Pakistani cricketer Ahmed Shehzad criticised the team’s vice-captain Shadab Khan for his performance in the first T20I against New Zealand and questioned his inclusion in the squad.In the first T20I against New Zealand, Shadab Khan scored only 3 runs and failed to take any wickets in his two overs.Speaking on a private TV channel, Ahmed Shehzad asked what performance or merit-based criteria Shadab Khan had met to secure his spot."You're talking about Shadab, tell me, what performance has he put up? Who brought him into the team? Let this series pass, the PCB has a different plan, and Shadab has been included in the team for a specific purpose," Ahmed Shehzad addedRegarding rumors of Shadab Khan becoming the next captain, Ahmed Shehzad said that the authorities had sent a young New Zealand team to buy time.Ahmed Shehzad added, "Such things are being said. We also want to know about these things, but it's just the first T20I. Let's see what happens next."The Pakistan cricket team faced a crushing nine-wicket defeat at the hands of New Zealand in the first PAK vs NZ T20I on Sunday.After being put to bat first at the Hagley Oval, the tourists’ opening pair Mohammad Haris and Hasan Nawaz fell for a duck each.Irfan Khan only managed to score just one run before his dismissal, leaving Pakistan struggling at 1/3 in 2.2 overs in the first PAK vs NZ T20I.Read more: New Zealand crush Pakistan in 1st T20I with 9-wicket victoryAllrounder Khushdil Shah scored 32 runs followed by captain Salman Agha who added 18 runs to the total. Pakistan were bundled out for 91 in 18.4 overs – their fifth-lowest score in the T20I format.New Zealand chased down the target over the loss of just one wicket and 59 balls to spare.The defeat in the first PAK vs NZ marked Pakistan’s worst in the format in terms of balls remaining.Their previous worst was a nine-wicket defeat against Australia in 2018 when the Pakistan cricket team was defeated by nine wickets and 55 balls to spare.

ISLAMABAD: The Joint Investigation Team (JIT) has reissued summons to 16 individuals affiliated with Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) in connection with allegations of spreading anti-state propaganda on social media, ARY New reported.According to JIT sources, summons notices have been issued to 16 PTI members, instructing them to appear before the JIT on 18 March.The individuals who have received the summons include Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf leaders Firdous Shamim Naqvi, Muhammad Khalid Khurshid Khan, Mian Muhammad Aslam Iqbal, Muhammad Hammad Azhar, Awn Abbas, and Muhammad Shahbaz Shabbir.Additionally, Waqas Akram, Taimoor Saleem Khan, Sibghatullah Virk, Azhar Mashwani, Muhammad Nauman Afzal, Jibran Ilyas, and Salman Raza have also been summoned.Sources confirm that Zulfi Bukhari, Musa Virk, and Ali Malik have received their summons as well. Meanwhile, Barrister Gohar, Rauf Hassan, and Shah Farman have already appeared before the JIT.Read More: Khawaja Asif slams PTI ‘propaganda’ over Jaffar Express incidentOn 14 March, the sister of PTI’s founder, Aleema Khanum, did not appear despite being summoned. She has now been issued another notice to appear on 19 March.The JIT is conducting investigations against these Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf members based on evidence related to alleged anti-state propaganda.Earlier, Defense Minister Khawaja Asif on Thursday slammed Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) ‘propaganda’ over Jaffar Express incident.A group of terrorists launched the attack on the Peshawar-Quetta Jaffar Express, leaving the driver with severe injuries in the Bolan Pass area of Balochistan, targeting innocent civilians.In a fiery address to the National Assembly, Defense Minister 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.https://youtu.be/xpmUEnFmIaUTaking a swipe at former COAS General (retired) Qamar Javed Bajwa and General (retired) Faiz Hameed, Khawaja Asif accused them of supporting the return of militants.“Those who were nurtured under martial law now question the sacrifices of our armed forces.”He criticized PTI supporters for now fearing to speak against terrorism.Khawaja Asif further accused PTI of disrespecting the martyrs and changing their political stance for personal gain.He reminded the assembly that the ruling party had apologized for past mistakes, while PTI continued to adopt double standards.

PESHAWAR: Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur on Sunday announced an investment of over Rs30 billion to boost the security infrastructure of the province, ARY News reported.Speaking at a press conference in Peshawar, Gandapur said that the provincial government will invest the amount to purchase weapons, vehicles, and modern equipment to combat terrorism.CM Gandapur slammed the federal government over its 'incompetence' as he attributed the failing security situation to their mismanagement.The KP CM asserted that terrorism had been eradicated during the PTI government in the centre. However, the revival of terrorist activities, particularly in tribal districts, has raised concerns, he said.Amin Gandapur also pointed to external influences as a contributing factor to the rise in terrorism.The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa CM revealed that reforms in the police department were initiated immediately after he assumed office. The KP government plans to procure 105 bulletproof 105 vehicles Rs321 million and 4,000 submachine guns (SMGs), he said.Additionally, 2,423 personnel are being recruited for terrorism-affected areas, while 3,797 new positions are being created in the security division to improve security infrastructure, CM Gandapur added.Read more: Ali Amin Gandapur relieved as President PTI KPAccording to the KP CM, over 1,200 elite force personnel have received advanced training.To support the families of police martyrs, the KP government has distributed Rs367 million in cash, plots, and jobs. Among the beneficiaries, 281 children of martyrs have been recruited as Assistant Sub-Inspectors (ASIs), he said.Ali Amin Gandapur also emphasised the importance of the NFC Award, warning that if the province is not granted its rightful share, protests will be organised in collaboration with government employees.He stated, "I cannot forgive the federal government for withholding the province's funds, as was done during Pervez Khattak's tenure."CM Gandapur also reiterated prioritising support for police martyrs' families through cash assistance, jobs, and other benefits.

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s water reservoirs have reached critical levels, with the Mangla Dam water level dropping to the “dead level,” leading to the suspension of hydroelectric power production, ARY News reported on Sunday.According to a WAPDA spokesperson, the Mangla Dam is now at its minimum operating level.Tarbela Dam stands just two feet above its dead level, while Chashma Barrage is only one foot above. Consequently, Mangla Dam has ceased power production due to the lack of water. Current Reservoir Levels: Tarbela Dam: Water level at 1404.93 feet (minimum operating level: 1402 feet, maximum storage level: 1550 feet). Current water storage is 14,000 acre-feet. Mangla Dam: Water level at 1050 feet (minimum operating level: 1050 feet, maximum storage level: 1242 feet). Current water storage is 72,000 acre-feet. Chashma Barrage: Water level at 639.30 feet (minimum operating level: 638.15 feet, maximum storage level: 649 feet). Current water storage is 17,000 acre-feet. Read more: Tarbela, Mangla dams near dead level: IRSA River Flows: At Tarbela, the Indus River inflow is 19,600 cusecs, while outflow is 20,000 cusecs. At Nowshera, Kabul River inflow and outflow are both 14,600 cusecs. At Mangla, the Jhelum River inflow is 19,800 cusecs and outflow is 19,900 cusecs. At Marala, the Chenab River inflow is 16,600 cusecs, while outflow is 11,900 cusecs. Other barrages such as Jinnah, Chashma, Taunsa, Guddu, Sukkur, and Kotri are also witnessing varying inflow and outflow levels, further reflecting the declining water availability.The severe water shortage highlights Pakistan’s ongoing struggles with water management and climate change impacts.The reduction in water levels not only affects power production but also has significant implications for agriculture and drinking water supply.Experts have been urging authorities to implement sustainable water conservation and storage strategies to address this crisis.Additionally, Pakistan’s dependency on hydroelectric power means that such shortages can worsen energy shortfalls, especially during peak demand seasons.The situation underscores the urgent need for sustainable water resource management and diversification of the energy mix to reduce reliance on hydroelectricity.Developing renewable energy sources like solar and wind, along with improving energy conservation practices, could mitigate the risk of energy crises caused by water shortages.This dual approach could help Pakistan ensure a more stable and resilient energy future.

KARACHI: SSP Central Zeeshan Shafiq Siddiqui on Sunday met the fruit seller who was harassed and assaulted by the Karachi police officials on Shahrah-e-Noor Jahan, ARY News reported.The meeting came after a viral video showed four police officials harassing the fruit seller near Qalandria Chowk in the city.The viral video showed the police officials forcibly taking free melons from the cart, hurling abuses, and issuing threats at the fruit seller. The incident drew widespread public condemnation.Upon learning of the incident, SSP Karachi Central Zeeshan Siddiqui took swift action, suspending all four officers involved.The high-ranking police official invited the street fruit seller to his office, presented him with a bouquet and personally sought details of the incident.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZQyv3Fv0bZ0Speaking at the occasion, SSP central Zeeshan Siddiqui assured the fruit seller of the department's support.“The Sindh Police stand with you. This was an individual act, not representative of the entire force. There are good and bad people everywhere,” he said.He also briefed the vendor on the disciplinary actions being taken against the involved Karachi police officers.The incident highlights ongoing concerns over misconduct by law enforcement personnel in Pakistan. Public noise over such incidents often compels authorities to act swiftly to maintain credibility.Efforts to address police behavior, such as disciplinary actions and public engagement, are seen as vital steps toward reform. Karachi police has occasionally faced similar criticism, making accountability measures like this crucial.Read more: VIDEO: Karachi police beat up fruit seller in front of minor daughterEarlier, a viral video surfaced showing a Karachi police officer and three companions assaulting a street fruit seller in front of his young daughter.As the vendor objected to them taking a melon without permission, they started harassing him.The incident sparked public outrage, leading to the dismissal of constable Zafar and the suspension of three other officers.

KARACHI: A viral video has surfaced showing a Karachi police officer and three of his associates assaulting a fruit seller in the Shahrah-e-Noor Jahan area.The viral video shows the street fruit seller getting assaulted in front of his minor daughter by a Karachi police officer and his three companions.Video footage shows the terrified child watching helplessly as her father is beaten up and verbally abused by the officers.The dispute reportedly began when the fruit seller objected to the Karachi police officer who was taking a melon without permission.The viral video has drawn extensive condemnation, highlighting yet another police misconduct case in Karachi.In a swift response to the public outcry, SSP Central took notice of the incident. Constable Zafar, the officer seen assaulting the vendor, has been dismissed from service, while three other officers involved have been suspended.Read more: Karachi cop beats fruit-seller over trivial issueThis incident has reignited discussions about police accountability and the treatment of street vendors in Pakistan.Public outrage over such incidents often leads to temporary disciplinary actions, but systemic reforms remain an insistent need.   View this post on Instagram   A post shared by ARY News (@arynewstv) The incident took place at Shahrah-e-Noor Jahan a day earlier, when the street fruit seller was thrashed by the Karachi police officials.After a verbal exchange, the police officer verbally abused and threatened the vendor in front of his minor daughter and physically assaulted him.Meanwhile, SSP Central has ordered an inquiry for further departmental action against the suspended officers.SSP Central stated that strict action would be taken against the officers shown in the viral video.

PESHAWAR: The district administration of Peshawar has imposed a ban on the sale and purchase of toy guns and firecrackers in the city, ARY News reported.As per details, the ban, imposed under Section 144, aims to maintain law and order during the upcoming Eid celebrations.According to the administration, the ban is necessary to prevent potential disturbances and ensure public safety. The sale and purchase of toy guns and firecrackers have been prohibited, and violators will face action under Section 188.The administration has warned that strict action will be taken against those found selling or purchasing toy guns and firecrackers, particularly during Eid celebrations.Earlier, at least six martyred including three FC personnel in BLA’s suicide blast targeting a Frontier Corps (FC) convoy in Naushki, Balochistan.According to security sources, the blast occurred when a suicide bomber exploded himself near the FC convoy. Security forces responded promptly, killing three terrorists in the ensuing operation, in addition to the suicide bomber.Read more: Two cops martyred in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa terror attacksSecurity sources revealed that security forces have cordoned off the area and launched a clearance operation to ensure no terrorists escape. All escape routes have been blocked, and the operation will continue until the last terrorist is eliminated. Prior to this, a policeman was killed and six others injured in a roadside blast in Quetta on Saturday. Police said that the incident occurred on Barori Road in the Karani area. A vehicle of the Anti-Terrorism Force (ATF) was patrolling the area when the blast took place near it.The blast left seven ATF personnel wounded, and they were rushed to a hospital where one security officer succumbed to his injuries.

ISLAMABAD: The government is consulting over convening a meeting of the Parliamentary National Security Committee expected in coming week, sources said on Sunday.Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has initiated consultations over convening an in-camera joint session, transforming both houses of the Parliament into a special security committee.The closed-door meeting has been expected at coming Wednesday or Thursday.The meeting to be attended by the prime minister, top military leadership and heads of intelligence agencies.The military leadership will deliver a briefing on the escalating terrorism in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan, highlighting the causes behind the recent surge before the lawmakers and addressing concerns and discussing future strategies.The decision to hold the high-level security discussion comes amid a renewed wave of terrorism incidents targeting security forces in two provinces.

ISLAMABAD: Professor Masayuki Masuda, Division head at the National Institute for Defense Studies (NIDS), stated that Pakistan has played a vital role in regional stability and is seen as committed to promoting peace amidst growing challenges.Prof Masuda was speaking held at an international seminar organized by the Institute of Regional Studies (IRS) the other day.He suggested that Pakistan and Japan, having both experienced significant human and economic losses due to conflicts and wars, were uniquely positioned to collaborate on promoting peace, said a press release issued here on Sunday.Prof. Masuda also stressed that Japan’s “Free and Open Indo-Pacific” concept aimed to foster regional peace and prosperity, which aligns with Pakistan’s connectivity interests. He called for increased cooperation in areas such as telecom, AI, and climate change, which would benefit both nations.Speaking on the occasion, NIDS Senior Fellow Masahiro Kurita clarified that Japan’s growing cooperation with India, even within the QUAD framework, was primarily focused on political and economic cooperation, and should not impact Pakistan’s security concerns. He acknowledged that perceptions of Pakistan were influenced by its deepening relationship with China, but emphasized Pakistan’s balanced approach, demonstrating its commitment to fostering broad international ties for enhanced connectivity.Amb. Jauhar Saleem, President IRS, stated that Pakistan-Japan cooperation  was a factor of stability at a time when great power competition was intensifying. He emphasized upon the shared values and interests which bound the two countries in cordial and cooperative ties, and called for building on this foundation to further enhance multifaceted cooperation. He also advocated increased political dialogue, cultural exchanges and people-to-people contact to foster yet greater understanding of each other’s perspectives.Amb Farukh Amil, Chairman IPO and former Ambassador to Japan, affirmed Pakistan’s long-standing desire to strengthen development partnerships with Japan. He also emphasized Japan’s technological leadership and the critical importance of collaboration in technology and innovation for Pakistan’s future economic and security progress while praising  Japan’s unconditional humanitarian aid during natural disasters.

ISLAMABAD: Director General of the Walled City of Lahore Authority Kamran Lashari Sunday disclosed that the Punjab government has initiated a Rs4.5 billion project in Murree aimed at revamping the hill station’s infrastructure to attract tourists, which will be completed within a year and a half under the direct supervision of the chief minister.Talking to PTV news channel, Kamran Lashari shared the plan for restoring shops and buildings around the General Post Office (GPO) to Mall Road which will revive their original glory and tradition.“The Rs4.5 billion Murree project will transform the hill station into a world-class tourist destination, showcasing Pakistan’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage,” said Kamran Lashari.“The project will focus on sustainable development, ensuring that Murree’s natural environment is preserved while providing modern amenities and infrastructure to tourists.”“By revitalizing Murree’s infrastructure, we aim to boost tourism, create jobs and stimulate economic growth in the region, making it a premier destination for domestic and international tourists.”“Present government is also starting the glass train in Murree soon, providing tourists with a unique and unforgettable experience, he said, adding, by revitalizing Murree’s infrastructure, we aim to boost tourism, create jobs, and stimulate economic growth in the region.”Responding to a query, he stated that this initiative aims to preserve the historical charm of the area while promoting tourism, he added.The Walled City of Lahore Authority has been working tirelessly to restore and beautify various landmarks and areas within the city, including heritage sites associated with Sufi poets, shrines, gurdwaras and churches in various cities of Punjab, he added.He also announced plans to facilitate visits to Sufi shrines for school and college students in Lahore.“To promote cultural awareness and spiritual education among the youth, we will arrange visits to Sufi shrines, including Data Darbar and others, with affordable ticket prices and guided tours,” said DG Lashari.This initiative aims to provide students with a deeper understanding of Pakistan’s rich cultural heritage and the significance of Sufism in the country’s history, he added.He added the growing interest of Sikh tourists in visiting Pakistan, particularly Punjab and appreciating the country’s hospitality, adding, this trend is expected to continue, with more opportunities emerging for international tourists to explore Punjab’s rich cultural heritage.The growth of tourism in Pakistan is not limited to Sikh tourists, as visitors from around the world are drawn to the country’s diverse attractions, including its natural beauty, historical sites, and cultural events, he mentioned.

GHOTKI: A vehicle carrying Sindh Member of Provincial Assembly (MPA) Jam Mehtab Hussain Dahar was attacked in Ghotki, ARY News reported.As per details, the incident occurred when unknown assailants opened fire on the MPA's convoy in Khenjo area, resulting in the martyrdom of his guard and injuring three others.Police officials have confirmed that the MPA's guard was killed in the attack, while three others sustained injuries. A heavy police contingent rushed to the scene following reports of the incident.Earlier, at least six martyred including three FC personnel in BLA's suicide blast targeting a Frontier Corps (FC) convoy in Naushki, Balochistan.According to security sources, the blast occurred when a suicide bomber exploded himself near the FC convoy. Security forces responded promptly, killing three terrorists in the ensuing operation, in addition to the suicide bomber.Read more: Two cops martyred in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa terror attacksSecurity sources revealed that security forces have cordoned off the area and launched a clearance operation to ensure no terrorists escape. All escape routes have been blocked, and the operation will continue until the last terrorist is eliminated. Prior to this, a policeman was killed and six others injured in a roadside blast in Quetta on Saturday. Police said that the incident occurred on Barori Road in the Karani area. A vehicle of the Anti-Terrorism Force (ATF) was patrolling the area when the blast took place near it.The blast left seven ATF personnel wounded, and they were rushed to a hospital where one security officer succumbed to his injuries.

BADIN: In an exchange of fire between two groups in Badin district, five people were killed and seven others were injured, citing police sources ARY News reported on Sunday.Armed men of two groups of Khaskhelly and Rahmoon communities were engaged in a shootout in Angaro Khaskhelly village in the vicinity of Khorwah town, over a land dispute, local police said.The parties resorted to firing and also used sticks and axes resulting in death of five people on the spot, while seven were injured, three of them were in a precarious condition.A heavy contingent of police rushed to the spot and cordoned off the area.SSP Badin Qamar Raza Jiskani has said that additional police contingents have been summoned from other areas of the district.All injured and dead bodies have been transferred to Golarchi hospital.According to police deceased included Anwar s/o Abdullah Rahmoon, Madad Ali, Muhammad Siddique, Abdul Majeed and Ahmed.While Gul Hassan, Muhammad Juman, Yousuf, Meenhan Wasayo, Ghulam Muhammad, Wahid Bux and Gulsher were injured in the incident.Chief Minister of Sindh Murad Ali Shah has condemned the firing and summoned a detailed report of the incident from the I.G. Police Sindh, a spokesman said.Chief Minister has ordered strict legal action to curb these incidents and immediate arrest of the miscreants involved in such fearsome incidents."Regretfully, people don't avoid bloodletting in this holy and blessed month," Sindh's CM said.Provincial home minister Zia ul Hassan Lanjar has summoned details of the firing incident from SSP Badin. "Immediately mobilize police teams for arrest of the culprits involved in killing of innocent citizens," he ordered.He also urged for strict action against the elements spreading terror and fear in general public.

NAUSHKI: At least six martyred including three FC personnel in BLA's suicide blast targeting a Frontier Corps (FC) convoy in Naushki, Balochistan, ARY News reported citing security sources.According to security sources, the blast occurred when a suicide bomber exploded himself near the FC convoy. Security forces responded promptly, killing three terrorists in the ensuing operation, in addition to the suicide bomber.Security sources revealed that security forces have cordoned off the area and launched a clearance operation to ensure no terrorists escape. All escape routes have been blocked, and the operation will continue until the last terrorist is eliminated. Earlier, a policeman was killed and six others injured in a roadside blast in Quetta on Saturday. Police said that the incident occurred on Barori Road in the Karani area. A vehicle of the Anti-Terrorism Force (ATF) was patrolling the area when the blast took place near it.Read more: Two cops martyred in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa terror attacksThe blast left seven ATF personnel wounded, and they were rushed to a hospital where one security officer succumbed to his injuries.It is worth mentioning here that a group of terrorists launched the attack on the Peshawar-Quetta Jaffar Express, leaving the driver with severe injuries in the Bolan Pass area of Balochistan, targeting innocent civilians. The militants detonated a bomb on the railway track and then took over around 400 passengers including women and children hostage.The Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry confirmed that all 33 terrorists involved in the attack on the Jaffer Express were killed, while 21 passengers and 4 FC personnel lost their lives.

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan People's Party (PPP) has decided to give tough time to the ruling PML-N during the next years' budget, as sources shared details of the backdoor talks between two parties.The PPP, a key ally of the PML-N led ruling coalition, has demanded of the government for consultation over the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP), party sources said.The PML-N had extended offer to the PPP for consultation over the Sindh's development budget, sources said. The People's Party rejected the government's consultation offer for Sindh's development budget.The PPP has instead, demanded consultation over the development budget of the country. The government has asked time for the demand of consultation over the PSDP."The People's Party will give surprise to the PML-N if the demand for consultation over the PSDP not accepted," sources added.All is not well between two major parties and political partners in present political setup. The PPP had conveyed its reservations to the government that despite being the key ally of the government, the PPP was not being taken on board on important decision-making matters, rather it was being cornered in Punjab by the PML-N-led provincial government and on a unilateral decision of the centre to carve out canals from the River Indus, that could cut Sindh’s share of water from the river.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has appreciated the officials of Federal Investigation Agency and Intelligence Bureau for nabbing the notorious leader of Jajja gang involved in human trafficking.Talking to the officials in Islamabad on Sunday, he directed for further intensifying operations against human traffickers.PM Shehbaz Sharif said people involved in the heinous crime of human trafficking not just cause a loss of precious human lives but also damage the country's global repute.He awarded cash prize worth one million rupees each to the officials who were part of the operation against the gang.Read more: Four Pakistanis rescued from human traffickers in IranThe Jajja gang leader, Usman Jajja is one of the main characters responsible for deaths of Pakistanis in the Greece boat accident last year.During the meeting, Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry and secretary Interior briefed the prime minister about the performance of the agencies.The director generals FIA and IB also briefed the prime minister about the arrest of gang leaders, operators and facilitators involved in the human trafficking.

ISLAMABAD: The Ministry of Production has 'summoned' sugar mill owners and major dealers to Islamabad over sugar price hike during Ramadan 2025, ARY News reported on Sunday, citing sources.Sources reveal that sugar mill owners and major dealers have been summoned to Islamabad tomorrow following the recent surge in sugar prices.According to the Ministry of Production, an agreement was made with the sugar mills association that prices would not be increased in exchange for permission to export sugar.However, after the export, the price of sugar soared to Rs170 per kilogram.Authorities have also prepared a list of market manipulators, and those responsible are being identified.Read more: PM Shehbaz Sharif orders crackdown against sugar hoardersSources said on March 14 that Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif took notice of inflating prices and ordered a crackdown on sugar hoarding.The direction came during a high-level meeting chaired by PM Shehbaz to review sugar prices and the commodity’s supply across Pakistan.During the meeting, detailed briefings were provided to the prime minister on the current consumption, supply, and pricing of sugar.PM Shehbaz issued strict directives to take action against those responsible for creating artificial shortages and inflating prices in Pakistan.Shehbaz Sharif emphasised that sugar hoarding and hypothetical trading to artificially increase sugar prices would not be tolerated.The prime minister instructed authorities to launch a crackdown on sugar hoarding and profiteers and submit a comprehensive report.He also directed officials to monitor sugar consumption and supply closely, ensuring transparency and accountability.

AJK: At least five passengers lost their live, whereas four others sustained injuries as vehicle plunged into gorge in Haveli Azad Kashmir, ARY News reported.As per details, the incident occurred when the passenger vehicle slipped on the icy road and fell into the gorge, leaving five dead and four others injured.According to rescue sources, the Rawalpindi-bound vehicle was traveling Kahuta when the horrific incident occurred, the dead bodies and injured have been transferred to nearby hospital.Earlier, in a tragic accident, 26 people died, as a passenger bus carrying wedding guests from Astore, GB, to Chakwal veered off the Thalichi Bridge and plunged into the river.As per details, a total of 27 people were on board the coaster, with only the bride, Malaika, surviving.The injured bride was taken to the hospital, and rescue operations are ongoing, with local residents, rescue teams, and police actively participating in the search efforts.Read more: Six FIA personnel injured in fog-related accident near FaisalabadDeputy Commissioner Astore, Muhammad Tariq, confirmed that the bodies of 14 victims were recovered and transferred to the Astore District Headquarters (DHQ) Hospital. “The accident-stricken vehicle was also retrieved from the river,” he added.Home Minister Shams Lone commented on the incident, saying, “Initial investigations suggest that the tragedy occurred due to the vehicle’s loss of control on the slippery surface of the Thalichi Bridge.

The Motorway police have registered FIRs and made arrests of 54 drivers exceeding the speed limit of 150 km/h across various motorways in the Central Region.According to the Motorway Police spokesperson, action was taken on multiple routes, including M2 (Lahore-Islamabad), M3 (Lahore-Multan), M4 (Multan-Pindi Bhattian), M5 (Sukkur-Multan), and Lahore-Sialkot Motorway.According to Motorway police spokesperson, four cases were registered on the Lahore-Sialkot Motorway. Nineteen FIRs were filed on the M2 Motorway.Five cases were lodged on the M3 Motorway. Six FIRs were registered on the M4 Motorway. Furthermore, twenty arrests were made on the M5 Motorway.Read more: VIDEO: Overspeeding car collides with another car, flips multiple timesThe Motorway police reminded drivers that the speed limit on three-lane motorways is 120 km/h for private vehicles and 110 km/h for public transport.

ISLAMABAD: Maulana Fazlur Rehman has said that the opposition parties will decide about launching protest movement against the government after Eid, ARY News reported.Talking to media in Islamabad JUI-F chief said the prime minister is inviting for Iftar, "why we could not talk over the national issues".He said soreness in relations with the PTI goes down to an extent adding that "the PTI should take notice if someone of them issuing statements against me".Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) have been engaged in discussions to reinforce the opposition, despite lingering differences.The JUI has expressed concerns regarding PTI’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, sources said.Although both parties have maintained contact in recent months, a breakthrough for a formal working relationship yet to be materialized.Fazlur Rehman also said that Nawaz Sharif could play crucial role in current political situation. "If Nawaz Sharif thinks the government in one province is enough for his party, where the remaining part of the country will go".Replying a question over the dacoit factor in Sindh, JUI chief said that the bandits have surfaced in the region in reaction.

At least five persons were killed and ten others were injured in a blast near a bus on the Naushki-Dalbandin Highway in Balochistan on Sunday. According to police officials, a bus travelling was targeted on the Naushki-Dalbandin Highway, resulting in the killing of five people, and injuries to ten others. The injured and the bodies were moved to the hospital by the rescue teams after getting information. Meanwhile, the Medical Superintendent of Mir Gul Khan Naseer Teaching Hospital in Noshki has declared an emergency to handle the situation. Earlier, a policeman was killed and six others injured in a roadside blast in Quetta on Saturday. Police said that the incident occurred on Barori Road in the Karani area. A vehicle of the Anti-Terrorism Force (ATF) was patrolling the area when the blast took place near it.Read more: Two cops martyred in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa terror attacksThe blast left seven ATF personnel wounded, and they were rushed to a hospital where one security officer succumbed to his injuries.It is worth mentioning here that a group of terrorists launched the attack on the Peshawar-Quetta Jaffar Express, leaving the driver with severe injuries in the Bolan Pass area of Balochistan, targeting innocent civilians. The militants detonated a bomb on the railway track and then took over around 400 passengers including women and children hostage.The Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry confirmed that all 33 terrorists involved in the attack on the Jaffer Express were killed, while 21 passengers and 4 FC personnel lost their lives.