The Punjab government has announced the launch of the province’s first-ever E-Taxi Scheme, aimed at providing eco-friendly and affordable transport to the public under its “Transport Vision 2030”.The initiative is expected to reduce air pollution, cut fuel expenses, and improve urban mobility across the province.According to details, 1,100 electric taxis will be distributed in the first phase of the scheme. Interested applicants can submit their forms online at e-taxi.punjab.gov.pk until October 5, 2025.Out of the total 1,100 e-taxis, 1,000 vehicles have been allocated for fleet owners, with a minimum of 10 vehicles per owner.One thousand e-taxis have been set aside for individual drivers registered with Transport Network Companies (TNCs). Of these, 70 vehicles are allocated for male drivers and 30 for females.Officials believe that the initiative will help to reduce air pollution, lower fuel costs, and provide modern travel facilities to citizens. The scheme is also expected to generate new employment opportunities and improve urban mobility across Punjab.So far, the scheme has received 1,027 applications, including 2 from fleet owners and 1,025 from individual drivers, with a total of 5,401 registrations on the portal.Read More:Punjab CM orders reduction in transport fares after diesel price cutOfficials stated that the scheme is designed to promote sustainable transport while also creating employment opportunities and reducing dependency on fossil fuels.In support of the initiative, the provincial government recently finalized a financing arrangement for electric vehicles (EVs). Under the approved plan, partner banks will offer loans of up to Rs. 6.5 million, with the government covering interest costs.Buyers will pay a subsidized down payment, and for EVs priced between Rs. 4 million and Rs. 10 million, the Punjab government will contribute Rs. 585,000 toward the buyer’s initial payment.

Karachi: The Public Accounts Committee (PAC) of Sindh Assembly on Tuesday ordered investigation into years long faulted and closed MIR and CT Scan machines in the major hospitals of the province.The provincial PAC meeting was held in chair of Chairman Nisar Khuhro in the committee room of the Sindh Assembly.Chairman Nisar Khuhro ordered secretary health to present a report after making faulted closed machines operational, while he also ordered action against the sellers of unregistered and counterfeit medicines.Nisar Khoro also directed sealing and lodging of the cases against unlicensed medical stores running in the province.The meeting was briefed that the health department's various districts Medical Superintendents (MS) purchased medicines without any tender of worth Rs 3 billion.The PAC called lists of purchased medicines and hospitals without issuing any tender.The huddle reviewed the health department 2024, 2025 audit paras.During the course of the huddle Nisar Khuhro questioned that why are CT Scan and MIR machines not operational and shut in the divisional hospitals of the province?The meeting told that there are complains of faulted CT Scan and MIR machines in Ghulam Muhammad Mehar medical college Sukkur and Larkana.On the other hand, secretary health apprised that the MIR machines is not operational in the divisional hospital of Larkana whereas the CT Scan machine is operational.The secretary health said "Technicians deliberately make the machines faulty so that the patients could approach the private laboratories."He stated that action was taken against the technicians while further action will be taken as well.Chairman said that faulty machines in the divisional hospitals are question mark on the performance adding that the patients have been facing difficulties and financial burden while conducting the tests from the private laboratories.The PAC has expressed its anger over the faulty and closed machines which were purchased from millions of rupees.The meeting told that a staggering worth of Rs three billion medicines were purchased back in 2022 and 2023 without any tender.The Secretary health said that the medicines were purchased in an emergency which is allowed under the PEPRA rules.Read More: Thousands of COVID vaccine doses set to expire in PakistanHe added that 85 percent medicines are purchased on the central level whereas 15 percent on the local level.Additionally, the PAC expressed anger over an inefficient system in Dr Ruth Pfau Civil Hospital Karachi. Moreover, the PAC ordered third party audit over the inefficient system of cleanliness in the hospital.

The 22nd Session of the Pakistan-Iran Joint Economic Commission (JEC) concluded in Tehran, the capital of  Iran, on September 15-16, 2025, marking a significant step forward in strengthening bilateral economic, trade, and cultural ties between the two neighboring countries, ARY News reported.The Pakistani delegation was led by Federal Minister for Commerce, Jam Kamal Khan, and the Iranian side was headed by Minister for Roads and Urban Development, Farzaneh Sadeq.The session emphasizes expanding collaboration across various sectors, including trade, investment, energy, agriculture, transport, housing, health, education, and cultural exchanges. At the conclusion of the session, both ministers signed the relevant protocols on behalf of their respective governments.The technical sessions were led by Muhammad Humair Karim, Secretary, Ministry of Economic Affairs of Pakistan, and Dr. Amin Taraffo, Senior Advisor to the Iranian Minister of Roads and Urban Development and Head of International Affairs. Both sides, held extensive discussions across multiple areas and successfully finalized the draft Protocol.Key outcomes of the JEC include a reaffirmation of $ 10 billion bilateral trade target. In trade and investment, both sides emphasized the removal of tariff and non-tariff barriers, operationalizing border markets and promotion of regular Business to Business meetings to enhance commercial ties.Read More: Iran, Pakistan launch direct flights to boost connectivityIn energy and infrastructure, consensus was reached to enhance electricity exchanges, including resuming construction of a 220 KV transmission line to Gwadar and exploring renewable energy projects.  A Joint Working Group will promote investment in the power sector, while cooperation in water resource management and sustainable urban development was also prioritized.In agriculture and environmental cooperation, both countries committed to joint efforts in veterinary health, pest control, seed development, and combating climate challenges such as sandstorms and mangrove degradation.Transportation and connectivity were key focus areas, with agreements to strengthen road, rail, air, and maritime transport links. Cultural and educational ties were bolstered through plans for cultural festivals, media collaborations, academic partnerships, student exchanges, and vocational training programs.Health sector collaboration was advanced with agreements on joint training, pharmaceutical registration, and cross-border disease surveillance. A Joint Committee on Labour Cooperation will facilitate worker mobility in sectors such as construction, textiles, and agriculture.On the side lines of the JEC, a Joint Business Forum was also organized on 15th September 2025, which brought together leading businesses from both countries.In their closing remarks, both ministers expressed satisfaction with the outcomes and reaffirmed their commitment to deepening cooperation. On this occasion, Federal Minister for Commerce, Jam Kamal Khan expressed optimism that the progress achieved would pave the way for deeper cooperation and looked forward to hosting the 23rd JEC session in Islamabad.

ISLAMABAD: The investigation into Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan’s social media activity took a new turn as a National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) team, led by Additional Director Ayaz Khan, visited Adiala Jail to question him, ARY News reported. Click here for latest updates on Imran Khan According to sources, the PTI founder, Imran Khan, avoided answering the NCCIA team’s questions and repeatedly asked them to leave the room. He also accused Additional Director Ayaz Khan of fabricating a false case against him.When asked about the ownership and operation of the account, Imran Khan reportedly said he could not reveal details, claiming that if he disclosed a person’s name, that individual could be abducted. The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf founder stressed several times that he does not have any special messenger.Sources added that the PTI founder told investigators he had not met any political leader in a long time. He explained that whenever a visitor comes, messages for the social media team are passed through them. Imran Khan also denied having any link to Jibran Ilyas or his account. During the interrogation, investigators asked whether the PTI founder’s account was being run by foreign agencies such as the CIA, RAW, or Mossad. In response, he allegedly remarked that Jibran was more patriotic than many others and suggested that the investigators themselves knew better who might be connected with Mossad.Imran Khan further stated that his sister Aleema Khan had no involvement in politics. When questioned why Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leadership often distances itself from posts shared through his social media, he responded that the leadership was afraid and feared the consequences.He also informed the investigators that he had studied the Hamoodur Rahman Commission Report while in jail.Also Read: PTI founder, wife’s sentence suspension petitions to be fixed soon, rules IHC 

CHANDIGARH: Indian Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has criticised Indian team over not shaking hand with Pakistani team at the end of the group match of Asia Cup 2025 on the last Sunday.Talking to the media,  Bhagwant Mann questioned that did you win the operation Sindoor by not shaking hand with the Pakistani team?The Indian Punjab CM said "Indian team play the match against Pakistan only because Indian Interior Minister Amit Shah son is an ICC Chief."Taking the Indian government to task, he said "It blocks Pakistani actor film in India but they play match against Pakistan as the ICC Chief is son of Amit Shah."https://youtu.be/rw1v19Bg-1k?si=xAEmxv6QqzfOVu0hHe asked the Indian government "When they can play the match against Pakistan why do they stop Indian Sikhs visiting Kartarpur?"It is merit to mention that Indian team created controversy in the group match of Asia Cup 2025 against Pakistan by not shaking hand with Pakistan team and captain at the time of the toss and at the end of the game.It was also a surprise for Pakistan the match referee Andy Pycroft said to Pakistan's skipper Salman Ali Agha not to shake hand with Indian counterpart, later Indian and Pycroft collusion have found.Eventually Pakistan took a principle stand and demanded removal of the Anday Pycrot stating that the team will not play further matches of the tournament till removal of the match referee.However, the International Cricket Council (ICC) has formally rejected the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) demand to remove match referee Andy Pycroft from the ongoing Asia Cup 2025,The board had written a letter to the ICC and the Marylebone Cricket Club (MCC) , demanding the removal of Pycroft from the ongoing tournament after the handshake controversy in the India clash.The fixture, played under a tense backdrop, witnessed unusual scenes right from the toss, where both captains skipped the customary handshake.According to the PCB, this was on the instructions of match referee Pycroft, a directive they believe went against the spirit of cricket and the MCC’s code of conduct.“No handshakes were exchanged before or after the match, which is a direct violation of the game’s spirit and long-standing traditions,” the PCB said in its letter, stressing that Andy Pycroft “failed to fulfil his responsibilities as match referee.”Read More: Pakistan decide against withdrawing from Asia Cup: reportThe ICC rejected PCB’s request and conveyed their decision formally to the cricket board on Monday night.“The ICC has reasoned it out, saying the ACC officials on the ground are understood to have told Pycroft that there will not be any handshake at the toss,” the report stated.Meanwhile, ARY News has reported that Pycroft is unlikely to officiate in any matches for Pakistan during the tournament and will be replaced by West Indian Richie Richardson.Boycott threatEarlier, Pakistan were weighing the option of ‘boycotting’ the remaining fixtures unless the ICC replaces the match referee , ARY News reported on Monday, quoting well-placed sources.The row emerged during the high-voltage Pakistan-India clash when Pycroft allegedly instructed Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha not to shake hands — a move the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) insists was in breach of ICC regulations.The board had underscored that Pycroft’s actions undermined the spirit of the game and violated established protocols.According to insiders, the PCB has made it clear that Pakistan’s continued participation in the tournament hinges on corrective measures by the ICC.The standoff now casts uncertainty over Pakistan’s future matches in the Asia Cup.Pakistan are scheduled to play UAE in a must-win game to qualify for the super fours of the tournament.  

ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of Religious Affairs has taken a key step to protect Umrah pilgrims from fraud by releasing a verified list of Umrah companies, ARY News reported.According to the ministry, a list of 113 authorised Umrah companies has been published on its official website. The list will remain valid for the Islamic year 1447 Hijri.The ministry advised all Umrah pilgrims to verify the company details on the official website before making any booking. It further instructed that all payments must be made through banks directly into the company’s official account.The spokesperson also stressed that pilgrims must collect a payment receipt and a copy of the contract from the company to avoid any potential issues during their pilgrimage.Also Read: Pakistan issues verified Umrah tour operators' list, Check hereThe Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony on Friday released the official list of verified Umrah tour operators for the year 2025–26 (1447 AH).According to the ministry, agreements of 53 Umrah companies from across the country have been attested in the first phase. The verification aims to safeguard pilgrims from fraud, scams, and financial losses.The approved operators belong to various cities, including Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and Peshawar, and have undergone a strict scrutiny process to ensure they meet government standards.Ministry spokesperson Muhammad Umar Butt urged intending pilgrims to book their Umrah packages only through verified operators.The spokesperson added that the attested list is valid for one year (1447 AH). He urged other  companies to complete the process of their documentation and agreements in accordance with ministry regulations.The verified list of Umrah operators has been uploaded to the official Ministry of Religious Affairs website for public access.

The national flag carrier, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), has failed to recover outstanding dues of over Rs. 20 billion, as revealed in an audit report issued in December 2024.According to the audit report, the national carrier was unable to collect Rs. 20.39 billion in receivables. The Auditor General of Pakistan raised serious objection over the non-recovery of aeronautical charges.It has been stated in the audit report that although the matter was identified in December 2024, PIA did not take effective measures to recover the dues.The report further noted that there are audit paras regarding the non-recovery of over Rs. 20 billion since the financial year 2019–20. Despite several meetings with the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) and the Aviation Division, the amount remains unpaid.Read More:PIA suspends Canada flights for Boeing 777 maintenanceAccording to the report, as of the audit's completion on 30 June 2024, the said outstanding dues had still not been recovered.The report criticised PIA for failing to adopt an adequate recovery strategy and for not convening a Departmental Accounts Committee (DAC) meeting before the finalisation of the audit report.Auditors have recommended that the Aviation Division be directly engaged to ensure the recovery of the outstanding amount.The auditors, in their report, recommended contacting the Aviation Division directly to resolve the matter so that the recovery of the amount due can be ensured.

The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) concluded the trading session on a high, as the market witnessed an upward trend.The market recovered the psychological level of 156,000 points with an increase of 796 points in the 100 index. The 100 index closed at 156180 points.Today, shares worth Rs. 43 billion were traded.The index recorded a high of 156,467 points and a low of 155,781 points. A total of 483 companies’ shares were traded during the session.The share prices of 280 companies increased, while 178 saw a decline. On the previous trading day, the index had closed at 155,384 points.Read More:PSX maintains record-high as KSE-100 hit 157,000 pointsOn 10 sep, Wednesday PSX also extended its bullish momentum and record-high as its benchmark KSE-100 Index hit the 157,000-point barrier for the first time.The KSE-100 Index of the PSX rose by 476.22 points, showing a 0.31 percent increase compared with the previous trading session.During the day, 996,270,293 shares were traded, up from 1,068,521,605 shares on the previous trading day. Additionally, the value of shares was Rs 52.727 billion, down from Rs 55.190 billion on the previous trading day.Of the 486 firms that traded their shares on the stock exchange, 226 saw profits and 227 saw losses, while the share prices of 33 companies stayed the same.K-Electric Limited, with 61,348,128 shares at Rs 5.60 per share, Bank of Punjab, with 72,460,270 shares at Rs 18.68 per share, and WorldCall Telecom, with 75,546,108 shares at Rs 1.56 per share, were the top three trading businesses.

Karachi/Dubai, September 16, 2025: The UAE Dirham (AED) has decreased to 76.63 Pakistani Rupee (PKR) today in a gradual fall of 0.02 PKR from the preceding day's level of 76.65 PKR, as verified by trusted sources watching interbank and open market levels. Pakistan Currency Rates Today- Latest Updates This revision follows an exceptional June in which the AED saw an appreciation worth 0.81 PKR and went up from 76.44 PKR to 77.25 PKR and to a high of 77.6111 PKR on July 1, 2025. The Dirham's gradual descent is evidence of subtle market shifts but points to the United Arab Emirates' strong economy and international financial hub status.The AED-PKR rate depends on a combination of fixed and floating mechanisms. The UAE Dirham is pegged to the US Dollar at an official rate of 3.6725 AED per USD, an initiative maintained by the Central Bank of the UAE since 1997 to ensure currency stability and lure foreign investment. The peg fixes the value of Dirham with regard to movements in USD and is affected by US monetary policies and oil market dynamics in addition to UAE's trade surplus. The Pakistani Rupee floats on the other hand with market supply and demand determining its value and subject to Pakistani export performance, foreign exchange reserves accumulation, and inflation levels all influenced by international relations. The present value of 76.63 PKR per AED is an indication of a minute decline in Dirham's value vis-à-vis the PKR and is brought about by minor forex adjustments and provides an idea of the present-day economic dynamics at inter국 levels.UAE's Strategic Economic Policies: The Case of SuccessThe UAE’s economic prowess is rooted in visionary policies that propel the Dirham’s strength. Moving beyond oil, the nation has embraced diversification, channeling investments into tech innovation, renewable energy, and tourism, with Dubai and Abu Dhabi emerging as global hubs. Initiatives like the UAE Vision 2030 prioritize fiscal discipline, business-friendly reforms, and infrastructure development, drawing substantial foreign capital—projected at $20 billion in 2025 per World Bank estimates. The Central Bank’s proactive measures, including robust reserves and inflation control, safeguard the Dirham’s value. This strategic approach not only sustains the currency at 76.63 PKR today but also positions the UAE as a beacon of economic resilience amid global uncertainties.Effects on Pakistani Expats in UAE and their FamiliesFor Pakistan's 1.5 million expat community doing well in the UAE, the current AED rate of 76.63 PKR is just a mild increase in remittance value compared to the earlier 76.65 PKR. The service and construction laborers and professionals remitted an amount of $717.2 million to Pakistan in the month of June 2025 alone as per State Bank of Pakistan data. The UAE is now Pakistan's second-largest remittance market after Saudi Arabia. The mild Dirham drop leads to each remitted amount in dirham translating into a few added paisas and strengthening family finances in Pakistan in meeting needs like healthcare, education, and residence in regions like Sindh, Punjab, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The remittance lifeline enhances local economies and sustains family businesses and reduces poverty pressures. The rate is however still a increase in import prices of UAE goods—such as consumer electronics and edibles—making it hard on Pakistani industry and consumers at rising prices.Brief Overview of AED and PKRUnited Arab Emirates Dirham (AED), introduced in 1973, is the national currency of the United Arab Emirates and is subdivided into 100 fils and abbreviated as د.إ. Its pegging to the US Dollar is an indication of the UAE oil-based economy and recent diversification. Pakistani Rupee (PKR), introduced in 1948, is the national currency of Pakistan and is subdivided into 100 paisa and abbreviated as ₨. Pakistani and external economic policies and pressures apply to it on the open market to a population of over 240 million.

KARACHI/RIYADH: September 16, 2025: The Pakistani Rupee (PKR) opened down by a few cents to Rs75.03 versus the Saudi Riyal (SAR) in today's open market compared to Rs75.06 on September 15 and substantially below the July 28 high of Rs76.03, currency dealers report.The adjusted selling rate reached Rs75.60. This slight drop led by market adjustments and remittance flows underscores the Saudi Riyal's vital status in Pakistan's economy. SAR to PKR- Daily Updates Why Saudi Riyal Supports Pakistan EconomyThe Saudi Riyal is an important economic anchor for Pakistan with strong Saudi-Pak connections, where millions of Pakistani laborers support Saudi industries in areas such as construction, healthcare, and services. Saudi remittances in May 2025 totaled $913.3 million, the highest share, according to the State Bank of Pakistan. Total remittances in July 2024 to May 2025 were $34.9 billion, up 28.8% compared to the same period in the preceding year. The present-day exchange rate of Rs75.03 is equivalent to exchanging 1,000 Saudi Riyals to convert to Rs75,030 today compared to an exchange of Rs75,060 yesterday, affecting household budgets by a minute amount in areas such as education, healthcare, and other necessary household expenses.Impact on the Economy through Riyal DepreciationThe Saudi Riyal's decline to Rs75.03 has immediate and macro implications. For households, the reduced rate slightly decreases remittance purchasing power with rising prices. Businesses importing Saudi Arabian oil and petrochemicals are favored by the Riyal's dollar-attached stability, and the reduction mitigates import prices in support of Pakistan's balance of trade. At the macroeconomic level, the performance of the Riyal once again supports Pakistan's foreign exchange reserves, which crossed $11 billion in October 2024, supporting inflation management and debt servicing. A depreciated Rupee increases export competitiveness in alignment with Pakistan's economic strength.Getting Acquainted with Saudi Riyal and Pakistani RupeesThe Saudi Riyal (SAR), broken down into 100 halala, is Saudi Arabia's currency and is governed by the Saudi Central Bank and pegged to the US dollar to ensure reliability. This stability has made it a reliable instrument in remittances and trades, particularly for Pakistanis in the Kingdom. The Pakistani Rupee (PKR), represented by ₨, has been Pakistan's currency since 1948 and is governed by the State Bank of Pakistan on a managed floating exchange rate. Its value is influenced by inflation, trade flows, and remittance inflows and is represented by the market dynamics in the Riyal-PKR rate.Prospects of the Riyal-PKR Exchange RateThe Saudi Riyal’s decline to Rs75.03 reflects ongoing market corrections, supported by remittances and trade with Saudi Arabia. Traders and policymakers should monitor these trends closely, as even small shifts can affect remittances, import costs, and economic planning. For millions of Pakistanis, the Riyal’s reliable value remains a financial lifeline, sustaining Pakistan’s economic stability. Sources: State Bank of Pakistan, Forex Association of Pakistan

ISLAMABAD: Seventeen more senators belonging to Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) have submitted their resignations from Senate standing committees following the directives of incarcerated party founder Imran Khan, ARY News reported.According to PTI leader Senator Ali Zafar, all resignations have been compiled and submitted to the Senate Secretariat after thorough verification. He said the move was in line with the direction of the PTI founder, Imran Khan.“The founder instructed us to submit whatever resignations we have now, while the rest will come later,” Zafar explained.He stressed that the resignations were purely a form of protest and clarified that Senate committees would continue functioning despite PTI’s absence. “The committees can and will continue their proceedings without us,” he noted.Also Read: Azam Swati among four PTI senators resign from parliamentary committeesAli Muhammad Khan, Adil Bazai and Azam Swati are among the leaders who resigned from multiple Senate standing committees in protest, acting on the directives of their incarcerated party founder, Imran Khan.According to reports, Senator Dost Muhammad and Senator Zeeshan Khanzada submitted their resignations to the Senate Chairman, stepping down from memberships of five committees. Both lawmakers stated that their resignations were a mark of protest and carried out on the instructions of the PTI founder.Separately, Senator Azam Khan Swati also announced his resignation from five Senate committees, including the Cabinet Committee, Economic Affairs Committee, Health Committee, Law and Justice Committee, and the Rules and Procedures Committee.Senator Mirza Afridi likewise resigned from his committee memberships. Earlier, Aleema Khan, sister of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf founder Imran Khan, revealed that he had directed party lawmakers to resign from all parliamentary committees. Speaking to the media outside Rawalpindi’s Adiala Jail after meeting her brother, Aleema Khan said that the former prime minister directed PTI lawmakers to quit all standing committees of the National Assembly.Aleema Khan maintained that all of Imran Khan’s sisters got to meet him in jail after four months. About Imran Khan, she said that the PTI founder was in good health; however, ‘he was feeling a bit of pressure on his eye’.Aleema Khan said that the PTI founder also inquired about the arrest of her sons, Shershah Khan and Shahrez Khan, who have been arrested over their alleged involvement in the attacks on Jinnah House and other incidents of arson and vandalism on May 9, 2023. 

The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has released its latest Mark-to-Market (M2M) currency rates for September 16, 2025, providing critical insights for businesses, investors, and individuals navigating Pakistan’s financial landscape. Pakistan Currency Rates Today- Latest Updates These rates, compiled from brokerage houses and Reuters Eikon Terminal, reflect the weighted average of closing interbank exchange rates, with a focus on the US Dollar (USD) and key currencies such as the Saudi Riyal (SAR), UAE Dirham (AED), Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD), Canadian Dollar (CAD), and Qatari Riyal (QAR). Key Currency Rates in Pakistan Today Below are the exchange rates for major currencies against the Pakistani Rupee (PKR) as of September 16, 2025, from SBP’s M2M rates, with comparisons to September 15 rates: Saudi Riyal (SAR): Ready: 75.0463 (September 15: 75.0463, unchanged) 1-Month: 75.3561 (September 15: 75.3561, unchanged) 3-Month: 76.0029 (September 15: 76.0029, unchanged) 6-Month: 76.8389 (September 15: 76.8389, unchanged) 1-Year: 77.9673 (September 15: 77.9673, unchanged) The SAR’s stability may keep costs steady for remittances and Hajj/Umrah travel. UAE Dirham (AED): Ready: 76.6462 (September 15: 76.6462, unchanged) 1-Month: 77.0354 (September 15: 77.0354, unchanged) 3-Month: 77.7973 (September 15: 77.7973, unchanged) 6-Month: 78.7931 (September 15: 78.7931, unchanged) 1-Year: 80.1475 (September 15: 80.1475, unchanged) The AED’s steady rates could maintain expenses for trade and expatriate transactions. Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD): Ready: 921.8421 (September 15: 921.8421, unchanged) 1-Month: 927.0660 (September 15: 927.0660, unchanged) 3-Month: 936.8242 (September 15: 936.8242, unchanged) 6-Month: 949.3924 (September 15: 949.3924, unchanged) 1-Year: 966.1634 (September 15: 966.1634, unchanged) The KWD’s consistent rates may sustain costs for high-value transactions. Canadian Dollar (CAD): Ready: 203.4628 (September 15: 203.4628, unchanged) 1-Month: 204.7720 (September 15: 204.7720, unchanged) 3-Month: 207.3218 (September 15: 207.3218, unchanged) 6-Month: 210.6468 (September 15: 210.6468, unchanged) 1-Year: 215.4154 (September 15: 215.4154, unchanged) The CAD’s stability could keep costs steady for Pakistan’s trade and diaspora in Canada. Qatari Riyal (QAR): Ready: 77.2308 (September 15: 77.2308, unchanged) 1-Month: 77.6176 (September 15: 77.6176, unchanged) 3-Month: 78.3856 (September 15: 78.3856, unchanged) 6-Month: 79.3356 (September 15: 79.3356, unchanged) 1-Year: 80.6204 (September 15: 80.6204, unchanged) The QAR’s steady rates may keep expenses consistent for Pakistanis working in Qatar. US Dollar (USD): Ready: 281.5128 (September 15: 281.5213, down by PKR 0.0085) 1-Month: 282.9149 (September 15: 282.9356, down by PKR 0.0207) 3-Month: 285.5946 (September 15: 285.6760, down by PKR 0.0814) 6-Month: 289.1338 (September 15: 289.2141, down by PKR 0.0803) 1-Year: 294.0487 (September 15: 294.0772, down by PKR 0.0285) The USD’s minor decline may offer slight relief for import costs, with open market rates around PKR 282.55 for buying. 3 Other Notable Currencies Other major currencies also show changes compared to September 15: Euro (EUR): Ready: 332.0162 (September 15: 330.3512, up by PKR 1.6650), with 6-month at 344.3266. British Pound (GBP): Ready: 383.6175 (September 15: 382.3904, up by PKR 1.2271), with 6-month at 393.8728. Swiss Franc (CHF): Ready: 355.3557 (September 15: 353.4924, up by PKR 1.8633), with 6-month at 372.4393. Australian Dollar (AUD): Ready: 187.5720 (September 15: 187.6058, down by PKR 0.0338), with 6-month at 193.0488. Singapore Dollar (SGD): Ready: 219.2610 (September 15: 219.2610, unchanged), with 6-month at 228.3298. The rates are sourced from the State Bank of Pakistan’s official M2M release 

LAHORE: Punjab Information Minister Azma Bukhari strongly criticized the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leadership following their recent press conference, questioning the need for their complaints, ARY News reported.“PTI was already enough to cry about political unemployment; why did the PPP feel the need to join in?” Azma Bukhari remarked.She said the Punjab government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, is fully focused on providing relief to flood victims, while treating coalition partners with patience. “Being allies does not mean we have to listen to your fake philosophies and failed theories,” Azma Bukhari added.Azma Bukhari urged PPP leaders Manzoor Chaudhry and Hasan Murtaza to present their so-called philosophies to Bilawal Bhutto and Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, rather than burdening others.Highlighting the crisis, Azma Bukhari said: “Punjab is facing the biggest flood in the country’s history. Maryam Nawaz and the Punjab administration are working day and night to provide relief to the affected people.”She emphasized that Punjab is utilizing its own resources for the rehabilitation of flood-hit families. “Alhamdulillah, the Punjab government is providing every kind of assistance to flood victims without relying on anyone else,” Bukhari said.Taking a jibe at PPP, she added: “Sindh has not even faced casualties or financial losses in the current flood, yet the party is pressuring the federal government to seek foreign aid.”Azma Bukhari noted that Maryam Nawaz has diverted all government machinery and resources towards helping flood victims, without depending on the federation or any external organizations.“PPP and its defeated figures should worry about the people of Sindh. Even today, the 2022 flood victims in Sindh are still waiting for relief,” she concluded.Also Read: Those who rejoiced at shoe attacks now facing poetic justice: Azma BukhariEarlier, Punjab Information Minister Azma Bukhari strongly condemned the recent incident in which an egg was hurled at Aleema Khan during a public outing, terming it unfortunate and inappropriate.Azma Bukhari, however, pointed out that “those who once celebrated when shoes were hurled at others are now facing the consequences of their own actions,” calling it a harsh form of poetic justice. Bukhari clarified that no FIR application has yet been received regarding the Aleema Khan incident.Speaking to the media, she also criticized the past misuse of development funds in Gujrat, claiming that despite receiving billions of rupees, the city still lacks a proper sewerage system. 

The Islamabad High Court (IHC) on Tuesday ordered the immediate removal of Major General (R) Hafeez-ur-Rehman from the post of Chairman of the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), declaring his appointment illegal, ARY News reported.Justice Babar Sattar announced the verdict and issued a comprehensive 99-page judgment.The court found that the process leading to Hafeez-ur-Rehman's appointment as Member (Administration) and subsequently as Chairman PTA was unconstitutional and unlawful, describing it as the result of malice in law.The IHC observed that the creation of the post of member administration and the tailoring of its qualifications to accommodate Hafeez-ur-Rehman amounted to a mala fide exercise of power.The court ordered that Major General (R) Hafeez-ur-Rehman must immediately relinquish his position and cease to hold any office within the PTA.Furthermore, the court directed that the senior-most serving member of the PTA shall temporarily assume the role of chairman until the federal government appoints a new chairman through a lawful and transparent process.Read More: ANP's Aimal Wali to drop privilege motion against PTA chairmanNotably, the post of Member (Administration) was created in 2023, following amendments to PTA rules, which increased the number of members from three to four.

RAWALPINDI: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Ali Amin Gandapur, addressing the media at the Dhamial checkpoint, emphasized his strong connection with the armed forces, saying, "I myself come from an Army family. I will personally visit the home of Shaheed Major Adnan. My brother fought in the Kargil war,"ARY News reported.According to reports, Ali Amin Gandapur strongly condemned the politicization of national martyrs, calling it a "disgraceful act" and criticizing recent remarks made by federal ministers as "deeply regrettable."Addressing broader national issues, the Chief Minister urged for dialogue and policy-driven solutions. "We have consistently called for meaningful talks. The only way forward is through policies and concrete actions," he said.Speaking on the events of May 9, Gandapur distanced his party from the controversial incidents, stating, "May 9 was never part of our party policy. Any violations were individual actions, not directed by the party leadership."He reiterated his loyalty to the founding leader of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Imran Khan, clarifying, "My position is with the founder of PTI — he is my leader. The official PTI Twitter account is still managed by those who were given access by him."Ali Amin Gandapur concluded by affirming that PTI follows the vision of its founding leader and not any other ideology or philosophy.The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Ali Amin Gandapur  stated that his government and party have been making continuous efforts to secure the release of PTI’s incarcerated founder, emphasizing, “Not a single day has passed without trying for his freedom.”Addressing political matters, Gandapur criticized internal divisions within PTI, saying some individuals were deliberately weakening the party. “Narrative-builders are damaging the movement. Hypocrites exist within PTI. Certain people are running their own agendas — I warn them, they are harming the party,” he said.He revealed that despite repeatedly requesting meetings, he was prevented from doing so, calling it a deliberate attempt to block engagement. He also condemned false allegations and political propaganda, holding them responsible for damaging PTI’s reputation. Gandapur pointed to Senate election disputes and nomination controversies as examples of divisive propaganda that persists inside the party.Turning to national issues, the KP Chief Minister described the recent surge in terrorism as “deeply alarming.” He also opposed the forced repatriation of Afghan refugees, calling the practice “inappropriate.”Announcing a political initiative, Gandapur confirmed that PTI will hold a major rally in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on the 27th of this month to deliver a strong message to the people.Also Read: "Can go to Afghanistan even without passport if PTI founder orders" 

Hub Chowki: Transporters staged a protest on Tuesday against the Customs check post at Hub Chowki, disrupting traffic on the main Quetta-Karachi highway, ARY News reported.The protesters blocked the road, halting the flow of traffic between Quetta and Karachi. They accused customs officials of demanding bribes and harassing goods-carrying vehicles, instead of targeting smugglers.Tensions escalated when the scuffle broke out between the protesters and customs personnel. Reports indicate that a physical altercation occurred, followed by baton charges and aerial firing by customs officials to disperse the crowd. The situation created a state of chaos, with the area resembling a battlefield.Read More: Goods transporters claim 11 drivers kidnapped from katcha areaPolice later arrived at the scene and managed to bring the situation under control. However, the traffic system between Quetta and Hub remained severely disrupted for several hours.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t8qBygD8qaM&ab_channel=ARYNews

KARACHI: Chief Minister of Sindh Murad Ali Shah on Tuesday said that 1.3 million tonnes of wheat has been available in the province.CM Sindh was presiding over a meeting review the availability of wheat stocks in the province.He said an aggregate monthly requirement of Sindh and Baluchistan provinces has been four lac tonnes.Chief Minister was briefed that around six lac tonnes wheat has been available in the market. "Wheat stocks are available in province to meet the requirement up to February 2026," CM said."New wheat crop will be arrived in the market in March," he said. He said strategic stocks will be required and directed for timely arrangement.He also directed for preparation of the wheat release policy to be presented for government approval.Chief Minister also urged for strict monitoring of the wheat flour price in view of the availability of the wheat.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif is likely to meet US President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).According to details, PM Sharif will embark on a visit to the United States to attend the upcoming session of the United Nations General Assembly.According to diplomatic sources, a meeting between Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and US President Donald Trump is likely to take place on September 26. The two leaders are expected to hold talks on the sidelines of the UNGA session in New York.The meeting, if confirmed, will provide both sides an opportunity to discuss bilateral relations, regional developments, and global issues of mutual concern.Read more: PM Shehbaz to embark on 10-day visit to Saudi Arabia, UK, USPrime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif will depart for Saudi Arabia tomorrow (September 17) on the first leg of a 10-day official tour of three countries, ARY News reported on Tuesday, citing diplomatic sources.The visit comes shortly after his return from Doha, where he attended the Emergency Arab-Islamic Summit convened in response to Israeli aggression.According to sources, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will visit Saudi Arabia, the United Kingdom, and the United States between September 17 and 27.

LAHORE: A petitioner on Tuesday claimed in the Lahore High Court (LHC) that over 700 alleged encounters involving the Crime Control Department (CCD) have taken place in Punjab within the past seven months.The Crime Control Department is a specialized wing of the Punjab Police, established by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz on February 26, 2025, to combat serious and organized crime in the province.Since its inception, the CCD has reportedly killed dozens of suspects and accused in alleged encounters across various cities in Punjab.Lahore High Court (LHC) Chief Justice Aalia Neelum took up the petition, challenging the establishment and functioning of the CCD.During the hearing, the court questioned the source of the data regarding the 700 alleged encounters. The petitioner’s lawyer stated that the information was gathered from social media platforms, as the CCD refused to provide official details and figures of these encounters.The lawyer argued that the establishment of the CCD violates the basic structure of the Police Order.Read More: Man accused of murdering wife, 3 others killed in Lahore encounterThe petitioner’s counsel said he will amend the petition as per the court’s requirements. The LHC granted the petitioner’s lawyer time to make the necessary changes in the petition and adjourned the hearing.

LAHORE: Earthquake tremors jolted Multan and several other parts of Punjab, PDMA Punjab said in a statement on Tuesday.The earthquake intensity measured 4.8 on the Richter scale, a spokesman of the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) said in its report."The epicentre of the earthquake was 126 kilometers' distance in the west of Multan at a depth of 55 kilometers," PDMA stated.Provincial administration engaged in scrutiny of damage to building structures. "The provincial control room and district emergency operation centres have been on alert," D.G. PDMA stated.Earlier in September earthquake jolted Islamabad, parts of Punjab, and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.According to the National Seismic Monitoring Centre, the tremors began from the Hindu Kush region in Afghanistan, with a recorded depth of 111 kilometres.The earthquake tremors were felt in Peshawar, Abbottabad, Malakand, Mardan, Hangu, Nowshera, Battagram, Swat, Bajaur, Mohmand, Buner, Attock, Mianwali, and Gujranwala.These tremors follow a series of earlier shocks in the region, with experts warning of ongoing tectonic activity due to Pakistan’s location near the Eurasian and Indian plate junction.Earlier, a major earthquake devastated eastern Afghanistan claiming several hundreds of lives in country.In the relief effort, Pakistan sent essential food items, medicines, and daily-use supplies to assist Afghan communities affected by the 6.0-magnitude earthquake.