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                        <title>Punjab News Updates and Insights - The Express Tribune</title>
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                        <description>The Express Tribune keeps you up to date with all the latest happenings from Pakistan and across the world!</description>
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			<title>Punjab declares Indus dolphin habitat wildlife sanctuary</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612626/punjab-declares-indus-dolphin-habitat-wildlife-sanctuary</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612626/punjab-declares-indus-dolphin-habitat-wildlife-sanctuary#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 11 Jun 26 14:11:25 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Asif Mehmood]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2612626</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Sanctuary aims to conserve Punjab’s largest population of endangered Indus River dolphins]]>
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				<![CDATA[The Punjab government has declared a stretch of the Indus River with the highest concentration of the endangered Indus River dolphin in the province as the &ldquo;Punjnad Indus River Dolphin Wildlife Sanctuary&rdquo;, marking a significant step towards the conservation of the rare freshwater species and its habitat.

The move has been welcomed by conservationists and the World Wide Fund for Nature Pakistan (WWF-Pakistan), which described the notification as a major milestone for dolphin conservation and the protection of the Indus River ecosystem.

According to an official notification, the river stretch from Jambar-Bait Landi Patafi to Guddu Barrage has been designated as a wildlife sanctuary under the Punjab Protected Areas Act 2020. The initiative aims to protect the natural habitat of the Indus River dolphin and other aquatic and wildlife species while promoting biodiversity conservation.



WWF-Pakistan welcomes the notification by @PunjabWildlife and @GovtofPunjabPK declaring the stretch of the Indus River with the highest density of Indus River dolphins in Punjab as the Punjnad Indus River Dolphin Wildlife Sanctuary.

This is a major milestone for dolphin&hellip; pic.twitter.com/NzqNTh10a3
&mdash; WWF-Pakistan (@WWFPak) June 11, 2026


WWF-Pakistan said the declaration would strengthen Pakistan&rsquo;s network of protected areas and reflect the country&rsquo;s commitment to biodiversity conservation. The organisation also acknowledged the efforts of Punjab Senior Minister Maryam Aurangzeb in facilitating the initiative.

South Punjab&nbsp;Wildlife Ranger Additional Chief&nbsp;Sheikh Muhammad Zahid said the Punjnad-Guddu stretch of the Indus River was considered the most important habitat for the Indus River dolphin in Punjab and supported&nbsp;the highest recorded population of the species in the province.

He said the river section provided&nbsp;suitable conditions for feeding, breeding&nbsp;and movement of the dolphins, making legal protection of the area a conservation priority.

&ldquo;The new wildlife sanctuary will not only help safeguard the natural habitat of the Indus River dolphin but will also strengthen the protection of the entire aquatic ecosystem of the Indus River, including native fish species and other aquatic life,&rdquo; he said.

According to WWF-Pakistan, the Indus River remains the last major natural habitat of the endangered Indus River dolphin, one of the world&rsquo;s rarest freshwater dolphin species. Conservation experts estimate that around 2,000 dolphins currently survive in the wild, underscoring the importance of protecting their remaining habitat.

Environmental experts say changes in river flows, pollution, illegal hunting, and increasing human activities have intensified threats to the dolphin&rsquo;s habitat. However, they believe the establishment of the new wildlife sanctuary will strengthen ongoing conservation efforts and contribute to the long-term survival of the species.]]>
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			<title>Aleema Khan raises concerns over Imran's safety, fears poisoning in jail</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612585/aleema-khan-raises-concerns-over-imrans-safety-fears-poisoning-in-jail</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612585/aleema-khan-raises-concerns-over-imrans-safety-fears-poisoning-in-jail#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 11 Jun 26 07:38:59 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Rana Yasif]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category><category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2612585</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[She claims that PTI founder was being kept in isolation under conditions unprecedented for political leader]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan&rsquo;s sister, Aleema Khan, on Thursday voiced concern over her brother&rsquo;s prison conditions, saying there were fears that he may have been poisoned.

Speaking to the media outside the anti-terrorism court (ATC) in Lahore, Aleema claimed that Imran Khan was being kept in isolation under conditions unprecedented for a political leader.

She said neither the family nor the PTI founder had held meetings with anyone regarding ongoing political developments.

Aleema maintained that if speaking up for her brother was considered interference in PTI affairs, the family would continue to do so.

Criticising the party&rsquo;s political leadership, she said many leaders had secured votes in Imran Khan&rsquo;s name but failed to deliver any tangible benefit to the party.

She also referred to recent political contacts, expressing hope that the situation might improve, while questioning the effectiveness of talks with a prime minister who, according to her, &ldquo;has to seek permission before giving an answer&rdquo;.

Aleema said PTI leader Sohail Afridi had stated that if a joint sitting of Parliament was convened, the party would stage a sit-in outside.

Read:&nbsp;Imran, Bushra meet in Adiala as Aleema alleges restrictions on access

She added that Afridi was not facing any difficulties and expressed confidence that if Pakistan&rsquo;s 250 million people stood up for their rights, the country&rsquo;s problems could be resolved.

Earlier, the ATC extended interim bail until July 9 of Aleema Khan, Uzma Khan, Asad Umar, Fawad Chaudhry, Azam Swati and other PTI leaders in multiple May 9 riot cases.

The court directed the prosecution and defence counsel to present their arguments at the next hearing.

The cases relate to incidents of arson, vandalism and attacks, including the burning of the PML-N office, violence near Jinnah House and other May 9-related cases registered at Shadman Police Station and elsewhere.]]>
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			<title>Historic Jamia Mosque Rajgan battles decay</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612515/historic-jamia-mosque-rajgan-battles-decay</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612515/historic-jamia-mosque-rajgan-battles-decay#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 10 Jun 26 20:43:23 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Yawar Hayat]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2612515</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Erosion and weakening foundations threaten Old Khanpur's 19th-century mosque]]>
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				<![CDATA[Old Khanpur, located along the scenic banks of Khanpur Dam, is witnessing growing alarm over the deteriorating condition of its historic Jamia Mosque Rajgan, a structure believed to be more than 150 years old.

Once a proud symbol of the region&#39;s architectural heritage and spiritual life, the mosque is now rapidly falling into disrepair due to prolonged neglect and the absence of systematic conservation efforts.

Locals, historians and visitors alike have raised serious concerns over the condition of the centuries-old mosque, urging immediate intervention from the relevant authorities.

The structure, widely regarded as one of the most significant cultural landmarks of the area, is reportedly suffering from extensive weathering, structural fatigue and a lack of routine maintenance.

Residents lament that despite its historical and religious importance, the mosque has been largely overlooked by heritage conservation bodies. Set against the once-celebrated natural beauty of Old Khanpur&#39;s valleys, the site continues to embody the cultural and spiritual identity of the region, even as visible cracks, eroding surfaces and weakening foundations threaten its survival.

According to local elder Haji Saeed, the area was once renowned for its picturesque landscape, traditional settlements and vibrant cultural fabric. He expressed regret that many of its historic sites are now being left to decay. &quot;The mosque&#39;s minarets, ancient graves and adjoining shrine all narrate the story of a glorious past,&quot; he said. &quot;Unfortunately, the absence of effective conservation measures has placed this heritage at serious risk.&quot;

Adjacent to the mosque lies an historic graveyard, containing generations of burial sites and weathered gravestones dating back centuries. Residents report deteriorating boundary walls, fading inscriptions and sinking graves, all of which have intensified calls for urgent restoration and protection of the entire complex.

The site is also closely associated with the spiritual legacy of Hazrat Syed Sakhi Inayat Bukhari, whose shrine continues to attract devotees and visitors. Locals argue that the mosque, shrine and graveyard should be preserved as a unified heritage complex to safeguard the region&#39;s historical continuity and religious significance.

There are also growing appeals directed towards the descendants of the Rajgan family, whose ancestral graves are located within the premises, urging them to take a more active role in preservation efforts.

Tourists visiting Khanpur Dam have similarly expressed concern over the mosque&#39;s deteriorating condition, calling on both provincial and federal governments to declare it a protected heritage site and initiate immediate restoration measures before irreversible damage occurs.

Historical accounts indicate that Jamia Mosque Rajgan was commissioned in 1872 by Sultan Raja Jehandad Khan, the great-grandfather of the current Gakhar chief, Sultan Raja Shiraz Haider Zaman. Constructed using traditional materials such as red brick, stone and lime mortar, the mosque reportedly took a decade to complete and was built by skilled artisans from across the subcontinent.

For decades, it served as the principal centre of worship in the region, hosting daily prayers, Friday congregations and major religious gatherings attended by thousands. Although the adjoining palace was demolished during the development of Khanpur Dam, the mosque still stands as a powerful reminder of Old Khanpur&#39;s heritage.

Local citizens continue to urge the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and federal governments, along with archaeological and tourism departments, to incorporate the site into a formal conservation programme. They further propose the development of a heritage village to promote cultural tourism.

Officials from the district administration have reportedly acknowledged the concerns and assured residents that the matter will be forwarded to senior authorities for consideration. For the community, however, the message remains clear: preserving the mosque is not merely about saving a structure, but about safeguarding an irreplaceable legacy of identity, history and collective memory.]]>
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			<title>Transplant demand outpaces facilities</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612522/transplant-demand-outpaces-facilities</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612522/transplant-demand-outpaces-facilities#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 10 Jun 26 21:05:52 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[ADNAN LODHI]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2612522</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Patients face long wait despite govt scheme of free surgeries]]>
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			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Despite investment in the healthcare sector and expansion of the chief minister&#39;s free transplant programme, hundreds of patients suffering from life threatening organ failure face prolonged wait due to limited transplantation facilities available in Lahore.

Only a handful of government and private hospitals in the provincial capital are equipped to perform liver, kidney, bone marrow, corneal and cochlear transplant.

The shortage of transplant facilities has resulted in growing pressure on them, forcing many patients to endure delays before receiving potentially life saving treatment.

According to official figures, a total of 1,944 transplant procedures have been completed under the CM transplant programme. They include 311 liver and 960 kidney transplants carried out for eligible patients free of charge. Additionally, 601 cochlear, 40 bone marrow and as many corneal transplant procedures have been successfully performed under the government funded initiative.

However, healthcare experts and patients&#39; families argue that the growing demand for transplant services has outpaced the available infrastructure. Many patients reportedly wait for months to secure appointments, complete evaluations and receive approval for surgery.

A health department official said the majority of liver and kidney transplant surgeries in the city were currently being performed at the Pakistan Kidney and Liver Institute (PKLI).

Most bone marrow transplant cases are being handled by the Lahore Children&#39;s Hospital.

The official added that kidney transplant facilities were also operational at the Jinnah and Lahore General Hospitals, while several private institutions were also participating in the programme.

Official reports show that about Rs2.5 billion has been allocated for the transplant initiative. However, the cumulative cost of various transplant procedures conducted under the programme has already exceeded Rs4.87 billion, highlighting the enormous financial burden associated with advanced organ replacement.

Officials maintain that deserving patients continue to receive free treatment in both public and private sector healthcare facilities.

The Punjab Health Initiative Management Company (PHIMC), which administers the scheme, says financial barriers are being removed for low income families unable to afford such costly procedures.

According to an official, the patients must first undergo registration and receive approval from the Punjab Human Organ Transplantation Authority (PHOTA).

Once authorisation is granted, the expenses associated with the transplant are directly paid to hospitals by the State Life Insurance Corporation under the government-backed healthcare framework.]]>
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			<title>Sehat Sahulat Program relaunched</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612511/sehat-sahulat-program-relaunched</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612511/sehat-sahulat-program-relaunched#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 10 Jun 26 20:43:23 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Zaigham Naqvi]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2612511</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Minister announces health programme in 42 hospitals across twin cities]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Federal Minister for National Health Syed Mustafa Kamal has announced the resumption of the Sehat Sahulat Health Facilitation Program after years of dormancy in the federal capital to provide quality care and free treatment for the people.

The Sehat Sahulat Program has been launched in 42 hospitals of the twin cities, where deserving patients will be provided with free treatment. The programme has been revived initially for two years and in the third year, efforts will be made to provide OPD services free of charge. He also met patients during his visit to Akbar Niazi Teaching Hospital.

Mustafa Kamal explained that real-time data of patients&#39; treatment and expenses was being collected to ensure that the Sehat Sahulat Program was being implemented with fairness. He said that if any hospital was found to be violating the rules and regulations set under the programme or abetting corruption, it will be immediately delisted.

He said that the population of the federation has crossed 3.5 million, while a large number of patients coming to Islamabad hospitals from Azad Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, Rawalpindi and other neighbouring areas for treatment. He noted that the influx of patients from various cities was overwhelming available services in both public and private hospitals.

He further said that according to a report by the World Health Organization (WHO), 13 million people in Pakistan now live below the poverty line, while Rs2 billion have been expended on the treatment of patients in the last five months alone.

He also added that the total health budget of the federation and the provinces is Rs1,156 billion, but despite this, the patient satisfaction rate has remained below 10 per cent. He said that for these reasons and more, it had become necessary to lead an intervention in the health sector.

He added that a comprehensive study on universal health coverage found that basic health facilities can be provided under a budget of Rs210 billion, however, this would require 5,000 more hospitals across the country. He said that universal health coverage is a system of the future and most countries are already following this model.

During his announcement, Mustafa Kamal thanked Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and said that he accepted the government&#39;s proposal in the public interest, as a result of which the Sehat Sahulat Program is being reactivated after many years. He expressed his determination by vowing that the government will continue to take all possible steps for reforms, transparency and provision of quality medical facilities for the public.]]>
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			<title>MPAs pay tribute to martyrs in AJK copter crash</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612526/mpas-pay-tribute-to-martyrs-in-ajk-copter-crash</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612526/mpas-pay-tribute-to-martyrs-in-ajk-copter-crash#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 10 Jun 26 21:05:53 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Rana Yasif]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2612526</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[House witnesses heated debate on farmers' issues, quorum crisis]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The Punjab Assembly on Wednesday expressed sorrow over the Pakistan Army helicopter crash near Muzaffarabad and paid rich tribute to the personnel who embraced martyrdom in the incident.

Speaking during the session, Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan extended condolences to the bereaved families and said the nation stood united with them in this hour of grief.

He stated that the soldiers on board had attained the highest honour of martyrdom, adding that Pakistan salutes the sacrifices of its armed forces.

The House session, which began more than two hours late under the chair of the Speaker, also witnessed heated exchanges between the opposition and treasury benches over farmers&#39; issues, legislative business, and procedural matters.

Opposition MPA Muhammad Ejaz Shafi strongly criticised the government for prioritising legislation while, according to him, ignoring the worsening situation faced by farmers.

He said the opposition had repeatedly demanded a discussion on the wheat crisis over the past year, but the government had avoided it.

He pointed to rising diesel prices, fertilizer costs and agricultural taxes, saying the farming community was under severe financial pressure.

During the proceedings, Ejaz Shafi pointed out a lack of quorum, prompting the Deputy Speaker Zaheer Iqbal Channar to order the ringing of bells for five minutes.

The government later managed to complete quorum and restore proceedings.

During question hour, lawmakers from both sides raised concerns regarding water shortages, canal system issues and illegal occupation of irrigation department land.]]>
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			<title>Over 2,500 rural women get textile training</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612523/over-2500-rural-women-get-textile-training</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612523/over-2500-rural-women-get-textile-training#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 10 Jun 26 21:05:53 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2612523</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[773 trained women have secured employment, another 1,150 are undergoing training]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[More than 2,500 rural women have completed training during the past two years under the &#39;She Threads&#39; skills development programme aimed at equipping them with marketable expertise in the textile sector.

According to a statement, 773 trained women have secured employment, another 1,150 are undergoing training, with plans to train an additional 1,350 women during the next phase.

The programme has been allocated a budget of Rs310 million and provides a monthly stipend of Rs15,000 along with transport allowance for participants.

Rural women aged between 18 and 45 years with at least middle-school education are eligible to enrol in the programme, which is currently being implemented in Lahore, Sialkot, Sheikhupura and Faisalabad.

The programme offers courses in industrial stitching machine operation, fabric quality inspection, fabric cutting, apparel planning and merchandising, apparel supervision, pattern making and cutting, quality control, garment finishing and related fields.]]>
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			<title>Nine-decade-old Minerva Club reduced to rubble</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612525/nine-decade-old-minerva-club-reduced-to-rubble</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612525/nine-decade-old-minerva-club-reduced-to-rubble#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 10 Jun 26 21:05:53 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Khawar Randhawa]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2612525</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Established in 1935, iconic social institution falls after lease expires]]>
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				<![CDATA[One of Faisalabad&#39;s most recognisable historical landmarks, the Minerva Club, has been demolished following the expiry of its lease, bringing an end to a chapter that spanned more than nine decades in the city&#39;s social and cultural history.

The district administration, assisted by police and paramilitary personnel, took possession of the property during a joint operation and handed it over to the provincial government.

Heavy machinery of the Municipal Corporation was subsequently used to demolish the club building.

According to Assistant Commissioner City Adil Umer, more than 28 kanals of government land, estimated to be worth around Rs40 billion, was vacated during the operation.

Officials said the action was taken after the lease of the property expired.

Established in 1935, the Minerva Club was among Faisalabad&#39;s oldest recreational and social institutions.

During the pre-independence era, it served as a gathering place for British officials and affluent residents of Lyallpur.

Over the decades, it evolved into a prominent social venue frequented by lawyers, politicians, businessmen and other influential citizens.

The club featured a range of recreational facilities, including tennis courts, a swimming pool, event halls and dining areas.

It also hosted weddings, social functions and community gatherings, becoming an integral part of the city&#39;s social life.

Human rights activist and lawyer Rana Sufyan Arshad expressed concern over the demolition, questioning why greater efforts were not made to preserve the site despite its historical significance.

&quot;This was not just a building; it was part of Faisalabad&#39;s identity and heritage,&quot; he said. &quot;If the lease had expired, alternative solutions could have been explored to preserve the structure as a historical and cultural landmark.&quot;

He noted that many other properties operating on leased land had survived through legal remedies or administrative arrangements and questioned why similar efforts were not undertaken in the case of the Minerva Club.

According to Arshad, the property had remained the subject of legal and administrative disputes for several years.

Various attempts were reportedly made to reclaim the land, but the matter remained unresolved until the recent operation by authorities.

The demolition has sparked debate among residents, historians and former members of the club, many of whom view the loss as a setback for the preservation of Faisalabad&#39;s architectural and cultural heritage.

The club reportedly had more than 500 members at the time of its closure.

While officials maintain that the operation was carried out in accordance with the law following the expiry of the lease, critics argue that the historical significance of the site warranted special consideration.

Many residents have called for greater efforts to protect the city&#39;s remaining heritage sites, warning that once such landmarks are lost, they cannot be replaced.

With the Minerva Club now reduced to rubble, a prominent symbol of Faisalabad&#39;s social history has disappeared from the city&#39;s landscape, leaving behind questions about the balance between land recovery, urban development and heritage conservation.]]>
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			<title>Polio transmission risk season begins</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612524/polio-transmission-risk-season-begins</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612524/polio-transmission-risk-season-begins#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 10 Jun 26 21:05:53 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2612524</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[She noted that out of 200 environmental samples collected in 2026]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Authorities have cautioned that sustained vigilance is essential during the ongoing high transmission season.

Speaking at a workshop organised by the Punjab Emergency Operations Centre, Chief Minister&#39;s Focal Person for Polio Uzma Kardar said the high transmission season for poliovirus has begun and will continue through October.

&quot;The current weather conditions are highly conducive to poliovirus transmission. While Punjab has achieved remarkable progress, we cannot afford complacency until polio is eradicated completely and Pakistan achieves polio-free certification,&quot; she said.

She said extensive vaccination campaigns had been conducted ahead of the season, helping reduce the positivity rate of environmental samples across Punjab to two per cent, compared to 26% at the end of 2025.

She noted that out of 200 environmental samples collected in 2026, four had tested positive for the virus, while all environmental samples collected in May were negative.

&quot;Punjab is registering important successes against polio, but these gains remain temporary as long as the virus exists anywhere in Pakistan,&quot; she emphasised.]]>
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			<title>Murree's key tourist spots remain closed</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612517/murrees-key-tourist-spots-remain-closed</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612517/murrees-key-tourist-spots-remain-closed#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 10 Jun 26 20:43:23 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Aurangzeb Abbasi]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2612517</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Local business circles say prolonged shutdown is causing financial losses to tourism-related activities in region]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[Despite the peak of the summer tourism season, the Patriata Cable Car and Kashmir Point Safari Train have remained closed for the past three months, leaving thousands of domestic and international tourists disappointed.

The prolonged shutdown of these two key tourist attractions in Murree has exposed serious administrative lapses in the tourism sector. Sources and visitors allege that poor planning, negligence, and ineffective maintenance by the Punjab Tourism Development Corporation (PTDC) have rendered both facilities non-operational.

According to details, millions of rupees were spent last year on the repair and maintenance of the Patriata Cable Car, including services of a foreign company. However, the system reportedly developed faults again within a short period, raising questions over the quality of work and possible financial irregularities.

Similarly, the Kashmir Point Safari Train has also remained out of service for a long time. Officials have repeatedly announced plans for its restoration, but no concrete progress has been made so far.

Tourists and local residents have expressed strong disappointment, stating that these facilities are a backbone of Murree&#39;s tourism industry. The continued closure has forced visitors to return dissatisfied, while also negatively impacting the local tourism economy.

Local business circles say the prolonged shutdown is causing financial losses to tourism-related activities in the region.]]>
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			<title>Four arrested in Jhang teen death case</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612527/four-arrested-in-jhang-teen-death-case</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612527/four-arrested-in-jhang-teen-death-case#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 10 Jun 26 21:05:53 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2612527</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Her family attempted to contact her by phone, but her mobile phone remained switched off]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Jhang police have arrested four suspects, including the principal accused, in connection with the mysterious death of an 18-year-old girl who died after being brought unconscious to a hospital.

Police said, the deceased, a resident of Sultan Colony, left her home on June 4 to obtain a printed copy of her examination roll number slip for her Class XI examinations. However, she did not return home.

Her family attempted to contact her by phone, but her mobile phone remained switched off.

On June 7, the girl&#39;s father lodged a kidnapping case against unidentified persons at Satellite Town Police Station.]]>
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			<title>Two WASA workers die during sewer cleaning</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612528/two-wasa-workers-die-during-sewer-cleaning</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612528/two-wasa-workers-die-during-sewer-cleaning#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 10 Jun 26 21:05:53 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Amir Mehmood]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2612528</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[City Police Station Lodhran registered FIR No. 893/26 under Section 322 of the Pakistan Penal Code]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Two Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) workers died after being exposed to toxic gases while cleaning a sewer line in the Jalalpur Mor area of Lodhran, prompting police to register a criminal case against three officials, including the WASA Managing Director.

The deceased workers were identified as sewermen Waseem Masih and Ikram Dogar, who reportedly entered a manhole to carry out cleaning operations when they were overcome by toxic fumes.

Final rites of the two workers were offered separately in Lodhran and Adda Bahmani Wala, drawing large numbers of residents, government officials, colleagues and community members who expressed grief and solidarity with the bereaved families.

Following the incident, City Police Station Lodhran registered FIR No. 893/26 under Section 322 of the Pakistan Penal Code.]]>
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			<title>Entry of 17 religious scholars banned</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612521/entry-of-17-religious-scholars-banned</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612521/entry-of-17-religious-scholars-banned#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 10 Jun 26 20:43:23 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[APP]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2612521</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Entry to the district has been banned for scholars as part of precautionary measures]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Abbottabad has imposed Section 144 and banned the entry of 17 religious scholars ahead of the mourning procession in Muharram. Entry to the district has been banned for scholars as part of precautionary measures to control the law-and-order situation and maintain harmony in the district.]]>
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			<title>Two held for harassment</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612160/two-held-for-harassment-1</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612160/two-held-for-harassment-1#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 08 Jun 26 21:44:13 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2612160</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Case was registered under relevant sections of the Pakistan Penal Code]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Police arrested two men, including a roadside petrol seller, for allegedly harassing a woman after a video of the incident went viral on social media.

The suspects, Intizar Hussain alias Billa and Suleman alias Ehtesham, allegedly made inappropriate remarks at a woman passing by their petrol outlet on Shafee Cheela Road in Sidhu Pura.

The incident was recorded and shared online, prompting City Police Officer (CPO) Tanveer Hussain to order immediate action.

A case was registered under relevant sections of the Pakistan Penal Code and both suspects were taken into custody.]]>
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			<title>Two killed, four injured in multiple police encounters</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612344/two-killed-four-injured-in-multiple-police-encounters</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612344/two-killed-four-injured-in-multiple-police-encounters#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 09 Jun 26 21:28:54 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2612344</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Authorities shifted bodies, injured suspects to hospitals, initiated legal proceedings]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Two alleged robbers were killed and four others injured in six separate police encounters in Faisalabad, police said on Tuesday.

Authorities have shifted the bodies and injured suspects to hospitals and initiated legal proceedings.

Police said the first incident occurred in the jurisdiction of Airport Police Station when Sub-Inspector Adnan Mughal, in-charge of Sabzi Mandi police post, was returning with suspect Naveed, after recovering a snatched motorcycle linked to a robbery case.

Police said that near the Abbaspur Road drain, four armed accomplices allegedly intercepted the police party, freed the suspect and fled.

Upon receiving information, Airport Police Station SHO Sub-Inspector Saqib Riaz and other officers reached the scene and pursued the suspects.

Police claimed that when the suspects were surrounded and asked to surrender, they opened fire on the police party.

During the ensuing exchange of fire, Naveed was allegedly struck by bullets fired by his own accomplices.

He was shifted to hospital in critical condition but later succumbed to his injuries.

Police stated that Naveed had a criminal record involving more than 32 cases and was being transported after recovery proceedings when his accomplices attempted to rescue him.

A case has been registered and efforts are underway to arrest the remaining suspects.]]>
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			<title>Woman accuses husband of torture, child abduction</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612343/woman-accuses-husband-of-torture-child-abduction</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612343/woman-accuses-husband-of-torture-child-abduction#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 09 Jun 26 21:28:54 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2612343</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Police register case against man accused of subjecting wife to violence, allegedly taking away one-year-old daughter]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Police have registered a case against a man accused of subjecting his wife to domestic violence and allegedly taking away their one-year-old daughter in the Kanganpur area of Kasur district.

According to police, the complainant, Anita Asghar, told investigators that her husband, Babar, had allegedly taken their one-year-old daughter, Dua, and handed her over to an unknown person.

The woman alleged that Babar, whom she described as a drug dealer, had been subjecting her to physical abuse on a regular basis.

She stated that she married him through a court marriage around six years ago and that the couple has two daughters, four-year-old Ayesha and one-year-old Dua.]]>
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			<title>Khanpur wildfire ravages vast hillside forest</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2610801/khanpur-wildfire-ravages-vast-hillside-forest-1</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2610801/khanpur-wildfire-ravages-vast-hillside-forest-1#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 31 May 26 22:12:32 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Yawar Hayat]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2610801</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Emergency teams, volunteers contain major wildfire; large sections of forest affected by blaze]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[A sudden wildfire, erupted in the Sarral (Sarrala) mountain range on the outskirts of Khanpur on Sunday, rapidly spread across several kilometres of forested land, placing valuable trees, native vegetation, and wildlife under severe threat. Rescuers succeeded in bringing a substantial portion of the blaze under control.

Upon receiving reports of the blaze, the district administration, emergency response services, and the Forest Department immediately launched coordinated firefighting operations.

Official sources said, at approximately 2am, Assistant Commissioner Khanpur Junaid Khalid arrived at the scene. Accompanied by personnel from Rescue 1122, the Sub-Divisional Forest Officer (SDFO), and other relevant officials, he inspected the affected forest area near Rani Wah. During the visit, he personally supervised the emergency response and actively participated in efforts to contain the fire.

Rescue teams, Forest Department officials, and local volunteers worked tirelessly for several hours and succeeded in bringing a substantial portion of the blaze under control. However, flames and smoke remain visible in certain remote and elevated sections of the mountainous terrain, where operations continue to fully extinguish the fire.

AC Khalid, talking to the media, emphasised that forests are a national asset and their protection is a shared responsibility. He appealed to tourists, local residents, and visitors to mountainous areas to refrain from lighting fires, discarding cigarette butts, or engaging in any activity that could potentially trigger a forest fire.

He noted that wildfires not only destroy valuable trees and natural habitats but also pose serious threats to wildlife, birds, and other rare species.

The AC further urged members of the public to immediately report any suspicious individuals or attempts to deliberately start fires to the police, the Forest Department, or the Assistant Commissioner&#39;s Office, enabling the authorities to take stringent legal action against those responsible.

In a clear and unequivocal message, the district administration stated that any individuals found responsible for deliberately setting forest fires or whose negligence contributes to such incidents will be named in First Information Reports (FIRs) and prosecuted in accordance with the law. Strict legal action will be taken against those involved, with no leniency shown.

Citizens described the efforts to reach difficult mountainous locations during the night and combat the blaze as highly commendable by the government agencies, reflecting the dedication of public institutions to serving the community.

Members of the public also called upon the government to strengthen wildfire preparedness by providing modern firefighting equipment, water tankers, specialised forest fire brigade units, drone-based surveillance systems, early fire-detection sensors, and other advanced resources to facilitate swift and effective emergency responses.

They further urged the government to adopt modern resources and comprehensive conservation strategies to protect the country&#39;s valuable forests and wildlife, ensuring the prevention of similar incidents and the preservation of natural resources for future generations.

Meanwhile, environmental experts have warned that Pakistan is already grappling with the challenges of climate change and declining forest cover. In such circumstances, incidents of forest fires pose significant risks to natural ecosystems, water resources, wildlife, and local biodiversity.

They stressed that safeguarding forests requires not only emergency interventions but also sustained public awareness campaigns, effective monitoring mechanisms, and the adoption of modern technologies.

The administration has announced that continuous monitoring of the affected area will remain in place. Officials have clarified that Rescue 1122 and Forest Department teams will stay on-site until the fire is completely extinguished.

Simultaneously, investigations are underway to determine the cause of the incident and identify any individuals who may be held accountable.]]>
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			<title>10 die in road crashes</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2610806/10-die-in-road-crashes</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2610806/10-die-in-road-crashes#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 31 May 26 22:22:30 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2610806</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[1,580 others injured in 1,270 Road Traffic Crashes across Punjab during last 24 hours]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[At least 10 people died, whereas 1,580 were injured in 1,270 Road Traffic Crashes (RTCs) recorded across Punjab during the last 24 hours.

Of them, 801 people were shifted to hospitals, while 778 victims with minor injuries were treated at the incident sites by Rescue Medical Teams.

The majority of the road accidents involved motorbikes. Official data showed that 853 adult and 76 underage drivers, 120 pedestrians, and 617 passengers were among the victims of road traffic crashes. The statistics showed that 188 RTCs were reported in Lahore, which affected 256 persons, placing the provincial capital at top of the list.]]>
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			<title>Divorced parents reunite with children</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2609928/divorced-parents-reunite-with-children-2</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2609928/divorced-parents-reunite-with-children-2#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Sun, 24 May 26 21:20:30 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2609928</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Parents bring Eid gifts, clothes, toys and food for children]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[In the spirit of Eidul Azha celebrations, 112 divorced couples were granted special meetings with their separated children at the Family Facilitation Centre on Saturday under special directives issued by family court judges.

During the emotional reunions, parents presented Eid gifts to their children, including cash, festive clothing, shoes, spectacles, toys, earrings for young girls, watches, dolls and dozens of other presents. Many parents also brought pizza, burgers, shawarmas, juices and soft drinks for the children.

Overcome with emotion, parents embraced their children tightly, showering them with kisses through tears while reminiscing about happier times from the past.

The reunions were attended not only by parents and children, but also by extended family members including maternal and paternal uncles and aunts, grandparents and other close relatives.

Each special Eid meeting lasted between 30 and 40 minutes. Authorities confirmed that on Monday (May 25), the final round of pre-Eid reunions between divorced parents and their children will take place.

Officials stated that the alarming rise in divorce cases across Rawalpindi district has significantly increased the number of parents seeking visitation rights with separated children.

Owing to the growing caseload, such meetings - which previously took place only three or four days a month some three to four years ago - are now held throughout the week on a daily basis.

On average, between 30 and 40 divorced couples now attend the visitation sessions each day. Speaking during the visit, Chaudhry Ashfaq described the reunion day as &quot;extremely painful&quot;.

&quot;One cannot sleep the night before,&quot; he said. &quot;We arrive at the courts early in the morning, but there is immense hardship here. The weather is extremely hot these days, and families are forced to wait for long periods in scorching sunlight. It often takes one to two hours before our turn comes.&quot;

He complained about the lack of drinking water and the absence of a properly ventilated and shaded waiting area, adding that conditions become even more difficult during rainfall.]]>
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