesaid plaintiff has instituted a suit against you and others for the recovery of 364,139/63. Summons U/S 9(5) of Ordinance No XL VI of 2001 referred to above is hereby issued requiring you to make within 30 days of the service of this summon an application for leave to defend the suit U/S 10 ibid. Take notice that on your failure to file such application within time specified above the Banking Court shall pass a decree as prayed for in the plaint, in favour of the plaintiff Banking Company. Next date for the further proceedings, in the case has been fixed on 25- 10-22. Given under my hand and seal of the court this 5-10-2022. Judge Banking Court no.5, Lahore
Sindh gets back control of three Karachi hospitals
KARACHI: Sindh government has got back control of three Karachi hospitals from the federal government after three years. According to details, the control of Jinnah Hospital, NICVD, and the NICH was handed over to the Sindh government due to the tireless efforts of provincial health minister Dr Azra Pechucho.
Lost & found
I Ameer Hamza S/o Muhammad Asif chatha resident of House no31,Street no 20,lane no 6,sector DHA-II,Islamabad.My Mechanical Engineering Degree registration no,BSME03173014 year 2017 has been lost, anyone found it send on following address.
Court Notice
In the Court of CH. Qaisar Shahzad Senior Civil Judge Jhelum Suit for Dissolution of Marriage on Basis of Khula, Case Title Nazia Ahmed vs Raja Sajjad Ahmed To, Raja Sajjad Ahmed son of Raja Muhammad Ashraf Cast Chab Rajpoot R/o Raji Pur Tahlianwala Tehsil & Dist Jhelum Presently Residing at U.K London. As there is not possible to call the Defendant through Summon in the instant Suit so through proclamation in Newspaper, You are directed to appear in the court on 22.10.2022 at 8:00AM, otherwise ex-parte proceedings will be initiated.
Court Notice
In the Court of CH. Qaisar Shahzad Senior Civil Judge Jhelum Suit for Dissolution of Marriage on Basis of Khula, Case Title Alisha Fiaz vs Hassan Ashraf To, Hassan Ashraf son of Muhammad Ashraf R/o Kotla Aima P.O Kala Gujran Tehsil & Dist Jhelum Presently Residing at Al Ramahi Company LLC P.O Box 24647 Sharjah U.A.E. As there is not possible to call the Defendant through Summon in the instant Suit so through proclamation in Newspaper, You are directed to appear in the court on 25.10.2022 at 8:00AM, otherwise ex-parte proceedings will be initiated.
TDCP has opened the cable car for tourists in Patriata after repairs: Manager Ejaz Ahmad Butt
By Staff Reporter
RAWALPINDI: Newly appointed MD Tourism Department Corporation Punjab,Managing Agha Muhammad Ali Abbas soon after assuming his charge visited Patriata Chairlift Topand reviewed all the facilities provided to the tourists in detail. On this occasion, Regional Manager T.D.C.P Ijaz Ahmad Butt, Manager North, MoazamNazir& Sheikh Munir and the administration also accompanied him. Director TDCP visited Patriata Top and after inspecting the cable car issued instructions to operate it for tourists. Managing Director Agha Muhammad Ali Abbas while talking on this occasion said that every possible step will be taken to provide quality and safe recreational facilities to the tourists. He said that TDCP is trying to promote local tourism fow which new initiatives will be taken and cable car and chair lift are one of those. The people there will get new livelihood opportunities which will improve their quality of life. Considering the interest of tourists, the cable has been restored after necessary repairs. He directed that the inspection should be done on time and tourists should be provided with the best facilities and a peaceful environment. On this occasion, Manager TDCP Ijaz Butt said that the restorataion of the cable car in Patriata will continue to attract more tourists also sign boards for guidance of the tourists are installed. Signboards have also been displayed at various places with important information for tourists.
Business Community calls for avoiding any measures to seal the Capital
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: Ahsan Zafar Bakhtawari, President, Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) said that the placement of containers at the entry points of Islamabad has created lot of concerns in the business community and stressed that the government should avoid taking any measures to seal the Capital due to any situation as it would destroy businesses and further weaken the economy. He said that the business community has already spent the last two years in problems because the Covid-19 pandemic had destroyed business activities due to which it was difficult for them to meet their daily expenses. Now the high inflation has created new difficulties for people including the business community as businesses are shrinking due to reduced purchasing power of consumers. He said that in these difficult conditions, placement of containers at the entry points of the city is spreading panic among the business community and the citizens. Ahsan Zafar Bakhtawari said that the containers have also reduced the attendance of workers in the industrial areas. He was afraid that sealing of the city due to any political march or sit-in will not only make the citizens prisoners at home, it will also disrupt the supply system, bring production activities to a standstill, create shortage of daily food items for people and lead to economic killing of the business community.
Islamabad Capital Police to constitute special squads for action against signal violators
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: Islamabad Capital Police has decided to accelerate efforts to ensure implementation of traffic laws and take strict action against those involved in violation of red-signal. Following the directions of IGP Dr. Akbar Nasir Khan, Islamabad capital police has decided to assign a task to the traffic congestion unit for taking stern action against those violating red signals while additional squads would be constituted for the purpose. A Special campaign is underway to check violations while various squads are performing duties at main roads of the city and taking action against the violators. The Chief Traffic officer Islamabad Dr. Syed Mustafa Tanweer said that efforts are underway to ensure a disciplined traffic system in the city and he also appealed to the citizens to follow rules. He said that Islamabad capital police personnel have been directed to ensure implementation on traffic rules and regulation irrespective of status and rank and demonstrate patience and politeness while issuing traffic violation tickets to the road users. He said that Islamabad capital police is utilizing all available resources to facilitate the general public. The force issues traffic violation tickets not as a punitive measure but the purpose is to ensure a safe road environment in the Capital and secure the lives of the people. The Chief Traffic officer Islamabad also directed the education wing to give awareness to the road users about traffic laws. He also directed the Islamabad capital police FM Radio 92.4 to air special programs in this regard.
APO joins hand with NPO and FPCCO to promote green technologies in Pakistan, Dr. Indra
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: Asian Productivity Organization (APO) Secretary-General Excellency, Dr. Indra Pradana Singawinata along with his Principal Officer Zainuri Juri visited the Federation of Pakistan Chamber of Commerce & Industry, (FPCCI) Capital Office, Islamabad, and briefed the business community about various projects that would enhance the productivity in various sectors of Pakistan’s economy. Dr. Indra Pradana Secretary General Asian Productivity Organization (APO), said that the APO is an intergovernmental organization committed to improving productivity in Asia and the Pacific region. The Asian Productivity Organization (APO) is a regional organization devoted to promoting greater productivity amongst member countries in Asia and the Pacific. The APO carries out researches and offers advice on that how governments can utilize new technologies and promote innovation-let product export for sustainable development in the region. The Secretary General APO further said that small and medium enterprises (SMEs) play a crucial role in national economies and the APO is working to further strengthen the NPOs of member countries to promote and develop their SMEs. He emphasized on close relations between APO and Pakistani Chambers of Commerce to bringing more efficiency in the different sectors of the economy. The APO represents 20 economies of Asia and the Pacific. Indra assures that He will try to work will with NPO and the FPCCI to promote green technologies in Pakistan. APO also helps member countries to cooperate with each other in their productivity drives by sharing knowledge, information, and experience and hoped that such efforts would prove beneficial for the Pakistani private sector as well. While welcoming the Secretary General APO in FPCCI Capital Office, Mr. Umar Masood ur Rehman, the Vice President of FPCCI, appreciated the APO’s role in making member economies more productive and competitive by enhancing their productivity. He stressed even more closer cooperation between APO, NPO, and FPCCI to bring efficiency and improvement in the productivity of the private sector including industrial, services, agriculture, energy efficiency, and other areas. He further said that currently Pakistan is facing severe competition in the international market and needs to examine its productivity indicators across the value chains of its key industrial sectors to make these competitive to achieve sustainable productivity and economic growth. The VP FPCCI further said that SMEs are the integral part of an economy and stressed on strengthening of SMEs of Asian region. He suggested that APO should arrange SMEs inter-connectivity in the region to diversify and enhance their productions. The APO should devise vibrant policies and programs for SME development and implementation in member countries through NPOs. Many sectors of Pakistan’s economy have huge potential to grow and APO should further strengthen the NPO of Pakistan to create more product awareness in industrial setups, address the issues of manufacturing and services sectors and ensure better implementation of productivity concepts in the private sector. I would suggest that APO may organize its training workshops in collaboration with FPCCI in Pakistan.
10 outlaws held; weapons and drugs seized
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: Islamabad Capital police apprehended 10 criminals involved in criminal activities and recovered drugs and weapons with ammunition from their possession, a police public relations officer said. He said that DIG Operations Sohail Zafar Chatha had ordered all zonal officers to curb the crime in their respective areas and arrest those involved in criminal activities and looting innocent people. Following these directives, a Bhara kahu police team arrested an accused namely Mubashir Ahmed and recovered one 30 bore pistol along with ammunition from his possession. Likewise, the Phulghran police team arrested an accused namely Usman Mehmood and recovered one 30 bore pistol along with ammunition from his possession.
Students from NUST School of Business visit Safe City Project Islamabad
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: A delegation of students from National University of Science and Technology visited the Safe City Project Islamabad and were briefed about its efficient functioning as well as contribution in ensuring effective security in the city. The delegation of male and female students was briefed by SSP (Operations) Safe City. The students were informed that the Safe City Project under the supervision of Inspector General of Police Islamabad Dr Akbar Nasir Khan and DIG safe city Rommel Akram, is fully operational and working effectively. The students were briefed about the Monitoring Center, Emergency Control Centre, Dispatch Control Centre, E-Challan and "Pukar-15" Helpline. Following the directions of IGP Islamabad Dr Akbar Nasir Akhan, he said that new techniques and systems are being introduced in policing affairs. He said that the E-Challan system has been introduced and fine tickets are dispatched at the houses of those involved in violation of traffic rules, which is playing a key role in eradicating traffic accidents in the city.
Federal ombudsman takes notice of Islamabad’s traffic mess
Chronic traffic problems require well coordinated and effective remedial steps
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: In the context of large scale public complaints of traffic problems, the Hon’ble Federal Ombudsman calls upon Heads of Government Agencies i.e. Chief Commissioner ICT, IG Police, Federal Secretary Communications, and Chief NTRC to formulate an effective action plan to address traffic issues which have grown more serious in recent years due to large scale migration from other provinces. Chairing a meeting in his office, he emphasized the need for better coordination and effective action by the authorities. In the meeting, various constraints were highlighted by the agencies, such as acute shortage of manpower, meager fines, dearth of financial resources for construction of road infrastructure. Various proposals and suggestions were discussed in the meeting to work out a feasible plan of action containing short and long-term measures. The Member Planning CDA Mr. Waseem Bajwa informed that some major roads are under construction but CDA is working aggressively to complete the road infrastructure within the shortest possible time. He also informed that Metro Busses have been started at different routes which will ease the transport difficulties in Islamabad. The DIG Operations Islamabad Police Mr. Sohail Zafar Chattha informed that the new traffic system was initiated in ICT in 2006 with 656 traffic police officials and at present it is run by only 606 officials whereas population and number of vehicles have increased disproportionally in ICT. The Federal Ombudsman asked the Islamabad Traffic Police to consider getting traffic volunteers from educational institutions for the time being to control traffic at different points in Islamabad. He assured the Islamabad Traffic Police to take up the matter of shortage of manpower and increase in fine money, especially for repeaters of traffic violations, at appropriate level. He further said that road safety curriculum must be included in the text books from junior to college levels. He also said that enforcement of law must be ensured and safe city infrastructure as well as public transport system/network should be improved in ICT. He further stated that Wafaqi Mohtasib Secretariat would coordinate the preparation of short and long term plan to meet the challenges of traffic situation in Islamabad and would continue to monitor the progress in the coming weeks and months.
E&DM explains reasons of fire in Centraus mall
By Malik Zubair Awan
ISLAMABAD: The Emergency and Disaster Management Department has written a letter on December 18, 2020, to Sardar Tanveer Ilyas Khan, president of Pak Gulf Private Limited, to appear before the Additional Director through caste status or name recognition for not taking necessary safety measures. The Emergency and Disaster Management Department had previously sent letters on January 12, 2011, and October 31, 2016, to ensure safety arrangements. According to sources, the Centraus Mall management has not informed the Emergency and Disaster Management Department about the fire ventilation, protection, and life safety arrangements installed here. Centraus Mall Management, Pakistan Building Control, the mall has not submitted the NOCs documents under the Fire Safety provision 2016, and CDA to prevent the fire and Life Safety 2016 Building Standards section 4 part 3. Centraus Mall management has not submitted annual reports regarding the functioning, testing, and inspection of the equipment installed in the shopping mall despite sending repeated reminder letters. According to Emergency and Disaster Management Department sources, Centraus Mall management has not submitted any report regarding safety measures in the food court, shopping mall, or residential flats to date. Centraus Mall management also does not have the building completion certificate from the building control section of CDA, in the absence of which the use of the building is also illegal. 'The restaurant from which the fire broke out had set up a restaurant in the flat on the upper floor by making stairs illegally' sources added.
Islamabad reports 73 new dengue cases
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: Dengue fever cases continue to rise in Islamabad, as the federal capital has reported 73 fresh cases of infection during the past 24 hours. According to District Health Officer (DHO) Islamabad, as many as 73 dengue cases were reported in Islamabad during the past 24 hours, taking the total number of infections to 3,242 in the current season. While seven people have lost their lives to dengue in Islamabad, he added. According to the statistics provided by the DHO Islamabad, 45 of the total 73 cases were reported in rural areas of the capital while the rest 28 were reported from urban premises. The DHO further said 46 patients were admitted to the PIMS hospital Islamabad in the last 24 hours, 10 to the Federal General Hospital, and eight to the Holy Family Hospital.
7TH international applied business research conference at IIUI
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: 7th international applied business research conference shall start on Wednesday at Fasial Masjid campus of the International Islamic University, Islamabad (IIUI) . The conference is organized by Faculty of Management Sciences. In the conference, policy makers, industrial experts and research scholars will participate to share thoughts and experiences on the themes of finance, technology management, entrepreneurship, management and marketing in the light of digital transformation and other contemporary advancements and needs of the field. The opening session of the conference will be attended by International Islamic University, Islamabad (IIUI) International Islamic University, Islamabad (IIUI) Rector and International Islamic University, Islamabad (IIUI)President also. Earlier, a pre-conference workshop on “qualitative research and data analysis using Nvivo” was held at IIUI that was attended by Dr. Rab Nawaz Lodhi, Associate Professor, University of Punjab and it was attended by a large number of scholars, faculty and students.
Out-of-context portrayals create more division in an already polarized atmosphere: Alvi
President for prevention of disease to reduce the burden on the health system President for further cementing multisphere ties with Maldives
ISLAMABAD: President Dr Arif Alvi has taken serious notice of the news items published in various sections of the press wherein the President’s statement regarding the “Cipher” taken out of an interview with Ms Asma Shirazi, Anchor Aaj TV, on Monday (10-10-2022) was grossly misquoted and wrongly highlighted. In his interview, the President clearly said that he had suspicions about a conspiracy but of course, certainty could only be established after a thorough investigation was done. He said, “His position has not changed at all since he sent a letter to the Chief Justice of Pakistan wherein, he requested the Supreme Court for a thorough inquiry into the matter as he strongly believed that the issue must be investigated”. The President referred the matter to Supreme Court not because he had no suspicions about a conspiracy, but because he ‘had suspicions’ as the matter was raised by the ex-PM of the country and an impartial investigation was necessary including all the circumstantial evidence available. He said, “we cannot ignore the fact that the national outfall of the ‘Cipher’ and its repercussions led to political upheaval, therefore an impartial inquiry, beyond the demarche issued by the Govt of Pakistan, was requested”. It is unfortunate that his words were distorted on a very grave matter with serious implications. The President has spoken many times on the issue of ‘out of context’ portrayals, including in the Parliament that create more division in an already polarized atmosphere. President Dr Arif Alvi has said that the burden of disease on our fragile health system could significantly be reduced by adopting the preventive health care system against communicable and non-communicable diseases by promoting a healthy lifestyle, regular exercise, observing cleanliness and enlarging our diet spread which, he said, would reduce the burden on the curative health system as well as on the patients. The President made these remarks while addressing the convocation ceremony of Foundation University College of Dentistry, in Islamabad, today. The ceremony was attended by the faculty members, graduating students and their parents in large numbers. Addressing the ceremony, the President stressed the importance of creating awareness about the early detection of illness and disease, promoting preventive means to avoid disease by adopting a healthy lifestyle and by treating their patients with the utmost care, kindness and compassion which, he said, made a huge difference in reassuring the patients and resolving their health issues. -PR
JI and other leaders strongly condemn custodial murder of Altaf Ahmad in New Delhi
Sirajul Haq urges Pakistani govt to take issue of Altaf Ahmad Shah’s death at international level
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: Emir Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan Sirajul Haq, Naib Emir JI Liaqat Baloch and JI Secretary General Ameerul Azim have strongly condemned the custodial murder of senior All Parties Hurriyat Conference leader and son-in-law of late Quaid Tehreek-e-Azadi Jammu Kashmir Syed Ali Shah Geelani, Altaf Ahmad Shah in New Dehli. In a statement issued on Tuesday, leaders of Jamaat-e-Islami said that Altaf Ahmad Shah was a prominent Kashmiri figure whose whole life passed in freedom struggle. They said that the Indian government kept him behind the bars in Tihar Jail for over five years in a forged case where he was suffering from severe illness; however, Indian authorities hid his illness from the members of his family and forced him to death while depriving him of the medical aid. In this way Indian authorities killed an unarmed Kashmiri leader so that the Kashmiris could be deprived of its leadership. While condemning the act of barbarism, Jamaat-e-Islami leaders stressed upon the international human rights organizations to take notice of killing of Kashmiri leader while he was in custody. They also stressed upon the government of Pakistan to take up this matter at international level. Sirajul Haq while expressing sympathies with the heirs of the martyred said that the sacrifices of Altaf Ahmad Shah and other Kashmiri leaders will bring fruits and soon the dawn of freedom will rise in Kashmir. Meanwhile Mushaal Hussein Mullick, wife of imprisoned senior Hurriyat leader Muhammad Yasin Malik severely criticized after hearing the news. She blamed the cruel behavior of the Indian government for the death of Altaf Ahmad Shah. Altaf Wani also reacted strongly on the killing and held the government of India responsible for this. Sardar Muhammad Tabassum also criticized this act of cruelty committed by the government of India. While expressing deep sorrow and regret, Kashmiri leaders including Washington based World Forum for Peace and Justice Chairman Dr. Ghulam Nabi Fai, Emir JI Azad Jammu and Kashmir Dr. Khalid Mahmood Khan, Ghulam Muhammad Safi, Maulana Ghulam Nabi Nowshehri, Farida Behn Ji, said that the void created by the death of Altaf Ahmad Shah will never be filled. They severely criticized this act of cruelty committed by government of India.
Funeral prayer in absentia for Altaf Ahmed to be offered in Islamabad today
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: The funeral prayer in absentia for martyred All Parties Hurriyat Conference senior leader Altaf Ahmed in Indian captivity in New Delhi will be offered in Islamabad today (Wednesday). All Parities Hurriyat Conference (Azad Kashmir Chapter) has arranged the funeral prayer in absentia for Altaf Ahmad Shah at 11:00 AM, at a ground situated in front of the Hurriyat Office situated in street number 85, House number 389-D, I-8/4, Islamabad. All Parities Hurriyat Conference (Azad Kashmir Chapter) has appealed all political, religious, social leaders and students to attend the funeral prayer in absentia. It is worth mentioning here that All Parties Hurriyat Conference Altaf Ahmed martyred in New Delhi in Indian captivity on Tuesday. Altaf Ahmed was the son-in law of late Quaid Tehreek-e-Azadi Jammu Kashmir Syed Ali Shah Geelani.
LAHORE: Punjab Governor Muhammad Baligh Ur Rehman is charing meeting the party delegation from Bahawalpur at Governor House Lahore.
Imran Khan seeks commission comprising 'credible judges' to probe cipher issue
By Staff Reporter
NANKANA SAHIB: Former Prime Minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) supremo Imran Khan on Tuesday said that he was grateful to the incumbent government for raising the cypher issue, and a commission comprising credible judges should be formed to probe into the cypher issue. Addressing a rally at Nankana Sahib, the former PM while reacting to the current wave of inflation in the country said that prices of electricity, diesel, and petrol have doubled in recent times, adding that PTI tried to build an exemplary education system and administrative but his government was ousted through foreign conspiracy. He added that he did not trust the government’s commission over the cypher issue because they were part of the conspiracy. "I am grateful to the government for raising the cypher issue, and a commission consisting of credible judges should be formed to investigate the cypher matter," Imran said. The former PM went on to say that "The time is near when I will announce the long march call, and I am preparing my nation for the long march. This long march will be the biggest march in history," Imran added. "In our country, the law does not have much clout to apprehend powerful dacoits, and the following recent NAB amendments, no one can touch these thieves because the incumbent rulers made these amendments to get out of the cases," the PTI chairman said.
ECP decides to hold by-polls on eight NA & 3 Punjab Assembly seats on Oct 16
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: The Election Commission of Pakistan has decided to hold by-polls on eight National Assembly and three Punjab seats as per schedule on 16th of this month. However, the commission has delayed the by-election in the NA-45 constituency due to security concerns. The ECP made the decision during a meeting under the chairmanship of Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Dr. Sikandar Sultan Raja after the federal and Sindh governments expressed reservations over holding the polls due to a lack of security personnel, among other reasons. Besides the ECP members, the secretaries of the election commission, ministries of interior, defence, and chief secretaries, police chiefs of Punjab, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa and Sindh participated in the meeting. The representatives of security agencies were also present in the meeting. The CEC emphasised the importance of peaceful conduct of by-elections and local body elections in Karachi Division. The secretary of the election commission briefed the participants on the preparations and said that the electoral watchdog has completed all the arrangements for the by-election in the nine national assembly and three provincial assembly constituencies. The preparations for holding second phase of local body elections in Karachi and Hyderabad divisions have also been completed, the official added.
Illegal actions of 2019 and ensuing steps paint bleak picture of region, warns Abdullah
Desk Report
SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir National Conference (NC) President Farooq Abdullah has refuted the normalcy claim by the Modi-led regime in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir and said that the territory “is only seeing worsening of the situation”. According to Kashmir Media Service, Farooq Abdullah while addressing a party meeting in Srinagar said, “Rather than inching towards promised normalcy, J&K has only seen worsening of the situation. J&K continues to witness political vacuum, unemployment, development deficit, misgovernance. The troubled legacy of 2019 and subsequent enactments paint a bleak picture of the region’s future”. “The real object of BJP is to push the real representative voices to the background and denude its plural and unique identity. The people of Jammu and Kashmir: Kashmiris, Dogras, Gujjars, and Paharis won’t allow this to happen. The mood and sentiment of the people in Chenab, Pir Panjal and everywhere else is the same. People of J&K, no matter which region, religion and division, they belong to, have made it a point to stand up for their rights,” he said. He warned that there was a anger against BJP, and its A & B teams across J&K.
Tarigami says IIOJK witnessing depressing, disturbing political scenario post Aug 2019
Desk Report
SRINAGAR: Senior CPI-M leader and People’s Alliance for Gupkar Declaration (PAGD) spokesman Muhammad Yousuf Tarigami has said that the political scenario in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir is very depressing and disturbing as “the promised change is not visible on the ground level”. According to Kashmir Media Service, Tarigami in a statement issued in Srinagar said that the Modi government which opened a new chapter in Jammu and Kashmir a few years back is nothing but disappointment. “In the process which started on August 5, 2019, nothing but mischief is visible among the people,” he said, adding that nothing seems to have changed on ground. He said that the facts on the ground are showing that what was said did not happen. “People will raise their voices when the time comes,” he said. “It is sad to say that promises were made to the people of Jammu and Kashmir that after the removal of Article 370, there will be jobs in Jammu and Kashmir, but nothing is happening,” he added. “By distorting constitutional rights, I don’t think people even have hope now,” he said, adding that if people mean anything to the Modi government, they have to change the behavior in favour of the people of Jammu and Kashmir including Ladakh.”
‘India responsible for death of jailed Kashmiri Hurriyat leader Altaf Shah’
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: Terming the Illegally detained senior leader of All Parties Hurriyat Conference, Altaf Ahmad Shah’s death as a clear case of custodial killing, the APHC leader Altaf Hussain Wani has said that the Indian authorities, who have willfully ignored his deteriorated health condition in jail and denied him the right to medical treatment in time, were responsible for the tragic death of the Hurriyat leader. In a statement issued here Tuesday, the APHC leader while denouncing the Indian authorities’ shameful and biased approach towards the Kashmiri prisoners said, “Altaf Shah was suffering from acute ailments and his health had deteriorated as the Indian authorities denied him basic facilities including medical care in the jail”. Terming it as a violation of basic human rights Wani said that denying Kashmiri prisoners the right to medical treatment was a killer-tactic Indian authority have been deliberating using to punish and persecute Kashmiris who have refused to toe the Indian line.
ISLAMABAD: PTI leader Zulfi Bukhari talking to the media, and senior leader Dr. Iftikhar Durrani too present with him.
Court orders to return Gill’s personal belongings
By Staff Reporter
ISLAMABAD: A Sessions Court in the federal capital ordered to return Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Shahbaz Gill’s personal belongings today. The hearing of the sedition case against the PTI leader was held in Sessions Court Islamabad. The court ordered to return Shahbaz Gill’s belongings before the closing of court today. PTI leaders Shahbaz Gill and Raja Khurrum Nawaz attended the hearing. The court told Gill’s lawyer to inform the court if the belongings are not returned by closing today. Earlier on October 3, the federal government moved the Supreme Court (SC) seeking the cancellation of the PTI leader’s bail. According to details, Islamabad City Magistrate – on behalf of the federal government – filed an application in Supreme Court (SC) seeking the cancellation of Shahbaz Gill. In the application, the federal government argued that the Islamabad High Court (IHC) did not evaluate the facts correctly. ‘The PTI leader is accused of treason against the state,’ it added. It is pertinent to mention here that the Islamabad High Court (IHC) accepted Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Shahbaz Gill’s post-arrest bail plea in the sedition case registered against him.
