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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>Five terrorists killed in intelligence-based operation near Attock: CTD</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2613463/five-terrorists-killed-in-intelligence-based-operation-near-attock-ctd</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2613463/five-terrorists-killed-in-intelligence-based-operation-near-attock-ctd#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 16 Jun 26 10:46:51 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[APP]]>
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			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category><category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2613463</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[PM Shehbaz Sharif says security forces, police, CTD are achieving significant successes in fight against terrorism]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[The Punjab Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) killed five terrorists during an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in a border area near Attock. The department had received credible intelligence that terrorists present in the area had finalised plans to carry out attacks in different parts of Punjab, said a CTD spokesperson on Tuesday.

Giving further details of the operation, he said that a raid was conducted on the reported hideout, during which the suspects opened fire on law enforcement personnel, triggering an exchange of fire. As a result, all five terrorists were killed, he added.

The spokesman said the slain terrorists were affiliated with &quot;Fitna al-Khawarij&quot;. The state uses the term Fitna al-Khawarij to refer to terrorists affiliated with the banned Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan.

Also Read: CTD arrests 16 suspected terrorists in operations across Punjab

&quot;A suicide jacket, three SMGs, two hand grenades and ammunition were recovered from their possession,&quot;&nbsp;said the spokesperson, adding that identification of the terrorists is under way, while a search operation in adjoining areas has been launched. He also urged citizens to report suspicious activity on the CTD helpline.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Tuesday lauded the successful operation carried out by the CTD in Attock District against terrorists belonging to Fitna al-Khawarij.

The prime minister lauded the CTD for eliminating five terrorists during the operation. &ldquo;The security forces, police, and CTD are achieving significant successes in the fight against terrorism,&rdquo; the prime minister said in a statement. &ldquo;We are firmly committed to the complete eradication of all forms of terrorism from the country,&rdquo; he added.]]>
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			<title>Punjab presents Rs5.3tr 'budget of hope' for FY26-27</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2613460/punjab-presents-rs53tr-budget-of-hope-for-fy26-27</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2613460/punjab-presents-rs53tr-budget-of-hope-for-fy26-27#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Tue, 16 Jun 26 10:26:53 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Rana Yasif]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Pakistan]]></category><category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2613460</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[CM Maryam says budget has been prepared without imposing any new taxes]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[Punjab Finance Minister Mujtaba Shuja ur Rehman on Monday presented a surplus budget of Rs5.903 trillion (5903 billion) for the financial year 2026-27 in the provincial assembly amid strong protest by the opposition.

&ldquo;We did not make hollow promises we delivered what we committed&rdquo;, said the finance minister.

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz was also present in the House.&nbsp;

This budget represented&nbsp;an increase of 10.7 per cent compared to the current fiscal year.&nbsp;Current expenditures are estimated at Rs1,962.93 billion, which is 3.1 per cent lower than those of the ongoing fiscal year. This reduction is primarily attributable to the government&#39;s austerity drive and prudent fiscal management measures.

In the next fiscal year, a 7 per cent increase in the salaries of government employees is being proposed. As a result, salary expenditure will rise by only 1.4 per cent to Rs. 638.93 billion, reflecting the effectiveness of the government&#39;s sound&nbsp;rightsizing and financial management policies.

Furthermore, a 3.5 per cent increase in pensions for retired government employees is being proposed for the next fiscal year. Consequently, the province&#39;s pension expenditure is projected to reach Rs. 500.12 billion.

Read More:&nbsp;Aurangzeb says Budget 2026-27 delivers on promise to move economy from stability to growth

In order to provide public services at the grassroots level, a substantial allocation of Rs. 803.88 billion is being proposed for local governments under the Provincial Finance Commission (PFC) Award, reflecting an increase of 5.2 per cent.

Service delivery expenditure is estimated at Rs. 783.62 billion, of which Rs. 578.62 billion is earmarked for the routine operational expenses of government institutions. Owing to the government&#39;s effective policy measures and prudent financial management, this amount is 5.1 per cent lower than that of the previous fiscal year.

Similarly, it is proposed that Rs. 679.01 billion be allocated under the head of current capital expenditure as part of the budget for the forthcoming fiscal year.

Under the leadership of CM Maryam, despite prevailing economic challenges, the government has ushered in a new era of development through strong fiscal discipline, effective planning, and people-centric policies.

The landmark public welfare initiatives introduced in the Fiscal Year 2025&ndash;26 budget are a practical manifestation of this vision. It is also noteworthy that, under the development budget for FY 2025&ndash;26, a total of 2,638 development projects with an estimated cost of Rs. 1,150 billion have been completed. This represents a 16 per cent increase over the development expenditures of Fiscal Year 2024&ndash;25.

Also Read:&nbsp;Budget 2026-27: FinMin projects 4% growth as govt unveils fiscal, tax and reform agenda

The finance minister further said that he was pleased to inform this House that, owing to a substantial increase in provincial revenues, the efficient utilisation of resources, and the implementation of an expenditure rationalisation policy, an amount of Rs. 752 billion was being allocated for the development budget.

With regard to the provincial economy, transfers from the Federal Government to Punjab under the NFC Award are estimated at Rs. 4,390.94 billion, representing an increase of 8.1 per cent over the previous fiscal year.

At the same time, the Government of Punjab has adopted a strategy aimed at enhancing the province&rsquo;s own-source revenues. In this context, a target of Rs. 1,209.86 billion has been set for provincial revenue collection in the upcoming fiscal year.

Under this framework, the Punjab Revenue Authority has been assigned a revenue collection target of Rs. 528.50 billion, which is 55.4 per cent higher than the target for Fiscal Year 2025&ndash;26.

Similarly, the Board of Revenue has been given a tax collection target of Rs. 86.19 billion. For the next fiscal year, the Excise and Taxation Department has been assigned a revenue target of Rs. 124 billion, reflecting a significant increase of 77 per cent compared to the current fiscal year.

Provincial non-tax revenues are estimated at Rs. 461.17 billion, which is 52 per cent higher than the corresponding figure for the previous fiscal year. These revenue targets will further strengthen the province&rsquo;s fiscal self-reliance and ensure the availability of resources for development priorities.

&quot;We fully recognise that meaningful investment in productive sectors and public welfare initiatives is not possible without a substantial increase in provincial revenues. Under the leadership of CM Maryam, and through the dedicated efforts of the finance department and all provincial departments, it is expected that 99 per cent of the provincial revenue target will be achieved by the end of Fiscal Year 2025&ndash;26,&quot; he said.

Overall, out of the combined tax and non-tax revenue target of Rs. 828 billion, revenues amounting to Rs. 820.16 billion are expected to be realised.

This includes revenue collection of Rs. 370 billion by the Punjab Revenue Authority against a target of Rs. 340 billion, and Rs. 77.22 billion by the Excise and Taxation Department against a target of Rs. 70 billion.

Read This:&nbsp;Govt cuts taxes, ends surcharge for four salaried class income slabs

At this juncture, the finance minister said he considered&nbsp;it important to clarify that our government had achieved the highest level of own-source revenue collection in the history of Punjab without imposing any additional tax burden on the public. This achievement has been made possible through a historic expansion of the tax base and the introduction of positive reforms in tax laws.

Opposition protest

As the budget speech started, the opposition lawmakers assembled near the chair of the Speaker of the Punjab Assembly. They tore the budget books and chanted slogans against the budget.

Earlier, CM Maryam approved the budget after the provincial cabinet formally endorsed the document at its 35th meeting.

Addressing the cabinet meeting, Maryam expressed gratitude to Allah for presenting her third provincial budget and lauded the efforts of Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb, provincial finance minister, Information Minister Azma Zahid Bukhari, Chief Secretary Zahid Akhtar Zaman, Finance Secretary Mujahid Sherdil and the entire team involved in preparing the budget.

She said the budget for FY 2026-27 had been prepared without imposing any new taxes and was focused on public welfare, development and prosperity. She described it as a &quot;budget of hope&quot; aimed at delivering relief to citizens through the province&#39;s own resources.

Maryam said the government had made every possible effort to provide maximum relief to the people and minimise the financial burden on them despite economic challenges and prevailing global conditions.



پنجاب کابینہ نےنئے مالی سال 2026-2027 کے بجٹ کی تجاویز منظور کر لیں
وزیراعلی مریم نواز شریف نے صوبائی بجٹ 2026-2027 ڈاکومنٹ پر دستخط کردئے
وزیراعلیٰ پنجاب مریم نواز شریف کا صوبائی کابینہ کے بجٹ اجلاس سے خطاب
مریم نواز شریف کی مریم اورنگزیب،مجتبیٰ شجاع الرحمن، عظمیٰ زاہد بخاری&hellip; pic.twitter.com/PSynSsSkH7
&mdash; PTV News (@PTVNewsOfficial) June 16, 2026


CM Punjab added that although the province had to allocate a substantial amount as its share to the federation, the government remained committed to safeguarding public interests.

Read: Punjab safest province for kids, claims CM

She further directed the Punjab Revenue Authority (PRA) to take effective measures to enhance revenue generation and strengthen the province&#39;s financial capacity. She appreciated the collective efforts of the cabinet members and officials, saying the entire team had worked as one unit to prepare a people-friendly budget.

Maryam expressed confidence in the government&#39;s performance, saying that she hoped the budget would meet the aspirations of the people as in previous years.

She also prayed for the ability to continue serving the people of Punjab with sincerity and dedication]]>
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			<title>Fatal CCD shooting case deepens</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2613393/fatal-ccd-shooting-case-deepens</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2613393/fatal-ccd-shooting-case-deepens#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 15 Jun 26 22:13:37 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Imran Asghar]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2613393</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Father of slain girl alleges cops opened fire first, demands transparent probe]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[A significant development has emerged in the case of the killing of Australian-Pakistani minor Hania Ahmed in Chakwal during CCD firing, as an audio message from her injured father, Adeel Ahmed, has surfaced.

Expressing dissatisfaction with the ongoing police investigation, he claimed that four CCD personnel riding two motorcycles chased and fired indiscriminately at his vehicle, while the robbers had not initially opened fire.

Speaking from Benazir Bhutto Hospital in Rawalpindi, Adeel Ahmed said he is a resident of Perth, Australia, and had returned to Pakistan with his family on June 10 after performing Hajj.

He said they had gone to visit relatives when two robbers approached them outside a house and began a robbery. According to him, the family was handing over valuables when firing suddenly erupted. He alleged that CCD personnel opened fire on their vehicle first, after which the robbers fired only two shots before fleeing.

Adeel Ahmed said his 11-year-old son, Afnan, suffered two bullet wounds while he himself was hit twice, including one bullet lodged in his arm. His nine-year-old daughter Hania Ahmed sustained three to four bullet wounds and died before reaching hospital.

He claimed the firing was so intense that even the vehicle&#39;s brakes became inoperative, but despite his injuries he managed to drive his family to hospital.

He alleged that the tragedy could have been avoided had CCD personnel allowed the robbers to leave and pursued them later.

&quot;CCD targeted our vehicle instead of the robbers. Had I not driven away, they would have killed all of us,&quot; he said.

Adeel Ahmed stated that he was not seeking financial assistance but wanted a transparent and impartial investigation to prevent similar incidents in the future. He added that officials from the Australian High Commission had met him and would visit again.

He further claimed that neither the Pakistan nor Punjab government had contacted the family and said he would ask the Australian government to seek justice on their behalf. He also alleged that Chakwal police were attempting to protect CCD personnel.

Meanwhile, Additional IG CCD Punjab, Sohail Zafar Chatha, told media at the victim&#39;s grandfather&#39;s residence that the CCD does not believe in extrajudicial killings and acts only against individuals involved in serious crimes.

He said such suspects are often armed and have a history of firing on police, but stressed that the life of any citizen is more valuable than the arrest of two robbers.

He stated that three to four robberies had occurred in Chakwal within a few hours on the day of the incident, placing CCD on high alert. However, he acknowledged that a better strategy would have been to pursue and arrest the suspects later. According to him, the robbers involved had come from Sheikhupura and were later killed in a CCD operation.

Describing the incident as deeply tragic, he said the entire department stands with the affected family and that the success of the investigation would ultimately be measured by the confidence of both the family and society in the CCD. He added that the institution now has an opportunity to correct its shortcomings following Hania Ahmed&#39;s death and that training procedures would be reviewed and stricter SOPs introduced to help prevent similar incidents in the future.]]>
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			<title>WB-funded projects to revive Khanewal infrastructure</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2613419/wb-funded-projects-to-revive-khanewal-infrastructure</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2613419/wb-funded-projects-to-revive-khanewal-infrastructure#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 15 Jun 26 22:40:43 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Sohail Shahzad]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2613419</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Rs886m set aside for beautification, road, sewerage schemes]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[A series of long-delayed and ongoing development projects in Khanewal, supported by the World Bank in collaboration with the Punjab government, are progressing with the aim of improving civic amenities, urban infrastructure, sanitation, and environmental conditions across the district.

The projects are part of broader initiatives designed to address issues such as clean drinking water shortages, poor sewerage systems, broken streets, inadequate drainage, and insufficient street lighting, particularly in densely populated urban and semi-urban areas.

Among key initiatives is the rehabilitation and beautification of Fazal Park and Nishat Lake, with an estimated cost of Rs114.8 million. The project includes landscaping, improvement of recreational facilities, and enhancement of the urban environment.

Under a 10-year social development programme between the Punjab government and the World Bank, a clean drinking water scheme has also been included alongside interventions in education, municipal services, and social welfare sectors.

A district-wide beautification programme, with a total cost of Rs886 million, is also nearing completion.

The scheme includes three major city-level projects: Khanewal (Rs600 million), Mian Channu (Rs146 million), and Jahanian (Rs140 million). Under these initiatives, markets and intersections are being upgraded with tiling (tuff tiles), installation of streetlights, construction of entrance gates, and other beautification works.

Officials said that ongoing urban development projects also include the upgrading of water supply systems, sewerage networks, and drainage infrastructure across multiple cities under the Punjab Cities Programme, benefiting thousands of residents facing sanitation-related issues.

Authorities said delays in some schemes are due to procedural requirements, including tendering, land verification and financial approvals.

Deputy Commissioner Maliah Rashid has directed the relevant departments that all development schemes be completed within stipulated timelines with strict adherence to transparency standards.

Additional Deputy Commissioner (General) Naeem Sadiq Cheema is supervising key infrastructure projects including carpet roads and tuff tile schemes aimed at improving both urban and rural connectivity.]]>
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			<title>Four gunned down in suspected revenge killing</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2613417/four-gunned-down-in-suspected-revenge-killing</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2613417/four-gunned-down-in-suspected-revenge-killing#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 15 Jun 26 22:40:43 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[RASHID BIN AMEER]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2613417</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Police probe links to longstanding rivalry after deadly roadside ambush]]>
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				<![CDATA[Four men were shot dead after unidentified assailants allegedly opened indiscriminate fire on their vehicle near Khanewal Toll Plaza on Monday in what police believe was a targeted attack linked to an old enmity.

Police and family members said the victims, identified as cousins Majeed Khan Niazi and Ismail Khan Niazi, along with their associates Hidayatullah Mahar and his nephew Zakaullah Mahar, residents of village 30-10-R, were travelling in a vehicle to attend a hearing in a case pending before a local court.

The victims were reportedly on their way to the court of an Additional District and Sessions Judge in connection with a case registered at Kacha Khoh police station when they came under attack near the 84-10-R crossing close to the Khanewal Toll Plaza.

Witnesses said the attackers, travelling in a car and three motorcycles, surrounded the victims&#39; vehicle and opened fire from multiple directions.

The occupants sustained critical injuries, while the bullet-riddled car continued moving for some distance before crashing into a water tank outside a tyre shop.

Local residents said all four victims succumbed to their injuries shortly after the attack.

District Police Officer (DPO) Khanewal Muhammad Abid Warraich, DSP Sadar Saeed Sial, rescue officials, and police teams rushed to the scene upon receiving information.

The bodies were shifted to hospital for post-mortem examination.

As per the FIR registered at City Police Station Khanewal on the complaint of the victims&#39; relatives, one suspect, identified as Faisal Shah, has been nominated in the case, while seven unidentified accomplices have also been booked.

The complainants alleged that the attack stemmed from a longstanding rivalry and claimed that Faisal Shah was previously wanted in murder cases.

Speaking to the media, DPO Muhammad Abid Warraich said forensic experts had collected evidence from the crime scene, including spent bullet casings, while CCTV footage from nearby locations was also being examined.

He said multiple police teams had been formed to arrest the suspects and expressed confidence that those involved in the killings would soon be brought to justice.]]>
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			<title>IUB student dies after drinking beverage</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2613416/iub-student-dies-after-drinking-beverage</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2613416/iub-student-dies-after-drinking-beverage#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 15 Jun 26 22:40:43 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2613416</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[University faculty members, medical staff, rescue teams immediately responded, checked student's vital signs]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[A student of the Islamia University of Bahawalpur (IUB) died on Monday after allegedly consuming a beverage purchased from the university canteen, prompting authorities to seal the facility and launch an investigation.

The deceased, identified as Tanzil Musa, a BBA student and resident of District Muzaffargarh, collapsed on campus shortly after appearing in an examination at the Baghdadul Jadeed Campus.

The student had reportedly purchased and consumed a bottled drink from the canteen after completing his paper. While walking back, he suddenly collapsed face down on the ground.

University faculty members, medical staff, and rescue teams immediately responded and checked the student&#39;s vital signs, which were found to be absent.]]>
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			<title>Lahore plans traffic revamp for Defence Mor</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2613420/lahore-plans-traffic-revamp-for-defence-mor</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2613420/lahore-plans-traffic-revamp-for-defence-mor#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 15 Jun 26 22:40:43 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2613420</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Project is also expected to significantly reduce traffic queues, currently stretch between 400 600 metres]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[Authorities have initiated a traffic improvement plan for Defence Mor, one of Lahore&#39;s busiest intersections, aiming to reduce persistent congestion through targeted road engineering and traffic management measures.

Lahore Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) Syed Abdul Raheem Shirazi carried out multiple site visits and held consultations with relevant departments to develop a long-term solution for traffic bottlenecks at the junction.

During meetings with officials of the Traffic Engineering and Planning Agency (TEPA) and the Walton Cantonment Board, the CTO shared proposals for redesigning the intersection to improve vehicular flow through engineering interventions.

Under the proposed plan, the width of the turning lane at Defence Mor will be expanded from 22 feet to 33 feet. Officials said this upgrade is expected to increase the intersection&#39;s vehicle-handling capacity from around 6,000 vehicles per hour to approximately 9,000 vehicles per hour.

Authorities estimate that average vehicle speed at the junction will rise from 1520 kilometres per hour to 4045 kilometres per hour once the plan is implemented.

The project is also expected to significantly reduce traffic queues, which currently stretch between 400 and 600 metres during peak hours.]]>
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			<title>Team from Denmark reviews wastewater project</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2613418/team-from-denmark-reviews-wastewater-project</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2613418/team-from-denmark-reviews-wastewater-project#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 15 Jun 26 22:40:43 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2613418</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Major wastewater management project being implemented by the Water and Sanitation Agency]]>
			</description>
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				<![CDATA[A delegation from Denmark&#39;s Impact Fund Denmark (DANIDA) visited Faisalabad to review progress on the Eastern Wastewater Treatment Plant (EWTP), a major wastewater management project being implemented by the Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) Faisalabad to improve wastewater treatment capacity and environmental conditions in the city.

A delegation from Denmark&#39;s Impact Fund Denmark/DANIDA, comprising donor representatives Jacob and Stine, visited Faisalabad to review progress on the mega wastewater treatment project, which is expected to significantly reduce water pollution and improve the quality of irrigation water for surrounding agricultural areas.]]>
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			<title>Ride-hailing vehicles to get QR panic buttons</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612913/ride-hailing-vehicles-to-get-qr-panic-buttons</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612913/ride-hailing-vehicles-to-get-qr-panic-buttons#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 12 Jun 26 20:36:55 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2612913</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Traffic police officials say action will be taken against vehicles that fail to comply with new requirements]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Lahore Traffic Police has decided to introduce QR panic buttons, dashboard cameras and GPS tracking systems in online ride-hailing vehicles in phases to enhance passenger safety, particularly for women.

The decision was taken during a meeting between Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) Lahore SyedAbdul Rahim Shirazi and representatives of online taxi companies.

The participants agreed to make modern safety features mandatory for ride-hailing services operating in the provincial capital.

Under the proposed plan, ride-hailing companies will be required to equip their vehicles with QR panic buttons, dashcams and GPS trackers within a stipulated timeframe.

Traffic police officials said action would be taken against vehicles that fail to comply with the new requirements.

Speaking at the meeting, CTO Shirazi said the use of advanced tracking systems and camera technology would improve monitoring, strengthen passenger and driver security, and assist authorities in investigating accidents and other incidents.

He said Lahore Traffic Police would provide full support to ride-hailing companies in the installation of the Punjab government&#39;s QR panic button system, aimed at improving emergency response and enhancing the safety of commuters.

Officials said the initiative forms part of broader efforts to leverage technology to improve public safety and modernise urban transport services.

They added that the new measures are expected to increase public confidence in ride-hailing services while improving the overall security framework for passengers and drivers alike.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/qr-based1757042195-01759464920-0/qr-based1757042195-01759464920-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Child labour still rampant in twin cities</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612888/child-labour-still-rampant-in-twin-cities</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612888/child-labour-still-rampant-in-twin-cities#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 12 Jun 26 20:01:23 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Qaiser Shirazi]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2612888</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Rights activists, educators say millions of children remain out of school]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Like the rest of the world, Pakistan observed World Day Against Child Labour on June 12, but in practical terms no measures were taken in line with the United Nations charter to eliminate child labour.

The day has largely become symbolic, while child labour laws continue to be openly violated.

Incidents involving abuse, cutting of hair and sexual assault of young girls engaged in domestic child labour have also become common, while no effective environment has been created to eliminate child labour.

In the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad, children aged between 10 and 15 can be seen working at motorcycle and vehicle repair workshops, tyre puncture shops, small hotels, roadside eateries, carts and workshops. Even today, children, particularly girls aged between eight and 15, can be seen carrying heavy shopping bags larger than themselves while collecting paper, cardboard, plastic bottles, bones and scrap metal from streets. Many of them wear torn clothes.

Child labour has become common even in the homes of senior officials and judges because of low wages. FIRs relating to abuse and sexual assault of girls engaged in child labour are also frequently registered.

Young girls can be seen working alongside their mothers at brick kilns, while small boys and girls are often seen begging near markets, commercial centres, food stalls and open-air hotels.

Although extensive legislation was introduced and a Child Protection Department established, along with a ban on child begging, the institution has largely remained ineffective.

Despite large budgets and residential facilities, there has been little reduction in child labour, begging or waste-picking by children.

World Day Against Child Labour is observed every year on June 12 to eliminate forced labour, child work and begging and to secure children&#39;s basic rights, particularly education. The International Labour Organisation has expressed concern over the global child labour situation and emphasised the campaign: &quot;Education is a child&#39;s right, show child labour the red card.&quot;

According to global statistics, millions of children around the world are still forced to work, many in hazardous and life-threatening conditions.

Pakistan also has a large population of child labourers, and there are repeated calls for urgent measures and awareness campaigns, though little has been achieved in practice.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/1274802-ChildLabour-1482695777/1274802-ChildLabour-1482695777.JPG" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Case registered in rape case</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2613421/case-registered-in-rape-case</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2613421/case-registered-in-rape-case#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 15 Jun 26 22:40:43 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Zohaib Sheikh]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2613421</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Case involves allegations against a kitchen staff member of the madrassa]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Police have registered a case and launched an investigation after an alleged incident of assault involving a minor student at a madrassa in the Rangra area on the outskirts of Shakargarh sparked concern and outrage in the locality.

According to police, the FIR was lodged on the complaint of the victim&#39;s father, following which raids have been launched to arrest the nominated suspect.

The case involves allegations against a kitchen staff member of the madrassa.

As per the FIR, the accused allegedly called the minor student to the kitchen under the pretext of cutting vegetables.

It further states that the suspect allegedly placed a stick on the child&#39;s neck to intimidate him before committing the alleged assault.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/571781563561-0/571781563561-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Man arrested in inquiry linked to gang-rape FIR</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612917/man-arrested-in-inquiry-linked-to-gang-rape-fir</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612917/man-arrested-in-inquiry-linked-to-gang-rape-fir#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 12 Jun 26 20:36:55 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[RASHID BIN AMEER]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2612917</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Case registered on complaint of woman who nominated her husband, two unidentified persons as suspects]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Police claimed to have arrested a man and registered a case against him under the Anti-Rape Act after an inquiry into a gang-rape FIR led investigators to question the allegations contained in the complaint.

Police said a gang-rape case was registered at Saddar Kabirwala police station on the complaint of a woman who nominated her husband, Imran, a Multan resident Basit Haroon and two unidentified persons as suspects.

During the course of the investigation, police said efforts were made to contact the complainant for further inquiry and identification of the nominated suspects.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/251779310702-4/251779310702-4.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Four arrested in Jhang teen death case</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612527/four-arrested-in-jhang-teen-death-case</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612527/four-arrested-in-jhang-teen-death-case#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 10 Jun 26 21:05:53 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2612527</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Her family attempted to contact her by phone, but her mobile phone remained switched off]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Jhang police have arrested four suspects, including the principal accused, in connection with the mysterious death of an 18-year-old girl who died after being brought unconscious to a hospital.

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

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

On June 7, the girl&#39;s father lodged a kidnapping case against unidentified persons at Satellite Town Police Station.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/131776802801-6/131776802801-6.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Woman dies during attempted abortion</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612916/woman-dies-during-attempted-abortion</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612916/woman-dies-during-attempted-abortion#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 12 Jun 26 20:36:55 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2612916</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[FIR alleges deceased's husband, another woman attempted to terminate pregnancy through midwife]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[A woman died at DHQ Hospital Faisalabad after complications from an attempted abortion.

As per an FIR lodged by her father Muhammad Hussain, a resident of Chak 229-RB, with Khurrianwala Police, his daughter Kanza Fatima was living with her husband Muhammad Farooq in Chak 229-RB Mai Mastani when she fell ill.

Farooq, along with two women identified as Fatima Bibi and Hanifa wife of Abdul Qayyum, took her to a doctor in Makoana.

The doctor confirmed she was pregnant. The FIR alleges that Farooq and Fatima Bibi then took Kanza to Jaranwala and attempted to terminate the pregnancy through midwife Hanifa Bibi.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/womenopressed-1500787452-325-640x4801780691437-0/womenopressed-1500787452-325-640x4801780691437-0.jpeg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Free travel facility ends</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612912/free-travel-facility-ends</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612912/free-travel-facility-ends#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 12 Jun 26 20:36:55 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[APP]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2612912</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Govt had provided facility to provide relief to citizens due to increase in prices of petroleum products]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[The facility of free travel in public transport, including Orange Line Train, Metro and Speedo bus services in Lahore and other cities has been abolished.

According to Punjab Mass Transit Authority (PMA) sources, the government has decided to withdraw the free travel relief.

The government had provided the free travel facility to provide relief to citizens due to the increase in prices of petroleum products.

According to the authorities, this facility was given on a temporary basis, after which public transport will be operated as per the normal fares.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/31696196303-1/31696196303-1.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Driver in deadly van tragedy arrested</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612885/driver-in-deadly-van-tragedy-arrested</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612885/driver-in-deadly-van-tragedy-arrested#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Fri, 12 Jun 26 20:01:23 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2612885</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Case registered under sections relating to causing death by negligence, speeding]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Police have arrested the driver of a passenger van who fled the scene after a tragic fire incident on Murree Expressway that claimed the lives of 10 passengers.

According to sources, the driver, who escaped after the accident, was taken into custody and shifted to Murree Police Station. Initial investigations identified negligence, reckless driving and speeding as the primary causes of the incident.

Police said a case had been registered at Murree Police Station on the complaint of a Motorway Police inspector under sections relating to causing death by negligence, speeding and other relevant offences.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/arrest-pexels1773428681-0/arrest-pexels1773428681-0.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Two WASA workers die during sewer cleaning</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612528/two-wasa-workers-die-during-sewer-cleaning</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612528/two-wasa-workers-die-during-sewer-cleaning#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 10 Jun 26 21:05:53 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Amir Mehmood]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2612528</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[City Police Station Lodhran registered FIR No. 893/26 under Section 322 of the Pakistan Penal Code]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Two Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) workers died after being exposed to toxic gases while cleaning a sewer line in the Jalalpur Mor area of Lodhran, prompting police to register a criminal case against three officials, including the WASA Managing Director.

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

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

Following the incident, City Police Station Lodhran registered FIR No. 893/26 under Section 322 of the Pakistan Penal Code.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/301781125841-3/301781125841-3.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Entry of 17 religious scholars banned</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612521/entry-of-17-religious-scholars-banned</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612521/entry-of-17-religious-scholars-banned#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Wed, 10 Jun 26 20:43:23 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[APP]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2612521</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Entry to the district has been banned for scholars as part of precautionary measures]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Abbottabad has imposed Section 144 and banned the entry of 17 religious scholars ahead of the mourning procession in Muharram. Entry to the district has been banned for scholars as part of precautionary measures to control the law-and-order situation and maintain harmony in the district.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/201781124627-1/201781124627-1.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
            </image>
			</item><item>
			<title>Two held for harassment</title>
			<link>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612160/two-held-for-harassment-1</link>
			<comments>https://tribune.com.pk/story/2612160/two-held-for-harassment-1#comments</comments>
			<pubDate>Mon, 08 Jun 26 21:44:13 +0500</pubDate>
			<dc:creator>
				<![CDATA[Our Correspondent]]>
			</dc:creator>
			<category><![CDATA[Punjab]]></category>
			<guid isPermaLink="false">https://tribune.com.pk/?p=2612160</guid>
			<description>
				<![CDATA[Case was registered under relevant sections of the Pakistan Penal Code]]>
			</description>
			<content:encoded>
				<![CDATA[Police arrested two men, including a roadside petrol seller, for allegedly harassing a woman after a video of the incident went viral on social media.

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

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

A case was registered under relevant sections of the Pakistan Penal Code and both suspects were taken into custody.]]>
			</content:encoded>
			<image>
				    <img src="https://i.tribune.com.pk/media/images/251779310702-4/251779310702-4.jpg" class="featured_image"/>
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