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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>Lawmakers debate wheat policy, AIDS surge in Taunsa</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2605768/lawmakers-debate-wheat-policy-aids-surge-in-taunsa</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2605768/lawmakers-debate-wheat-policy-aids-surge-in-taunsa#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 30 Apr 26 20:31:26 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2605768</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Women's development initiatives, disparities in South Punjab discussed]]>
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				<![CDATA[The Punjab Assembly on Thursday witnessed a heated debate on key public issues, including the provincial wheat policy, women&#39;s development initiatives, and a reported surge in AIDS cases in Taunsa, with the speaker referring the health crisis to a committee for detailed investigation.

The session, chaired by Speaker Malik Muhammad Ahmad Khan, began with a delay of one hour and 42 minutes and was largely dominated by opposition criticism over wheat procurement policies, governance challenges and public health concerns.

Opposition lawmaker Rana Shahbaz strongly criticised the government&#39;s wheat policy, saying that although authorities had announced they would not procure wheat, the Food Department was allegedly harassing citizens through continued license checks and administrative pressure.

Responding to the concerns, Speaker Khan stated that wheat prices in the market were currently stable between Rs3,600 and Rs3,700 per maund, adding that any operational issues raised by members would be reviewed through proper channels.

The opposition also raised concerns over development disparities in South Punjab.

Lawmaker Nadeem Qureshi pointed out the lack of basic facilities in the region and questioned the effectiveness of government programmes aimed at women&#39;s skill development and empowerment.

Parliamentary Secretary Saadia Taimur defended the government&#39;s initiatives, stating that efforts were underway to improve departmental performance and expand employment opportunities for women, particularly through digital platforms and vocational training programmes.]]>
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			<title>Punjab announces new kite flying rules for Basant 2027, sets strict safety rules</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2605874/punjab-announces-new-kite-flying-rules-for-basant-2027-sets-strict-safety-rules</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2605874/punjab-announces-new-kite-flying-rules-for-basant-2027-sets-strict-safety-rules#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 26 17:51:37 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2605874</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[December 30 deadline set for implementation, violations to be treated as punishable offences]]>
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				<![CDATA[The Punjab government on Friday&nbsp;announced new rules and regulations for kite flying for next year&rsquo;s Basant festival, setting December 30 as the deadline for their full implementation.

Under the new rules, kite flying will only be permitted on structurally strong and secure rooftops. The boundary walls of rooftops must be at least three and a half feet high. Overcrowding on rooftops will not be allowed.

Parents and guardians have been directed to ensure continuous supervision of children, who will not be allowed near rooftop edges without adult supervision.

Read: 17 lives lost during Basant festival in Lahore, Punjab govt informs LHC

According to a statement, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif emphasised that children&rsquo;s safety remains the top priority, adding that running, jumping, hanging from edges, and aggressively retrieving kites have been strictly prohibited.

The use of loud music, DJ systems, and noise-generating devices during kite flying has also been banned.

Any activity causing disturbance to neighbours will be treated as a punishable offence under the law.

The availability of first aid kits at all locations has been made mandatory, with easy access ensured. In case of any accident or emergency, citizens have been advised to immediately contact Rescue 1122.

In the event of any accident or violation of the law, building owners and event organisers will be held personally and jointly responsible. The chief minister reiterated that strict legal action would be taken against violators, adding that no one would be allowed to endanger lives under the guise of kite flying.

She directed all deputy commissioners and district police officers to ensure complete implementation of the regulations.

Also Read: Kites in the sky, stories on screen: Basant in Punjabi cinema and music

She also appreciated citizens for adhering to safety measures during Basant 2026 and expressed confidence that similar compliance would be observed in 2027.

She urged citizens to follow all safety precautions, assuring them that the government stands with them in safely celebrating Basant.]]>
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			<title>Ring Road project opening delayed</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2605794/ring-road-project-opening-delayed</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2605794/ring-road-project-opening-delayed#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 30 Apr 26 21:40:26 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Jamil Mirza]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2605794</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Work on key interchanges is ongoing; linking routes remain under development]]>
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				<![CDATA[The completion of the Rawalpindi Ring Road is now expected between May 30 and June 30, following delays in the construction of the broad-based Thallian Interchange, which will link the project to the motorway network.

Meanwhile, 88 per cent of work on the Kachehry Chowk Interchange Projectcomprising flyovers and underpasseshas been completed, and it is likely to be opened to traffic by May 10.

Both projects are expected to be inaugurated by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. Authorities are also considering the option of opening them to traffic prior to their formal inauguration.

Rapid progress continues on the Rawalpindi Ring Road project, with approximately 70 per cent of carpeting work already completed, while the remainder is ongoing.

However, construction work on several bridges along the route, as well as five interchanges at Banth, Chak Beli Khan Road, Adiala Road, Chakri Road and Thallian, is still underway.

The 38.6-kilometre route, extending from Banth Interchange on GT Road to Thallian Interchange, is estimated to cost Rs42 billion. The previously designed Thallian Interchange is being upgraded to a broad-based interchange at an additional cost of Rs5b.

In addition, under the supervision of the National Highway Authority (NHA), linking routes to Motorways M-1 and M-2, as well as a connection to Sangjani, are yet to be completed, incurring further expenditure.

Plans are also in place to utilise 500 metres of land on both sides of the Ring Road for the establishment of transport terminals, fruit and vegetable markets, an expo centre, an IT zone, education and health zones, and industrial areas.

On the other hand, the Kachehry Chowk projectfeaturing two flyovers, three underpasses, and a broad-based pedestrian overhead bridgeis nearing completion. According to sources within the executing agency, the Communication and Works Department, the project is expected to be completed by May 10, although a formal opening date has yet to be finalised.

The Kachehry Chowk scheme, the largest road infrastructure project in Rawalpindi since the Rawalpindi Metro Bus Project, carries an estimated cost of Rs5.974b and is fully funded by the Punjab government.]]>
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			<title>Four family members die in roof collapse in Chinot</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2605766/four-family-members-die-in-roof-collapse</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2605766/four-family-members-die-in-roof-collapse#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 30 Apr 26 20:31:26 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[APP]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2605766</guid>
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				<![CDATA[Preliminary reports suggested the collapse had been caused by excessive load on the building]]>
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				<![CDATA[Four members of a family were killed and a young woman injured after the roof of an under-construction house caved in in the Lalian area. Rescue 1122 sources said the incident occurred overnight in Bashir Colony.

The family were sleeping in a room when the roof collapsed, burying them under rubble. Officials said all available resources were used in an effort to reach the trapped victims under the supervision of District Emergency Officer Tahira Khan.

However, Waqar, 22, his brother Waqas, 20, 50-year-old mother Razia Bibi and 50-year-old father Ghulam Mohammad were killed.

The rescue workers retrieved the bodies from the debris and handed them over to the heirs. An 18-year-old woman, Zainab, was pulled from the rubble with injuries and given first aid.

Preliminary reports suggested the collapse had been caused by excessive load on the building, though officials said an investigation was under way.

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif on Thursday expressed deep sorrow over the death of four people after the house roof collapsed near Chhiniot.

In a statement, the chief minister extended her heartfelt condolences and sympathies to the bereaved family and prayed for the departed souls.]]>
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			<title>Airlines reel as jet fuel prices take off</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2605785/airlines-reel-as-jet-fuel-prices-take-off</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2605785/airlines-reel-as-jet-fuel-prices-take-off#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 30 Apr 26 21:22:07 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2605785</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Passenger numbers shrink despite fare cuts, reduced flights]]>
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				<![CDATA[Passenger traffic has sharply declined at airports across Pakistan amid rising IranUS tensions and surging jet fuel prices, with aviation activity at Allama Iqbal International Airport reduced to a trickle, limited largely to Hajj pilgrims and a small number of essential travellers.

Despite a temporary ceasefire in the Middle East, the fallout has continued to disrupt aviation operations.

Passenger numbers for both domestic and international travel have fallen from the hundreds of thousands to just a few thousand, while airlines, both local and foreign, have slashed flight operations by 40 to 50 per cent.

Moreover, fare reductions have failed to revive demand, as escalating jet fuel costs have pushed ticket prices beyond the reach of many. Industry sources say airlines are increasingly cancelling flights due to insufficient passenger loads.

&quot;If operational costs cannot be met, how can flights continue?&quot; an airline source remarked, pointing to declining purchasing power among consumers. &quot;People can barely afford daily necessities. How can they afford air travel?&quot;

As a result, only those compelled by necessity are opting to fly, a stark contrast to earlier periods when flights would sell out quickly.

According to Khawaja Ayub Naseem of the Travel Agents Association, while higher fuel costs have contributed to the downturn, broader economic pressures have significantly weakened demand.

He said domestic fares have dropped from Rs50,00070,000 for routes such as LahoreKarachi return tickets to around Rs30,00040,000, yet passenger numbers remain low.

He added that instability in Gulf countries and tighter visa policies, particularly in the United Arab Emirates and Dubai, have further reduced outbound travel, with visas now being issued in limited numbers.

The combined impact of geopolitical tensions, economic strain, and restricted mobility has pushed Pakistan&#39;s aviation sector to what industry insiders describe as the brink of collapse.]]>
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			<title>Punjab government’s austerity drive falls under scrutiny</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2605863/punjab-governments-austerity-drive-falls-under-scrutiny</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2605863/punjab-governments-austerity-drive-falls-under-scrutiny#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 01 May 26 15:20:46 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Muhammad Ilyas]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2605863</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Rs20–30 billion are spent annually on government vehicles despite 50 per cent austerity cuts]]>
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				<![CDATA[Despite repeated austerity announcements by the Punjab government, including a 50%&nbsp;cut in fuel expenses and parking of unnecessary official vehicles, public doubts persist.

Citizens question why large numbers of green number plate vehicles are still seen on highways, outside offices, and across cities if spending is truly being reduced.

Estimates from official and financial sources suggest that thousands of government vehicles are still in operation across Punjab. These are used by district administrations, police, health, education, the provincial secretariat, development authorities, and autonomous institutions. Maintaining this fleet costs billions annually, including fuel, maintenance, drivers, tyres, and overall upkeep.

Official estimates put annual spending on fuel and maintenance at Rs20&ndash;30 billion, though some reports suggest Rs50 million, showing data inconsistencies. Under the austerity policy, the government announced a 50%&nbsp;cut in fuel allowances, limits on non-essential vehicle use, and a halt on new purchases, claiming potential savings of Rs5&ndash;10 billion annually, though results are not yet visible on the ground.

Public opinion reflects a gap between policy and practice. A retired senior bureaucrat, speaking anonymously, opined that the system reflects a long-standing culture of privilege, with some officials using multiple vehicles.

&ldquo;Real reform needs GPS tracking, digital logbooks, fuel audits, and strict accountability since policy notifications alone are not enough without monitoring. In many countries, senior officials have limited transport, unlike Pakistan, where multiple vehicles are often assigned to a single post,&rdquo; shared the citizen.

Financial expert Dr Qais Aslam felt that significant savings could be achieved through centralised vehicle use, shared transport pools, fewer official visits, and increased use of virtual meetings. &ldquo;Such measures could save billions annually rather than just millions,&rdquo; noted Dr Aslam.

Read More: Police ordered to cut fuel use by 33% under austerity drive

Public circles are demanding transparency, including disclosure of the total number of official vehicles, how many have been parked, departmental fuel savings, and which institutions continue to spend high amounts. Currently, no single document provides consolidated figures, as vehicles are registered separately across departments.

The government has directed that 50%&nbsp;of vehicles be pooled and has halted the purchase of around 300 to 400 new vehicles. However, details of implementation have not been made public. While some reductions occurred in secretariat offices and during work-from-home periods, vehicles in operational departments such as police, health, engineering, and district administration have largely remained active.

The Punjab cabinet also approved only 10 new vehicles instead of the proposed 108, presenting this as an austerity measure. However, the continued visibility of official vehicles has raised doubts about the actual scale of reductions.

Under the Motor Transport Policy 2026, vehicle and fuel entitlements for senior officials have been defined. The chief secretary and inspector general of police are allowed three vehicles, while grade 21 and 22 officers may use two vehicles with fuel allowances for personal and official use. Grade 19 and 20 officers are entitled to 1600cc vehicles with 250 litres of fuel, and grade 17 officers to 1500cc vehicles with 175 litres per month.

Since departments operate separate budgets, a unified spending figure is rarely issued. However, with thousands of vehicles in use, the cumulative cost of fuel, maintenance, staffing, insurance, and replacement remains substantial.

Observers say there is a clear gap between official directives and ground reality. If austerity measures are not applied equally, particularly to senior officials and ministers, public trust will continue to decline. Effective reform will require strict monitoring, transparency, and accountability.

Meanwhile, the Punjab Assembly has reported savings of over Rs770 million under its austerity measures, though broader provincial outcomes remain unclear.]]>
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			<title>Lahore Bar Association challenges transfer of IHC judges, citing threat to judicial independence</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2605642/lahore-bar-association-challenges-transfer-of-ihc-judges-citing-threat-to-judicial-independence</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2605642/lahore-bar-association-challenges-transfer-of-ihc-judges-citing-threat-to-judicial-independence#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 30 Apr 26 08:51:44 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[JEHANZEB ABBASI]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category><category><![CDATA[Islamabad]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2605642</guid>
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				<![CDATA[Petition urges SC to strike down judges’ transfers and clarify constitutional rules on judicial appointments]]>
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				<![CDATA[A petition filed in the Supreme Court on Thursday challenged the transfer of three Islamabad High Court judges, arguing that the move violated Article 2A of the Constitution and undermined judicial independence.

The appeal, filed by Lahore Bar Association President Irfan Hayat Bajwa through senior counsel Hamid Khan, stated that the transfers were carried out &ldquo;without any publicly disclosed reasons, criteria, or demonstrable institutional necessity,&rdquo; and alleged a &ldquo;lack of transparency and absence of procedural safeguards.&rdquo;

The Judicial Commission of Pakistan (JCP)&nbsp;approved on Tuesday the inter-provincial transfer of Justice Mohsin Akhtar Kayani to the Lahore High Court (LHC), Justice Babar Sattar to the Peshawar High Court (PHC), and Justice Saman Rafat Imtiaz to the Sindh High Court (SHC).

Read: &#39;Outspoken&#39; trio of IHC judges transferred

&quot;The meetings were convened by the secretary of the Judicial Commission of Pakistan in exercise of powers conferred by clause (22) of Article 175A of the Constitution, as the Chairman of the Commission, while giving reason therefor, declined to convene the meeting on the requisition by one third of the total members,&quot; the Supreme Court said in a statement on Wednesday.

The statement said that the JCP deliberated on various transfer proposals, with the chief justices of the concerned high courts participating as members of the commission. The transfer decisions were made in accordance with the powers granted by the Constitution and the JCP&#39;s procedural rules.

Additionally, proposals for the transfers of Justice Arbab Tahir and Justice Khadim Hussain Soomro were withdrawn by the members who had requisitioned them. The commission also decided, by a majority, that any vacancy created by a judge&rsquo;s transfer would be filled through further transfers, rather than initial appointments.

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The petition argued that judicial independence formed part of the Constitution&rsquo;s &ldquo;Basic Features&rdquo; and claimed that any erosion of it &ldquo;undermines the Constitution.&rdquo;

It further questioned the legality of the transfers under Article 200, stating that the exercise of such power without defined criteria &ldquo;renders the process arbitrary, opaque, and liable to be set aside.&rdquo;

The plea also raised broader constitutional questions regarding the 27th Constitutional Amendment, arguing that changes affecting judicial jurisdiction were unconstitutional. It stated that the amendment &ldquo;was a fraud on the electorate&rdquo; and claimed Parliament lacked the mandate for such changes.

Among other arguments, the petition contended that the Supreme Court&rsquo;s jurisdiction could not be transferred to a newly created Federal Constitutional Court, and questioned whether such a court could hear matters involving its own creation.

It further stated that &ldquo;in the absence of any disclosed reasons, criteria, or demonstrable institutional necessity, the transfers of Judges&hellip; are unlawful.&rdquo; The petition also argued that large-scale transfers without replacement had caused &ldquo;institutional disruption&rdquo; and could erode public confidence in the judiciary.

The petition requested the Supreme Court to declare the transfers unconstitutional and void, and sought directions on the interpretation of constitutional provisions governing judicial appointments and transfers.

Discord in IHC ranks

The development marks the first instance of the 27th Amendment, approved in November last year, being applied directly to the high courts. This follows amendments to Article 200, which remove the requirement of obtaining a judge&rsquo;s consent before transfer and empower the relocation of high court judges between provinces on the recommendation of the Judicial Commission.

The three judges who were transferred were also among the six Islamabad High Court judges who had written a letter to the Supreme Judicial Council, seeking guidance on how to counter alleged interference by intelligence agencies in their affairs.

Earlier in February, when Justice Sardar Sarfraz Dogar was elevated to the position of Islamabad High Court chief justice from the Lahore High Court, the same three judges were among a group of five who refused to accept his elevation. They raised concerns regarding his seniority and questioned the legitimacy of his appointment.

Despite these reservations, Justice Dogar took oath as the Islamabad High Court chief justice just a week later. However, the five judges who had expressed their concerns did not attend the oath-taking ceremony, despite being formally invited.

Read More: President signs off on contentious transfer of 3 IHC judges

Babar Sattar, a prominent legal analyst known for his outspoken views, was part of Justice Qazi Faez Isa&rsquo;s legal team that had challenged the presidential reference filed against him.

The IHC saw another hiccup last year when Justice Saman, who had been heading the Islamabad High Court&rsquo;s harassment committee, was removed from her position after taking cognisance of a complaint filed by lawyer Imaan Mazari. The complaint followed a verbal altercation at court involving Islamabad High Court Chief Justice Sarfraz Dogar.

The complaint called for an inquiry under the Protection Against Harassment of Women at the Workplace Act to determine whether the chief justice had made gender-based or threatening remarks towards Mazari. Instead, Justice Saman was removed from her role, and Justice Inaam Ameen Minhas was appointed as the new head of the court&rsquo;s harassment committee.

Justice Kayani, a judge noted for his rulings, particularly in matters of human rights, was elevated to the bench of the Islamabad High Court in December 2015. Over the years, he has presided over several significant cases, especially those concerning enforced disappearances.

In a landmark verdict issued in March this year, through a 28-page written judgement, Justice Kayani ruled that in the event of divorce, a husband is legally bound to return the entire dowry to the wife. He declared that such assets, along with bridal gifts, remain the exclusive property of the woman.

The judgment further held that women are entitled to an equal share in property acquired during marriage, which should be divided equally between spouses in cases of divorce or death.

Justice Kayani has also been a vocal critic of the 27th Amendment and had remarked on it during its passage last year.

During a hearing related to the Council of Islamic Ideology (CII), he observed that as the amendment was underway, the council could also have taken the opportunity to expand its authority. He quipped that the CII might have sent its proposals, suggesting its powers could have been enhanced as well.]]>
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			<title>Truck runs over two college girls, father</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2605596/truck-runs-over-two-college-girls-father</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2605596/truck-runs-over-two-college-girls-father#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 29 Apr 26 22:14:06 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[APP]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
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				<![CDATA[Momin Shah was on his way to drop his daughters at college]]>
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				<![CDATA[A road accident claimed the lives of a man and his two daughters after a speeding truck ran over their motorcycle in Kot Addu.

According to police sources, Momin Shah was on his way to drop his daughters at college when the speeding truck hit their motorcycle.

The impact caused the motorbike to fall under the truck, killing all three on the spot. The deceased girls were identified as 16-year-old Moazzama, a first-year student, and 17-year-old Wajeeha, second-year student.

The incident has cast a pall of gloom over the area. RPO of Dera Ghazi Khan, Azhar Ikram, sought a detailed report from the DPO of Kot Addu.]]>
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			<title>Karachi-Lahore comparisons 'do not serve Pakistan': Murtaza Wahab</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2605456/karachi-lahore-comparisons-do-not-serve-pakistan-murtaza-wahab</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2605456/karachi-lahore-comparisons-do-not-serve-pakistan-murtaza-wahab#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 29 Apr 26 10:54:06 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Web Desk]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category><category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
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				<![CDATA[Mayor says comparisons inappropriate given differences in population, infrastructure demands and resource availability]]>
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				<![CDATA[Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab on Wednesday objected to comparisons between Karachi and Lahore in terms of infrastructure and governance, saying the two provincial capitals face different on-ground realities.

He made the remarks during a joint press conference in Lahore alongside Punjab Housing Minister Bilal Yasin, who welcomed the Karachi mayor and his delegation on their arrival. Speaking at the briefing, Wahab said comparisons between Karachi and Lahore were inappropriate given differences in population, infrastructure demands and resource availability.

He noted that Karachi receives water from a distance of 125 kilometres, has a daily requirement of 1,100 million gallons, but is supplied only 550 million gallons per day (MGD), while its population continues to grow. He added that such comparisons create unnecessary friction and emphasised the need for both administrations to collaborate and share expertise.



واسا لاہور ہیڈ آفس میں کراچی واٹر اینڈ سیوریج کارپوریشن کے اعلیٰ سطحی وفد کی آمد

میئر کراچی مرتضیٰ وہاب کی زیر قیادت وفد میں چیف ایگزیکٹو آفیسر احمد علی صدیقی، چیف آپریٹنگ آفیسر اسداللہ خان، چیف کمرشل آفیسر حارث سرفراز اور چیف اسٹریٹیجی آفیسر صادق یونس، چیف فنانشل آفیسر عمار&hellip; pic.twitter.com/Vr12gA0TW4
&mdash; PPP Punjab update (@BishiBasharat) April 29, 2026


Yasin briefed the Karachi mayor on drainage and clean water supply projects in Lahore, outlining technical measures including SCADA-based monitoring systems, helpline services, solarisation, water metering and wastewater treatment plants.

He said the Punjab government had expanded five water agencies to 41 districts within a year, adding that thousands of kilometres of new pipelines were being laid under the WASA Punjab Development Plan.

He also noted that operational monitoring was being improved through full digitalisation of WASA, while the construction of underground water tanks would help improve drainage and groundwater levels.

Responding to a question, Wahab said such comparisons lead to &ldquo;an unfortunate situation&rdquo; and noted that the Karachi administration aims to complete under-construction bridges within 90 days.

Read More: Work restarts on Karachi&#39;s BRT Red Line on University Road: Mayor Wahab

Describing Karachi as Pakistan&rsquo;s &ldquo;commercial capital&rdquo;, he stressed the need for collective efforts. &ldquo;Presenting a Karachi-Lahore divide as a political conflict does not serve Pakistan,&rdquo; he said.

Wahab termed his first joint press conference in Lahore with Yasin an honour and said he had visited the city with a delegation from the Karachi Water Board. He also invited the people of Lahore to visit Karachi.

He said learning from each other was a positive process and announced that a memorandum of understanding would be signed between Karachi and Lahore WASA to enhance cooperation.

The delegation included CEO Ahmed Ali Siddiqui, COO Asadullah Khan, CCO Haris Sarfraz, CSO Sadiq Younis and CFO Ammar Khan. On the occasion, WASA Punjab Chairman Chaudhry Sher Ali Khan, Vice Chairman Chaudhry Shahbaz Ahmed and WASA Managing Director Ghafran Ahmed were also present.

Officials said the purpose of the visit was to exchange experiences between the two institutions and promote cooperation aimed at improving citizen services.]]>
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			<title>Punjab unveils ambitious tourism roadmap</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2605364/punjab-unveils-ambitious-tourism-roadmap</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2605364/punjab-unveils-ambitious-tourism-roadmap#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 28 Apr 26 21:24:45 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2605364</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[70 destinations, curated travel trails, investment projects presented]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The government of Punjab on Tuesday held its first comprehensive tourism showcase, the Magnificent Punjab Tourism &amp; Investment Expo 2026, in Lahore, bringing together public and private stakeholders to promote tourism as a key driver of economic growth in the province.

Organised by the Punjab Tourism Department, the event marks a significant milestone in efforts to position Punjab as a competitive destination in the global tourism economy by highlighting its heritage, culture, spiritual routes, eco-tourism sites and investment-ready projects under one platform. Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb described the occasion as a &quot;historic moment for Punjab,&quot; saying it was the first time the province&#39;s diverse tourism assets had been presented in a unified and structured manner to investors and international partners.

&quot;This is not just an expo.

This is Punjab opening its doors to the world,&quot; she said, adding that tourism had evolved into a major economic sector contributing to employment generation, foreign investment and national branding.

Officials said more than 50 curated tourism trails and destinations had been developed for promotion under public-private partnership models.]]>
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			<title>Meesha Shafi challenges Rs5m defamation ruling against Ali Zafar in LHC appeal</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2605447/meesha-shafi-challenges-rs5m-defamation-ruling-against-ali-zafar-in-lhc-appeal</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2605447/meesha-shafi-challenges-rs5m-defamation-ruling-against-ali-zafar-in-lhc-appeal#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 29 Apr 26 09:44:04 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Rana Yasif]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2605447</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Singer's counsel argues that the trial court erred in its judgment]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Ali Zafar&rsquo;s defamation suit against Meesha Shafi entered a new phase on Wednesday as Meesha challenged the Rs5 million damages ruling in the Lahore High Court (LHC).

Lahore&#39;s sessions court on March 31 ruled in favour of Zafar, ordering Meesha to pay Rs5 million in damages. Zafar had filed a defamation claim of Rs1 billion against Meesha after she accused him of sexual harassment, with the case having spanned over eight years.

Meesha, through her counsel, filed an appeal in LHC against the session court&rsquo;s verdict, arguing that the trial court erred in its judgment. While it concluded Meesha failed to prove her allegations, it did not require Zafar to establish that no harassment occurred.

The petition further highlighted that Meesha had previously approached the provincial ombudsperson on harassment, but her complaint was dismissed.

Also Read: Lahore court orders Meesha Shafi to pay Rs5m to Ali Zafar in defamation case

It added that her appeal against the ombudsperson&rsquo;s decision remains pending before the Supreme Court of Pakistan, and contends that the defamation decree should not have been issued until a final ruling is delivered.

Meesha had requested the high court to set aside the trial court&rsquo;s decision, maintaining that the lower court failed to properly assess the facts of the case.

Throughout the eight-year period, nine judges were changed, and 283 hearings were held. A total of 20 witnesses were called to testify, and their statements were recorded.

During the final session, both sides&rsquo; legal teams presented their closing arguments. The court had previously recorded the statements of the 20 witnesses, and cross-examinations were also completed.

Read More: Meesha Shafi asks court to dismiss Ali Zafar&rsquo;s defamation suit

In 2018, Zafar filed the defamation suit through his counsel Rana Intizar, demanding Rs1 billion in damages. Intizar contended that Meesha had damaged the reputation of his client with &ldquo;baseless allegations&rdquo;. He pleaded that the court direct Meesha to tender an unconditional apology and pay Rs1 billion in damages.

Zafar had previously sent a legal notice to Meesha stating that her tweets, dated April 19, 2018, were &ldquo;false, slanderous, and defamatory&rdquo; and &ldquo;caused tremendous injury to the plaintiff&rsquo;s reputation, goodwill, and livelihood.&rdquo;

The trial court had originally imposed a gag order on January 24, 2019, following Zafar&rsquo;s defamation suit. Meesha&rsquo;s subsequent appeal to the LHC had been dismissed.

In 2021, the Supreme Court accepted Meesha&rsquo;s petition filed against the LHC order for the preliminary hearing. After hearing the arguments, the apex court remarked that the points raised by the petitioner must be reviewed, and clubbed the case with the suo motu notice taken to define sexual harassment, also pending in the court.]]>
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				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/untitled-design-2026-04-29t160553-7011777460739-0/untitled-design-2026-04-29t160553-7011777460739-0.png" class="featured_image"/>
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			<title>Two murder accused held after over a decade</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2604264/two-murder-accused-held-after-over-a-decade</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2604264/two-murder-accused-held-after-over-a-decade#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 22 Apr 26 20:06:40 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[RASHID BIN AMEER]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2604264</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Suspect had reportedly been changing locations frequently to avoid arrest]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Police claimed to have arrested two long-absconding suspects wanted in separate murder cases, ending years of evasion.

According to officials, Abdul Hakeem police arrested a suspect, Majid Qureshi, who had been on the run for 14 years after allegedly committing a murder.

Acting on intelligence reports, a team led by SHO Rao Shahid traced and apprehended the accused from an area in Multan.

Separately, a team from Kahna police station, led by SHO Chaudhry Mehmood, arrested a fugitive, Rana Javed, from Jhelum district in what officials described as a dramatic operation.

Police said Rana Javed had been absconding for 16 years after allegedly killing a retired female teacher during a robbery attempt in Lakkar Mandi.

The suspect had reportedly been changing locations frequently to avoid arrest.

Both suspects had been declared proclaimed offenders and were wanted by police in connection with the cases.

The police said investigations into the were under way.]]>
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			</item><item>
			<title>Petition filed against 'illegal detention'</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2600604/petition-filed-against-illegal-detention</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2600604/petition-filed-against-illegal-detention#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 01 Apr 26 20:00:24 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2600604</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Rukhsana Bibi said that she saw people dressed in police uniforms abduct her husband]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[A petition has been filed in the Islamabad High Court against the unjust detention of Mudassar, who is the husband of a domestic worker who was earlier acquitted of a theft charge of Rs250 million.

Rukhsana Bibi, while filing a petition against the detention of her husband, said that she saw people dressed in police uniforms abduct her husband.

&quot;There is no case against my husband, nor was he presented in any court. A false case of theft was registered against me. The court has already acquitted me,&quot; she said.]]>
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			</item><item>
			<title>Abandoned newborn found alive</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2604271/abandoned-newborn-found-alive</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2604271/abandoned-newborn-found-alive#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 22 Apr 26 20:14:39 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2604271</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Infant was then shifted to the Tehsil Headquarters Hospital, Murree, for further care]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[A newborn baby girl was found abandoned near a graveyard in the Bhurban Kahia area on the outskirts of Murree and was shifted to hospital by Rescue 1122.

According to reports, a passer-by spotted the infant early Tuesday morning near the graveyard and immediately alerted Rescue 1122. The rescue team reached the spot promptly, took the baby into custody and carried out an initial medical examination on-site before providing first aid.

The infant was then shifted to the Tehsil Headquarters Hospital, Murree, for further care. After her condition was declared stable, the hospital administration handed the baby over to the Child Protection and Welfare Bureau, Rawalpindi, under the Punjab government.]]>
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			</item><item>
			<title>Injured man held after encounter</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2594777/injured-man-held-after-encounter</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2594777/injured-man-held-after-encounter#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 26 Feb 26 20:36:52 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[APP]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category><category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2594777</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Suspect was apprehended in an injured condition late at night while officers were patrolling Dinpur Square]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Gulghast police arrested an injured man following an encounter.

According to police details, the suspect was apprehended in an injured condition late at night while officers were patrolling Dinpur Square.

The police said two men were moving quickly toward Basti Nu. When officers signaled them to stop, one of the suspects opened fire. Constable Tanvir was hit, but he was wearing a bulletproof vest.

The police took cover and the firing continued for some time. After the shootout, the suspect was spotted with a gunshot wound on his hand.]]>
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			<title>Bus-coach collision claims five lives</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2598515/bus-coach-collision-claims-five-lives</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2598515/bus-coach-collision-claims-five-lives#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Thu, 19 Mar 26 21:18:55 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[APP]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category><category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2598515</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[.Reports indicate coaster passengers were on their way home to celebrate Eid]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[A collision between a bus and a coaster on Arif Wala Road near Adda Fitna left at least five people dead and more than 20 others injured.

According to local authorities, four of the injured are in a critical condition.

They said the bus traveling from Burewala to Sahiwal collided head-on with the oncoming coaster.

The impact resulted in the immediate death of five coaster passengers.

Saeed, resident of 50/WB; Zain Tanveer, resident of Tufailabad; Hunras Masih, resident of 187/EB; and the coaster driver, Muhammad Ashiq, were killed in the accident. The injured were transported to a hospital, where medical staff confirmed that four of them were in a critical condition.

Reports indicate that the coaster passengers were on their way home to celebrate Eid. The bus driver fled after the crash. The area police reached the site and launched an investigation into the accident.]]>
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			<title>Punjab stays calm amid regional tension</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2597500/punjab-stays-calm-amid-regional-tension</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2597500/punjab-stays-calm-amid-regional-tension#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 13 Mar 26 21:24:07 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category><category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2597500</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Govt lauds role of religious scholars, security forces in ensuring peace]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Punjab has remained peaceful despite heightened regional tensions following the Iran-Israel conflict, with authorities crediting coordinated security arrangements and the role of religious scholars in promoting sectarian harmony during recent religious events.

Officials said two consecutive Fridays as well as Ramazn 21 passed across the province without any incidents of terrorism or sectarian violence, describing the situation as a positive sign of stability at a time when tensions in the wider region remain high.

The provincial government, under the supervision of Provincial Minister and Chairman of the Cabinet Committee on Law and Order Khawaja Salman Rafique, has been engaging religious scholars from different sects to promote unity and ensure peaceful observance of religious gatherings.

Authorities said meetings with prominent Sunni and Shia scholars were held at the Punjab Home Department to strengthen cooperation and encourage messages of tolerance and harmony among communities.

Officials noted that the participation of scholars in these efforts played a significant role in maintaining calm during sensitive occasions.

Speaking at one such gathering, Khawaja Salman Rafique said that all segments of society were standing behind law enforcement agencies to ensure peace and stability in the province.

He said the responsible conduct shown by religious scholars and the public during Yaum-e-Shahdat Hazrat Ali reflected the importance of unity and mutual respect in maintaining law and order.

Chairman of the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee and Khateeb of the Badshahi Mosque, Maulana Syed Muhammad Abdul Khabeer Azad, also stressed the need for unity among Muslims, saying that solidarity was essential to address challenges facing the Muslim world.

He appreciated the role of authorities and religious scholars in ensuring peaceful religious observances.

According to officials, extensive security arrangements were made across Punjab to ensure safety during religious gatherings and rallies.

More than 83,000 police personnel, including members of the Dolphin Squad, Police Response Unit (PRU) and Elite Force, were deployed to guard over 32,500 mosques, Imambargahs and other religious sites.

Authorities said additional security measures were taken for 136 Youm-e-Quds rallies and other congregations, where more than 25,000 officers and personnel performed security duties.

Monitoring was carried out through CCTV cameras and aerial surveillance using quadcopters to maintain close watch on sensitive areas.

Inspector General of Police Punjab Dr Usman Anwar directed that strict security arrangements be ensured at major markets, public places, religious sites, police posts, sensitive installations and inter-provincial checkpoints.

Law enforcement agencies were also instructed to maintain vigilance against possible threats, suspicious activities and sectarian miscreants.

Search and combing operations were also carried out in different areas as part of precautionary measures to prevent any attempt to disturb peace, officials said.

Punjab Home Secretary Dr Ahmed Javed Qazi said the peaceful environment was the result of coordinated efforts by various departments, including the police, Rescue 1122 and health authorities, which worked together to ensure smooth conduct of religious events.]]>
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			</item><item>
			<title>Skill training to help vulnerable children become self-reliant</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2597502/skill-training-to-help-vulnerable-children-become-self-reliant</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2597502/skill-training-to-help-vulnerable-children-become-self-reliant#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 13 Mar 26 21:24:07 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Asif Mehmood]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category><category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2597502</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Vocational training designed to help youth secure jobs, live independently]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Orphaned and vulnerable children living at the Child Protection and Welfare Bureau (CPWB) in Lahore are being provided vocational training to help them prepare for independent life after leaving the institution upon reaching adulthood.

The initiative has been launched through the establishment of a vocational training centre at the bureau, where boys and girls are learning a variety of practical skills aimed at improving their employment prospects and enabling them to support themselves in the future.

According to the bureau administration, one of the key challenges faced by children living at the facility is that they must leave the institution once they turn 18 and begin life independently. Many of them have limited support systems outside the bureau, making it difficult to secure employment and sustain themselves.

To address this concern, the vocational training programme has been designed to equip them with marketable skills that can help them find jobs or start small-scale work opportunities after leaving the institution.

Currently, the centre offers training in cooking, graphic designing and plumbing, while additional courses are also being planned to expand the programme in the coming months.

In the cooking section, children are being trained to prepare a range of dishes and develop basic culinary skills.

During the holy month of Ramadan, they were also given practical experience by assisting in the preparation of iftar meals, which allowed them to apply their training in a real working environment.

One of the residents, Nimra, said she is continuing her school education while also learning cooking at the centre.

She said she has already learned to prepare several dishes, including biryani and qorma, and believes that mastering these skills will help her find employment in the future.

Another student, Muhammad Ashiq, who studies in grade eleven, said he joined the cooking course out of personal interest.

He said acquiring practical skills alongside education would help him secure better employment opportunities when he begins his professional life.

Graphic designing classes are also being conducted at the centre, where both boys and girls are learning computer-based design skills.]]>
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			<title>Swati calls for end to 'politics of hatred'</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2597503/swati-calls-for-end-to-politics-of-hatred</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2597503/swati-calls-for-end-to-politics-of-hatred#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 13 Mar 26 21:24:07 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category><category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2597503</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[He said the gap between the public and decision-makers had widened in recent times]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) senior leader Azam Khan Swati on Friday urged the country&#39;s decision-makers to end what he described as an atmosphere of hatred and take PTI founder Imran Khan on board in the prevailing circumstances.

Talking to media outside the Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) after attending proceedings in a case related to the May 9 incidents, Swati said Imran Khan is a significant political leader and called on authorities to understand the sentiments and concerns of the public.

He said the gap between the public and decision-makers had widened in recent times and warned that ignoring public sentiment could further aggravate the situation.]]>
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				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/Azam-Swati1667471043-0/Azam-Swati1667471043-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
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