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                        <title>Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune</title>
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			<title>Rana Sanaullah defends fuel price hike, links it to global crisis</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2600882/rana-sanaullah-defends-fuel-price-hike-links-it-to-global-crisis</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2600882/rana-sanaullah-defends-fuel-price-hike-links-it-to-global-crisis#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 03 Apr 26 12:08:22 +0500</pubDate>
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				<![CDATA[Web Desk]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[Says the government is not responsible for the increase and introduced targeted subsidies to support vulnerable groups]]>
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				<![CDATA[Adviser to the Prime Minister on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah on Friday defended the recent increase in petroleum prices, saying the government had made sustained efforts to shield the public from the impact and had introduced targeted subsidies to ease the burden on vulnerable groups.

The government on Thursday further increased petrol price by Rs137 per litre, to history&rsquo;s highest ever level of Rs458.4 after Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif decided to impose more taxes on consumers. The government also increased the high-speed diesel price to Pakistan&rsquo;s highest level of Rs520.35 per litre &mdash; an increase of Rs185 per litre or 55%.

Read: Govt increases petrol tax to Rs161 per litre, sets new price at Rs458 per litre

In a video statement, Sanaullah said the world was facing an unprecedented surge in global petroleum prices, which had affected Pakistan in the same way as other nations. &ldquo;In view of this situation, the prices of petrol and diesel were increased,&rdquo; he said.

He noted that the government had delayed passing on the increase to consumers for three weeks by adopting austerity measures and utilising financial resources.

&ldquo;Initially, austerity measures were implemented, after which the prime minister created a fund. Around Rs129 billion was spent from this fund, allowing the government to hold prices steady for three weeks,&rdquo; he added.

However, he said, such measures could not be sustained indefinitely. He revealed that extensive consultations were held with chief ministers of all provinces, as well as leaders from Azad Jammu and Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan, alongside political, administrative and military leadership, to find ways to minimise the impact on the public. Following these deliberations, the government decided to introduce targeted subsidies.

Sanaullah said motorcycle users had been identified as one of the most vulnerable groups, while farmers would receive Rs1,500 per acre to support them during the upcoming harvesting season.

He added that goods transport operators would be given subsidies ranging from Rs70,000 to Rs80,000 per month, depending on capacity, to prevent fare increases. Similarly, passenger bus operators would receive Rs100,000 per month to keep ticket prices stable.

Defending the price hike, the adviser said the government was not responsible for the increase, attributing it instead to the ongoing war, which had driven up global fuel prices. &ldquo;Everyone knows who started the war and why,&rdquo; he remarked.

Referring to concerns about fuel shortages, he said Pakistan had managed to avoid any disruption in supply due to the prime minister&rsquo;s continuous efforts, contrasting the situation with that in other countries.

Also Read: Petrol price hike sparks NA protests, JI announces nationwide action

Sanaullah criticised elements calling for protests against the government, saying they were ignoring its efforts and attempting to incite the public for political purposes. &ldquo;The government has tried to keep prices low and reduce the burden on the poor. It is also striving for an end to the conflict,&rdquo; he said, adding that protests should instead be directed at those responsible for the war.

He warned that if the conflict continued for another two to four months, the situation could worsen globally, not just in Pakistan. &ldquo;We must face these challenges together and avoid internal divisions,&rdquo; he said.

Urging restraint, he advised citizens to remain vigilant against those seeking to exploit the situation for personal or political gain.

&ldquo;This is not a crisis of our making,&rdquo; he said. &ldquo;We are among those working to resolve it and promote public welfare. As a determined and united nation, we will overcome this challenge as well.&rdquo;]]>
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			<title>PTI announces all-party conference for joint response to ‘unjustified’ fuel hike</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2600889/pti-announces-all-party-conference-for-joint-response-to-unjustified-fuel-hike</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2600889/pti-announces-all-party-conference-for-joint-response-to-unjustified-fuel-hike#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 03 Apr 26 13:38:36 +0500</pubDate>
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				<![CDATA[Web Desk]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2600889</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Warns that failure to stabilise prices could severely affect the economy of ordinary citizens]]>
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				<![CDATA[Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan on Friday said the party would convene an all-parties conference (APC) to discuss the recent increase in petroleum prices and its impact on the public.

The announcement came during a press conference at Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa House, where Gohar, along with Taimur Saleem Jhagra and Akhunzada Hussain Yousafzai, criticised the price hike as unjustified and harmful to citizens.

Describing the issue as &ldquo;very serious&rdquo;, Gohar said the proposed moot would bring together like-minded political parties to formulate a joint response. &ldquo;We do not want the burden to be passed on to the public,&rdquo; he said, warning that failure to stabilise prices could severely affect the economy of ordinary citizens.

Read: Govt increases petrol tax to Rs161 per litre, sets new price at Rs458 per litre

The PTI chairman accused the government of continuing &ldquo;extravagant spending&rdquo; while shifting the burden onto the public. &ldquo;You cannot ask the people to act responsibly while indulging in excesses yourself,&rdquo; he said.





Criticising the increase in the petroleum levy, he said the government had failed to provide relief by reducing indirect taxes. Drawing a comparison with India, he said authorities there had reduced excise duties, questioning why similar measures could not be adopted in Pakistan.

Gohar also questioned the government&rsquo;s claims regarding fuel availability, noting that officials had stated petroleum stocks were sufficient until May. &ldquo;If there is no shortage, then why are prices rising even during restricted supply conditions? Where is the product going?&rdquo; he asked.

He alleged that the government lacked public support and was attempting to shift the consequences of its &ldquo;mismanagement&rdquo; onto citizens. Referring to reports that around 95%&nbsp;of oil supplies pass through the Strait of Hormuz, he said there had been no indication of disruption, raising questions about the rationale behind the increase.



پٹرول اور ڈیزل ایک ایسی پروڈکٹ ہے جس کا کوئی متبادل نہیں اس کی قیمتیں بڑھنے سے غریب آدمی، کسان ، مزدور براہِ راست متاثر ہوگا ۔ اس حکومت نے بلاجواز قیمتیں بڑھائیں، پاکستان دنیا میں سب سے زیادہ قیمتیں بڑھانے والا ملک بن گیا ہے۔ pic.twitter.com/GHyP6f2bGF
&mdash; Barrister Gohar Khan (@BarristerGohar) April 3, 2026


&ldquo;Mismanagement cannot be justified,&rdquo; he said, adding that the government was passing on the burden to cover its fiscal shortfall.

The PTI chairman said the issue should not be politicised, describing it as a matter of public welfare. &ldquo;All political forces must come forward. Pakistan and its interests should come first,&rdquo; he said.

Terming the increase &ldquo;unnecessarily steep&rdquo;, he said that although petroleum prices had risen in 96 countries, Pakistan had witnessed one of the highest increases after Vietnam. He also alleged that the government had failed to successfully negotiate with the International Monetary Fund.

Highlighting the scale of the impact, Gohar said there were around 1.4 million motorcycles in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and more than 2.5m&nbsp;across the country, suggesting that a large segment of the population would be affected. He further alleged that the government&rsquo;s measures had opened new avenues for corruption.



عوام پر بوجھ کم کرنے کی بجائے ٹیکسیوں میں مزید اضافہ کر کے اس بوجھ کو بڑھانے والی پاکستان پر مسلط شدہ جعلی حکومت آئی ایم ایف سے مذاکرات میں ناکام رہی، ذخیرہ اندوزی کنٹرول کرنے میں ناکام رہی، سمگلنگ بند کرنے میں ناکام رہی، اپنی شاہ خرچیوں کو کم کرنے میں ناکام رہی۔ ان تمام&hellip; pic.twitter.com/KCynctwxLV
&mdash; PTI (@PTIofficial) April 3, 2026


He also urged the international community to take steps to end the ongoing conflict, which he said was contributing to rising global fuel prices.

Turning on to the rally announced on April 9, he said the party had submitted an application to the deputy commissioner of Rawalpindi seeking permission to hold a rally.

Dismissing reports of differences within the opposition, Gohar said there were no rifts with Mehmood Khan Achakzai or Allama Raja Nasir Abbas. He explained that both leaders were currently away due to Eid commitments but would soon join the party&rsquo;s efforts. &ldquo;They will stand with us and continue to lead the movement,&rdquo; he added.

Speaking on the occasion, Jhagra criticised the government&rsquo;s handling of the situation, questioning why the prime minister addressed the public when prices fell but not when they increased. He said petrol prices had surged by Rs137 in a single day, noting that the price stood at Rs139 in March-April 2022.

Also Read: Rana Sanaullah defends fuel price hike, links it to global crisis

&ldquo;We now expect the same statements that were made during our tenure,&rdquo; he said.

Jhagra said that during the tenure of PTI founder Imran Khan, the leadership had prioritised public relief despite reservations from the bureaucracy.

He alleged that the current government was reluctant to face the public and said the increase in prices was unnecessary and could have been limited. Drawing comparisons with India and other countries, he claimed fuel prices there were lower.

Criticising the government&rsquo;s subsidy measures, he termed them inadequate and warned that higher fuel prices would lead to an increase in the cost of essential goods.



جب سے ایران کی جنگ شروع ہوئی ہے پیٹرولیم لیوی 80 روپے فی لیٹر سے بڑھا کر 160 روپے فی لیٹر کر دی گئی ہے۔ اس کے علاوہ امپورٹ ڈیوٹی اور ماحولیاتی ٹیکس الگ۔

دنیا بھر کے ممالک میں حکومتیں پیٹرولیم مصنوعات کی قیمتوں کو کنٹرول کرنے کے لئے ٹیکسوں میں کمی کر رہی ہیں۔ اس کے برعکس پاکستان&hellip; pic.twitter.com/petfY7gIIc
&mdash; PTI (@PTIofficial) April 3, 2026


He further alleged that, in addition to the price hike, the government had increased the petroleum levy and customs duty while continuing to impose climate-related levies, even on high-octane fuel.

&ldquo;This is not just a price increase; additional taxes are also being imposed,&rdquo; he said.

Jhagra suggested that the government should reduce its own expenditures, including selling government-owned aircraft and withdrawing free fuel privileges for senior bureaucrats.]]>
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			<title>6 killed in central Afghanistan as strong earthquake shakes region, including Pakistan</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2600905/earthquake-tremors-felt-in-twin-cities-k-p</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2600905/earthquake-tremors-felt-in-twin-cities-k-p#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 03 Apr 26 16:16:54 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Anadolu Agency]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[Tremors were felt in the twin cities, Chitral, Peshawar, and parts of Punjab and K-P]]>
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				<![CDATA[At least six people were killed in a house collapse in central Afghanistan when a powerful 5.8-magnitude earthquake struck the Hindu Kush region on Friday, shaking different parts of Afghanistan and neighboring Pakistan.

The six were killed when a house collapsed in Bagrami district, in central Kabul Province, according to a statement from the Afghanistan Information Ministry.&nbsp;One person also remains missing.

The quake occurred at a depth of 181 kilometers (112 miles) at 1612GMT, according to the German Research Centre for Geosciences.

The quake was initially measured at 5.9 magnitude and later downgraded to 5.8.

The tremor was felt in the Afghan capital of Kabul, according to a local, Obaidullah Baheer, who wrote on US social media company X.

The quake was also felt in the Pakistani capital of Islamabad, the northwestern province of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and the northern Gilgit-Baltistan region.

Tremors were also felt in Indian-administered Kashmir.

Meanwhile, the Pakistan Meteorological Department initially measured the quake at a magnitude of 6.2.

A statement from the department said the quake occurred at 9:13pm at a depth of 190 kilometres with the epicentre in Afghanistan&#39;s Hindu Kush region.

It added that tremors were felt in Islamabad, Chitral, Peshawar, Swat, Shangla and other areas.



🚨 A 6.3 magnitude earthquake struck the Hindu Kush region Friday evening, the PMD says. Tremors felt in Islamabad, Peshawar, Swat and nearby areas. No damage reported yet. pic.twitter.com/adNpnqeUPc
&mdash; Pakistan TV Digital (@PakistanTVcom) April 3, 2026


Severe tremors were felt in the federal capital, prompting the Islamabad Police to take immediate precautionary measures.

Inspector General of Police (IGP) Ali Nasir Rizvi directed all officers to assess the situation in their respective areas. He instructed that any incidents requiring assistance be responded to immediately.

The IGP also ordered all officers to submit situation reports from their jurisdictions without delay.

Rawalpindi Rescue 1122 officials said that no emergency or casualties have been reported in the city following the earthquake.

A statement from K-P Rescue 1122 spokesperson Bilal Ahmed Faizi said: &quot;Earthquake tremors were felt in various districts of K-P, including Peshawar, however, Rescue 1122 control has not received any calls from the public yet.&quot;

Meanwhile, the Punjab&rsquo;s Disaster Management Authority reported that no loss of life or property has been recorded in Punjab following the earthquake.

Tremors were felt in Lahore, Mianwali, Jhang, Faisalabad, Rawalpindi, the Potohar region, Sargodha, and other districts across the province, the PDMA spokesperson said.

The PDMA said relevant authorities were conducting inspections of government and public buildings to assess any potential damage. The provincial control room and district emergency operation centres across Punjab remain operational 24/7 to respond to any incidents.

The authority advised the public to report any earthquake-related damages through its helpline at 1129.

Earlier in the day, an earthquake ​of &zwnj;magnitude 5.5 also ​struck ​the Afghanistan-Tajikistan border ⁠region, ​the ​German Research Centre ​for ​Geosciences (GFZ) said.

Last month, a moderate earthquake measuring 4.5 on the Richter scale jolted Balochistan&#39;s Khuzdar district and surrounding areas, though no casualties or damage were reported.

In February, an earthquake measuring 5.6 on the Richter scale struck the Hindu Kush region in Afghanistan, with tremors felt in Islamabad, Swat, Peshawar, Chitral, and other cities across Pakistan.

----------

This is a developing story and will be updated accordingly.]]>
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			<title>Sindh govt announces monthly Rs2,000 subsidy for motorcyclists amid rising petrol prices</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2600863/sindh-govt-announces-monthly-rs2000-subsidy-for-motorcyclists-amid-rising-petrol-prices</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2600863/sindh-govt-announces-monthly-rs2000-subsidy-for-motorcyclists-amid-rising-petrol-prices#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 03 Apr 26 10:23:11 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Saleem Jhandir]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[Punjab, Islamabad announce free of cost transport services for the next 30 days, starting from Saturday]]>
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				<![CDATA[In response to surging petrol prices and an ongoing energy crisis, the Sindh government has announced a monthly subsidy of Rs2,000 for registered motorcyclists across the province. Public transport and goods transport operators will also receive monthly subsidies ranging from Rs70,000 to Rs100,000.

A day earlier, the government further increased petrol prices by Rs137 per litre to a record-high of Rs458.4. The new price of petrol is also far higher than the increase in the international market, as PM Shehbaz decided to increase the petroleum levy to a record Rs160.61 per litre on petrol.

It was the second major increase in the fuel prices in less than a month after PM Shehbaz increased the diesel and petrol prices by Rs55 per litre last month. The cumulative increase in the petrol price within a month stands at 63%, and that of the high-speed diesel at 75%.

Addressing a press conference in Karachi on Friday, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah said the subsidy aims to ease the burden on daily commuters as petrol would not be available at lower rates at fuel stations. He added that the application process would be operational within two to three days, and subsidies would be linked to national identity cards and registered motorcycles.

Also Read: Oil tanker contractors threaten to halt operations after sharp fuel price hike

The CM further stated that motorcycle transfers would now be free of charge, and owners could register their vehicles in their name. &ldquo;A subsidy of Rs100 per litre will be provided, and the first transfers will be completed within 15 days. Each registered motorcyclist will receive Rs2,000 directly,&rdquo; he added.

Shah advised citizens to check their motorcycle registration on the Excise Department&rsquo;s website and said that the subsidy is part of a targeted relief programme. He also noted support measures for small farmers, including a minimum wheat price of Rs3,500 per maund and a Rs1,500 per acre subsidy for farmers with up to 2 million acres, to offset losses caused by rising diesel prices. Payments to farmers will begin on April 6.

CM Murad also said the province would independently administer the programme for a one-month trial period, following discussions on a third proposal. He clarified that the final plan comprises four components, with two administered by the provinces and one by the federal government, but funding will be provided to the provinces.

Read More: Petrol price hike sparks NA protests, JI announces nationwide action

He highlighted that Sindh has 6.7 million registered motorcycles, many of which are not registered in the actual owner&rsquo;s name. &ldquo;We decided that Rs100 per motorcyclist will be provided as subsidy,&rdquo; he said.

The chief minister also stressed coordination with the federal government, noting that provincial leaders participated in a historic meeting chaired by President Asif Ali Zardari to discuss energy imports and subsidy measures. He explained that while subsidies were initially extended broadly, IMF guidance advised targeting relief toward those most affected by rising fuel costs.

Shah added that the long deliberations led to the decision to provide targeted subsidies to motorcyclists, small farmers, and transport operators to alleviate the economic impact of rising petroleum prices.

Punjab, Islamabad announce free public transport

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz announced that public transport across all cities in the province will be made free of charge.

Under the decision, passengers will not be required to purchase tickets on services including the Orange Line Train, Metro Bus, Speedo Bus, and Green Electro Bus.



Till the oil crises is there, Public transport would be free for the people of Punjab.

Passengers will no longer need to purchase tickets for the Orange Line Train, Metro Bus, Speedo Bus, or Green Electric Bus.

I encourage everyone to make full use of these facilities and&hellip;
&mdash; Maryam Nawaz Sharif (@MaryamNSharif) April 3, 2026



In addition, the chief minister announced direct financial support for the agriculture sector. She said that&nbsp;all wheat-growing farmers in Punjab with landholdings of up to 25 acres would&nbsp;receive a diesel subsidy of 10 litres per acre at Rs150 per litre.



The surge in international oil prices amid ongoing global crises has led to a significant increase in petrol and diesel costs in Pakistan.

To safeguard our farmers, all wheat-growing farmers in Punjab with landholdings of up to 25 acres will receive a diesel subsidy of 10 litres&hellip; https://t.co/SPi3dTTMbQ
&mdash; Maryam Nawaz Sharif (@MaryamNSharif) April 3, 2026



Motorcyclists will also benefit from a subsidy of Rs100 on 20 litres of fuel for each registered bike owner.



I am pleased to announce a massive relief package for the people of Punjab!

Fuel Subsidy: Motorbike owners can now get 20 liters of petrol/month at a discounted rate of Rs. 100/liter.

How to apply (Starting April 4):
📞 Call 1000
📱 Use the &#39;Maryam Ko Batayen&#39; App
🌐 Visit&hellip; pic.twitter.com/B7ckyB9oiB
&mdash; Maryam Nawaz Sharif (@MaryamNSharif) April 3, 2026



She praised Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for maintaining petroleum product supply and prices for a month despite global pressures, saying that &ldquo;by providing billions of rupees in relief, the prime minister has made a sincere effort to protect the public from hardship&rdquo;.



In light of the surge in international oil prices driven by ongoing global crises and conflict, pressure on domestic fuel costs has become unavoidable.

To mitigate this impact, Punjab has introduced a targeted monthly subsidy: Rs. 70,000 for registered goods transport vehicles,&hellip;
&mdash; Maryam Nawaz Sharif (@MaryamNSharif) April 3, 2026



Furthermore, the public transport in the capital will also be made free of cost for the next 30 days, on the directives of the prime minister, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi wrote in a post on X.



On the directions of the Prime Minister, all public transport in Islamabad will be made free of cost for the general public for the next 30 days, starting tomorrow.

The Ministry of Interior will bear the expenditure of Rs. 350 million for this public relief initiative. Thank you&hellip;
&mdash; Mohsin Naqvi (@MohsinnaqviC42) April 3, 2026


According to the minister, the initiative will take effect from Saturday and is aimed at providing relief to the general public amid rising economic pressures. He added that the Ministry of Interior will bear the cost of the scheme, which is estimated at Rs350 million.]]>
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			<title>Five killed, several injured in suicide attack in Bannu</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2600825/five-killed-several-injured-in-suicide-attack-at-domel-police-station-in-k-ps-bannu</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2600825/five-killed-several-injured-in-suicide-attack-at-domel-police-station-in-k-ps-bannu#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 03 Apr 26 05:01:37 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Ramzan Seemab]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category><category><![CDATA[Khyber Pakhtunkhwa]]></category>
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				<![CDATA[DPO says attack on Domel Police Station was foiled due to timely security measures]]>
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				<![CDATA[At least five people, including women and a child, were martyred and several others injured in a suicide attack targeting the Domel Police Station in Bannu on Friday, Regional Police Officer (RPO) Sajjad Khan said.

According to officials, the victims included members of the same family. &ldquo;Four members of the same family were killed in the attack, including Naqeebullah, his wife, his son Tufail Subhan, and his daughter Sadaf,&rdquo; RPO Khan said. The injured were shifted to a nearby hospital, where they are receiving medical treatment.

District Police Officer (DPO) Yasir Afridi said the attack on the police station was foiled due to timely security measures and the professional preparedness of the police. Initial reports suggest that terrorists attempted to ram a car laden with approximately 1,000 to 1,500 kilograms of explosives into the wall of the Domel police station&nbsp;but, after failing to breach it, detonated explosives in a nearby civilian area.

Authorities said effective defensive measures prevented the attacker from breaching the police station. However, the explosion in the nearby civilian area resulted in civilian casualties. Rescue teams, along with local residents, are actively engaged in clearing debris from the affected site and continuing relief operations, they added.

Police said the attack was carried out using an explosives-laden vehicle from the direction of the old tehsil building. Hospital authorities reported that the injured included several women and children, as well as at least one police officer.

Read: SHO among five cops martyred in DI Khan

Following the incident, police, the bomb disposal unit, and other law enforcement agencies cordoned off the area and launched a search operation.

DPO Afridi visited the site and the hospital, directing officials to ensure the best possible medical care for the injured and to conduct a thorough investigation. He said such &ldquo;cowardly acts of terrorism&rdquo; would not weaken the resolve of law enforcement agencies or the public.

Security officials have urged citizens to report any suspicious activity to help prevent future attacks. They said the perpetrators aim to destabilize the peaceful environment of Bannu, but vowed that such elements would be eliminated.

They further reiterated that operations under the National Action Plan will continue until the complete eradication of all terrorist elements.

RPO Sajjad Khan visited the injured at the hospital and said that terrorists would never succeed in &ldquo;their malicious intentions.&rdquo; He added, &ldquo;Targeting innocent civilians is an act of cowardice. We will bring such elements to justice. Protecting the lives and property of the public is our top priority, and no negligence will be tolerated.&rdquo;

Later, Khan also visited Domel police station and the affected homes, offered condolences to the families of the deceased, recited prayers, and expressed deep grief and sorrow.

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif strongly condemned the attack, expressing grief over the loss of lives and praying for the speedy recovery of the injured. He reaffirmed the government&rsquo;s commitment to eliminating terrorism from the country, according to a press release from the Prime Minister&rsquo;s Office.



President @AAliZardari and PM @CMShehbaz have expressed deep grief and sorrow over the loss of precious lives in a suicide attack on Police Station #Domel in district #Bannu@PresOfPakistan @PakPMO #RadioPakistan #News https://t.co/pLydTkv2oG pic.twitter.com/AY4rgw4MuO
&mdash; Radio Pakistan (@RadioPakistan) April 3, 2026


President Asif Ali Zardari, in his statement, said eliminating the menace of foreign-sponsored terrorism from the country is the foremost priority of the government. He also expressed an unflinching resolve to completely root out the scourge of terrorism from the country.

The National Assembly also offered Fateha for those martyred in a terrorist attack in Bannu. Deputy Speaker Syed Ghulam Mustafa Shah informed the House that members of a single family were among those martyred in the attack on a police station.

On his request, MNA Nasib Ali Shah led the Fateha for the victims.

K-P has been battling terrorism since the US&#39;s ouster from Afghanistan, with terrorists often crossing the border to target police convoys and vehicles, resulting in the deaths of several officials and personnel.

Last month, at least seven police personnel, including the SHO of Shadi Khel Police Station, were martyred in an explosion near a police mobile in Lakki Marwat.

A week before that, two policemen were killed and 15 people, including five police personnel, were injured in a blast in the Rustam Bazaar area of Wana in Lower South Waziristan.

The province has witnessed a surge in terrorist attacks, accounting for the highest number of incidents in the country.

Out of a total of 5,397 reported incidents last year, K-P recorded 3,811, followed by Balochistan with 1,557 incidents. Only 29 incidents were reported from the rest of the country. A total of 2,597 terrorists were killed during the year.]]>
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			<title>Public hospitals staff to be tested across Sindh</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2251863/public-hospitals-staff-tested-across-sindh</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2251863/public-hospitals-staff-tested-across-sindh#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 28 Jun 20 10:29:19 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[sameer.mandhro]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Sindh]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2251863</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Health department to restart contact tracing for coronavirus]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The Sindh government issued directives on Saturday for all public hospitals to get its staff tested for Covid-19 as well as begin coronavirus contact tracing again.

In a letter issued by Sindh health director general Dr Irshad Ahmed Memon, a copy of which is available with The Express Tribune, the heads of all public-sector hospitals have been asked to get their respective facility's staff tested for the coronavirus on priority basis. Besides, they have been instructed to continue tests for the diagnosis of other suspected Covid-19 cases.

Speaking to The Express Tribune, Dr Memon stressed the need for all hospital employees to get tested, claiming, however, that Sindh had the least number of infected health department employees among the provinces.

Another health department official, also emphasising the need for "immediate" screening of healthcare professionals, said the decision had come late.

"It is feared that most health workers do not [properly] follow standard operating procedures. This eventually leads to multiplying the number of infected persons, even in far flung areas," he explained.

This was confirmed by other officials, too, who pointed out that SOPs were particularly ignored at private clinics. They can then carry the virus to public hospitals, the officials added.

Saying that health department officials did all they could to monitor health workers and ensure they followed SOPs, they noted that it was near impossible to keep a watch over private facilities.

According to the health department, there are 1,500 rapid response teams in Sindh that collect samples for Covid-19 testing, besides serving at various healthcare facilities and helping Covid-19 patients in getting admissions to hospitals.

"But after several of them contracted the infection, the number of tests conducted daily was reduced," explained a senior health department official. He, however, added that other reasons also factored in reducing the number of tests. "[Following this], routine testing was disrupted," he explained.

Speaking on the matter, Pakistan Medical Association general secretary Dr Qaisar Sajjad also called for the immediate screening of healthcare professionals. "We had asked for it in March but orders for it have only been issued now."

He was also of the opinion that the government was giving rise to confusion by decreasing the number of tests.

"While the number of tests [conducted daily] is going down, the number of cases are shooting up," he observed, explaining that fewer cases being reported had led to people disregarding SOPs.

"Over 60 per cent citizens have stopped wearing masks," he claimed.

Contact tracing

With the health department also announcing to recommence Covid-19 contact tracing, a health department official told The Express Tribune that the exercise was stopped due to "some confusion."

"But we are starting it again so that [suspected] cases can be traced and screened," he confirmed.

The health dept's silence

Meanwhile, all senior department officials, including spokespersons, have reportedly been instructed not to talk to the media for reasons unknown. "Only a few are privy to this development," a health official, on condition of anonymity, disclosed to The Express Tribune. "We have been told not to share any information with the media." He added that none of the department's officials had access to the daily update on pandemic statistics given by Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah.

"This is the only department for which the CM releases data," the official said. "And while we work in the health department, we don't have access to it." 

Published in The Express Tribune, June 28th, 2020. ]]>
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			<title>MQM-London ‘hitman’ apprehended</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2252248/mqm-london-hitman-apprehended</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2252248/mqm-london-hitman-apprehended#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 28 Jun 20 18:29:02 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[​ Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Sindh]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2252248</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Police claim he was involved in over 100 murders]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[The Special Investigation Unit (SIU) police claimed on Saturday to have arrested a notorious target killer, allegedly belonging to Muttahida Qaumi Movement-London (MQM-L) and involved in over 100 murders, during a targeted operation in Orangi Town. The police reportedly seized arms and ammunition from his possession as well.

According to SIU SSP Irfan Bahadur, the suspect, namely Shakeel alias Haddi, was a member of MQM-L’s ‘death squad’ and had confessed to the killings of Pirabad police SI Aleem Shah and Orangi Town police constable Rana Sohail in 2011, during his initial interrogation.

Bahadur added that he was also involved in an attack on Awami National Party (ANP) leader Bashir Jan and the targeted killing of ANP’s Shah Faisal Colony in-charge, Nabi Gul, among others.

The SSP claimed Shakeel had also killed a medico-legal officer at Qatar Hospital and MQM-Haqiqi’s Asif Malang, while also setting fire to the ‘astana’ of Khalid Baba, burning three people to death.

According to the police, Shakeel admitted to involvement in over 100 murders on the basis of ethnicity, sect and politics, on the orders of the MQM-L leadership.

Cases against him and other members of the ‘death squad’, including Ajmal Pahari, Saeed alias Bharam, Danish alias Mama, Omar alias Mullah, Zeeshan alias Dada, are registered in several police stations across the city, as well as with the SIU. Further investigation is underway.]]>
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			<title>2,179 people diagnosed with coronavirus in Sindh</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2252371/2179-people-diagnosed-coronavirus-sindh</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2252371/2179-people-diagnosed-coronavirus-sindh#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 28 Jun 20 23:50:45 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[​ Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Sindh]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2252371</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[CM Murad says province's daily testing capacity has been stretched to 12,000]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Sindh Chief Minister (CM) Syed Murad Ali Shah shared on Sunday that 2,179 people were diagnosed with coronavirus overnight, of the total 9,244 samples tested on the day.

Shah added that 435,393 samples have been tested to date in Sindh, of which 80,446 have been positive, which constituted around 18.4 per cent of the total.

The CM apprised that the testing capacity in the province has been stretched to 12,000 a day, courtesy of the laboratories established in Hyderabad, Sukkur, Larkana, Gambat and Sehwan, which have been functional for the last month.

According to Shah, Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences in Hyderabad could conduct 2,000 tests, Syed Abdullah Shah Institute in Sehwan 100, Gambat Institute 300 and Ghulam Mohammad Maher Medical College in Sukkur could screen 100 samples.

Moreover, the chief minister stated that 26 more people succumbed to the contagious disease overnight, taking the death toll to 1,269 in the province. He claimed that the government has curbed the mortality rate by spreading awareness among the masses.

Shah added that 34,654 people were currently infected by the virus, of whom 33,110 were in home isolation, 88 were quarantined at isolation centres and 1,456 were being treated at different hospitals. He added that 655 patients were in critical condition and 94 of them have been put on ventilators.

Meanwhile, he said that 1,079 more patients had recovered from the contagious disease, pushing the number of recovered people to 44,523 - around 55.5 per cent of all those affected.

Furthermore, the provincial capital saw 1,406 new Covid-19 cases. He presented the district-wise breakup, saying 555 were diagnosed with the virus in East, 358 in South, 171 in Korangi, 138 in Central, 109 in West and 75 in Malir district.

Separately, Sukkur had 86 new cases, Hyderabad 54, Ghotki 40, Khairpur 38, Jamshoro 26, Mirpurkhas 22, Thatta 19, Larkana 17, Sanghar 14, Naushero Feroze 12, Matiari 12, Shikarpur 12, Shaheed Benazirabad nine, Umerkot eight, Dadu seven, Kashmore and Tando Allahyar three each, and Jacobabad one.]]>
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			<title>Youngster killed while shooting TikTok video in Karachi</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2252250/youngster-killed-shooting-tiktok-video-karachi</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2252250/youngster-killed-shooting-tiktok-video-karachi#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 28 Jun 20 18:39:33 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[​ Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Sindh]]></category><category><![CDATA[archives]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2252250</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Faraz lost control of car due to speeding, rammed into tree]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[A youngster was killed and two of his friends injured in a car accident while filming a video for popular video-sharing platform TikTok in Korangi on Saturday night.

The deceased, identified as Faraz, lost control of the car he was driving due to speeding and ran into a tree. As a result, he and his friends, Ayaz and Ahsan, were injured. They were rushed to Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre (JPMC) for treatment, where Faraz succumbed to his injured.

According to the police, the car was completely wrecked in the collision. They added that the statements of the injured could not be recorded till the filing of this report.

The body was handed over to the family after the completing of medico-legal formalities.

This is not the first time that a life has been lost while filming a TikTok video. On June 21, a 17-year-old boy accidentally shot and killed himself while making a video. He was reportedly filming himself while holding his father’s pistol to his temple when he accidentally pulled the trigger.

Karachi teenager shooting TikTok video ‘accidentally’ kills himself

Meanwhile, in April, a 22-year-old man died after being hit by a train while shooting a video at the Jumma Goth railway station in Bhens Colony.

According to the Landhi Railway police, Kashif had been running on the railway tracks while doing a TikTok challenge when the train hit him, causing critical head injuries. His friends, who were also filming videos, took him to JPMC, where he succumbed to his wounds.]]>
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			<title>Illegal plasma sale thrives in Lahore</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2251888/illegal-plasma-sale-thrives-lahore</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2251888/illegal-plasma-sale-thrives-lahore#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 28 Jun 20 10:56:28 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Imran Adnan]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2251888</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[First Covid-19 patient recovered through trial treatment last month]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Following a surge in confirmed coronavirus cases and a significant increase in the number of patients recovering, a black market of blood plasma has emerged across the country, particularly in the provincial capital.

People are selling blood plasma of the patients who have recovered from coronavirus for tens of thousands of rupees, The Express Tribune learnt on Saturday.

The blood plasma or convalescent plasma is currently being trialled as a possible treatment for coronavirus disease in different countries, including Pakistan, as it contains antibodies developed by the immune system of people who have won the battle against the virus.

Though a large number of patients overcoming the disease are willing to donate plasma free of charge, some black sheep are using popular social media platforms to contact critically ill coronavirus patients seeking donation.

A patient who wanted to sell his blood plasma after his recent recovery said, “I don’t want to earn money but to recover my expenses incurred on the treatment since thousands of rupees were spent on medicines, consultation and food. I believe there is no harm in recovering the cost while people are selling their blood plasma for tens of thousands of rupees in the city.”



Other people involved in the unethical trade also have their own reasons. Thousands of posts are available on social media indicating that the illegal activity is happening openly without the fear of law enforcing agencies or accountability.

On June 13, a Twitter user posted her thoughts on the issue: “People are making money by selling their plasma to patients in Pakistan.

Humanity is dead.” Meanwhile, many people were of the view that there was nothing wrong with it. They commented that people also sell kidneys and blood.

Besides blood plasma, people have posted requirement for medicines such as Remdesivir, Besimivir and other drugs considered beneficial in coronavirus treatment. To save the lives of their loved ones, some people have expressed their willingness to pay any amount for these scarcely available drugs. In May, the National Institute of Blood Diseases (NIBD) confirmed that the first coronavirus patient who had been treated with plasma therapy had recovered.

The sale of oxygen cylinders is also on the rise in the online black market. A 6-litre cylinder along with regulator and stand is being offered for Rs23,000, while an 8-litre variant is being sold for Rs28,000 and 12-litre equipment is available for Rs35,000.

Speaking to The Express Tribune, an oxygen cylinder dealer, Rashid Malik, highlighted that the prices has increased three-fold owing to very high demand. “Mostly these cylinders are being imported from China, Turkey and Russia. In normal days, we were selling a 12-litre cylinder for Rs12,000 to Rs15,000 and 6-litre for Rs6,000 to Rs7,000,” he disclosed.

The Ministry of National Health Services has already announced action against illegal trading of blood plasma and black marketing of life-saving drugs used for coronavirus patients in the country. Health experts are warning citizens not to pay donors for blood plasma since it is still an experimental therapy.

As per the Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissues Act 2012, commercial dealing and trade of human organs and tissues is illegal in the country.

Section 11 of the law highlights that whoever makes or receives any payment for the supply of, or for an offer to supply, any human organ; seeks to find a person willing to supply for payment of any human organ; or offers to supply any human organ for payment shall be punished with imprisonment for a term which may extend to 10 years and with fine of up to Rs1 million.

Published in The Express Tribune, June 28th, 2020.]]>
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			<title>Woman commits suicide with two daughters</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2251906/woman-commits-suicide-two-daughters</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2251906/woman-commits-suicide-two-daughters#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 28 Jun 20 10:41:58 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Tariq Saeed Awan]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2251906</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Victim’s husband wanted to marry off girls against their wish]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[A mother of seven children ended her life by consuming poisonous pills along with her two daughters over a domestic dispute in Mohalla Selwan, Kundian on Saturday.

A sense of shock and mourning spread in the neighbourhood after the incident.

As per details obtained by The Express Tribune, Muhammad Tahir Qureshi, son of Allah Din, a resident of Mohalla Selwan, and his wife had a dispute over marriage proposals for their daughters. The husband allegedly pressured his daughters to accept the marriage proposals as per his wishes, while the wife and daughters did not agree to the proposals.

As a result of the dispute, Tahir’s wife and daughters, 12-year-old Anza and 11-year-old Asma, swallowed a poisonous substance.

The mother and two daughters were shifted to a rural health centre, where doctor referred them to the Mianwali DHQ Hospital after immediate medical aid. However, the three victims could not survive.

As soon as the incident was reported, Kundian police and Rescue 1122 teams reached the spot. After postmortem was conducted and police completed the legal procedure, the bodies were handed over to the heirs.

Cases where multiple members of the same family committed suicide or were killed by their own family have been also been reported earlier in the province.

On Monday, a woman reportedly poisoned herself and four other members of her family due to financial problems in Okara.

A poor labourer of Okara, Nazar Mohammad, who failed to repay a loan, was struggling to make ends meet due to which his family often quarreled over financial issues.

Nazar’s son, 20-year-old Waqas Ahmed, married 19-year-old Naheed two months ago. The couple lived in Ghouspura neighbourhood of Basirpur Town, Okara with Nazar, his 45-year-old wife, and sons, 18-year-old Ashfaq Ahmed and 16-year-old Sattar Ahmed.

The family reportedly had a debt of Rs150,000. The whole family was worried about paying back the debt and there were often altercations in the house.

Naheed’s in-laws often pressured her to bring money from her father to settle the debt.

Reportedly, Naheed was fed up with the daily quarrels and allegedly fed her in-laws food containing poison, due to which her husband Waqas and brother-in-law Ashfaq died, while her other brother-in-law, 16-year-old Sattar Ahmed, and mother-in-law were severely affected.

In March last year, a man shot and killed his wife and three children, over a domestic dispute, before committing suicide in Rai Chand area of Chiniot.

In April 2019, a man committed suicide after killing his father and sisters over a family dispute regarding his ex-wife, whom he wished to remarry, in Shafiqabad, Lahore.

Published in The Express Tribune, June 28th, 2020.]]>
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			<title>Letter to Punjab IGP seeks ban on PUBG video game</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2251900/letter-punjab-igp-seeks-ban-pubg-video-game</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2251900/letter-punjab-igp-seeks-ban-pubg-video-game#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 28 Jun 20 10:45:21 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[​ Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category><category><![CDATA[Technology]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2251900</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Official says excessive violence in game triggers aggressive behaviour among youth]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[A letter written to the Punjab inspector general of police (IGP) on Saturday sought a ban on online game Player Unknown's Battlegrounds (PUBG).

The letter was penned by SSP Liaqat Ali Malik on the instructions of CCPO Zulfiqar Hameed. It mentioned that the online video game has devastating impacts on the mental health of the youth and two incidents of suicide have been reported in the city.

It stated that excessive violence triggers aggressive behaviour among the youth and they become addicted to the game. The CCPO said the game should be banned and an awareness campaign should be launched.

A matric student had committed suicide in Gulshan-e-Abbass Phase-II a few days ago. The boy was found hanging in his room. The police also spotted a smartphone beside the body with the PUBG game app running on it.

His parents also confirmed to the police that they had stopped the boy for playing the game. In another incident, a 20-year-old student of second year at the FC College University Lahore also reportedly committed suicide after being scolded by his parents for playing the PUBG. The victim identified as Jonty Joseph was living in North Cantonment. On the day of the incident, his father reportedly reprimanded him for playing the PUBG for a long period.

He took the punishment so seriously that he locked himself inside a room. The next day when he did not open the door, the family broke it and found him hanging.

The victim also worked part-time to assist the family financially and after work would remain busy in playing the game late at night.

On May 18, a man approached the Lahore High Court to ban the video game. “The game has a negative impact on children. They are becoming more ruthless and violent,” maintained the petitioner.

The PUBG, which has been developed by a South Korean company, is a 2017 survival game in which players are dropped onto an island to battle it out against others. The multiplayer game allows players from all over the world to compete against each other or in teams.

Published in The Express Tribune, June 28th, 2020.]]>
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			<title>NGO offers transgender people foreign scholarships</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2251895/ngo-offers-transgender-people-foreign-scholarships</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2251895/ngo-offers-transgender-people-foreign-scholarships#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 28 Jun 20 10:51:06 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Asif Mehmood]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2251895</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Programme will allow selected persons to attend month-long training in host country]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[&nbsp;

While educational opportunities have been few and far between for gender minorities in Pakistan, a local NGO has stepped in to create an international platform for the development of the country’s transgender persons. The Gender Guardian (TGG), a non-governmental organisation working to train and educate transgender persons in Pakistan, has partnered with various foreign NGOs to allow transgender citizens the opportunity to participate in a month-long training program in four different countries.

Transwoman Sania Abbasi, who is a makeup artist and has been associated with TGG as a teacher for the past several months, is among the many aspirants of the training scholarship. If selected for the coveted programme, Ms Abbasi says it will bring her immense pride to be one of Pakistan’s first transgender persons sent abroad for training in social work and welfare. “This is a wonderful opportunity for us to be able to represent our country on an international platform and I have been working tirelessly towards achieving my goals. I can’t wait to work alongside international NGOs. I want to learn from them and also share my personal experiences with the world.”

According to The Gender Guardian (TGG) Head Asif Shehzad, his organisation is committed to providing equal opportunities to transgender people through the provision of free vocational training and formal education. “We have taught and trained dozens of transgender people in various skills such as driving, cooking, makeup, sewing and etc over the last couple of years. However, through this scholarship the selected participants will be able to use share their skills and talent with the world and for the first time, have access to international cultural exchange and training,” said Shehzad. Speaking further about the scholarship programme, Shehzad also informed that The Gender Guardian has been working towards compiling a digital database of transgender persons registered with TGG as well as other people who donate to the organisation. “So far, we have partnered with NGOs working in Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia. Using our database, we will select candidates every six months to be sent to these four countries for a month-long training, while people from the same four countries will also have the option to come and train in Pakistan. Our selected candidates will be working alongside their host country’s NGOs and represent Pakistan on an international level,” he explained.

Sania Abbasi, believes this scholarship will allow the people of the world to see the skills and talent of Pakistan’s transgender person, who often tend to be stereotyped as people limited to sex work. “As a gender minority, we have little no resources for pursuing higher education or going abroad, because of which we have very limited opportunities for work. However, this scholarship opportunity for transgender people to showcase their abilities and break the stereotypes associated with them,” she asserted.

Published in The Express Tribune, June 28th, 2020.]]>
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			<title>‘Pakistan’s progress linked to Balochistan peace’</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2251914/pakistans-progress-linked-balochistan-peace</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2251914/pakistans-progress-linked-balochistan-peace#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 28 Jun 20 10:35:52 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[​ Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Balochistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2251914</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[NA speaker chairs parliamentary committee meeting to discuss issues facing province]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[National Assembly Speaker Asad Qaiser on Saturday asked Balochistan parliamentarians and public representatives to suggest solutions to the socio-economic problems being faced by the province and its people.

Chairing the maiden meeting of the special parliamentary committee on Balochistan in the Parliament House, Qaiser said that the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) emanated from Gilgit-Baltistan and culminated in Balochistan, which increased the significance of the province.

“Balochistan and its issues are always a priority of the incumbent government,” he said. “Parliament and public representatives are the best option to put forth solutions to the socio-economic issues faced by Balochistan and its people,” he said.

“Pakistan’s progress is linked to peace and progress in Balochistan,” Qaiser said, stressing the need for the committee to look into the matters related to ensuring transfer of the real benefits of CPEC to the local people.

Committees in the parliamentary system across the world, Qaiser said, played a recommendatory role, therefore, this committee would make all-out efforts to recommend the best possible solutions to the issues faced by Balochistan.

The speaker mentioned that the issuance of an executive order, regarding immediate implementation of 6% employment quota in all federal departments, underscored the seriousness of Prime Minister Imran Khan towards addressing the issues of Balochistan.

On the occasion, the speaker formed a four-member sub-committee, headed by Dr Fehmida Mirza, to develop comprehensive terms of reference (ToRs) encompassing all the issues related to Balochistan. It was also decided that a representative from the Balochistan National Party and Defence Minister Prevaiz Khattak would be invited to assist the sub-committee in developing the ToRs.

Deputy Speaker Qasim Khan Suri appreciated the initiative of the speaker to constitute the special committee.

He noted that the government was seriously looking into the resolution of the issues confronting peace and development in the province.

Mirza, the inter-provincial coordination minster, told the committee that Balochistan’s issues had always been the top priority of the parliamentarians.

She pointed out that comprehensive ToRs were essential to make the committee more effective. Khattak said that the government had taken various steps to mitigate the grievances of the people of Balochistan.

Representing Balochistan National Party (BNP) chief Sardar Akhtar Mengal, National Assembly lawmaker Agha Hassan Baloch contended that the issues of Balochistan were getting intense since 2006 and needed to be redressed forthwith.

He called for examining the recommendations, proposed after a meeting between previous parliamentary committee, headed by Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain, and late Nawab Akbar Khan Bugti.

Published in The Express Tribune, June 28th, 2020.]]>
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			<title>Balochistan collects Rs2.5b from mineral sector</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2251919/balochistan-collects-rs2-5b-mineral-sector</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2251919/balochistan-collects-rs2-5b-mineral-sector#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 28 Jun 20 10:38:28 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[APP]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Balochistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2251919</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Computerised weighing scales have been installed]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The Balochistan government has collected Rs2.5 billion from the minerals sector during the current financial year, despite coronavirus pandemic and the subsequent lockdown that was imposed to curb virus spread.

The government has collected the huge amount from mining sector and deposited in the provincial treasury, an official of the Balochistan government said. Computerised weighing scales have been installed besides increasing mining check posts in the province, he added.  

Published in The Express Tribune, June 28th, 2020.]]>
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			<title>First phase of HingIaj road construction completed</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2251913/first-phase-hingiaj-road-construction-completed</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2251913/first-phase-hingiaj-road-construction-completed#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 28 Jun 20 10:35:07 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[mohammad.zafar]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Balochistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2251913</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Project was approved at a cost of Rs120 million]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The first construction phase of Hinglaj Mandir Link Road project has been successfully completed with the special funds from Balochistan Chief Minister Jam Kamal.

The Hindu community of Lasbela has expressed gratitude to the government of Balochistan, according to official sources, as 90% of technical work of the temple stands completed.

The project was approved at a cost of Rs120 million to construct a 13km road to the temple which is adjacent to the Gwadar Coastal Highway.

The first phase of the 4.7 km Link Road project has been completed this week while phase two of the project will be completed in the next financial year.

Published in The Express Tribune, June 28th, 2020.]]>
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			<title>Bilawal, Mengal agree on joint strategy for budget</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2251810/bilawal-mengal-agree-joint-strategy-budget</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2251810/bilawal-mengal-agree-joint-strategy-budget#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 28 Jun 20 00:50:02 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Khalid Mehmood]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Sindh]]></category><category><![CDATA[Balochistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2251810</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Both leaders express concern over spread of coronavirus in country]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto telephoned Balochistan National Party-Mengal (BNP-M) chief Akhtar Mengal on Saturday and discussed the current political situation in the country.

According to details, both the leaders agreed on a joint strategy for the next year’s fiscal budget.

They also exchanged views on the 18th Constitutional Amendment and government’s measures on the National Finance Commission (NFC) award.

“By criticising the 18th Constitutional Amendment, Imran Khan is attacking the constitution,” Bilawal said.

They expressed concern over the growing number of Covid-19 patients in the country and deliberated the holding of all parties’ conference next week.

Bilawal, Shehbaz reject federal budget

“PTI-IMF budget is anti-people. We cannot accept it,” the PPP chairman said.

“Due to the incompetence of the government, coronavirus has spread everywhere,” he added.

Both the leaders also rejected the increase in the petroleum price and noted that this was the time to provide maximum relief to the people.

A few days back, Mengal announced his party's withdrawal from its alliance with the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf-led federal government over its failure to implement accords with the party.

Speaking during a session of the National Assembly, he said: "I am officially announcing that our party is ending its alliance with the PTI. We will stay in Parliament and will keep talking about issues."

Mengal added that the PTI had signed two agreements with the party at the time of government formation after the 2018 elections and later during the presidential elections, but not a single point of the accord was implemented.]]>
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			<title>K-P wants revival of tourism hit hard by Covid</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2251918/k-p-wants-revival-tourism-hit-hard-covid</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2251918/k-p-wants-revival-tourism-hit-hard-covid#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 28 Jun 20 10:37:34 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[​ Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[K-P]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2251918</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[CM Mahmood Khan orders early opening of provincial tourism authority]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[In an effort to boost the tourism sector, which has been hit hard by the novel coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic, the provincial chief executive has directed for expediting efforts for opening the newly established provincial tourism authority.

Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) Chief Minister Mahmood Khan issued these orders while presiding over the 22nd board meeting of the Board of Directors of the Tourism Corporation of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (TCK-P).

CM Mahmood directed to finalise formalities for opening the newly established K-P Cultural Tourism Authority immediately.

The chief minister also ordered to take steps for liquidation of TCK-P and handing over its assets and liabilities to the culture and tourism authority. The TCK-P employees would be absorbed in the authority, he added.

The chief minister termed tourism as a major economic sector and said its promotion is a top priority of his government.

The meeting was briefed on the progress so far made on the liquidation of the TCK-P after the establishment of the Culture and Tourism Authority as provided in the K-P Culture and Tourism Act, 2019.

The meeting decided to constitute a committee headed by K-P Additional Chief Secretary Shakil Qadir to streamline and expedite all the legal, administrative and financial matters with regard to the liquidation of the TCK-P in a prescribed manner.

The committee would draft and present its recommendations to the competent forum within a week. Other members of the committee would finance secretary, law secretary, tourism secretary and establishment secretary.

K-P Chief Secretary Dr Kazim Niaz, Additional Chief Secretary Shakil Qadir, Finance Secretary Atif Rehman, Tourism Secretary Khushal Khan and TCK-P Managing Director Junaid Khan, private sector members of the board and other relevant officials attended the meeting.

Published in The Express Tribune, June 28th, 2020.]]>
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			<title>Poor internet access for students echoes in K-P assembly</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2251303/poor-internet-access-students-echoes-assembly</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2251303/poor-internet-access-students-echoes-assembly#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 27 Jun 20 09:14:06 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[shahid.hamid]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[K-P]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2251303</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Debate on Rs55.42b supplementary budget completed]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Lawmakers on Friday took up the issue of poor internet connection for students in the remote areas of the province, noting that the novel coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic means that online classes are the only means for obtaining education for students now.

This was discussed as the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) Assembly resumed on Friday to debate the provincial budget for the fiscal year 2020-21.

MPAs raised questions on online classes in the province. They urged the provincial government to ensure students have access to 3G and 4G networks, especially in the merged districts, so that they can access classes.

Moreover, they lamented that a girls college built in the Mohmand tribal district has yet to start functioning even though its structure was completed years ago.

During the discussion on the supplementary budget for the fiscal year 2019-20 worth Rs55.42 billion, the issue of a laptop scheme was raised.

Opposition lawmakers including Pakistan Peoples Party’s (PPP) Nighat Orakzai, Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl’s (JUI-F) Maulana Lutfur Rehman, Jamaat-e-Islami’s (JI) Inyatullah Khan, Mir Kalam Wazir, Shafiq Afridi, Baseerat Bibi, Khushdil Khan, Shagufta Malik and others said that a handsome amount had been allocated for the information technology sector in the supplementary budget to provide laptops to teachers.

They noted that if teachers can be provided laptops, then what about the students and called for greater transparency in the programme.

The opposition benches also raised concerns over the plight of the inmates in prisons across the province during the pandemic. They slammed the government for losing control of the bureaucracy.

Police reforms

On the directions of Deputy Speaker Mahmood Khan for a senior police officer attend the assembly proceedings, an SP level officer arrived at the assembly on Friday.

However, the deputy speaker did not allow him to enter the session as he expressed his anger over the absence of senior officers.

He then directed a DIG level officer to attend the session.

Later, Peshawar CCPO Ali Gandapur visited the assembly lobby and marked his presence.

Lawmakers from across the aisle pointed to the need for police reforms. They also asked the CCPO to explain reports of extrajudicial killings and the harassment of citizens at checkpoints set up across the province.

Members of the opposition expressed their reservations over the dormant status of the public safety commission. With no check and balance on the department, they claimed that the police was doing what it wants.

The secretary of the home department was also accused of deliberately delaying the process of activating the commission. Opposition lawmakers also pointed to the incident in the Zangi area where a motorcyclist was killed when he failed to stop at a checkpoint.

Discriminatory allocations

Shafiq Afridi from the Khyber Tribal District accused the government of dividing development funds based on the personal likes and dislikes of the finance and chief ministers. Moreover, he said that lawmaker of the merged districts has been completely ignored. 

Published in The Express Tribune, June 27th, 2020.]]>
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			<title>K-P up in arms against custodial torture</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2251292/k-p-arms-custodial-torture</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2251292/k-p-arms-custodial-torture#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 27 Jun 20 09:19:02 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[​ Our Correspondents]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[K-P]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2251292</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Govt asks PHC to probe yet another instance of police high-handedness]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[Scores were left injured on Friday as police and protesters clashed in the Tehkal area of the provincial capital as the latter demonstrated against the excesses of the former.

The clashes came even as the government wrote to the provincial judiciary, asking it to probe reports of police detaining an Afghan national, stripping and parading him naked and then torturing him for abusing officers in a video.

Several protests and rallies were held across the province on Friday to protest the torture of Rafiullah alias Amir of Tehkal.

The largest protests were staged in the Tehkal area, outside the Peshawar Press Club and in front of the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) Assembly building. Protesters filled the road from Saddar to the press club, blocking it for all sorts of traffic. Former Awami National Party (ANP) provincial assembly member Alamgir Khan Khalil and members of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Youth Wing also participated in the protest.

They held aloft banners condemning the police brutality and of filming a detainee in a compromised position and then leaking the videos. Chanting anti-police slogans, they demanded a judicial inquiry into the case and kept the road closed for nearly two hours.

As the protesters neared the provincial assembly, they were charged by police in riot gear. At this, the protesters started pelting police officers with stones.

To disperse the crowd, the police resorted to firing tear gas canisters.

The clashes left scores of protesters and police officers injured.

Meanwhile, protests against police excesses were also held in Mardan, Swabi, Bajaur, Charsadda, Nowshera, Malakand, Lower and Upper Dir, Swat and other southern districts. Lawyers, social workers, students and local political leaders participated in those protests.

Judicial inquiry

In a media briefing at the Information Cell in the Civil Secretariat on Friday, Adviser to the K-P Chief Minister on Information Ajmal Wazir said that the provincial government has written to the Peshawar High Court’s registrar to nominate a judge who will lead a judicial commission to probe the Tehkal incident under the K-P Tribunal of Inquiry Ordinance.

Wazir said that soon after the video went viral on social media, the provincial government had taken immediate action by suspending and booking the four police personnel involved, including an SHO. Moreover, the SSP Operation was removed from his post.

On the judicial commission, he confirmed that the PHC had been requested to form the probe body. He added that the body will be tasked with identifying those responsible for the incident and that later they will be tried as per the law.

Noting that the commission has been directed to complete its inquiry within 15 days, Wazir said that the government will make the inquiry public.

The adviser, however, urged the public not to malign the entire police department due to the actions of a few

“The misconduct and wrongdoings of a few personnel should not be blamed on the entire police department,” he said, reiterating the immense sacrifices rendered by the provincial police force in the war against terror apart from serving on the frontlines against the novel coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic.

Published in The Express Tribune, June 27th, 2020.]]>
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			<title>Another case of police excesses surfaces</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2251290/another-case-police-excesses-surfaces</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2251290/another-case-police-excesses-surfaces#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 27 Jun 20 09:19:42 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Yawar Hayat]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[K-P]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2251290</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[The report further showed that the additional SHO had been previously found guilty of framing a man in a fake case]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[After Peshawar, a case of police excesses has emerged from Haripur where a senior police officer allegedly beat up a clerk at a filling station for refusing service to his son.

A report submitted to the district police officer's (DPO0 office stated that additional SHO SI Muhammad Nawaz's son had gone to a filling station in the Batrassi area of Haripur to get fuel for his motorbike. Because he was not wearing a face mask nor a helmet, the clerk on duty refused to provide him with service as per a campaign being run by the district police.

At this, additional SHO Nawaz and his driver arrived at the fuel station where they beat up the workers. Nawaz’s driver also allegedly snatched cash from the cashier's pocket and then fled.

The owner of the filling station and workers subsequently approached the DPO and urged him to intervene. The DPO took notice of the incident and suspended Nawaz and launched an inquiry.

The report further showed that the additional SHO had been previously found guilty of framing a man in a fake case and allegedly took a bribe to set the case aside.

Published in The Express Tribune, June 27th, 2020.]]>
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			<title>Virus cases in Indian Occupied Kashmir top 7,000</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2252336/virus-cases-indian-occupied-kashmir-top-7000</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2252336/virus-cases-indian-occupied-kashmir-top-7000#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 28 Jun 20 23:11:02 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Anadolu Agency]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category><category><![CDATA[Jammu &amp; Kashmir]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2252336</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[2,700 infections, including 41 virus-linked deaths, confirmed in last 2 weeks]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Coronavirus cases in the Indian Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IOJ&amp;K) region crossed the 7,000-mark including 94 deaths, officials said on Sunday.

As many as 127 new cases were reported in the last 24 hours, taking the national tally to 7,093, according to the latest data by the government.

Since June 13, the data revealed, about 2,700 cases have been registered while 41 people, including a 15-day-old baby, have died.

The Doctors Association of Kashmir has warned of community transmission, saying that more than 90% of the region's population is susceptible to the infection.

AJK president lauds Joe Biden for urging India to restore people’s rights in IOJ&amp;K

Dr Suhail Naik, who heads the association, told Anadolu Agency the recent numbers indicate that the virus has arrived in the community, and is going to spread amid an ease in restrictions.

“We cannot bear the excess load of cases in our underdeveloped healthcare systems... the only remedy available is social distancing, hygiene and prevention,” he said.

While educational institutions remain closed, and public transport is still suspended in the region, some businesses have reopened.

As the pandemic crisis is looming, Indian forces continued their human rights violation in the valley, killing over 130 freedom fighters in over 40 gunfights in 2020 so far.]]>
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			<title>AJK president lauds Joe Biden for urging India to restore people’s rights in IOJ&amp;K</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2252239/ajk-president-lauds-joe-biden-urging-india-restore-peoples-rights-iojk</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2252239/ajk-president-lauds-joe-biden-urging-india-restore-peoples-rights-iojk#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 28 Jun 20 22:27:03 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[​ Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category><category><![CDATA[Jammu &amp; Kashmir]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2252239</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[US former vice president has said restrictions on dissent, such as preventing peaceful protests, weaken democracy.]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[While welcoming US Democratic presidential nominee and former vice president Joe Biden’s statements over the restoration of rights of Kashmiris, Azad Jammu and Kashmir President Sardar Masood Khan has said that Biden’s remarks are a proof that the world community has refused to buy the Indian narrative on Occupied Kashmir.

Biden has asked New Delhi to take all necessary steps to restore rights of all the people of Kashmir and asserted that restrictions on dissent, such as preventing peaceful protests or shutting or slowing down internet, weakens democracy.

The US ex-vice president also expressed disappointment over the Citizenship (Amendment) Act and the enforcement of the National Register of Citizens (NRC) in different states of India.

“We welcome the US Democratic Party leader’s remarks and urge Indian-Americans and Muslim-Americans to applaud Joe Biden’s policy statement together because nobody wants India to be ruled by theocratic fascists. Kashmiris’ liberties and fundamental rights, especially their right to self-determination, should be restored. It’s a just demand,” President Masood said in Muzaffarabad on Sunday.

Earlier addressing a function held in connection with the disbursement of cash grant among the affectees of Indian shelling living along the Line of Control (LoC), the AJK president said that relief being provided by the federal government to 610,000 members of 80,000 families is the recognition of their sacrifices as well as acknowledgement of the responsibilities being shouldered by the state government.

"Azad Kashmir is not only a strong defence line of Pakistan, but the people living close to the LoC and facing India's direct aggression are the defenders of the motherland," he added.

While commenting on Prime Minister Imran Khan's announcement to include more than 100,000 people affected by the Indian firing at the LoC in the Ehsaas Emergency Cash Programme and to issue health cards to 1.2 million people of Azad Kashmir, he said that the people of occupied and the liberated territory want to become part of Pakistan not because of geographical location but on the basis of their faith and ideology.

Joe Biden seeks restoration of peoples’ rights in Occupied Kashmir

The AJK president said that India's ruling party BJP and the RSS have planned to eliminate the Kashmiri people, occupy their lands, reduce the number of Muslims in the assembly of Occupied Kashmir, and to turn the whole state into a colony of India, but the people of both the liberated and occupied parts of Kashmir would offer stiff resistance.

He went on to say that it is high time that the government and the people of Pakistan as well as the valiant people of Azad Kashmir adopt an aggressive policy to counter India because "India is constantly threatening to attack Pakistan, Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan".

"Instead of saying that we will defend Pakistan and Azad Kashmir, we should also talk about the liberation of Khalistan, Assam, Tamil Nadu and Mizoram, and tell the world that India is no longer a secular state but it has emerged as a fascist state," he added.

President Masood also said that India's anti-Muslim moves have awakened the Muslims across the world, and a wave for the renaissance of Islam has risen in the whole Muslim world. "It is now clear that whether it is Kashmir or Palestine, the Muslims are prepared to safeguard their interest."

Referring to Azad Kashmir, he said that the liberated territory can emerge as an economic engine for Pakistan. At present, he maintained, that 2,000 megawatts of electricity is being generated in Azad Kashmir while the territory has a potential of producing another 8,000 megawatts of electricity "though our own demand is between 300 and 400 megawatts, and the surplus electricity is injected into the national grid".

On completion of Kohala, Gulpur, Azad Pattan, Dudhnial and many other projects in the coming decade, Azad Kashmir will become the biggest electricity generating region of Pakistan.

President Masood said that Azad Kashmir is not only strategically important for Pakistan's defence but it can also play an important role in the economic uplift of the country. "That is why, we say that Pakistan is incomplete without Kashmir and Kashmir has no identity without Pakistan."]]>
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			<title>Hinduism being masqueraded as secularism in India, says AJK president</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2251761/hinduism-masqueraded-secularism-india-says-ajk-president</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2251761/hinduism-masqueraded-secularism-india-says-ajk-president#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 28 Jun 20 00:33:43 +0500</pubDate>
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				<![CDATA[​ Our Correspondent]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category><category><![CDATA[Jammu &amp; Kashmir]]></category>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[Masood says 13,000 Kashmiri boys have been abducted and kept in prison houses where they're being subjected to torture]]>
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				<![CDATA[Sardar Masood Khan, the president Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), has said that after grudgingly accepting the independence of Pakistan, India adopted a secular doctrine, an insincere attempt to hide prevalent Hindu nationalism under the guise of secularism.

He made these remarks while addressing two separate web-conferences organised by the Institute of Policy Studies on the topic of “India: Past, Present &amp; Future: Perceptions of the Muslim World”; and by the Pakistan High Commission UK on the topic “Seeking Justice for Kashmiri Victims of Sexual Violence and Physical Torture, and Widows”.

Speaking at the IPS session – which was attended by leading international experts from the United States, Saudi Arabia, Bangladesh, Afghanistan and Nigeria – the president said Hindu fascists romanticise an imaginary state of "Akhand Baharat" that they claim to have existed before the arrival of Muslim rulers in the sub-continent. This notion, he said, is not only unsubstantiated by history, it is also counterintuitive.

Referring to the faux secularism adopted by India, the AJK president said that over the decades, this glue of secularism had has come off and the real face of India’s political masters has been exposed. "Not long after independence, on 27 October 1947, India began working on its imperialistic agenda, and invaded the Jammu and Kashmir State. Driven by its Hindu-extremist policy, India has carried on with this agenda over the years," he said.

Masood Khan said that lawmakers and the leadership of BJP, the RSS and their affiliates have publicly declared that they would do away with Muslims from within India. This, he said, has caught the attention of Hindu zealots from across India which has consequently impacted the larger political landscape of the neighbouring country.

This BJP-RSS nexus has waged three wars in the region; one against its minorities inside its own borders, the second one against Kashmiris in the occupied territory of Kashmir and the third one against all its neighbouring countries. "Considering Pakistan as enemy number one, they have threatened to wipe off Pakistan from the face of the earth by the use of nuclear weapons," he informed.

The AJK president said that India’s ambition of becoming a colonial and imperial power in the region has led it to using the Line of Actual Control in Ladakh for sabotaging the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). It has also formed a four-member alliance QUAD – comprising of India, USA, Japan and Australia – to oppose the BRI and, especially, the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC).

“India is the biggest barrier for progress in the region. SAARC has been struggling for decades and that too because India has been standing in the way of economic integration as it wants to establish its hegemony in South Asia,” said the president.

'Existing tensions surfacing in new China-India row'

Speaking about the situation in IOJ&amp;K, he said that India is practicing the policy of lebensraum by reoccupying the State of Jammu and Kashmir, bifurcating it and now bringing it under the direct rule of Delhi. He compared the new domicile rules introduced in the occupied valley, to the policy followed by Nazi Germany against the Jews, based initially on economic strangulation, followed by demonisation and marginalisation and finally physical extermination.

The president apprised that in IOJ&amp;K political leaders have been incarcerated, the youth are being killed and tortured in jails all over Occupied Kashmir and northern India. He added that 13,000 Kashmiri boys have been abducted and kept in prison houses where they are being subjected to torture and brainwashing. Bipin Rawat, India’s Chief of Defence Staff, has said that these boys (some as young as 10 years old) are more dangerous than a pellet-firing shotgun because they raise the slogan of Azadi (freedom) and self-determination, he said.

The AJK president said that members of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) should start a boycott, divestment and sanctions movement against India, while the corporate sector of these countries should be discouraged to invest in India as they are committing human rights violations against Kashmiris and Muslims of India.

"Start by banning the import of non-halal meat into OIC countries and the formation of a Kashmir Humanitarian Fund with the help of the Islamic Development Bank and Islamic Solidarity Fund.”

He also suggested an international civil society movement be mobilised to delegitimise Hindutva and campaign to declare RSS a terrorist organisation. “The biggest and the most trained terrorist organisation in the world is the RSS. They have openly declared to target Muslims not only in South Asia but all over the world”, he added.

Appreciating the supportive role of the OIC, Masood Khan appealed to the Arab League and the Gulf Cooperation Council to raise their voice against Kashmir and call out the egregious human rights violations taking place in IOJ&amp;K.

Speaking at the web-conference hosted by Pakistan High Commission, the president appealed to powerful nations to make moral and legal choices for bringing India to justice and helping dismantle this machine of torture in IOJ&amp;K. “Silence is a crime when such torture is openly taking place in any part of the world”, he said.

He added that 25,000 Hindus from all over India have been given domiciles of IOJ&amp;K; and in the same manner, in which Muslim Indians have become second class citizens, Kashmiris have to run from pillar to post just to prove that they are state subjects. “If we don’t stop this now, IOJ&amp;K won’t be a recognisable entity like it is today. Two million Hindus will be brought in over the coming years” he said.

The AJK president said that India’s non-permanent seat in the UN Security Council will lead to three setbacks in the Council. Firstly, it will try to delete the agenda from the UNSC calendar; secondly, they would make efforts to stop us from holding informal meetings on Kashmir; and thirdly, they will imperil funding of the mandate of the UNMOGIP. “As a permanent member of the UNSC, the United Kingdom can stop this and create a balance in the UNSC,” said the president while speaking to his audience.

He urged the British citizenry and its civil society to lead the campaign of letter writing and awareness-raising on Kashmir in the international realm.

He also thanked MP Steve Baker for his active and vocal role in raising his voice for the Kashmir people by authoring a letter. He urged him to use his clout with 10 Downing Street and the FCO to mobilise the UK towards Kashmir advocacy in both the British Parliament and the UNSC.

The web-conference hosted by the Pakistan High Commission London was attended by Pakistan High Commissioner to the UK Nafees Zakaria, MP Afzal Khan, MP Naz Shah, MP Steve Baker, MP Tony Lloyd, MP, Imran Hussain, MP Khalid Mahmood, Lord Qurban Hussain, Councillor Aasim Rashid, Mr Muzammil  Ayub Thakur, Chairman JKSDMI Raja Najabat Hussain, President Tahreek-e-Kashmir UK Fahim Kiyani, Dr Nazir GIllani, Syed Ali Raza, Shaista Safi and other leading members of the civil society.]]>
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			<title>World leaders urged to help end Indian atrocities against Kashmiris</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2250999/world-leaders-urged-help-end-indian-atrocities-kashmiris</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2250999/world-leaders-urged-help-end-indian-atrocities-kashmiris#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 26 Jun 20 21:06:07 +0500</pubDate>
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				<![CDATA[​ Our Correspondent]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[World]]></category><category><![CDATA[Jammu &amp; Kashmir]]></category>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[On International Day in Support of Victims of Torture, AJK president condemns BJP-RSS regime]]>
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				<![CDATA[Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) President Sardar Masood Khan has urged the international community and United Nations to help end the most "cruel, inhumane and degrading" treatment of the people of Indian Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IOJ&amp;K) by occupation forces,

“We fully agree with UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres’s statement that torturers must never be allowed to get away with their crimes, and systems that enable torture should be dismantled or transformed,” he said in a video message released on the International Day in Support of Victims of Torture observed across the globe on Friday.

The AJK president said that torture is a crime against humanity and it is prohibited by international law and all religions. "Yet, this crime is committed everyday by the Indian forces and authorities in the occupied territory, most brutally and systematically."

He appealed to the United Nations not to generalise and blur the focus on torture where it is pervasive. In Occupied Kashmir, he said, torture is most rampant and most egregious.

“Torture has been committed by the BJP-RSS regime by reoccupying and colonising Jammu and Kahsmir against the will of its 14 million people, dividing their state into two parts, and enforcing decrees whereby the entire territory is now ruled by a foreign capital, Delhi."

While lambasting the Modi-led government, President Masood said: “As we mark this day today, Kashmiri young men are hunted down and killed in cold blood in fake encounters, demonstrators are blinded and sexual molestation is used as a weapon of war.”

Kashmiris, he went on to say, are being deprived of their homeland by bringing Hindus from all over India and settling them in the occupied territory through new domicile rules.

“Stripped of their permanent residence rights, Kashmiris are being robbed of their jobs, livelihoods, businesses and land. Systematically, the demography of the disputed valley is being altered permanently."

PM urges int'l community to hold India accountable for atrocities in IOJ&amp;K

The AJK president said what India is doing in occupied region is a war crime according to the Fourth Geneva Convention, the ICC Statute and international humanitarian law.

Referring to arbitrary arrest of political leaders and political activists, he said thousands of political detainees  – illegally incarcerated – are being subjected to the vicious torture leading in many instances to death and disability.

President Masood demanded that political prisoners in the Tihar jail in India - Yasin Malik, Asiya Indrabi, Shabbir Shah - should be released forthwith and Syed Ali Geelani and other Hurriyet leaders - hundreds of them holed up in cramped prisons - should be set free.

Some 13,000 boys and children, as young as 10, are caged in concentration camps where they are being tortured and brainwashed, he said while calling for the international community led by the United Nations to play ts role for their release.

He also made a demand that India should be asked to repeal all draconian laws that empower occupation forces to commit crimes with impunity.

“Kashmiris are citizens of planet Earth. Listen to their screams of SOS. Save their bodies; save their souls. Silence too is a crime while such massive torture is taking place right before our eyes.”]]>
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			<title>Kharif: IRSA to finalise water distribution</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2600807/kharif-irsa-to-finalise-water-distribution</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2600807/kharif-irsa-to-finalise-water-distribution#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 02 Apr 26 21:48:34 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2600807</guid>
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				<![CDATA[Advisory body to meet on April 7 as rains boost water levels across major reservoirs]]>
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				<![CDATA[The Advisory Committee of Indus River System Authority will meet on April 7 to finalise water distribution for the provinces for Kharif season 2026.

The committee meeting under Irsa chairman will be attended by all the Irsa&#39;s members, representatives from Wapda, the Federal Flood Commission, the director general of Pakistan Meteorological Department and the four provincial irrigation secretaries.

However, the body appears incomplete as there is absence of a regular Sindh member and a full-fledged federal member from the province.

Sindh&#39;s member in Irsa, Mohammad Ehsan Leghari, resigned on Nov 19, 2025 after joining the Sindh government&#39;s Planning and Development Department as member (water). His resignation has yet to be accepted by the federal water resources ministry, even after more than five months, as it must be sent to the federal cabinet for approval.

Sindh proposed Shafqat Wadhu, a retired chief engineer of the irrigation department, on Jan 28, 2026. His nomination has not been approved by the federal cabinet. It is unclear whether the ministry has forwarded the proposal or if it is still pending. Mr Leghari, however, will attend the April 7 IAC meeting.

Another contentious issue for Sindh is the appointment of a federal member from the province in the water regulator. The matter remains pending for unexplained reasons, although both summaries were to originate from the water resources ministry.

Ongoing rains across the country have positively impacted water availability, significantly improving levels in major reservoirs.

According to the Indus River System Authority (Irsa), Tarbela Dam has nearly reached full capacity; the water level is recorded at 1,449.82 feet against its maximum storage capacity of 1,550 feet.

The dam currently holds 1.006 million acre-feet of usable water, reflecting a substantial increase in reserves.

Mangla Dam is also witnessing ample storage, with water reserves recorded at 1.268 million acre-feet. Its current water level stands at 1,138 feet, compared to its maximum capacity of 1,242 feet, according to Irsa.

Similarly, Chashma Barrage has recorded water storage of 0.171 million acre-feet. The barrage has a maximum capacity level of 649 feet, while the current level stands at 645 feet.

Water inflows and outflows at key reservoirs remain stable.

Tarbela is receiving an inflow of 43,000 cusecs, with an outflow of 20,000 cusecs. At Chashma Barrage, inflow has been recorded at 57,700 cusecs and outflow at 35,000 cusecs. Mangla Dam is receiving 47,500 cusecs of water, while releasing 22,000 cusecs.]]>
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			<title>Pakistan sees steep fall in terror violence</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2600808/pakistan-sees-steep-fall-in-terror-violence</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2600808/pakistan-sees-steep-fall-in-terror-violence#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 02 Apr 26 21:48:34 +0500</pubDate>
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				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2600808</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Overall, terrorist incidents in Pakistan declined by 18% during the first three months of the year, according report]]>
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				<![CDATA[Terrorist incidents in Pakistan have witnessed a considerable decline as a result of Operation Ghazab lil-Haq.

As a result of the operation, terrorist incidents in March this year decreased by 59 percent compared to last month (February).

According to a fact-based report by the renowned research organization, the &quot;Center for Research and Security Studies,&quot; published by Arab News, the nefarious designs of terrorists have been crushed due to Pakistan&#39;s effective strategy under Operation Ghazab Lil Haq. The report said that compared to the previous quarter, terrorism declined by 57 percent in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, with a clear reduction also observed in other cities.

Similarly, both terrorist incidents and fatalities decreased in the first quarter of the year compared to last year, the report added.

Overall, terrorist incidents in Pakistan declined by 18 percent during the first three months of the year, according to the report.

Higher terrorist casualties in security forces&#39; operations reflected that these operations have become more coordinated, effective, and lethal, the report said.

According to the report, attacks on unarmed civilians were carried out in Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and the federal capital by Fitna al-Khwarij and Fitna al-Hindustan.

International experts were also of the view that under Operation Ghazab lil-Haq, terrorist hubs in Afghanistan have suffered heavy damage, leading to an improved security situation in Pakistan.]]>
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			<title>Pakistan debt hits Rs81 trillion</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2600815/pakistan-debt-hits-rs81-trillion</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2600815/pakistan-debt-hits-rs81-trillion#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 02 Apr 26 21:48:34 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2600815</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Fiscal deficit cited as major reason behind rising debt]]>
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				<![CDATA[Pakistan&#39;s total debt has crossed Rs81 trillion with every citizen carrying a liability of around Rs325,000, the Senate&#39;s Standing Committee on Economic Affairs was informed on Thursday.

During the committee meeting, officials from the Economic Affairs Division revealed that of the total debt, external liabilities account for over Rs26 trillion, while domestic borrowings exceed Rs55 trillion.

The officials cited the country&#39;s fiscal deficit as a major driver of rising debt, noting that additional borrowing is required to meet the shortfall. They also highlighted that the depreciation of the rupee has further increased the debt burden.

The committee expressed concern over placing responsibility for economic policies solely on parliament.

The committee chairman said Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa government had borrowed Rs300 billion, which remained unutilized, yet the provincial government continued to pay interest on the loan.]]>
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			<title>New western weather system enters from Balochistan</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2600793/new-western-weather-system-enters-from-balochistan</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2600793/new-western-weather-system-enters-from-balochistan#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 02 Apr 26 21:12:47 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Naeem Khanzada]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Sindh]]></category>
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				<![CDATA[Heavy rains paralyses city, infrastructure failures reported]]>
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				<![CDATA[Heavy rainfall accompanied by strong winds wreaked havoc across Karachi, disrupting the city&#39;s systems and turning ongoing development projects into a major hazard for residents. Numerous citizens fell into potholes, while motorcycles and cars were damaged. The Red Line and Karimabad underpass became symbols of fear as millions of commuters were stranded in severe traffic jams for hours. Streets and residential neighbourhoods were inundated with rainwater, while drainage arrangements remained largely ineffective.

Overflowing sewers and drains compounded the problems in several areas. Despite Mayor Karachi visiting multiple locations, the administrative machinery of the city&#39;s municipal bodies remained largely absent.

Rainwater accumulated at the same spots as in previous spells, but this time ongoing development projects worsened the situation.

Videos circulated on social media showing a motorcyclist trapped in a pothole, searching for his bike, while a car nearby had also fallen into a pothole. Citizens warned others on social media to avoid traveling from Hussainabad to Karimabad. The Karimabad underpass, already delayed for three years, deteriorated further after the rains.

Similarly, construction work along University Road&#39;s Red Line caused major disruption. Travel from Jail Chaurangi to Hasan Square and from Hasan Square to Nipa Chawrangi became a nightmare for commuters.

A powerful new western weather system entering Pakistan from Balochistan brought widespread rainfall to Karachi on Thursday. Light to heavy spells of rain persisted in some areas for over an hour, and in certain localities, torrential rainfall caused urban flooding. Thick clouds darkened the city even in the afternoon, while hail was reported in areas including Mauripur and Clifton. The Meteorological Department has forecasted partly to fully cloudy skies with light to moderate rain for Friday.

The system, which entered from southwest Balochistan, began affecting Karachi on Wednesday night and continued through Thursday afternoon.

Strong winds were also recorded during the rain, reaching a maximum speed of 38 km/h. According to the Meteorological Department, Nazimabad recorded 6.69mm rainfall; Keamari: 5.6mm; Saadi Town: 4.8mm; Gulistan-e-Johar: 4.42mm; Motorway M-9: 4.35mm; Orangi Town: 3.94mm; Gulshan-e-Maymar: 3.6mm; Surjani Town: 3.5mm; DHA: 3.3mm; Old Airport: 3.26mm; Sharea Faisal: 3.04mm; Mauripur: 2.9mm; North Karachi: 2.88mm; Korangi: 1.82mm; and Gulshan-e-Hadeed received 1.7mm rainfall.

After the rain, rainbows were visible in several areas.

The Meteorological Department&#39;s Early Warning Center has predicted the new weather system may continue to affect Karachi and several rural districts of Sindh until April 4. Authorities have advised residents to take precautions and avoid non-essential travel.

Meanwhile, the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) has claimed that the corporation successfully managed the effects of heavy and intermittent rainfall across the city, ensuring timely water drainage and minimal disruption to daily life.]]>
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			<title>NEPRA amends solar regulations to safeguard existing users</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2600811/nepra-amends-solar-regulations-to-safeguard-existing-users</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2600811/nepra-amends-solar-regulations-to-safeguard-existing-users#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 02 Apr 26 21:48:34 +0500</pubDate>
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				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[Amended provision to take effect on 9th February, 2026]]>
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				<![CDATA[In a significant policy clarification for solar consumers, the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) on Thursday amended its Solar Regulations 2026, assuring protection for existing net metering users while tightening rules for those seeking to expand their systems.

The notification states that &quot;nothing shall affect approvals granted, licences or concurrences issued, and agreements executed under the repealed regulations,&quot; effectively safeguarding previously approved solar installations and their contractual terms.

NEPRA made it clear that any distributed generator operating under a valid agreement &quot;shall be billed in accordance with the rate and mechanism provided in the repealed regulations till the expiry of the term of such agreement,&quot; ensuring continuity for existing consumers amid broader policy shifts.

However, the regulator drew a firm line on system modifications, warning that the financial advantages tied to earlier arrangements will not apply if there is a &quot;material modification of distributed generation facility resulting in a change to the maximum electrical output.&quot;

The notification further clarified that the amended provision &quot;shall be deemed to have taken effect on 9th February, 2026,&quot; giving the changes retrospective legal cover from that date.

The latest amendment comes against the backdrop of NEPRA&#39;s earlier decision to abolish the unit-for-unit net metering regime and transition towards a net billing system for both new and existing solar users, a move that had triggered concern among consumers and industry stakeholders.

By retaining existing agreements while restricting future modifications, the regulator appears to be balancing investor confidence with evolving energy policy priorities, as Pakistan navigates rising electricity costs and a growing shift towards distributed renewable generation.]]>
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			<title>Karachi Board appoints new controller of exams</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2600797/karachi-board-appoints-new-controller-of-exams</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2600797/karachi-board-appoints-new-controller-of-exams#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 02 Apr 26 21:12:47 +0500</pubDate>
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				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Sindh]]></category>
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			<description>
				<![CDATA[Official lacks experience while exams are scheduled to begin from April 7]]>
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				<![CDATA[The Provincial Department of Universities and Boards has replaced the Controller of Examinations of the Karachi Secondary Education Board just four days before the matriculation exams. Instead of appointing a qualified candidate on merit through an advertisement, Zia-ul-Haq, the outgoing controller, has been replaced by an officer from the Larkana Board.

According to a notification issued by the Secretary of Universities and Boards, Ahmed Khan Chhutto has been appointed as the Controller of Examinations on a one-year deputation. Ahmed Khan Chhutto previously served as Inspector of Institutions at the Larkana Board and, apparently, lacks prior experience in conducting examinations. Despite this, he has been assigned to the Karachi Board, the province&#39;s largest educational board in terms of student enrollment.

Over 300,000 candidates appear for the Class 9 and 10 exams under the Karachi Board, and now the academic future of these students rests in the hands of an officer with no prior experience managing such large-scale examinations.

It is reported that Ahmed Khan Chhutto has shown interest in serving at Karachi boards in the past. A few months ago, he was also appointed as Controller of Examinations at Inter Board Karachi, but he faced significant difficulties in assuming the charge and eventually returned without starting his duties. This marks the second occasion he has been appointed to this critical role at the Karachi Matric Board.

The matriculation exams in Karachi are scheduled to begin on April 7, and the process of centre fixation and issuance of admit cards is still pending. These important tasks have now been entrusted to a new officer with limited experience, raising concerns over the smooth conduct of examinations.]]>
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			<title>LPG mafia cashes in as price gap widens</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2600816/lpg-mafia-cashes-in-as-price-gap-widens</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2600816/lpg-mafia-cashes-in-as-price-gap-widens#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 02 Apr 26 21:48:34 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Talib Fareedi]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2600816</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Consumers forced to pay Rs146/kg extra amid soaring demand]]>
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				<![CDATA[Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) prices have surged far beyond the officially notified rate, with the commodity selling at over Rs450 per kilogram across Lahore and other parts of the country, despite the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) fixing its price at Rs304.28 per kg.

Across multiple localities in Lahore, LPG is being sold between Rs450 and Rs470 per kg, forcing consumers to pay up to Rs146 per kg above the official rate.

The LPG Distributors Association estimates that more than 6,000 metric tonnes of LPG are sold daily in the country, amplifying the scale of profiteering.

However, retailers argue they are not responsible for the price surge, claiming that LPG marketing companies are supplying the commodity at inflated rates.

One shopkeeper said he had purchased LPG at Rs443 per kg, questioning how it could be sold at Rs304, and alleged that authorities routinely target small vendors while failing to act against larger players allegedly profiteering &quot;with both hands&quot;.

Meanwhile, the impact is being felt most acutely by ordinary citizens already struggling with rising inflation.

Rickshaw driver Usman Kashif said even basic survival had become difficult as dwindling passenger numbers and low fares make it hard to secure even a single meal a day.]]>
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			<title>Govt defends web monitoring system</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2600810/govt-defends-web-monitoring-system</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2600810/govt-defends-web-monitoring-system#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 02 Apr 26 21:48:34 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2600810</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Denies infringing upon citizens' privacy]]>
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				<![CDATA[The government on Thursday defended the country&#39;s web monitoring system in the National Assembly, asserting that it was aimed at regulating unlawful online content and did not infringe upon citizens&#39; privacy, while lawmakers raised concerns over oversight, legality and the role of private telecom operators.

Responding to supplementary questions during the question hour, the parliamentary secretary for IT said the web monitoring system had been in place since 2007 and had undergone periodic upgrades, including a comprehensive overhaul in 2019.

She clarified that the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) was responsible for monitoring internet traffic and ensuring compliance with laws governing online content.

&quot;It is not correct to say that the government or PTA has no role in this system,&quot; she said, adding that the Authority continuously monitors and blocks unlawful or blasphemous content.

She emphasized that no public funds had been used for the system, describing it as a mechanism focused on tracking data traffic rather than intruding into individual privacy.

The secretary also said that international platforms were regulated through formal agreements, including memorandums of understanding with companies such as TikTok and Meta, while access to certain services could be restricted on security grounds.

Referring to the social media platform X, she said it had not been blocked by PTA but on the instructions of the Interior Ministry due to security considerations.

Earlier, lawmakers questioned the transparency and legal framework underpinning the system, particularly its reported reliance on infrastructure procured by private telecom operators.

MNA Sharmila Faruqui said the official response suggested that the monitoring system was procured by private operators without government funding or PTA involvement in procurement, raising questions about authority and accountability.

&quot;If private telecom operators are carrying out monitoring at a national level, who authorized them, and who is monitoring them?&quot; she asked.

She argued that the absence of direct government ownership or financial involvement raised concerns about oversight and responsibility, warning that such an arrangement could leave citizens exposed to unchecked surveillance.

Another lawmaker, Noor Alam Khan, echoed these concerns and questioned the financial model of the system.

He said that if private operators had installed and maintained the infrastructure, the cost would ultimately be borne by consumers. &quot;Are these private operators charitable organizations, or are they recovering costs from the public?&quot; he asked.

Khan also raised constitutional concerns, asking whether the system could violate Article 14, which guarantees the right to privacy and dignity of individuals.

He argued that monitoring functions should fall squarely within the state&#39;s domain to prevent misuse by private entities.

Additionally, he sought clarification on the legal basis for restricting access to X, questioning whether such decisions were being made within a defined legal framework or through administrative directives.]]>
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			<title>From international isolation to mediator in Iran war, Pakistan's remarkable makeover</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2600703/from-international-isolation-to-mediator-in-iran-war-pakistans-remarkable-makeover</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2600703/from-international-isolation-to-mediator-in-iran-war-pakistans-remarkable-makeover#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 02 Apr 26 14:51:07 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Reuters]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2600703</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Islamabad will need a long-term strategy to balance ties with Iran]]>
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				<![CDATA[A diplomatic outcast a year ago, Pakistan has become a trusted regional partner and a mediator between the United States and Iran to end the war in the Middle East, a remarkable transformation for the country.

Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and Chief of the Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir has had several meetings with President Donald Trump, including an unprecedented one-on-one lunch at the ​White House, while the government has apprehended an Islamic State bomber accused of killing American troops and handed him over to the US.

In other moves to restore the country&#39;s credibility, its diplomats have launched a &zwnj;sweeping outreach programme with world leaders, while consolidating ties with China.

&quot;Pakistan&#39;s civil-military leadership has been on a charm offensive primarily balancing relations between the US and China as it seeks to employ a diversified foreign policy,&quot; Arsla Jawaid, global risk analyst at Control Risks, told Reuters.

&quot;All these efforts are beginning to show some signs of success.&quot;

Since Osama bin Laden was killed by US Navy SEALs in Pakistan in 2011, ties with the US and the West had plunged. The jailing of former prime minister Imran Khan and accusations from Washington that Pakistan was supporting the Taliban behind the scenes during the 20-year Afghan ​war only made things worse.

On the economic front, Pakistan was perilously close to a debt default until a new deal with the International Monetary Fund&nbsp;was reached after tough negotiations about 18 months ago.

Analysts and government officials cite two turning points ​in Pakistan&#39;s rebuilding trust with Washington.

Read More: US VP Vance spoke to Pakistani intermediaries about Iran conflict

The first breakthrough came in March last year, when Pakistan helped capture a suspect linked to the 2021 Kabul airport bombing in which 170 Afghans and 13 US ⁠soldiers were killed, prompting public thanks from Trump and renewed intelligence sharing.

Maleeha Lodhi, a former Pakistan ambassador to the US, said the cooperation was &quot;critical&quot; in reversing decades of mistrust.

In May, a clash with old enemy India reinforced the shift.

Foreign Office Spokesperson Tahir Andrabi ​said the 90-hour conflict provided a massive boost to Pakistan&#39;s diplomatic credentials because the country&#39;s &quot;military leadership showed tremendous restraint after successfully downing Indian fighter jets&quot;.

Pakistan was quick to engage the US in efforts to end the conflict between the nuclear-armed neighbours and&nbsp;later nominated Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize.

Levers of power

CDF Munir&#39;s visit to the White House, the first time a sitting US president had received Pakistan&#39;s military chief without civilian leadership present, played a pivotal role.

Read More: UK to host talks with 35 countries on reopening Strait of Hormuz

Government officials have said the country&#39;s makeover has been spurred by a strong civil-military alliance and ability to effectively juggle relationships with ​Gulf countries, as well as the US and China.

&quot;If there is one factor above all that has fuelled the widening of diplomatic opportunity for Pakistan, it is the trust and symbiosis between the field marshal and prime minister,&quot; Mosharraf Zaidi, PM Shehbaz&#39;s spokesperson, told ​Reuters.

Both Zaidi and Andrabi highlighted diplomatic initiatives from their offices, and a flurry of meetings and almost daily phone calls with world leaders.

On Sunday, Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar hosted counterparts from Turkiye, Saudi Arabia and Egypt for talks that focused on ending the war in Iran.

&quot;Because of Dar&#39;s frequent interactions ⁠with these foreign ministers, they can share intimate comments as well as a solemn moment,&quot; Andrabi said.

Favourite field marshal

Ties with Washington have since deepened through frequent engagement between Pakistan&#39;s civil and military leadership and the White House.

CDF Munir and PM Shehbaz have held talks with the US that included investment opportunities, a crypto deal with a Trump family-linked business, and Middle East security, anchoring Pakistan&#39;s makeover with a mixture of business deals and geopolitical alliances.

CDF Munir, who Trump has called his &quot;favourite field marshal&quot;, was the only serving military chief at the World Economic Forum in Davos this year. Sources said he held further interactions with Trump there and has spoken with Vice President JD Vance multiple times since the Iran war began.

Vance communicated with intermediaries from Pakistan about the Iran conflict as recently as Tuesday, according to a ​source briefed on the matter, making clear that Trump was open ​to a ceasefire if certain demands were met.

PM Shehbaz, meanwhile, has ⁠held repeated meetings with Trump as well as Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian.

Pakistan signed a mutual defence deal with Saudi Arabia last year.

Heartburn in India

Pakistan&#39;s ascension on the international stage, however, is causing heartburn in India, which has usually had the higher diplomatic profile of the two rivals. Its opposition has questioned the government&#39;s hands-off approach in the Middle East war, ​and analysts say Islamabad&rsquo;s rise risks leaving New Delhi on the sidelines of regional diplomacy.

Also Read: Pakistan signals Iran-US talks in &#39;coming days&#39;

&quot;I have been calling for almost three weeks now for India to take a leading stand, leveraging ​its good relations with both sides ⁠into a peace initiative,&quot; said opposition lawmaker Shashi Tharoor. &quot;Now, apparently, Pakistan, Egypt and Turkiye have done it. Good luck to them ... but India gets no credit while Pakistan is holding the peace talks.&quot;

However, the&nbsp;economy remains in the doldrums, and analysts say it risks being pulled into the war because of the defence pact with Saudi Arabia.

Islamabad is also enmeshed in its own conflict with&nbsp;Afghanistan, which surged days before the US and Israel launched strikes on Tehran.

Pakistan &quot;has ⁠to continue to ​look inwards to bolster its own pillars of national power, especially its economy&quot;, said Uzair Yunus from strategic advisory firm The Asia Group.

&quot;It also needs to ​build an integrated defence industrial complex in partnership with Saudi Arabia and Turkiye.&quot;

Islamabad would need a long-term strategy to balance ties with Iran, its defence partnership with Riyadh and relations with Washington amid an unpredictable and possibly prolonged conflict, said Jawaid from Control Risks.

&quot;The civil-military leadership will need to be very careful of the ​role and extent of Pakistan&#39;s involvement. Overplaying the mediator card could prove to be more damaging if not managed astutely.&quot;]]>
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			<title>Over 300,000 put under 1,291 smart lockdowns</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2242020/smart-lockdown-imposed-1292-areas-across-pakistan-ncoc-told</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2242020/smart-lockdown-imposed-1292-areas-across-pakistan-ncoc-told#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sat, 13 Jun 20 15:20:13 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Razya Khan]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2242020</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Punjab, Sindh cross grim mark of 50,000 cases]]>
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				<![CDATA[The National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) was informed on Saturday that smart lockdowns had been enforced in 1,292 localities across the country during the last 24 hours to prevent the further spread of Covid-19.

The forum, which serves as the nerve centre of the country’s unified efforts to contain the spread of novel coronavirus, heard that a total of 308,600 people now remain under the restrictions in various parts of the country.

A total of 10 localities in the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT), having a population of 60,000, were put under smart lockdown, the forum was told. The smart lockdowns had been enforced in 844 localities of Punjab, confining 15,200 people.

Similarly, the lockdown had been imposed in 414 localities of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, with a population of 11,000, seven localities in Sindh with a population of 7,000, 12 in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) and five areas in Gilgit-Baltistan.

It was also informed that the federal and provincial authorities were ensuring compliance with the health guidelines and instructions, particularly regarding workplaces, industrial sector, transport, markets and shops, besides pursuing the track, trace and quarantine (TTQ) strategy.

The NCOC meeting, chaired by Planning Minister Asad Umar, was also informed that over 13,116 violations of health guidelines were observed across the country in the last 24 hours and punitive actions were taken against 1,541 markets and shops, 33 industrial units and 1,429 vehicles.

Later, the NCOC released details of ventilators and beds’ availability for Covid-19 patients across the country. According to a statement, 379 beds, 68 oxygenated beds and 43 ventilators were available in AJK. Though there was no patient on the ventilator there.

In Balochistan, 2,148 beds, 262 oxygenated beds and 36 ventilators were available for the virus patients. It said that no Covid-19 patient in the province was on ventilator. There were 151 beds, 43 oxygenated beds, 28 ventilators available in Gilgit, where one patient was on ventilator.

Islamabad had 514 beds, 262 oxygenated beds, 90 ventilators, while 18 patients were on ventilators, the NCOC said, adding that 4,856 beds, 1,081 oxygenated beds and 340 ventilators were available in K-P, where 85 patients were on ventilators.

In the most-affected provinces, 9,276 beds, 3,500 oxygen beds and 387 ventilators were available in Punjab, where 233 patients were on ventilators, while 8,274 beds, 739 oxygenated beds and 368 ventilators were available in Sindh, where 83 patients were on ventilators.

50,000 cases

Punjab and Sindh, two of the most populous provinces of the country, each crossed the grim mark of 50,000 coronavirus cases on Saturday, as the country endured another day of over 6,000 new infections amid a record-breaking surge in the pandemic.

In the last 24 hours, each of the two provinces recorded more than 2,000 new cases. According to the official data released on Saturday morning, the number of recoveries also crossed 50,000. However, as the day progressed, more Covid-19 positive cases were confirmed.

By midnight, the nationwide tally of Covid-19 patients stood at 135,943 with 50,087 cases in Punjab, 51,518 in Sindh, 17,450 in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, 8,028 in Balochistan, 1,093 in Gilgit-Baltistan, 7,163 in Islamabad and 604 in Azad Jammu and Kashmir. The virus has so far, claimed at least 2,597 lives.

The NCOC said that some 839,019 people had so far been tested, with nearly 30,000 tests conducted over the past 24 hours. The data showed that death ratio in confirmed cases also rose to 2%, from 1.7% earlier, while recoveries also climbed from 20% to 32%.

Spread among medical staff

According to the data, 3,858 health workers, treating the virus coronavirus patients, have also fallen victims to this pandemic. The disease has so far, claimed the lives of 36 health workers – 14 in Sindh, 7 in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, 5 in Balochistan, 6 in Punjab, 2 in Gilgit-Baltistan and 2 in Islamabad.

According to the report, the health workers affected by coronavirus included 2,327 doctors, 476 nurses and 1,055 other staff. Among them, 266 health workers are being treated in various hospitals, including 3 on ventilators due to their critical condition. Over 1,450 have recovered so far.

(WITH INPUT FROM APP)]]>
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			<title>Tales of survivors: ‘Isolation, not coronavirus, was my worst nightmare’</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2188962/tales-survivors-isolation-not-coronavirus-worst-nightmare</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2188962/tales-survivors-isolation-not-coronavirus-worst-nightmare#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 01 Apr 20 17:32:30 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Sher Wali]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2188962</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[I was convinced that if my time is not up, this virus can never kill me]]>
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				<![CDATA[I’ve lived my worst nightmare. It wasn’t the coronavirus, but the prolonged treatment [read: observation] in isolation that made it a hellish experience. Imagine being confined to a tiny room with no social interaction whatsoever for almost a month. Doctors and nurses were the only visitors, who, too, would check on me once or twice a day.

If you’re sick, you need your loved-ones around you. The sense of having someone who cares about you gives you strength to fight illness. Conversely, social isolation makes you more vulnerable to sickness. Your immune system doesn’t respond properly in isolation and it takes you longer to heal.

In my case, it wasn’t me alone; my wife also shared the isolation ordeal at Mohammadabad Hospital, in Danyore, Gilgit-Baltistan. Interestingly, she didn’t have any symptoms, but tested positive for the virus. We both were in the isolation ward, while our five kids were at home – alone and worried.

The ordeal started after a trip to Iran. My wife and I went in a group of 22 pilgrims to visit the holy shrines in Iran. We mostly stayed in Qom, though our pilgrimage also took us to Mashhad, and to neighbouring Iraq.

Tales of survivors: ‘Never before had I seen doctors dressed up like aliens’

On Feb 22, we were preparing to return to Pakistan when we heard about the outbreak of some contagious disease in Qom. Until then, I didn’t know much about the coronavirus.

On Feb 25, we took a flight for Lahore. At Tehran airport, they didn’t allow anyone to board the flight without screening. Neither of us was sick. At Lahore airport, we were screened again. We drove to Rawalpindi where we stayed for two days. While fellow pilgrims dispersed, we took a bus for Gilgit on Feb 28 and reached our village Nomal, some 15km from Gilgit city, in the evening.

In the night I felt feverish. I took it for travel fatigue, took over-the-counter fever reducers from my neighbour and tried to sleep. It didn’t help. I started having chills.

Next morning, I called up the District Headquarters Hospital Gilgit and told medics about my travel and fever. A team of doctors immediately came to see me and my wife. We were then driven to the DHQ hospital in an ambulance. They took samples to test us for the novel coronavirus, while we were shifted to the Civil Hospital Basin. The samples were sent to National Institute of Health (NIH) in Islamabad for PCR test because the facility wasn’t available in Gilgit-Baltistan. I lost my appetite but I tried to force-feed myself so that I could gather some energy to fight off my illness. After a couple of days, our test reports were received from NIH: both of us were positive for COVID-19.

After the diagnosis, they shifted us to the Mohammadabad Hospital, where we were to stay for the next 25 days. Interestingly, by now my fever was gone, while I had no cough, no muscle soreness, no sore throat, and no shortness of breath. My appetite returned to normal [I started eating more than I normally do]. My wife remained asymptomatic throughout all this time.

Tales of survivors: How I became Pakistan's first COVID-19 patient

I’m a 51-year-old ex-serviceman and my wife is 45. I had heard that the coronavirus could be fatal for people of my age and older. Doctors sought to reassure me. But honestly, I wasn’t scared one bit. It is part of our faith that every living being has to die one day. I knew if I was destined to die, I’d die no matter what. But if my time is not up, this virus can never kill me.

We were tested several times during our 25-day nightmarish sojourn. We had no symptoms, but would still test positive. I’ve heard that my wife’s reports were mixed up with another patient’s at the NIH.

Luckily, the PCR testing facility was made available in Gilgit in the meantime and we were tested locally for the first time. The results were negative and a repeat test a day later confirmed the virus was out of our bodies. It was a huge relief.

We were discharged from the hospital on March 28, but doctors said we should avoid socialising for 14 days. We’ve rented a house in Gilgit city to spend these two weeks here. It’s been five days now and we are counting the days till we are completely in the clear.

My advice to the sick: Don’t dread this virus. Keep your faith in God and power up your will, Inshallah you will defeat it. To everyone else, I say take all precautions possible. If not out of concern for the virus, then think of the ordeal isolation can create.

 (Narrated to Naveed Hussain)]]>
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			<title>'We honour his sacrifice': Dr Usama's fight against COVID-19</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2182160/honour-sacrifice-dr-usamas-fight-covid-19</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2182160/honour-sacrifice-dr-usamas-fight-covid-19#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 23 Mar 20 06:55:24 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[shabbir.mir]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category><category><![CDATA[Gilgit Baltistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2182160</guid>
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				<![CDATA[It is a national tragedy and we will award him the status of national hero, says G-B CM]]>
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				<![CDATA[“We will again see what the issue is, and if they [quarantined pilgrims] need further treatment, they will be shifted to DHQ or city hospital, but if they can be treated here, we will provide treatment to them here.”

These were the last words of young doctor Usama Riaz, heard in a video recorded at a quarantine centre at Sakwar, Gilgit – where he ultimately ended up contracting the novel coronavirus while checking pilgrims returning from Iran and Iraq.

“Usama was continuously on duty and unfortunately was without proper protective gear necessary to handle coronavirus patient,” said a doctor referring to his video in which Riaz is seen wearing an ordinary mask. The video went viral on social media attracting sympathies for the young doctor.

Pakistani volunteers 3D-print ventilators, join war against COVID-19

According to relatives, Riaz returned home on Friday night from duty and went to bed. “But he couldn’t wake up next morning,” said the relative, adding he was rushed to combined military hospital (CMH) and then the district headquarter (DHQ) hospital where a CT scan machine was found to be out of order. The relatives appealed for airlifting him to Islamabad for treatment but that did not materialize either.

The 26-years-old Riaz, who was a resident of Chilas town, was then put on a ventilator at DHQ Gilgit, where he remained for the next three days before passing away on Sunday.

“It’s a national tragedy and we will award him the status of national hero,” Chief Minister Hafeezur Rehman told The Express Tribune.

“He was our frontline defence and we honour his sacrifice.”

Riaz’s death brings the tally of fatalities to five in Pakistan. The country has so far above 800 known cases of the virus. Sindh has reported the highest number of cases.

Mehtabur Rehman, a local journalist, who visited the quarantine centre said, “I visited the centre where Usama was deputed and found the situation deplorable”.

“As far as protective gear, there was no such thing on the ground,” said the journalist who was later put on quarantine on ‘suspicion’ of visiting the centre without following the standard operating procedures. Rehman termed the quarantine as a vendetta for exposing the government’s false claims.

Young doctor screening coronavirus patients dies of COVID-19 in Gilgit

The Pakistan Medical Association of Gilgit-Baltistan (PMA G-B) reacted to Riaz’s death and accused the government of showing negligence towards genuine issues of the doctors.

“Dr Riaz had contracted COVID-19 due to the negligence of government and its health department,” said President PMA G-B Dr Zulfiqar Ali while addressing a press conference in Gilgit.]]>
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			<title>New coronavirus case emerges in Gilgit-Baltistan, Pakistan's tally rises to 20</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2173948/new-coronavirus-case-emerges-gilgit-baltistan-pakistans-tally-rises-20</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2173948/new-coronavirus-case-emerges-gilgit-baltistan-pakistans-tally-rises-20#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 11 Mar 20 09:27:47 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category><category><![CDATA[Gilgit Baltistan]]></category>
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				<![CDATA[The 14-year-old boy, a resident of Skardu, was held at an isolation centre where he tested positive for COVID-19]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[The second coronavirus case of Gilgit-Baltistan emerged on Wednesday, raising Pakistan’s tally of total confirmed cases to 20.

The 14-year-old boy, a resident of Skardu, was held at an isolation centre where he tested positive for the mysterious viral pneumonia-like disease caused by the novel coronavirus.

So far 20 Pakistanis have been tested positive for COVID-19 with 15 of them belonging to Sindh, four in Gilgit-Baltistan now and one in Balochistan.

First coronavirus case surfaces in Quetta, raising Pakistan’s tally to 19

On Tuesday, the first coronavirus case emerged in the Balochistan capital. The 12-year-old patient had arrived in Quetta along with his parents from Iran via Taftan border, head of a government hospital said.

The family belongs to Dadu district in Sindh, said the medical superintendent (MS) of Fatima Jinnah Hospital, adding that parents, three siblings and paternal aunt of the child are tested negative.

One patient has already fully recovered and was discharged from the hospital in Karachi last week.

Meanwhile, Dr Zafar Mirza, the de facto health minister, has said the federal government is looking closely at the changing situation and new cases are being provided with the best medical care.

“No need to worry… the situation is completely under control. The federal and provincial governments are jointly making all-out efforts to protect the masses from coronavirus on war footing,” he wrote using his official Twitter handle.

Dr Mirza admitted that the coronavirus cases in Pakistan had doubled in the last 24 hours.

“This is not surprising. Disease has spread in 106 countries. All 19 cases have brought this from abroad. All are stable. There is no evidence of local spread as yet. If we act responsibly we can avoid spread,” he wrote.

He also advised the public to observe hygiene by washing hands properly, avoid touching face and keeping distance with sick people.

“The government is working hard to contain the spread, but we all need to take our part in this fight,” he added.

All educational institutions in Sindh and Balochistan have been closed till March 13 over fear of the contagious disease’s outbreak.

The mysterious COVID-19 virus, which originated in a vet market of the central Chinese city of Wuhan late last year, has since then spread to more than 110 countries of the world, killing over 4,000 and infecting over 115,000 people, mostly in China thus far.

But new outbreaks in Europe, the Middle East and in Asia have fanned fears of the contagion taking hold in poor nations that lack the healthcare infrastructure to cope.

There are growing fears in Pakistan — sandwiched between China and Iran, both hotspots for the disease — over how the country would deal with the outbreak.]]>
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