KARACHI: The Sindh Excise and Taxation Department announced the relaxation in biometric requirements for vehicle ownership transfers.According to a notification issued here, ownership transfers for vehicles registered in Sindh can be processed using the seller’s CNIC till August 14.According to a spokesperson for Sindh Excise, a two-month relaxation has been granted, allowing vehicle sellers to transfer ownership without biometric verification during the period.Meanwhile, authorities in Karachi have mandated the use of original or standard-sized number plates for motorcycles and vehicles.A crackdown on fancy or non-compliant number plates has led to the seizure of numerous motorcycles, with police station compounds now filled with confiscated vehicles.DIG Traffic Pir Muhammad Shah said that clear, government-approved number plates are mandatory, and vehicles with illegible plates are being impounded.He said that this operation is the initial phase of the e-challan system, set to be fully implemented next month. Starting in July 2025, cameras will be used to issue e-challans for traffic violations, enhancing enforcement across the city.

ISLAMABAD: Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU) has made a recent announcement regarding the commencement of AIOU Fall Semester Admissions for 2025, starting July 1. The university carries on with its objective to deliver accessible education through its distance learning programs to students across Pakistan.The admissions will be open for an extensive variety of academic programs, including Matric, FA, I.Com, Associate Degrees (BA, B.Com, BBA), B.Ed, BS, Master’s, MS, M.Phil, PhD, Diploma, and Certificate Courses.To facilitate students, AIOU will make complete program information regarding the Fall Semester Admissions, prospectuses, and admission forms available online through its official website, www.aiou.edu.pk.Additionally, all regional campuses will provide complimentary internet and computer facilities at their student facilitation centres, ensuring a seamless online admission experience.Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Nasir Mahmood emphasised AIOU's dedication to eliminating obstacles to education, affirming that every individual, regardless of age or background, deserves the chance to learn and develop.For additional assistance, students are encouraged to visit their nearest AIOU regional campus or reach out to the AIOU helpline at 051-111-112-468.Read More: Nawaz Sharif Center of Excellence for Early Childhood Education inauguratedPunjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif inaugurated Pakistan’s first centre of excellence for early childhood education, named after Nawaz Sharif.‘The Nawaz Sharif Centre of Excellence for Early Childhood Education’ (NSCoE) outfitted with vibrant classrooms, modern teaching methods, a gymnasium, a swimming pool, and an art and drawing centre, aims to provide free, high-quality education to young children, rivaling top private institutions.Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz rang the preschool bell for the official launch of ‘state-of-the-art’ Nawaz Sharif Center of Excellence for Early Childhood Education.Among the first to enrol was Muhammad Yusuf, the young son of Provincial Education Minister Rana Sikandar Hayat, who became the first provincial minister to admit his child to a government-run school.

ABU DHABI: Prime Minister (PM) Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan highlighted the strong, fraternal ties between their nations, rooted in mutual trust, shared values, and a legacy of close partnership. During their meeting, the leaders addressed various bilateral, regional, and global matters of common interest, pledging to deepen cooperation in critical sectors. PM Shehbaz, who was visiting the UAE, conveyed his sincere gratitude to the leadership of the brotherly country for its constructive role in helping to defuse tensions between Pakistan and India. He appreciated the UAE’s positive role in promoting peace, dialogue and stability in the region.Both sides expressed satisfaction over the positive trajectory of bilateral ties and ongoing engagements at all levels. The leaders agreed to maintain close coordination and continue working together to advance shared goals of regional peace and prosperity.PM Shehbaz reiterated his earlier invitation to the President of UAE to visit Pakistan.Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Muhammad Ishaq Dar, Chief of the Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Federal Minister for Interior Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi, Federal Minister for Information & Broadcasting Ataullah Tarar, SAPM Syed Tariq Fatemi were also present in the meeting.Later in a post on X, the prime minister said, “Delighted to meet my dear brother, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, during my official visit to the UAE. I thanked him for the UAE’s vital role in easing recent tensions between Pakistan and India.“We reaffirmed our shared commitment to peace, stability, and prosperity in the region. Our deep-rooted ties built on trust and brotherhood, continue to grow stronger, especially in trade and investment. I look forward to welcoming His Highness to Pakistan soon,” he added.

KARACHI: The Pakistan Railway Police successfully baffled a smuggling attempt of hazardous betel nut worth millions in Pakistani currency in Karachi, ARY News reported. According to reports, the Anti-Theft Team Circle A carried out the operation against betel nut smuggling at Karachi Port, where 463.200 kilograms of harmful betel nut were seized by the authorities.The Pakistan Railway Police officials caught the suspects red-handed while struggling to transport cartons of betel nut from the KBX warehouse at Karachi Port using pushcarts. Acting speedily, two individuals were arrested by the Pakistan Railway Police, identified as Siraj and Niaz Ahmed. The officials seized the illegal goods on the spot.Suspects will face legal proceedings as the case has been registered against them at the Railway Police Karachi City Station, ensuring the culprits get the punishment they deserve.The successful operation highlights the dedication of law enforcement agencies to curb betel nut smuggling and defend public health.Read More: Karachi police expose drug smuggling via motorcycle riderEarlier, the Karachi police uncovered a secret method of smuggling the expensive drug, weed, in the city as the traffickers have now shifted to online deliveries using motorcycle riders, following the use of courier companies, ARY News reported.The Special Investigation Unit (SIU) claimed to have made ‘significant’ breakthroughs with the arrest of suspect Abdul, who disclosed critical insights into the operation.According to the SIU, the arrested suspect, Abdul, revealed that the same method was used by Armaghan, the prime accused in the Mustafa Amir murder case, for smuggling the drugs.“Weed is transported from Iran via Mand, Dahriji, and Northern Bypass to Saeedabad,” the SIU added, quoting Abdul.According to Abdul’s statement, Hasnain Baloch is a key supplier and the leader of the Askani gang, which operates from Iran.“Hasnain Baloch’s drugs are received by Hanif Baloch in Saeedabad, where riders from affluent areas collect the consignments,” Abdul said.

KARACHI: The Draw Number 102 of Rs200 prize bonds draw has been scheduled for June 16, 2025, in Balochistan capital Quetta.This offers participants a chance to win substantial cash prizes. The first prize for the Rs200 prize bond is Rs750,000, while the second prize amounts to Rs250,000, awarded to multiple winners. The third prize, valued at Rs 1,250, will go to several lucky participants.The Rs200 prize bond draw is anticipated to draw widespread attention, as many individuals in Pakistan prefer investing in smaller-denomination prize bonds for the opportunity to win significant amounts.Winners of this Rs200 prize bond draw will be announced shortly after the balloting process concludes, with detailed updates expected to follow promptly.A complete list of the winning numbers will be made available after the results are finalised, ensuring transparency and accessibility for all participants.Prize bonds remain a popular form of investment and savings across the country, offering regular draws and attractive prize amounts.The schedule for future prize bond draws includes various denominations, with upcoming draws for Rs750, Rs100, Rs1,500, Rs25,000, and Rs40,000 bonds planned throughout 2025.These draws are spaced across the year, providing participants with multiple opportunities to test their luck and potentially win life-changing amounts. The Rs200 bond, in particular, will see additional draws on March 15, June 17, and September 16, ensuring continued interest in this denomination.Prize bonds are widely regarded as a secure and rewarding investment, with regular draws held under government oversight to maintain trust and fairness in the system. Participants are encouraged to stay informed about upcoming draws and their results to maximize their chances of winning.Read More: Rs25,000 prize bond draw complete result- June 2025 National Savings Centre Lahore has announced the winning numbers for the Rs 25000 prize bond draw of 2025.Conducted every three months, the draw offers an excellent opportunity for bondholders to win significant amounts, with the grand prize amounting to an impressive Rs 80 million.

Prime Minister (PM) Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif emphasized Pakistan’s steadfast dedication to advancing its knowledge economy through digital transformation, global tech collaboration, and youth empowerment. He spoke during Pakistan’s participation at London Tech Week 2025, engaging with global stakeholders. The prime minister congratulated all stakeholders on Pakistan’s impactful presence at London Tech Week 2025.“This positions Pakistan as a forward-looking country that is harnessing technology, innovation and youth potential to engage with the world.Our presence at such an important platform reflects our growing digital footprint and global ambition,” he said.PM Shehbaz commended the Ministry of IT, PSEB, TDAP, and its tech entrepreneurs for presenting Pakistan with vision and purpose.He commented, “Pakistan’s tech future is bright! INSHA ALLAH”.

ISLAMABAD: The rate of 24 karat per tola gold in Pakistan increased by Rs. 4,000 and was traded at Rs. 356,900 on Thursday compared to its sale at Rs. 352,900 on the last trading day, All Pakistan Sarafa Gems and Jewellers Association reported.The rates of 10 grams of 24 karat also increased by Rs. 3,430 to Rs. 305,984 from Rs. 302,554, and for 10 grams of 22 Karat it went up by Rs. 3,144 to Rs. 280,495 from Rs. 277,351.The rates of per tola and ten-gram silver remained constant at Rs. 3,745 and Rs. 3,210, respectively.The rates of gold in the international market went up by $30 to $3,375 from $3,345, whereas the prices of silver remain unchanged at $35.87, the Association reported.Gold has long held a reputation as a symbol of wealth and a store of value. Beyond its traditional use in jewellery, the precious metal is widely regarded as a financial haven during times of economic uncertainty and geopolitical unrest.Gold has been used for thousands of years in jewellery, coinage, and other art forms, and it remains a valuable investment asset.Read More: Gold rates today in Saudi Arabia – 12 June 2025The 24-karat gold rate in Saudi Arabia recorded a minor dip and was recorded at 4,673 SAR per tola on Thursday, 12 June, 2025.According to Forex.pk, the current value of 10 grams of 24-karat gold is SAR 4,011, while an ounce of gold is valued at 12,475 Saudi Riyals.The uptick in gold rates reflects ongoing trends in the global commodities market, with the latest pricing update reported at 10:00 a.m. local time.Gold has long held a reputation as a symbol of wealth and a store of value. Beyond its traditional use in jewelry, the precious metal is widely regarded as a financial safe haven during times of economic uncertainty and geopolitical unrest.In recent years, gold’s safe-haven status has been reaffirmed, as investors seek shelter from the storms of global economic and political instability.Gold’s appeal as a safe-haven asset is not limited to institutional investors.

ISLAMABAD: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) issued an advisory ahead of the predicted cloudy weather, scattered rain, and windstorms between Friday and Wednesday (June 13–16) in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, the Potohar region, and upper Punjab.An impact-based weather advisory issued by NDMA’s National Emergencies Operation Center (NEOC) has urged the public to take precautions and stay updated via the NDMA app, as extreme heat is expected to affect the rest of Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Sindh, Balochistan , some areas of Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) and Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK), from Friday to Wednesday (13–18 June).A weak western weather system is forecast to affect the upper regions of the country from 13th to 16th June, which may influence weather conditions across multiple provinces.In Punjab, hot weather is expected to persist throughout the week.In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), mostly hot conditions are predicted, but scattered rain and windstorms are likely in several districts, including Chitral, Dir, Haripur, Karak, Kohat, Kohistan, Khyber, Kurram, Mansehra, Mohmand, Nowshera, Malakand, Charsadda, Abbottabad, Bannu, Buner, Hazara, Peshawar, Swabi, Swat, Waziristan, and adjoining areas.Sindh and Balochistan are forecast to remain predominantly hot and dry throughout the advisory period.In Gilgit-Baltistan (GB) and Azad Jammu & Kashmir (AJK), hot weather will prevail, although areas such as Astore, Skardu, Hunza, Shighar, Bagh, and Neelum Valley may receive isolated rainfall from 13th to 16th June.NDMA, through NEOC, is closely monitoring the situation and maintaining coordination with provincial and district authorities to ensure timely preparedness and response.The public, particularly those residing in heat-prone regions, is advised to take necessary precautions during extreme temperatures. These include staying hydrated, avoiding outdoor activities during peak heat hours (11:00 AM to 4:00 PM), wearing light and breathable clothing, and checking on vulnerable individuals such as children, the elderly, and those with health conditions. It is also crucial never to leave children or pets unattended in parked vehicles.Travelers and tourists planning to visit northern or hilly regions are urged to remain updated with local weather conditions and follow safety advisories. For real-time updates and alerts, download and use the “Pak NDMA Disaster Alert” mobile application

BAHAWALPUR: An intense heatwave has claimed at least three lives in Bahawalpur city of Punjab, ARY News reported on Thursday.Rescue sources confirmed that the fatalities occurred in Majeebabad Colony, Larry Adda, and Baqarpur.The bodies were shifted to Bahawal Victoria Hospital (BVH) for further procedures.Meanwhile, the Meteorological Department has forecast that the weather will remain hot and dry in most parts of the country during the next 12 hours, with an intense heatwave persisting in the plains.However, during the evening or night, the weather in upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, southern Punjab, Pothohar region, Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan is expected to be partly cloudy, with chances of dust storms and thunderstorms accompanied by rain.Over the past 24 hours, the weather remained hot and dry across most regions of the country, with the plains experiencing extreme heat. The highest temperature was recorded at 49°C in Bhakkar and Jacobabad.Read More: Heatwave conditions to continue in country till tomorrow: Met OfficeCitizens are advised to take precautionary measures in view of the severe heat and to avoid going outdoors unnecessarily.According to an earlier weather report, due to a high pressure developed over the country on 07th June cause day temperatures to remain 05 to 07°C above normal in central and upper Punjab, Islamabad, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan till 12th June.In upper and central Sindh, southern Punjab and parts of Baluchistan, day temperatures to remain 04 to 06°Celsius above normal up to 12th June.Maximum temperature in Sibi and Jacobabad district could soar as above as 48 Celsius, while 47 C in Sargodha, 46 Celsius in Dadu, Dera Ghazi Khan, Faisalabad, Chakwal and Lahore.

PESHAWAR: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government has finalized an ambitious development budget of Rs177.52 billion for the upcoming fiscal year 2025-26.This substantial allocation is earmarked to fund 50 major projects, primarily in collaboration with international donor agencies.According to documents from the KP Department of Planning and Development, the World Bank and the Asian Development Bank are set to be the leading contributors to these foreign-funded initiatives.This new allocation represents a significant increase from the current fiscal year’s Rs112.14 billion for such projects, underscoring the provincial government's heightened focus on key sectors including infrastructure, energy, health, and education.The proposed allocations highlight several high-impact projects. The KP Road Accessibility Project is set to receive Rs28.10 billion, while the KP Rural Roads Development Project will get Rs22.40 billion. For urban uplift, the KP Cities Improvement Project has been allocated Rs18.20 billion.In the energy sector, the Balakot Hydropower Project will receive Rs11.20 billion and the Madyan Hydropower Project Rs7 billion, alongside Rs5.60 billion for the Gabral-Kalam Hydropower Project.Significant investments are also planned for public services. The National Health Support Program is allocated Rs6.44 billion, Human Capital Investment (Health) Rs5.88 billion, and Human Capital Investment (Education) Rs5.04 billion. The Non-DHQ Hospital Revamping project will receive Rs5.60 billion.Other notable allocations include Rs8.40 billion for Integrated Tourism Development, Rs7 billion for Irrigation and Drainage Rehabilitation, Rs4.20 billion for the KP Rural Investment Program, Rs3.92 billion for the FATA Infrastructure Program, Rs3.92 billion for the Rural Economic Transformation Project, and Rs3.08 billion for the Food Security Support Project.The KP government anticipates that the budget for 2025-26 will significantly enhance infrastructure, promote sustainable energy solutions, and uplift public services across the province.With major backing from international development partners, this initiative is expected to play a crucial role in fostering the province’s long-term economic growth and stability.

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) on Thursday released the new curriculum for the Medical and Dental Colleges Admission Test (MDCAT) 2025.According to PMDC President Dr. Rizwan Taj, the MDCAT 2025 is expected to be held in the last week of September or on the first Sunday of October. The revised test will include five subjects: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, English, and Logical Reasoning.The exam will comprise 180 multiple choice questions (MCQs) and will have a duration of three hours. The question paper will be entirely MCQ-based and no negative marking will be applied. The questions will be categorized as 15% easy, 70% moderate and 15% difficult.Minimum 55% marks will be required for admission in a medical college and 50% marks will be required for dental college admission, Dr. Rizwan Taj stated.PMDC has also initiated the process of developing a question bank for the exam. The new curriculum has been prepared in consultation with academic experts, educational boards, and universities, he added.Read More: NA body urges transparency in MDCATEarlier, the National Assembly (NA) Standing Committee on National Health Services, Regulation, and Coordination emphasized the need for transparency, fairness, and equity in the Medical and Dental College Admission Test (MDCAT).The meeting of the NA body was held with Dr. Mahesh Kumar Malani in the chair.During the meeting a single, nationwide curriculum was proposed to address regional disparities in education and ensure a level playing field for all students.Final decisions on this and other reforms will follow further legal reviews and stakeholder consultations.Concerns about out-of-syllabus questions in recent exams were discussed, with the committee recommending greater accuracy in question papers to avoid post-exam corrections. A revised answer key had previously addressed students’ grievances about deleted questions.

LAHORE: People's Party Punjab's leader Chaudhry Manzoor Ahmed on Thursday vehemently criticized federal budget for FY 2025-26 and termed it a budget of the elite class.He said the People's Party will launch countrywide protests against the budget before its passage in the assembly."It is budget of the rich for the rich class," PPP leader said. " This budget has nothing to offer to the poor," he said."We will go against the budget to any extent and the government will be responsible for it not us," he further said.He said the people are suffering consequences of the government's misconceived decisions and policies.Chaudhry Manzoor termed the hike in the cabinet's salaries as "fiscal obscenity".It is pertinent to mention here that the PPP has been a stakeholder in current political setup in the country with two provincial governments as well as the party's leaders installed on the constitutional posts of the Chairman Senate and governors of two provinces.

WAH CANTT: A Quetta-bound passenger train on Thursday derailed near Margalla tunnel in Taxila, causing the suspension of railway traffic between Rawalpindi- Peshawar sections.Fortunately, no casualties were reported in the accident.According to railway authorities, the 40-down Jaffar Express, en route to Quetta from Peshawar, derailed due to "technical reasons." The door of the train's power plant was also broken down in the incident.Officials stated that railway traffic would be restored "soon" after the affected track and damaged coaches undergo necessary maintenance and repairs.Soon after the incident, the local police, railway police and senior officials of the Railway maintenance department rushed to the scene to investigate the incident and initiate rehabilitation work on the main track.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SmHypO5q87YAs a result of the incident, the schedules of both upcoming and down-coming trains have been affected, causing delays for passengers.Read More: Pakistan Railways’ online reservation system down nationwideMeanwhile, Pakistan Railways’ online reservation system is dysfunctional, causing problems for the passengers at the major stations, ARY News reported on Thursday.The railway reservation system across Pakistan has been rendered non-functional, affecting operations at major Karachi stations including City, Cantt, Drigh Road, and Landhi.Passengers are experiencing inconvenience due to online reservation system dysfunctionality.According to travellers, the railway’s “Raabta” mobile application—central to the modern booking system—has been non-operational for the past four days.Users report that even when accessible, the app crashes or shuts down every 15 minutes, making online bookings nearly impossible.Earlier, Pakistan Railways announced to provide free Wi-Fi service in 40 trains very soon.Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi has said under the directives of Prime Minister, Pakistan Railways is working towards extending both passenger and freight services to central Asia.

ISLAMABAD: In a major leap toward a data-driven future, Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, Professor Ahsan Iqbal here on Thursday inaugurated the ‘National Big Data Portal’, calling it a transformative step in Pakistan’s digital evolution.The platform, developed by LUMS and supported by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS), is designed to centralize and democratize access to public data, making it more usable for researchers, policymakers, entrepreneurs, and citizens.Speaking at the launch ceremony, the Minister said the portal marks more than just the unveiling of a digital tool — it represents Pakistan’s commitment to leading in the global data revolution.“Our development story will now be written in code, computed in the cloud, and interpreted through data,” he declared, emphasizing that harnessing data is no longer a strategic choice but a national imperative.He noted that in today’s world, data has become the lifeblood of innovation and the currency of modern economies. However, Pakistan still faces structural barriers such as fragmented data systems, limited analytical capacity, and poor institutional coordination.He stressed that the solution lies in shifting from backward-looking analysis to forward-looking analytics. Datasets must be used not simply for information but for insight — to model outcomes, address real-world challenges, and drive actionable decisions.The launch is part of a broader government push under the 5Es Framework, which places digital transformation at the heart of national development. The Minister explained that big data and cloud computing will accelerate smarter governance, more responsive public services, improved education and healthcare, and stronger climate resilience.He highlighted recent milestones such as Pakistan’s first digital census using geotagged and cloud-based tools, the development of sovereign cloud infrastructure in collaboration with the Ministry of IT, the establishment of AI centers in universities, and partnerships with global tech leaders like Microsoft, Google Cloud, Huawei, and AWS for skills training and technology transfer.The PBS, as Pakistan’s national statistical authority, will play a central role in supplying reliable and timely data to the portal. With geo-tagged data on over 40 million households and 8 million economic entities, along with dedicated regional offices and GIS labs, PBS is positioned to be the backbone of this initiative. The Minister praised the integration of such robust infrastructure with academic expertise, calling it a model for evidence-based governance.Addressing students and scholars, the Minister said academia must embed data science and cloud computing across disciplines — not only in engineering and computer science, but in agriculture, health, urban planning, and economics. He urged universities to drive local solutions for local problems, such as optimizing crops in Sindh, forecasting water stress in Balochistan, or managing traffic flows in Karachi.He also introduced “Quantum Valley Pakistan,” a new national innovation ecosystem that will consolidate the country’s fragmented research initiatives. This platform will host science parks in advanced technologies, promote public-private collaboration, and serve as the country’s digital innovation hub. It builds on earlier efforts such as Vision 2010, which led to the establishment of national centers for AI, robotics, and cybersecurity.He called for collective action, urging government, academia, industry, and youth to move from “talk to transformation.”

KARACHI: Karachi has witnessed a surge in criminal activities, with over 26,500 incidents reported in the first five months of 2025, ARY News reported quoting CPLC.According to the Citizens-Police Liaison Committee (CPLC), 245 individuals were killed in various incidents, including 48 deaths resulting from gunfire during robbery resistance.The CPLC reported over 17,994 cases of motorcycle theft and snatching, alongside more than 684 incidents involving the theft or snatching of cars and other vehicles. Mobile phone snatching remained alarmingly high, with over 6,489 cases recorded.Additionally, 11 abductions for ransom and 32 extortion cases were reported during the same period, highlighting the persistent challenge of organized crime in the city.Read More: Shikarpur: Bandits kidnap eight with deceptive marriage offerThe Anti-Violent Crime Cell (AVCC) and Citizens-Police Liaison Committee (CPLC) jointly rescued Nasir Hussain, a kidnapped citizen, from Karachi.According to details, Nasir Hussain was abducted on October 5 from Sector 5-D Bilal Colony in Karachi’s Central district. The kidnappers demanded a ransom of Rs. 1 million from Nasir Hussain’s family in exchange for his safe release.The family reported the incident to the Bilal Colony Police Station, where a case was registered.The investigation was promptly handed over to the AVCC. A a specialized team was formed to track down the culprits. Following intense surveillance and technical analysis, the team traced the kidnappers’ location.The abductee recovered safely however the kidnappers managed to escape.

QUETTA: Federal Minister for Railways, Muhammad Hanif Abbasi, has directed that the Business Class waiting room at the Quetta station be opened for all passengers, not just premium ticket holders.Federal Minister for Railways Muhammad Hanif Abbasi, accompanied by Senator Ahmad Khan Khilji, paid a detailed visit to the Quetta Railway Station on Thursday.During the visit, the minister interacted with passengers aboard the Jaffar Express bound for Peshawar, listened to their concerns, and assured them of continued improvements in railway services.Divisional Superintendent (DS) of Quetta Railways, Imran Hayat Khan, briefed the minister on ongoing developments and infrastructure enhancements at the station.The minister inaugurated the control room for the newly installed network of 29 modern CCTV cameras aimed at enhancing security and surveillance at the station. He also inaugurated a newly established gym facility at the Railway Officers Club.Speaking on the occasion, Federal Minister Hanif Abbasi emphasized that Pakistan Railways is committed to providing the best possible facilities to its passengers.He further directed that the Business Class waiting room at the Quetta station be opened for all passengers, not just premium ticket holders, as a gesture to promote inclusivity and comfort.The minister praised the efforts of DS Imran Hayat Khan and his team for the commendable management and maintenance of the Quetta Railway Station, calling it a model of efficiency and passenger care.Read More: Pakistan Railways’ online reservation system down nationwideMinister Abbasi also presented a cheque of Rs5 million to the mother of Constable Faisal, who was martyred in a recent terrorist attack in Machh. He expressed his condolences and reaffirmed the government’s resolve to stand with the families of those who sacrifice their lives for the nation.

ISLAMABAD: The government has planned to issue new gas connections during the next financial year despite rampant shortages across the country.According to a budget paper, the government has fixed a target of issuing 1,15,530 gas connections in the upcoming Fiscal Year 2025-26.In the new financial year 550 new commercial and 350 industrial gas connections target has been fixed for issuance."In Sindh and Balochistan 85,740 gas connections will be given next year in the Sui Southern company's system," according to the budget document.In the Sui Northern area 30,530 gas connections will be issued in Punjab, Islamabad and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.Meanwhile, a revised target of the new gas connections in current year has been fixed at 20,061, according to the budget paper.It is to be mentioned here that Minister for Petroleum Ali Pervaiz Malik had earlier said that a decision regarding lifting the ban on domestic gas connections will be made soon.Malik, in a statement, said that he had already discussed the matter of lifting of ban on domestic gas connections with the prime minister earlier and will keep the public informed on any progress.The minister revealed that the government has taken significant measures to curb diesel smuggling across the country.He said the digitalization of all trucks transporting diesel will soon be completed, and the unloading points of these tankers will now be recorded in the official system.He also announced the launch of a nationwide drive to digitize all petrol pumps, noting that manual filling machines enable fuel theft and the sale of smuggled diesel.Petrol stations are now being mandated to install digital systems, with data integration to be ensured with the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR).

ISLAMABAD: The government has announced to provide electricity to 15,352 villages across Pakistan in the fiscal year 2025-26, ARY News reported quoting budget document.According to budget documents, the initiative includes electrifying 2,605 villages under the Multan Electric Power Company (MEPCO), 8,707 under the Gujranwala Electric Power Company (GEPCO), 1,080 under the Khyber Electric Supply Company (KESCO), 1,641 under the Peshawar Electric Supply Company (PESCO), 200 under the Islamabad Electric Supply Company (IESCO), 199 under the Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO), and 800 under the Faisalabad Electric Supply Company (FESCO).Additionally, the government aims to provide 1,861,320 new electricity connections nationwide.MEPCO is set to add 483,347 new connections, FESCO 346,126, LESCO 387,377, and GEPCO 280,111. PESCO plans to include 120,000 new consumers, IESCO 100,095, KESCO 22,538, the Hyderabad Electric Supply Company (HESCO) 20,481, and the Sukkur Electric Power Company (SEPCO) 5,440.Read More: Cabinet delays approval of net metering policyIn a separate development earlier, the Power Division categorically denied reports circulating on social media claiming that the government had imposed a ban on installing more than one electricity meter in a single residential unit.For the past few days, misleading claims have been circulating on social media platforms, claiming that the government has banned the installation of two electricity meters in one household. The reports caused unnecessary confusion and concern among the public.In an official statement issued on X, the spokesperson for the Ministry of Energy’s Power Division clarified that the reports suggesting a restriction on multiple electricity meters are entirely baseless and misleading, and that there is no such ban in place.“Obtaining a second electricity meter is allowed under existing regulations, and eligible applicants may apply as per the legal procedure,” the spokesperson added.

Pakistan People's Party Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said if India attempts to cut off Pakistan's water supply, it could lead to serious consequences.“If India blocks our water, war will be inevitable,” Bilawal Bhutto Zardari cautioned Modi government during an interview with BBC.The PPP chairman asserted that Pakistan’s position on key issues is “truthful and robust.” He said Pakistan’s efforts in the fight against terrorism are recognized and acknowledged in the United States.Bilawal stated, “The U.S. is well aware of how we deal with terrorist groups.” The former FM further added that the U.S. has observed up close how Pakistan has taken action against all extremist groups.He also underlined Pakistan’s compliance with international standards, saying, “Pakistan has completed the entire FATF process.”Read more: Bilawal Bhutto Zardari urges UK to facilitate Pakistan-India dialogueEarlier, Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardaricalled on the UK’s government to continue playing a proactive role in promoting de-escalation and facilitating dialogue between Pakistan and India.He was talking to UK’s Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for the Middle East, Afghanistan, and Pakistan Hamish Falconer in London, while leading high-level parliamentary delegation of Pakistan.The discussions focused on addressing escalating regional tensions following recent Indian military provocations.Bilawal Bhutto Zardari commended the UK’s efforts and statements by its leadership on the importance of restraint, engagement, dialogue and diplomatic path forward.

KARACHI: In a rare emotional moment, a father voluntarily returned his escaped prisoner son to Malir Jail authorities on Thursday, ARY News reported.The escaped inmate, identified as Ali Raza, was among those who fled during the recent Malir jailbreak.Confirming the development, jail officials said the father personally handed over his son, stating, “I am a law-abiding citizen, and that is why I brought my son back.”Meanwhile, the prisoner Ali Raza revealed that during the jailbreak, several inmates worked together to break open the locks of multiple barracks to help others escape. “They broke the lock of our barrack as well,” he added.According to investigators, the jailbreak began with the breach of the juvenile barrack. Then inmates proceeded to break the locks of several others. Authorities added that only two guards were on duty to supervise 12 barracks, which made it impossible to control the situation.[video width="636" height="360" mp4="https://arynews.tv/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/AQOcJUAadMWhAL-lB1Hns-cV83JNDuS-P0ofBbzxbJ0uta5o-n8uEnRVpCbAoIQcTQU6V0cCMvufkjTH3QROjeUM.mp4"][/video]Officials also stated that none of the returning inmates have reported any mistreatment or abuse after their return to the Malir Jail. The inquiry into the incident is still ongoing, they added.Read More: Mother of escaped prisoner voluntarily brings her son back to Malir JailEarlier, a deeply emotional and extraordinary moment stood out—when the mother of an escaped prisoner voluntarily brought her son back to jail and handed him over to the authorities.According to reports, the inmate returned home after fleeing the Malir Jail during the disorder.However, his mother, exhibiting remarkable courage and responsibility, persuaded him to go back and then personally escorted him to the jail, handing him over to the police under full supervision.Outside the Malir Jail, the mother pleaded with the police, seeking forgiveness for her son’s mistake.Witnesses reported that she stood with folded hands, requesting leniency and saying, “My son made a mistake, but I brought him back myself. Please don’t harm him.”