KARACHI: Several passengers sustained injuries as an overspeeding bus overturned at Drigh Road on Wednesday, ARY News reported.Rescue officials arrived at the scene and moved the injured passengers to the nearby hospitals.According to officials, the overspeeding bus was racing with another vehicle when it overturned while taking a turn on the busy road of Karachi.The actual number of injured passengers will be determined after completing the rescue operations, the officials said.Last month, a Red Bus driver was crushed to death in Malir while he was going to his duty station.Read more: Karachi accidents: Front, back cameras declared mandatory for dumpersReports said that the victim, identified as Abdul Razzaq, a driver of Red Bus, was going to his duty when the incident happened in Malir’s Khokhrapar No. 2.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RMrDl_CeBB0The latest incident comes amid a rising number of road accidents caused by heavy vehicles in the metropolitan city.Following the road accidents, DIG Traffic Pir Muhammad Shah mandated the installation of front and back-view cameras in dumpers to help determine fault in case of accidents in Karachi.The move was aimed at ensuring safety of the masses as the number of fatalities in heavy traffic has surged in 2025.

The Pakistan government is likely to reduce electricity prices as Prime Minister Shehbaz is set for a meeting with leading business leaders, ARY News reported, citing sources.Sources said that PM Shehbaz Sharif will hold a meeting with prominent business leaders tomorrow (Thursday), where he will take them into confidence about the reforms in Pakistan’s power sector.Former caretaker minister Gohar Ejaz will lead the business leaders' delegation, which will discuss the country’s exports and other economic issues.The meeting has been scheduled at 2:00 PM at the Prime Minister’s Secretariat, sources said.It is worth noting here that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has allowed the government to reduce electricity tariffs by Rs1 per kilowatt-hour for all consumers.Read more: KE seeks Rs4.84 per unit refund in January FCAThe cut in the electricity prices will be financed through revenue collected via a levy imposed on captive power plants using natural gas, the IMF said in a statement.https://youtu.be/LYxxwPnGTw4?t=80Following the IMF statement, Pakistan’s Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb announced that the government plans to slash electricity prices soon.In an interview with a foreign media outlet last month, Aurangzeb revealed that PM Shehbaz was leading the efforts to reduce electricity prices, with an official announcement expected shortly.Aurangzeb shared that the Pakistan government was working on a budget that expands the tax base to include sectors like real estate, retail, and agriculture.

KARACHI: President Asif Ali Zardari has tested positive for Covid-19, ARY News reported, citing his physician Dr Asim Hussain on Wednesday.Dr Asim said that President Zardari was receiving medical care at a private hospital, where he has been placed in isolation.According to Dr Asim, all meetings of the president have been postponed as he recovers from the infectious disease.Meanwhile, doctors have conducted multiple tests to assess his health status.A day earlier, the PPP co-chairman was moved to the hospital in Karachi from Nawabshah after experiencing health issues.Read more: President Asif Ali Zardari’s condition is improving, says Sharjeel MemonThe PPP co-chairman was shifted to the hospital in the city after suffering from fever owing to an infection.Earlier today, Sindh Senior Minister Sharjeel Memon refuted the reports relating to President Zardari's health and said that his health was improving.In a post on X, Sindh’s senior minister denied speculations about his shifting to Dubai, stating that these reports were inaccurate.Asif Ali Zardari, Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) co-chairman, took oath as the 14th President of Pakistan on March 10.Then-Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Qazi Faez Isa administered the oath to Zardari after he received 411 votes, while the Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) backed candidate Mehmood Khan Achakzai — the home of PTI independents — only managed to get 181 votes.

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif will meet distinguished businessmen on Thursday to take them into confidence over the proposed power sector reforms, sources at the Ministry of Finance said on Wednesday.Former caretaker minister for industries and commerce Gohar Ejaz will lead the businessmen delegation.Major cut is expected in power tariffs during the prime minister's meeting with businessmen, sources said.A breakthrough is also likely over exports and other economic issues in the meeting.The meeting has been scheduled at 2:00 PM at the Prime Minister's Secretariat, sources added.It is to be mentioned here that the International Monetary Fund (IMF) has recently allowed the government to reduce electricity tariffs by Rs1 per kilowatt-hour for all consumers.The relief will be financed through revenue collected via a levy imposed on captive power plants using natural gas, the IMF said in a statement.The move is part of a broader relief package the government is working on for electricity users.According to official sources, the reduction could lessen the financial burden on consumers by up to Rs100 billion.

KARACHI: Provincial Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon on Wednesday said that President Asif Ali Zardari's condition is improving.In a post on X providing an update on the health of the President, Sindh's senior minister denied speculations about his shifting to Dubai, stating that these reports were inaccurate.Zardari had been shifted from Nawabshah to a private hospital in Karachi late Monday night, where he underwent medical tests.First Lady Aseefa Bhutto Zardari reached from Larkana to Karachi and reached to hospital from airport and met her ailing father, President Zardari.Aseefa Bhutto also inquired hospital doctors about health of her father. "She has been with the President at the Clifton private hospital, sources said.President Zardari being treated at the hospital under supervision of his personal physician, Dr. Asim Hussain. Hospital sources said that the president is suffering from fever owing to infection.Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Speaker Ayaz Sadiq also contacted President Asif Ali Zardari and inquired about his well-being and prayed for his early recovery.

KARACHI: The third day of Eid ul Fitr is being celebrated across the country with religious zeal and fervor as the festivities continue on the third and final day on Wednesday, ARY News reported.People are visiting their relatives and recreational places across the country today to enjoy the Eid holidays with their loved ones.In Karachi, citizens have thronged beaches of the coastal city to enjoy the eid holiday, visiting relatives, parks and other places for outing to enjoy third day of Eid ul Fitr.People inviting relatives, hosting guests with variety of traditional delicacies and luscious meals.In Sukkur, Sindh's major city in the north, people enjoying in boating at Lab-e-Mehran Park.Eid ul Fitr is being celebrated with religious zeal and fervor across the country.On the first days of the Eid, congregations were held at open places, mosques and Eidgahs across the country in all cities, towns and villages to begin the three-day feast after end of the fasting month of Ramadan.

HAMILTON, New Zealand: Mitch Hay's rollicking 99 not out backed by some feisty seam bowling steered New Zealand to an 84-run win over Pakistan on Wednesday to take an unbeatable lead in their one-day international series.New Zealand made 292-8 and bowled Pakistan out for 208 in the 42nd over in Hamilton in the second of three ODIs.Hay's lusty hitting snapped a mid-innings slump by the hosts as he raced to a career-best score which included 22 off the final over by Mohammad Wasim.The wicketkeeper-batsman smacked seven fours and as many sixes in his 78-ball innings after going into the middle with New Zealand struggling at 132-5 in the 27th over.In reply Pakistan were in early trouble when Will O'Rourke had Abdullah Shafique (one) caught at first slip in the third over and in the following over Babar Azam (one) was caught at second slip off Jacob Duffy.Duffy struck again in his next over with the wicket of Imam-ul-Haq. Pakistan were 9-3 in the sixth over when New Zealand at the same stage were 50-0.Ben Sears entered the attack and took two wickets in his first over, removing Salman Agha for nine and Mohammad Rizwan for five.A combination of poor shot selection and some lively seam bowling reduced Pakistan to 32-5 after 12 overs.Tayyab Tahir (13) and Faheem Ashraf put on 33 for the sixth wicket and when Haris Rauf retired hurt on three, his concussion replacement Naseem Shah put on 60 with Ashraf.Both posted maiden 50s with Ashraf scoring 73 off 80 deliveries and Naseem making 51 from 44.Sears took 5-59 for New Zealand.Rizwan won the toss and opted to bowl with overcast skies and a green-tinged wicket favouring the bowlers.Novice Black Cap openers Nick Kelly and Rhys Mariu took control early.They put on 54 before Kelly, in only his second international, was caught behind for a hard-hitting 31 which included four fours and two sixes.Debutant Mariu followed soon after for 18 off 25 when a leading edge lobbed up to Azam at mid-off in Wasim's opening over.Wasim and Rauf slowed the scoring and it took Henry Nicholls and Daryl Mitchell until the 16th over to get New Zealand to the 100 mark.The introduction of spin brought Mitchell's innings to a halt for 18, stumped by Rizwan when beaten in the air by Sufyan Moqim. Nicholls went for 22 in the following over.Michael Bracewell and Muhammad Abbas added only 30 runs in the next 10 overs when Bracewell was caught behind off Wasim for 17.Pakistan-born Abbas and Hay set about restoring the innings with a patient 77-run partnership until Abbas went for 41.Muqeem was the pick of the Pakistan bowlers with 2-33 while Wasim took 2-78.The third and final match is at Mount Maunganui on Friday.

PESHAWAR: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa authorities have imposed curfew in Tank and South Waziristan districts owing to security concerns.The district administrations have notified that the curfew will remain imposed in Tank and South Waziristan districts from 6:00am to 6:00pm.The people have been requested to use alternate routes and cooperate with the security agencies.Partial curfew has also been imposed in Dera Ismail Khan.In South Waziristan, the curfew will cover Korr Qila, Khargai and Manzai road, while Dabara Bazaar will also be closed. The Korr Qila via Gomal, Wana highway will remain open.Movement has been completely banned at Karri Wam and Jandola during the curfew period.The administration has said that these steps being taken to ensure protection of life and property in the region. It has also requested commuters to cooperate with the administration security agencies during the curfew hours.It is to be mentioned here that terrorists last month attacked a security post in Tank district of KP, foiled by the military troops.

ISLAMABAD: The deadline for Afghan refugees staying in Pakistan expired on March 31 and the process of the repatriation of Afghan Citizen Card (ACC) holders and illegal refugees begin from April 1st.Food and healthcare arrangements have been made for Afghans returning to home. The authorities warned of strict punitive action against those staying in the country after the deadline.Pakistan’s Ministry of Interior had asked Afghan Citizen Card (ACC) holders, staying in Pakistan, to leave the country by March 31.The Afghan nationals will be deported from April 1st (today), the ministry said in an earlier statement.“Illegal Foreigners Repatriation Program (IFRP) is being implemented since November 1, 2023. In continuation of the government’s decision to repatriate all illegal foreigners, national leadership has now decided to also repatriate ACC holders,” the interior ministry said in an earlier official handout.“All illegal foreigners and ACC holders are advised to leave the country voluntarily before March 31, 2025; thereafter, deportation will commence from April 1, 2025,” the statement added.The interior ministry said that sufficient time had already been granted for their dignified return. “It is emphasised that no one will be maltreated during the repatriation process and arrangements for food and healthcare for returning foreigners have also been put in place.”“Pakistan has been a gracious host and continues to fulfill its commitments and obligations as a responsible state. It is reiterated that Individuals staying in Pakistan will have to fulfill all legal formalities and abide by Pakistan’s constitution,” it said.Over 8,86,242 Afghans living in Pakistan illegally were repatriated to their country by April 1st since Pakistan launched the campaign in November 2023. It is estimated that around 3 million Afghans still reside in Pakistan.

KARACHI: Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) leader Sammi Deen Baloch has been released after the Sindh government withdrew her name from the Maintenance of Public Order (MPO) Ordinance.Sammi Deen Baloch, along with others, were detained under the MPO for 30 days on March 24 for violating Section 144 during a protest.Confirmed Sammi Deen Baloch's release, her lawyer Jibran Nasir stated that she has been released and is now with her family. He added that Sammi's release marks a positive step in the right direction by the state.Read More: FIR registered against BYC’s leaders in Quetta for inciting violenceEarlier, the Police registered an FIR against leaders of the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC), and their armed workers for inciting violence, attacking hospitals and officials and holding violent protests.According to the Quetta commissioner’s office, the Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) organized a protest on March 21, demanding the return of the bodies of terrorists killed during the Jaffar Express operation.However, the protest turned violent, with protesters and their armed accomplices opening fire and pelting stones at police, resulting in the deaths of three people, including an Afghan citizen.

Quetta has recorded its first death from Congo virus this year, as an 18-year-old patient succumbed to the disease, ARY News reported, citing hospital sources.The young man, a resident of Pishin, passed away at Fatima Jinnah General and Chest Hospital in Quetta.He was admitted to the hospital on March 29 in critical condition and placed in the isolation ward after Congo virus was confirmed in his diagnosis. This marks the first Congo virus-related death in Quetta in 2025.It is pertinent to mention here that the National Institute of Health (NIH) issued advisories for the prevention and control of CCHF.In the wake of high disease transmission, it is imperative to be vigilant about the situation and take steps to interrupt the transmission of CCHF.It explained that CCHF is caused by tick-borne Nairovirus. Animals such as cattle, goats, sheep and hares are carriers of this virus, which is transmitted to people by tick bites or through contact with infected blood or tissues during and immediately after slaughter.Read More: Balochistan registers another Congo virus caseEarlier, Balochistan reported another Congo virus cases, increasing the number of cases to 41 this year, ARY News reported on Monday.“Sharafuddin, 25, was brought to Fatima Jinnah Hospital in a precarious condition,” hospital officials said.The man was tested positive for Congo virus after undergoing tests, the hospital sources said.This is not the first instance that an epidemic of Congo virus fever has broken out in Balochistan. In late 80s and mid-90s dozens of people had died of the disease, health sources said.

RAWALPINDI: The rift within Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has deepened as incarcerated PTI founder Imran Khan has directed Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly Speaker Babar Saleem Swati to step down, ARY News reported on Tuesday.This development follows a recent move by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government to de-notify Additional Advocate General Noroz Khan, amid reports of internal disagreements between Chief Minister Ali Amin Khan Gandapur and central PTI leader Mohammad Atif Khan.Speaking to the media after meeting with Imran Khan in Adiala Jail, senior PTI leader Azam Khan Swati said that he met the PTI founder along with two other individuals.According to Swati, Imran Khan instructed that if the KP Committee investigating corruption allegations against party leaders reached a conclusion, then Speaker Babar Swati should resign.Azam Swati also informed Imran Khan about the corruption issues in Mansehra and reassured him that Salman Akram Raja would not betray him.Additionally, Swati discussed concerns regarding Junaid Akbar, President of PTI Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, with the PTI founder. Swati said Imran Khan directed that Akbar's appointments be immediately reversed.Meanwhile, the Speaker of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly, Babar Swati, responded to Azam Swati's press conference.He denied the allegations, calling them lies, and stated that he would clarify his position to Imran Khan in an upcoming meeting.Babar Swati also mentioned that he had already addressed the corruption allegations before the party's accountability committee and would accept whatever decision the PTI founder makes after presenting his case.Read More: Audio leaked; KP CM seeks resignation from Additional Advocate GeneralEarlier, a leaked audio recording surfaced, allegedly involving Qazi Anwar Advocate, President of the Insaf Lawyers Forum, and Additional Advocate General KPK Nauroz Khan. ARY News reported on Saturday.The leaked audio recording reportedly highlights dissatisfaction from the Chief Minister regarding weak arguments presented by Nauroz Khan in an anti-corruption inquiry case against PTI Member of the National Assembly Atif Khan.

KARACHI: President Asif Ali Zardari is suffering from a fever caused by an infection, but there is no cause for concern about his health, ARY News reported Tuesday, citing sources. President Asif Zardari has been admitted to a private hospital in Karachi after his health deteriorated late Monday night.According to hospital sources, President Zardari is undergoing treatment, and neurologists are examining him due to numbness in his fingers and toes. He has a fever due to an infection.Hospital sources reassured that there is no immediate cause for worry, adding that President Zardari has been in contact with family members by phone.Meanwhile, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif enquired after the health of President Asif Ali Zardari through telephone.The premier prayed to the Allah Almighty for early recovery of the president, adding that prayers of the entire nation were with the President Asif Ali Zardari.Read More: President Zardari ‘rushed’ to hospital after health deterioratesYesterday, President Asif Ali Zardari offered Eidul Fitr prayers at Zardari House in Nawabshah, where a large number of people joined him.He prayed for the country’s progress and later met with attendees, exchanging Eid greetings. Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly Ghulam Mustafa Shah, Provincial Minister Ali Hassan, and Zia Lanjar were also present at the gathering.It is pertinent to mention here that President Asif Zardari suffered a foot fracture in 2024 upon disembarking a plane at Dubai Airport. The President was on a private visit to UAE.the President was immediately taken to the hospital for initial medical assistance.After examination, doctors applied a plaster to his foot, the spokesperson said adding that the plaster will remain for four weeks. President Zardari was advised to rest completely at home.Following his foot fracture, President Zardari’s official visit to China was also postponed.

BAHAWALPUR: Four suspects, including two maternal uncles accused of gang-raping and murdering their 11-year-old niece, were killed in an alleged police encounter in Bahawalpur, ARY News reported on Tuesday.The suspects, all close relatives of the victim, were shot dead by their own accomplices during a shootout with police.According to Thana Saddar police, the suspects were being escorted to the crime scene to recover the murder weapon when their accomplices opened fire on the police, attempting to free them from custody.Police retaliated, leading to an exchange of fire, during which all four suspects were hit by bullets fired by their accomplices. The attackers managed to escape under the cover of darkness, police said.The incident involved the rape and murder of an 11-year-old girl in the jurisdiction of Thana Saddar, Bahawalpur.Police had identified and arrested four suspects after DNA tests. Police claimed that the suspects had confessed to killing the girl after raping her.[video width="636" height="360" mp4="https://arynews.tv/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/AQOAMmVWX6MLgKHPYEGxRXQ0sM7zGtBT4wr-p22s8rRAKKilj9z3xUsfBrCHQTtLfJOdDWpJzXtIdDOMFffzcO1R-1.mp4"][/video][video width="640" height="360" mp4="https://arynews.tv/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/AQMRYPSIYsJf4HWmV_T-SFv488YUqqw4gNHPWGgi6Wr0dKglhKp60jlvpa_kgCt7aMUVX7LaCxJsgciwUcBDseem.mp4"][/video]In a statement, Punjab police emphasized their zero-tolerance policy toward crimes against women and children, under the Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s vision "Never Again" and directed by Punjab IG Dr. Usman Anwar.Read More: Four ‘rapists’ killed in alleged Faisalabad police encounterEarlier, four arrested suspects in a gang-rape case were killed in police encounter in the area of ​​Nishatabad police station in Faisalabad.According to police, the killed accused Zahid, Naveed, Islam and Qasim were in police custody on remand in the robbery-rape case.The police were taking the four robbers to Achkira village for recovery and meanwhile, accomplices of dacoits attacked the police party near Ghulam Muhammadabad number two.Police said in the shootout, the outlaws killed four of their accomplices and fled the scene.The dead robbers had raped the woman during the robbery one and a half months ago.

ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Defence, Khawaja Muhammad Asif, stated on Tuesday that previous governments should be held accountable for the ongoing situation in Balochistan.He issued a resolute and unwavering commitment to bolster national security, prioritize public relief and intensify counter-terrorism efforts while greeting the nation on Eid.In a recent interview with a private news channel, the minister stated that Pakistan’s armed forces have been reformed to tackle terrorism and will soon successfully conduct counter-terrorism operations in Balochistan.In response to a question, Khawaja Muhammad Asif stated that the resources of Balochistan should not be limited to Quetta alone and that previous central governments should also be held accountable for the current situation in the province.Muhammad Asif also assured that the federal government will extend its full support to the provincial government in Balochistan and fulfill all genuine demands of the province.Responding to a query, Khawaja Muhammad Asif stated that there will be no talks with the Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) due to their involvement in terrorist activities, killing innocent labourers.Khawaja also expressed his admiration for the efforts of the Chief Minister of Punjab and the Prime Minister towards the welfare of youngsters and the country.The minister further hinted that the nation can expect good news regarding electricity after Eid.Regarding the founder of PTI, Imran Khan, he said that the decision on his relief will be made by the courts, rather than the government.Read More: Khawaja Asif slams PTI ‘propaganda’ over Jaffar Express incidentEarlier, Khawaja Asif on Thursday slammed Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) ‘propaganda’ over Jaffar Express incident.In a fiery address to the National Assembly, Khawaja Asif hit out at PTI for creating negative propaganda and proving themselves terrorist apologists. Despite protests from opposition members, the Speaker silenced them, allowing Asif to continue his speech.

SHIKARPUR: In a successful joint operation, police and Rangers rescued four abducted men from the Shikarpur katcha area in Sindh, police said on Tuesday.The men, identified as Irfan Thanori, Rahab, Abdul Qadir, and Abdul Waheed, were kidnapped by notorious katcha bandits around a month ago.The previous rescue attempt two days earlier failed and resulted in two officers being injured in an exchange of gunfire.However, this second operation, led by SSP Shikarpur Shahzeb Chachar, was successful in rescuing all four hostages from the Kot Shahu riverine area in Khanpur.Read More: Two Karachi hostages recovered from Shikarpur katcha areaEarlier, Police and Rangers in a joint operation recovered a hostage from Garhi Tegho katcha area after exchange of fire with bandits, police said.“Bandits fled from the scene after shootout and a hostage recovered,” SSP Shahzaib Chachar said. “Recovered hostage has been identified as Sherdil,” police officer said. “He was kidnapped from Karachi’s Singer Chowrangi,” according to police.“Police has launched a search operation in the area to arrest fleeing bandits,” SSP further said.Moreover, a team of the anti-violent crime cell (AVCC) police in a raid in Shikarpur recovered a hostage, who was called to Shikarpur from Karachi, with honey trap and taken hostage.“Noor Mohammad was honey-trapped to Shikarpur on September 19 and kidnappers had demanded Rs. 10 million ransom money for safe release of the hostage,” SSP Aneel Haider said.

KARACHI: If you’re planning to explore Sweden’s captivating blend of history, nature, and culture, you’ll need to navigate the visa process. For Pakistani citizens, a short-term Schengen visa is required to visit Sweden.Sweden, known for its rich history, natural beauty, and cultural charm, has become a popular tourist destination in Europe.While citizens of some countries enjoy visa-free entry, Pakistani citizens are required to obtain a Schengen short-term visa to visit Sweden.The Swedish Embassy handles Schengen visa applications for Pakistani and Afghan citizens and for those legally residing in Pakistan.To secure a Schengen visa for Sweden, applicants must provide a series of essential documents.Read More: How to obtain a 5-year multiple entry Schengen Visa – complete guideThese include a completed visa application form, a passport (issued within the last ten years), a recent passport-sized photograph, and fingerprints (unless previously registered in the Visa Information System).One of the critical requirements for every Pakistani, and citizen of any other country, is proof of sufficient funds to cover expenses during the stay in Sweden. Applicants must submit bank and credit card statements for the last three months.Bank Statement RequirementsFor the bank statement, the minimum daily requirement is 450 SEK, which amounts to approximately 13,500 SEK or around Rs3,50,000 for a 30-day stay as of April 1, 2025.This financial proof ensures that applicants can bear the cost of their trip without financial strain.Visa ProcessingThe Swedish Embassy handles Schengen visa applications for Pakistani and Afghan citizens, as well as those legally residing in Pakistan. Ensure you meet all requirements and provide accurate documentation to facilitate your visa application.

KARACHI: President Asif Ali Zardari was rushed to hospital in Karachi after his health deteriorated late Monday night, ARY News reported citing sources. According to sources within Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), the president, was shifted to a private hospital in Karachi.PPP sources revealed that President Zardari is currently undergoing treatment, with doctors conducting necessary medical tests to assess his health.Security around the private hospital has been tightened, with police and law enforcement agencies deployed to ensure safety, as per party sources.Yesterday, President Asif Ali Zardari offered Eidul Fitr prayers at Zardari House in Nawabshah, where a large number of people joined him.He prayed for the country’s progress and later met with attendees, exchanging Eid greetings. Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly Ghulam Mustafa Shah, Provincial Minister Ali Hassan, and Zia Lanjar were also present at the gathering.It is pertinent to mention here that President Asif Ali Zardari suffered a foot fracture in 2024 upon disembarking a plane at Dubai Airport. The President was on a private visit to UAE.According to the President House Spokesperson, the President was immediately taken to the hospital for initial medical assistance.After examination, doctors applied a plaster to his foot, the spokesperson said adding that the plaster will remain for four weeks. President Zardari was advised to rest completely at home.Following his foot fracture, President Zardari’s official visit to China was also postponed.

ISLAMABAD: A humanitarian assistance consignment containing thirty-five tonnes of supplies was dispatched for Myanmar on Tuesday on the directions of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, ARY News reported Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Dr. Tariq Fazal Chaudhry saw off the cargo flight at Islamabad International Airport.The aid package including tents, blankets, tarpaulins, water modules, readymade food and medicines will be delivered to Myanmar authorities at Yangon airport.Earlier, Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif extended heartfelt condolences to Myanmar’s leadership and people following the devastating earthquake that struck the country, causing significant loss of life and property.In a telephone conversation with Senior General Min Aung Hlaing, Chairman of the State Administration Council and Prime Minister of Myanmar, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif conveyed the deep sympathies of the Pakistani government and its citizens over the tragedy.He assured his Myanmar counterpart that Pakistan stands in solidarity with the affected communities and is ready to assist to alleviate their suffering. The Prime Minister also announced that, on his directives, Pakistan’s National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) would dispatch approximately 70 tons of relief goods to Myanmar. These supplies, aimed at supporting the earthquake victims, were set to arrive in two sorties within the next 48 hours.Expressing confidence in the resilience of Myanmar’s people, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed hope that they would soon recover from the disaster. He reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to humanitarian support and disaster relief efforts whenever needed.In response, Prime Minister Min Aung Hlaing expressed gratitude to the Pakistani government and people for their timely assistance and solidarity during this challenging period. He acknowledged the humanitarian aid as a meaningful gesture of friendship and support in Myanmar’s time of need.The devastating earthquake on March 28 has left a profound impact on Myanmar, with rescue and relief operations underway as authorities work to provide aid to those affected.

The deadline for Afghan refugees in Pakistan has expired and the process of the repatriation of Afghan Citizen Card (ACC) holders and illegal refugees will begin today.Food and healthcare arrangements were made for Afghans returning to home. The authorities warned of strict punitive action against them after the deadline.Pakistan’s Ministry of Interior had asked Afghan Citizen Card (ACC) holders, staying in Pakistan, to leave the country by March 31.The Afghan nationals will be deported from April 1st (today), the ministry said in an earlier statement.“Illegal Foreigners Repatriation Program (IFRP) is being implemented since November 1, 2023. In continuation of the government’s decision to repatriate all illegal foreigners, national leadership has now decided to also repatriate ACC holders,” the interior ministry said in an earlier official handout.“All illegal foreigners and ACC holders are advised to leave the country voluntarily before March 31, 2025; thereafter, deportation will commence from April 1, 2025,” the statement added.The interior ministry said that sufficient time had already been granted for their dignified return. “It is emphasised that no one will be maltreated during the repatriation process and arrangements for food and healthcare for returning foreigners have also been put in place.”“Pakistan has been a gracious host and continues to fulfill its commitments and obligations as a responsible state. It is reiterated that Individuals staying in Pakistan will have to fulfill all legal formalities and abide by Pakistan’s constitution,” it said.Over 8,00,000 Afghans living in Pakistan illegally were repatriated to their country since Pakistan launched the campaign in November 2023. It is estimated that around 3 million Afghans still reside in Pakistan.