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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>Eid travel rush causes transport chaos</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2610218/eid-travel-rush-causes-transport-chaos</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2610218/eid-travel-rush-causes-transport-chaos#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 26 May 26 18:05:06 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Saleh Mughal]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2610218</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Vehicle shortages leave passengers stranded for hours; overcharging alleged]]>
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				<![CDATA[As the Eidul Azha holidays began on Tuesday, a steady influx of commuters from the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad continued returning to their native towns to celebrate Eid with their loved ones.

On the final day before Eid, an extraordinary rush of passengers was witnessed at transport terminals and wagon stands, while a shortage of vehicles, overloading, and excessive fares caused severe hardship for travellers.

Although a large number of commuters had already departed for their hometowns ahead of Eid, heavy crowds still persisted on the last day at various transport hubs in Rawalpindi and Islamabad, including the Pirwadhai Bus Terminal. Large numbers of people continued flocking to transport stations in a bid to spend Eid with their families.

Due to an acute shortage of passenger vehicles, citizens and families were forced to endure lengthy waits at terminals. Several routes, including those serving Multan, Mianwali, Layyah and Kot Addu, were reportedly facing transport shortages, while complaints also emerged of transporters charging fares well above the prescribed rates.

A labourer identified as Kareem said: &quot;We have been waiting for several hours. There are very few vehicles available and fares are being charged at nearly double the normal rate.&quot;

Another passenger, Afzal, commented: &quot;There are ten of us. We have been at the Pirwadhai terminal since 4am and need to travel to Kot Addu, but no vehicle is available. We are now being told that a bus may arrive by 3pm, so we are still waiting.&quot;

Passengers further alleged that some transport operators were resorting to overloading vehicles. &quot;We arrived here early in the morning and even purchased expensive tickets, yet no vehicles are available. We are being told buses may arrive between 3pm and 4pm,&quot; they said, adding that the prevailing situation was not only compounding difficulties for travellers but was also raising the risk of accidents due to overloading.

Transporters, however, maintained that vehicles were being dispatched towards their destinations as soon as they arrived, though they acknowledged that a shortage of transport remained a serious issue

Meanwhile, following multiple complaints, the Regional Transport Authority (RTA), along with the Motorway Police and City Traffic Police Rawalpindi, continued their crackdown against transporters involved in overcharging and overloading. According to officials, challans were being issued against violators, while excess fares collected from passengers were also being refunded.

Motorway Police spokesperson Saqib Waheed said that the Motorway Police had returned more than Rs2.6 million in excess fares to passengers. He further revealed that over 9,000 challans had been issued on charges relating to overloading, overcharging, and incomplete travel documentation.

Separately, CTP spokesperson Kashif Shoroosh said that challan tickets had been issued to 177 vehicles for charging fares above the approved rates.

Meanwhile, RTA Secretary Asad Abbas said that the RTA Rawalpindi had issued challans to 68 vehicles and ensured that 133 passengers were refunded the excess fares charged from them.]]>
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			<title>Livestock prices decline on eve of Eid</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2610225/livestock-prices-decline-on-eve-of-eid</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2610225/livestock-prices-decline-on-eve-of-eid#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 26 May 26 18:09:08 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Asif Mehmood]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2610225</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Competition to sell remaining livestock in makeshift markets intensifies]]>
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				<![CDATA[Prices of sacrificial animals in Lahore&#39;s cattle markets started declining a day before Eidul Azha as competition intensified among traders to sell remaining livestock.

Heavy crowds of buyers were seen at the cattle markets in Manawan, Shahpur Kanjran, Kahna, Saggian and Rohi Nullah, where the sale of sacrificial animals entered the final phase.

However, despite the downward trend in prices, many buyers continued to complain that animals remained beyond the reach of middle-income families.

A buyer at the Manawan cattle market, Muhammad Imram, said he had planned to purchase a goat within a budget of Rs150,000, but animals of reasonable size and breed were being sold for over Rs200,000.

He said the prices this year were 30 per cent higher compared to last year.

Another buyer, Azhar Hussain, said a calf of the weight that cost Rs350,000 last year was now being sold for Rs500,000.

He said purchasing large animals had become increasingly difficult for average households.

Traders said sellers from South Punjab had reduced prices more significantly compared to dealers from Lahore and adjoining areas.

A livestock trader from Dera Ghazi Khan, Ghulam Shabir, said prices of large animals had dropped by Rs50,000 to Rs75,000 over the past two days as traders attempted to avoid taking unsold animals back home.

A trader from Bahawalpur, Allah Ditta, said prices of small animals, particularly goats and sheep, had declined by Rs20,000 to Rs50,000.

However, he added that higher transportation, fodder and market expenses had reduced profit margins for traders this season.]]>
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			<title>Women add colour to Eid preparations</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2610228/women-add-colour-to-eid-preparations</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2610228/women-add-colour-to-eid-preparations#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 26 May 26 18:09:08 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Iqra Liaqat]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2610228</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Heavy activity seen in livestock markets, bazaars, beauty salons despite intense heat]]>
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				<![CDATA[As Eidul Azha approaches, Lahore&#39;s traditional markets, modern shopping malls and busy beauty salons are witnessing an unusual surge of activity, reflecting the city&#39;s vibrant festive spirit.

While the occasion is often perceived as a festival focused mainly on men and livestock arrangements, Lahore&#39;s women are increasingly redefining that narrative with equal participation in cattle markets and elaborate beauty preparations.

From purchasing cows and sheep alongside male family members at livestock markets to booking appointments at salons for chand raat makeup, nail art and hairstyling, women across the city are actively engaged in Eid preparations.

Despite intense heat and humid weather conditions, enthusiasm remains high in shopping districts including Anarkali, Liberty and Ichhra, where shoppers continue to arrive in large numbers.

At Anarkali Bazaar, Ayesha Khan, who was purchasing fabric for a traditional farshi shalwar, said she had recently visited Shahpur Kanjran cattle market with her brother to select a white calf for sacrifice.

She described the experience as exhausting due to dust and heat but said the excitement of Eid overshadowed all difficulties.

&quot;People think girls are only interested in clothes and shoes, but I also went to the cattle market myself,&quot; she said, adding that she has now focused on completing her Eid outfit.

In Liberty Market, shopper Maryam Batool highlighted the importance of balancing comfort and style in the prevailing weather.

She said she has designed a light pastel lawn outfit with a short kurti and farshi shalwar to remain comfortable in the heat while maintaining a traditional look.]]>
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			<title>Moroccan cuisine makes its way to Pakistan</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2610219/moroccan-cuisine-makes-its-way-to-pakistan</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2610219/moroccan-cuisine-makes-its-way-to-pakistan#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 26 May 26 18:05:06 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Zulfiqar Baig]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2610219</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Food festival organised by embassy introduces locals, diplomats to traditional dishes]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[Moroccan cuisine is famous all over the world for its unique flavours, perfect blend of spices and the fusion of Arab, Berber and French influences. Their aroma and delicious taste are popular all over the world.

Its irresistible aroma and flavours travelled to Pakistan over the weekend and were featured at the Moroccan Food Festival organised at a private hotel in Islamabad.

The festival was attended by a large number of diplomats. Traditional Moroccan dishes were presented at the festival. These included tajine, the most famous dish of Morocco, which is cooked in a special clay pot on low heat. It is made with meat (chicken, beef or mutton) along with vegetables, dried fruits and olives. Couscous is a dish made from wheat semolina and is especially eaten on Fridays. Meat and various fresh vegetables are added to it for extra nutrition.

Harira is a traditional soup made with lentils, chickpeas, tomatoes and meat. Pastilla is a delicious layered pastry filled with chicken or pigeon meat, almonds and spices. It is sprinkled with sugar and cinnamon powder.

When it comes to drinks and desserts, the special Moroccan mint tea, which is called &quot;Atay&quot; in the local language and is made with green leaves and fresh mint, is a symbol of Moroccan hospitality. Kaab el Ghazal is a famous sweet dish that is crescent-shaped and filled with almond paste.]]>
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			<title>Buyers allege cattle market extortion</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2610074/buyers-allege-cattle-market-extortion</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2610074/buyers-allege-cattle-market-extortion#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 25 May 26 20:15:17 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Imran Adnan]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2610074</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Vehicles carrying sacrificial animals stopped at exit points]]>
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			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[With Eidul Azha around the corner, complaints of overcharging and extortion in Lahore&#39;s cattle markets have mounted, with citizens and livestock traders saying they have been left at the mercy of contractors operating with impunity.

From Shahpur Kanjran - Punjab&#39;s largest permanent cattle market - to temporary sale points established across the city, buyers and traders allege that illegal charges have reached unprecedented levels, adding to the financial burden on families already struggling with inflation and soaring sacrificial animal prices.

Citizens visiting the designated markets say the Punjab government&#39;s ban on roadside animal sales inside the city has effectively forced buyers into controlled cattle markets where, they allege, contractors and their agents are extracting money without fear of accountability.

According to buyers and traders, visitors leaving the markets after purchasing sacrificial animals are allegedly being forced to pay unofficial charges ranging from Rs500 to Rs700 for goats and sheep, Rs1,000 to Rs1,200 for bulls and buffaloes and up to Rs2,000 for camels.

Several residents claimed that groups of men stationed at market exits stop loader and even private vehicles carrying sacrificial animals, demanding cash before allowing them to leave the markets.

&quot;We came to this market only because the government banned the sale of sacrificial animals inside the city,&quot; said Muhammad Faizan at the Shahpur Kanjran market.

&quot;After spending huge amounts on animals, we are being fleeced again while leaving the market. No official is available to address public complaints,&quot; he added.

Another resident accused authorities of turning a blind eye to the situation. &quot;It feels as if the government has awarded contracts to these people to fleece citizens,&quot; said Ahmad Raza, a citizen leaving the Saggian cattle market after buying an animal. &quot;Earlier, traders and farmers bringing animals to the markets were being charged exorbitantly. Now ordinary citizens are also being looted. Such open extortion cannot happen without the connivance of officials.&quot;

On the other hand, the district administration and provincial authorities have intensified action against illegal roadside cattle sale and citizens keeping sacrificial animals outside their homes.

While officials continued crackdowns across Lahore, residents complained that enforcement teams are targeting ordinary families rather than addressing overcharging in the official cattle markets.

Livestock traders also raised concerns about excessive charges in the markets, saying unofficial payments are increasing operational costs.

Traders alleged that despite officially approved entry fees of Rs200 for small and Rs500 for large animals, many sellers are being charged higher amounts.

Additional payments are also allegedly being collected for fodder, straw and animal feed.

&quot;The animals were already expensive due to rising transport and feed costs,&quot; said a trader from South Punjab. &quot;These illegal charges have pushed prices even higher for the public.&quot;]]>
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			<title>Butchers turn VIP as demand peaks</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2610088/butchers-turn-vip-as-demand-peaks</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2610088/butchers-turn-vip-as-demand-peaks#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 25 May 26 20:24:05 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2610088</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Butcher shops across twin cities shut for next six weeks, expected to reopen in early July]]>
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			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Professional butchers have become &quot;VIPs&quot; ahead of Eidul Azha as slaughter and meat preparation rates for sacrificial animals have been fixed, with bookings for the first day reportedly closed amid high demand.

According to details, butcher shops across the twin cities have been shut for the next six weeks and are expected to reopen in early July. However, butchers from rural Rawalpindi, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, and nearby areas of Hazara, Haripur, Abbottabad, and Azad Kashmir have arrived in Islamabad and Rawalpindi with their tools to meet Eid demand.

Rates for slaughter and meat processing have been set separately for each Eid day. On the first day, slaughtering and meat preparation of large animals (cattle) is set at Rs25,000, while small animals (goat and sheep) are priced at Rs12,000. On the second day, rates are Rs23,000 for large animals and Rs10,000 for small animals, while on the third day charges drop to Rs20,000 and Rs9,000 respectively.]]>
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			<title>Suthra Punjab workers stage protest over withheld salaries</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2610081/suthra-punjab-workers-stage-protest-over-withheld-salaries</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2610081/suthra-punjab-workers-stage-protest-over-withheld-salaries#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 25 May 26 20:15:17 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Khawar Randhawa]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2610081</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Labour leaders say employees unpaid for 56 days despite repeated assurances]]>
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				<![CDATA[Hundreds of sanitation workers employed under the Suthra Punjab programme staged rallies and sit-ins across Faisalabad city, Dijkot and Tandlianwala on Monday in protest against non-payment of salaries for the last two months ahead of Eidul Azha.

The protesting workers raised slogans against the Suthra Punjab Authority and appealed to Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz to intervene for the resolution of their demands.

They vowed to continue their protest until their salaries were paid.

Roads remained blocked at several points as workers, including sanitary staff, supervisors, rickshaw drivers and office employees, gathered in large numbers to protest what they described as anti-labour policies by the authorities and outsourcing companies.

Chairman of the Labour National Movement Baba Latif Ansari said sanitation workers had resorted to protests as a last option after repeated assurances failed to materialise.

He said workers in Faisalabad gathered at DG Ground while similar demonstrations were held in Tandlianwala, where around 1,100 employees are working under the Suthra Punjab initiative.

Ansari claimed workers had not received salaries for the past 56 days and alleged that ministers were being misinformed about the scale of the crisis.

He said officials had portrayed the issue as involving only a few workers, whereas thousands remained unpaid. He further alleged that sanitation workers had also been deprived of social security benefits, old-age benefits and vaccinations despite facing health risks while handling waste.

Muhammad Tayyab, a rickshaw driver from Tandlianwala, said the non-payment of salaries had forced workers onto the streets, adding that outsourcing companies had also failed to deposit social security contributions and old-age benefits.

The protesters announced they would continue demonstrations until their demands were accepted.

Meanwhile, Suthra Punjab Agency Managing Director Abid Hussain Bhatti claimed that all issues related to the workers had been resolved.]]>
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			<title>Provincial border security to be boosted</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2610076/provincial-border-security-to-be-boosted</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2610076/provincial-border-security-to-be-boosted#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 25 May 26 20:15:17 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2610076</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Surveillance of the entry and exit routes of cattle markets ordered]]>
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				<![CDATA[The Punjab Cabinet Committee on Law and Order has issued directives to upgrade the security of all places of worship and sensitive facilities across the province.

In a meeting, the committee ordered increased security at provincial border checkpoints. It expressed sorrow over the loss of lives in a bomb explosion in Quetta.

The committee reviewed the security arrangements ahead of Eidul Azha and Muharram, as well as for cricket matches.

Cabinet Committee on Law and Order Chairman Khawaja Salman Rafique ordered strict surveillance of &#39;Fourth Schedulers&#39; and suspicious persons across the province.

He said district intelligence committee meetings should be held regarding Eid security.

The minister said law enforcement agencies were making full efforts to establish peace across Punjab and banned organisations would be barred from collecting hides.

Provincial Minister Bilal Yasin said strict surveillance of the entry and exit routes of cattle markets should be ensured and a zero tolerance policy adopted on the illegal use of loudspeakers. The administrations of all districts were instructed to display the lists of banned organisations.

Provincial Minister Bilal Akbar Khan said the peace committees should be mobilised and contact should be established with Ulema and Imams of mosques at the tehsil level.]]>
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			<title>'Qurbani Tax' sparks uproar at Bhatta Market</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2610086/qurbani-tax-sparks-uproar-at-bhatta-market</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2610086/qurbani-tax-sparks-uproar-at-bhatta-market#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 25 May 26 20:24:05 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2610086</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Citizens term tax unprecedented; say no such fee exists at other cattle markets]]>
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				<![CDATA[In a controversial move, the Rawalpindi Cantonment Board (RCB) has imposed an additional two percent tax on buyers purchasing sacrificial animals from the Bhatta Ground cattle market for Eidul Azha. The move has triggered protests and clashes between citizens and contractor staff.

According to details, the cantonment board this year awarded the Bhatta Ground cattle market contract - not just for Eidul Azha but for the entire year - to a large consortium operating under Haji Ismail &amp; Co for Rs3.05 billion. Under the agreement, weekly cattle markets can also be held every Tuesday and Wednesday, while the contract includes a three-year extension clause with a 10 per cent annual increase.

However, for the first time, a clause has reportedly been included in the contract imposing a two percent &quot;sale fee&quot; on buyers purchasing animals for religious sacrifice. Citizens have termed the levy unprecedented, claiming no such tax exists in other cattle markets across Rawalpindi, Islamabad or Punjab.

The tax is allegedly being collected forcibly by contractor staff. Buyers are first congratulated on their purchase and asked the price of the animal. They are then informed that two per cent of the amount must be paid as tax before the animal can be taken out of the market.

Witnesses said arguments often escalate into scuffles and physical altercations. One buyer, Rashid, a resident of Rawalpindi&#39;s Gawalmandi area, said he was asked to pay Rs6,000 as tax.

When contacted for comment, contractor partner Mustafa Baloch could not be reached despite repeated attempts. However, Assistant Engineer Naveed Hussain, the cantonment official overseeing the contract, confirmed that Clause 9 of the agreement makes buyers liable to pay the two per cent sale tax and authorises the contractor to collect it.]]>
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			<title>Musicians liven up diplomats' gathering</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2610085/musicians-liven-up-diplomats-gathering</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2610085/musicians-liven-up-diplomats-gathering#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 25 May 26 20:24:05 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Zulfiqar Baig]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2610085</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Asian Study Group brings together diverse cultures at end-of-year event]]>
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				<![CDATA[The Asian Study Group hosted its annual end-of-year celebration, bringing together diplomats, expatriates and local dignitaries for an evening of music and entertainment.

The event featured live performances by Jimmy, the electrifying Dholwala, who is known for his high-energy performances, the acclaimed Qawwal, Babar Ali &amp; his group, who came all the way from Lahore. The diverse line-up of musicians wound up the evening&#39;s activities by bringing their own unique expertise to light up the evening.

British High Commissioner to Pakistan Jane Marriot, who is the Patron of ASG, said in her address, &quot;It is a real pleasure to welcome you all to this special end-of-year celebration, &#39;Colours of Pakistan&#39;. I would like to extend my sincere thanks to all those who have made this evening possible, including the wonderful Aziz Boolani and our partners at Serena Hotel for their generous collaboration. In particular, I want to recognise the Asian Study Group for an outstanding year of programmes. Tonight is a fitting culmination of that work&quot;.

Greta Weber, who is currently visiting Islamabad, when asked to comment on the evening said &quot;As a visitor, it is fantastic to see so many diverse groups coming together to celebrate Pakistan&#39;s amazingly rich culture!&quot;

Winding up the evening, ASG Chairperson Perveen Malik said &quot;This special event reflects ASG&#39;s commitment to strengthening ties between Islamabad&#39;s diplomatic, expat and local communities through culture and shared celebrations.&quot;]]>
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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>
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				<![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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			<title>Wanted criminal killed in CCD encounter</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2610078/wanted-criminal-killed-in-ccd-encounter</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2610078/wanted-criminal-killed-in-ccd-encounter#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 25 May 26 20:15:17 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Amir Mehmood]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2610078</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Outlaw wanted in more than 80 criminal cases killed, police constable injured]]>
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				<![CDATA[Two alleged criminals, including a notorious outlaw wanted in more than 80 criminal cases, were killed in a reported encounter with the Crime Control Department (CCD) in Liaquatpur tehsil. A police constable and a passer-by sustained injuries during the exchange of fire.

Police said the deceased included Amin Boka, a resident of Kahroor Pacca in Lodhran district, who had allegedly been involved in dozens of heinous crimes and was wanted by police in multiple cases.

His arrest had become a major challenge for CCD Lodhran teams due to his alleged involvement in violent criminal activities across different cities.

Sources said CCD Lodhran District Officer Tahir Ejaz and his team had been conducting continuous operations to track down the suspect and his associates.

Officials said CCD teams received intelligence information regarding the movement of Amin Boka and his gang on Sunday and launched a targeted operation in the Liaquatpur area.

During the operation near Malikpur Taranda Muhammad Panah, the police team reportedly came face-to-face with the suspects in broad daylight.

According to CCD officials, the suspects opened indiscriminate fire on the police party in an attempt to escape.]]>
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			<title>Woman booked for cutting daughter's wrist</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2610087/woman-booked-for-cutting-daughters-wrist</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2610087/woman-booked-for-cutting-daughters-wrist#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 25 May 26 20:24:05 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2610087</guid>
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				<![CDATA[Also cut own wrists in attempt to stop husband from getting married a third time]]>
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				<![CDATA[A woman cut her daughter&#39;s and her own wrists in an attempt to stop her husband from getting married for a third time in the limits of Rawat Police Station in Rawalpindi.

Both the woman and her daughter were seriously injured. On the request of the woman&#39;s husband, a case was registered against her with the police. The police have registered a case and started an investigation.]]>
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			<title>No animal disease outbreak reported</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2610077/no-animal-disease-outbreak-reported</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2610077/no-animal-disease-outbreak-reported#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 25 May 26 20:15:17 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2610077</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[No outbreak of lumpy skin, foot-and-mouth disease has been reported among sacrificial animals this year]]>
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				<![CDATA[No outbreak of lumpy skin, foot-and-mouth disease or any other epidemic has been reported among sacrificial animals this year.

As per a report of the Punjab Livestock and Dairy Development Department, a total of 58 cattle markets, 194 sacrificial animal sale points and 20 inter-provincial checkpoints are operational across Punjab, for which 1,952 veterinary staffers along with 174 mobile dispensaries have been deployed.

The report stated that anti-tick spray has so far been applied to 349,838 animals, while treatment facilities have been provided for 21,977. In addition, 1,512 vehicles were disinfected at inter-provincial checkpoints.]]>
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			<title>Early market closure suspended in Pindi</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2608384/early-market-closure-suspended-in-pindi</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2608384/early-market-closure-suspended-in-pindi#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 15 May 26 20:28:26 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2608384</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Administration allows malls, eateries to remain open longer ahead of Eid]]>
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				<![CDATA[The Rawalpindi administration has withdrawn the notification imposing energy conservation timings across the district under which markets and shops were required to close at 8pm and hotels, restaurants, marquees and food outlets at 10pm.

The notification has been suspended till June 1 in view of the approaching Eidul Azha and on the demand of traders. Orders for withdrawal of the restrictions have also been issued, allowing shopkeepers, markets, plazas and shopping malls to remain open according to business needs.

Hotel, Bakers and Restaurant Association leaders and traders&#39; bodies welcomed the decision to end the Eid-season restrictions. They said the move would help businesses flourish and termed it a timely and positive decision by the government.

Hotel, Bakers and Restaurant Association President Chaudhry Farooq said the government had responded to traders&#39; demands at the right time and helped revive business activity. He said Pakistan&#39;s climate conditions were unlike Europe where shopping activity could end early, adding that people here generally came out for shopping after sunset during summer.

He urged the government not only to extend the timings after June 1 but to permanently abolish the energy lockdown, saying businesses had suffered heavily due to the restrictions.]]>
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			<title>Railway staff win allowance, grade upgrade</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2609931/railway-staff-win-allowance-grade-upgrade</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2609931/railway-staff-win-allowance-grade-upgrade#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=2609931</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[25% technical allowance approved]]>
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				<![CDATA[Efforts by the Railway Workers Union for Assistant Train Examiners serving in the Carriage and Wagon Branch of PR have proved successful, resulting in the approval of a 25 per cent technical allowance.]]>
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			<title>Fire breaks out in mosque</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2608394/fire-breaks-out-in-mosque</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2608394/fire-breaks-out-in-mosque#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 15 May 26 20:36:03 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2608394</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Firefighters managed to contain, extinguish fire in time, averting major damage]]>
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				<![CDATA[A fire broke out in a mosque located inside a commercial plaza in the Bara Market area of Shah Alam.

Rescue officials said emergency vehicles and firefighters were dispatched to the site after receiving information about the blaze.

Initial information provided by the caller suggested that the fire had erupted in a toy warehouse.

However, rescuers later found that the blaze had actually broken out inside a mosque established within the plaza.

According to rescue officials, firefighters managed to contain and extinguish the fire in time, preventing the flames from spreading to the entire building and averting major damage.]]>
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			<title>Addict beats his kids after failing to get drugs</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2608397/addict-beats-his-kids-after-failing-to-get-drugs</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2608397/addict-beats-his-kids-after-failing-to-get-drugs#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 15 May 26 20:36:03 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Muhammad Saleem]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2608397</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Incident sparked outrage after video showing injured children went viral on social media]]>
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				<![CDATA[A man allegedly subjected his three minor children to severe torture in Pattoki&#39;s suburban area of Chak 20 after reportedly failing to obtain drugs, police and local residents said on Friday.

The incident sparked outrage after a video showing the injured children went viral on social media. The suspect, identified as Taj Muhammad, fled the scene following the circulation of the footage.

According to residents, Taj Muhammad, a father of six, is allegedly addicted to drugs and frequently subjected his family members to violence.

Locals claimed that he had previously assaulted his wife, Parveen Bibi, causing fractures to her arm and leg, and allegedly forced her into begging to support household expenses and his drug addiction.

Residents said Parveen Bibi had gone to a toll plaza in Pattoki to beg, as per her daily routine, when the suspect allegedly turned violent against the children after failing to obtain drugs.

Passersby reportedly rescued the children after hearing their cries and screams.

The viral video allegedly showed visible marks of torture on the children&#39;s bodies, triggering widespread anger among citizens and social circles.Following the circulation of the footage, police at Saddar Pattoki Police Station registered a case and launched an investigation.

Citizens and civil society representatives urged higher authorities to ensure the immediate arrest of the accused and take strict legal action to provide justice to the children and prevent similar incidents in the future.]]>
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			<title>Rain-related incidents claim three lives</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2608389/rain-related-incidents-claim-three-lives-1</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2608389/rain-related-incidents-claim-three-lives-1#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 15 May 26 20:36:03 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2608389</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[24 others injured in incidents across Punjab during last 24 hours, according to Rescue 1122]]>
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				<![CDATA[At least three people were killed and 24 others injured in rain and windstorm-related incidents across Punjab during the last 24 hours, according to Rescue 1122.

Rescue Punjab spokesperson Farooq Ahmad said the casualties were caused by collapsing roofs, walls, trees and billboards during strong winds and rainfall in different districts of the province.

In Dera Ghazi Khan, three people were injured in two separate incidents of lightning strikes.

In Faisalabad, one child was killed and nine others injured in seven incidents involving collapsing walls, roofs and trees amid heavy winds and rain. The deceased child was identified as Haider Ali, 13, who died after a wall collapsed near Sultan Chowk.

In Jhang, one person sustained injuries after a signboard fell during the storm, while in Muzaffargarh four people were injured in incidents involving falling trees, solar panels and walls. Another person was injured in Nankana Sahib after a wall collapsed.

In Lahore, two people were killed and six others injured in six separate incidents.]]>
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