MANSEHRA: In a major boost for tourism, the Babusar Top road has been reopened for traffic after a seven-month closure, ARY News reported.The reopening brings welcome news for tourists planning to visit the scenic destination.The Mansehra District Administration confirmed that all major glaciers have been cleared, successfully restoring the route for transportation.With the opening of this highway, the land route connecting the region to Gilgit-Baltistan has been restored, paving the way for a revival of local tourism activities.Due to heavy snowfall, Babusar Top is completely shut down every year between November and December.Its reopening will now provide a shorter and more convenient travel alternative for visitors from other provinces heading to Gilgit-Baltistan.Earlier, Murree police have announced a comprehensive security plan for Eid al-Adha 2026, with restrictions on entry to the hill station and heightened safety measures amid expectations of a large influx of tourists.District Police Officer (DPO) Murree, Dr Muhammad Raza Tanveer, said that during the Eid holidays only families would be allowed entry to Mall Road and other parts of the city.He said Section 144 would remain in force in Murree until 31 May, 2026, under which aerial firing and the public display of weapons would be strictly prohibited.The DPO added that anyone involved in one-wheeling or skating would be arrested immediately under Section 144 regulations.He said authorities would adopt a ‘zero tolerance’ policy against violations during the holiday period.More than 700 police personnel will be deployed across Murree to provide security for the millions of tourists expected to visit during Eid al-Adha.According to Murree police data, a record 70,000 vehicles entered the city on the third day of Eid last year, and officials believe that figure could be surpassed this year.Police have also launched the “Safe Tourism Murree” mobile application, which will provide live traffic updates and emergency assistance.Tourists will also be able to contact the district police officer directly through a “Text to DPO” feature.In an advisory issued ahead of the holidays, Murree police urged visitors to avoid peak travel hours on the second and third days of Eid al-Adha 2026 and advised motorists to check their vehicle fitness, brakes, and tyres before travelling on mountainous roads.Officials said the police were fully prepared to provide families with a safe environment meeting international standards during the Eid holidays.           

KARACHI: A major anti-encroachment operation has been launched at the Government Qatar Hospital in Orangi Town for the first time in 45 years, ARY News reported.As part of the crackdown, three hotels and several medical stores illegally set up on the government hospital's land were bulldozed.The hospital land was successfully retrieved through the dedicated efforts of the hospital’s Medical Superintendent (MS), Dr. Rashid Khanzada.Speaking on the matter, Dr. Khanzada disclosed that the hotels and medical stores had been operating illegally, noting that the stores did not even possess valid business licenses.According to the health department, establishing private medical stores on government hospital premises is strictly prohibited.Following the anti-encroachment drive, the MS announced that a dedicated token counter will be established at the Out-Patient Department (OPD) to facilitate elderly and disabled patients.He also decided to set up a pharmacy counter to provide free medicines to patients in the emergency department.Dr. Khanzada emphasized that the reclaimed hospital land will now be utilized entirely for public facilitation and improving patient care.Earlier, the Sindh Drug Testing Laboratory has declared multiple medical syringe brands substandard, raising concerns over a possible rise in HIV and hepatitis infections across Sindh and other parts of the country.According to officials, the laboratory conducted Auto-Disable (AD) testing on syringe samples collected from various markets in Karachi. The assessment included both 3ml and 5ml syringes manufactured by different companies.Director of the Sindh Drug Testing Laboratory, Adnan Rizvi, said the examination found six syringe brands to be below the required quality standards.The report revealed that the syringes’ auto-disable and re-use prevention mechanisms had failed, meaning the built-in safety systems designed to prevent repeated use were not functioning properly.Health experts warn that defective syringes lacking effective re-use prevention features could significantly increase the risk of transmitting infectious diseases, including HIV and hepatitis.Following the findings, the laboratory has forwarded its report to drug inspectors and the Secretary of the Quality Control Board in Karachi for further regulatory action and investigation.      

QUETTA: In a welcome move for students, Balochistan's education department has announced a five-day holiday for Eid al-Adha, ARY News reported. The Balochistan Education Department has issued an official notification in this regard. According to the notification, all government and private schools across the province will remain closed for five days to mark the festivities of Eid al-Adha. Schools will be closed from Monday, May 25, to Friday, May 29, and will reopen on Monday, June 1, following the holidays. Earlier on Saturday, the governments of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on Saturday announced Eid al-Adha holidays for their respective provinces, ARY News reported.Punjab has announced a three-day holiday for the festive occasion, running from May 26 to May 28, matching the schedule previously issued by the federal government.On the other hand, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government has announced a four-day break, extending from May 26 to May 29.Similarly, the Sindh government has opted for a four-day holiday period from May 26 to May 29.Consequently, while the federal government and Punjab have settled on a three-day holiday for Eid, Sindh and KP residents will enjoy a four-day long weekend.The federal government made the decision regarding the holiday timeline to ensure that citizens working away from home have ample time to travel and celebrate the Eid holidays in their hometowns.

GWADAR: The Vice-Chancellor of Gwadar University, Professor Dr. Abdul Razzaq Sabir, has been recovered along with three of his colleagues, ARY News reported, citing family sources.Family sources confirmed that the Vice-Chancellor, two professors, and their driver have all been safely recovered.However, the family members added that the recovered individuals have not yet returned home.It is pertinent to mention that Professor Abdul Razzaq Sabir and his colleagues were abducted on May 13 from the Mastung district.https://youtu.be/OlU7hc1OIrI?si=QFsTthJxtIHZZGjEEarlier in the day, as many as 16 people were killed in a powerful explosion near Chaman Phatak area on a railway track, and several others were injured.According to police officials, the blast occurred close to a moving train passing through the railway track, triggering a fire in the nearby section immediately after the explosion.The intensity of the blast was so severe that it was heard across distant areas, while windows and glass panes of nearby buildings were shattered.Railway authorities said the Jaffar Express, which was heading towards Peshawar, was stopped at Quetta railway station following the incident.An emergency was declared in major hospitals in Quetta, with doctors and medical staff called in to handle the influx of casualties. Rescue officials confirmed that more than 20 injured victims were shifted to Civil Sandeman Hospital for treatment.Shahid Rind, spokesperson for the Balochistan government, confirmed the death toll and said the martyrs included three FC personnel. He added that women and children were also among the injured and were receiving medical care.He described the attack as a cowardly act by terrorist elements targeting innocent civilians and said such incidents reflect the desperation of anti-state actors.Security forces cordoned off the area immediately after the blast, and evidence collection along with investigations is underway.Authorities further said all relevant departments in Quetta have been placed on high alert, while rescue and security operations continue to ensure timely response and investigation efforts.   

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has introduced a major measure to discourage users from frequently discarding or transferring SIM cards. The authority has extended the SIM disown period from 60 days to 365 days, ARY News reported.Under this new initiative, an active SIM card cannot be removed from a user's name for a period of one year.Essentially, once a SIM is registered under a citizen's name, that ownership cannot be altered for a full year.The PTA has once again urged citizens to exercise strict caution when providing biometric verification for the issuance of a Subscriber Identity Module (SIM).Earlier, the PTA had warned mobile phone users to keep their Computerised National Identity Cards (CNICs) valid and updated to avoid blocking of their SIM cards.According to the PTA, mobile SIMs registered against expired, cancelled, or deceased CNICs are being blocked as part of efforts to strengthen digital security across the country.The authority urged citizens to renew their CNICs through NADRA to prevent service disruption.In its statement, the PTA stressed the importance of uninterrupted mobile connectivity and advised users to ensure timely verification of their identity records.The PTA also advised users to keep their information updated with mobile operators and activate their CNICs through NADRA to maintain uninterrupted mobile services and secure communication. 

RAWALPINDI: Police action allegedly turned into misconduct after a citizen accused law enforcement personnel of conducting a raid on his house without a search warrant, with CCTV footage showing alleged looting and vandalism in the Gulistan Colony area of Civil Lines police jurisdiction, ARY News reported.According to the complainant, a heavy contingent of police, including female constables and plainclothes officers, entered his residence in Rawalpindi without legal authorization, allegedly violating the sanctity of the home. The incident has triggered an inquiry after footage of the episode was submitted as evidence.The affected citizen, identified as Mazhar Iqbal, stated in his application to the Regional Police Officer (RPO) Rawalpindi that hidden CCTV cameras installed in the house recorded the entry of police personnel. He further claimed that both video and audio recordings of the incident exist.He alleged that police first broke the CCTV cameras and DVR system before threatening the family members. The complainant also accused officers of looting Rs500,000 in cash and two gold rings during the raid.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2PNUT--DH2YAccording to the application, the dispute is linked to an ongoing case with neighbours who had previously objected to CCTV cameras installed at the residence. The complainant alleged that police acted on the influence of those neighbours and harassed women inside the house.The application names ASI Shakur of Civil Lines police station along with 12 to 14 other officials in connection with the allegations.RPO Rawalpindi Babar Sarfraz Alpa has taken notice of the incident and ordered the SSP Operations to conduct a thorough investigation. He also directed a prompt report on the matter, while the victim has appealed to senior police officials in Rawalpindi for immediate action.

As many as 11 terrorists belonging to Fitna al-Khawarij were killed in an intelligence-based operation (IBO) by security forces in the Datta Khel area of North Waziristan, ARY News reported, citing the military's media wing, ISPR.According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), intense firing ensued between security forces and the terrorists during the operation, resulting in the deaths of the Khawarij.Additionally, several hideouts of the Khawarij were targeted over the last 48 hours. A large cache of heavy arms, ammunition, and explosives was recovered from their possession.The eliminated terrorists were reportedly involved in numerous terrorist activities.The ISPR added that a clearance operation is underway in the area. Security forces reiterated their determination to continue actions against terrorism under Operation Azm-e-Istehkam with full intensity.Security forces and law enforcement agencies expressed their resolve to wipe out terrorism from the country.Earlier today, Pakistan security forces, in a joint operation in Bannu killed 16 khawrij.As per details, a joint operation carried out by the Pakistan Army, police and the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) in the Bannu district has resulted in the killing of 16 khawrij, including two senior commanders.The operation was launched in the Miryan area following intelligence reports regarding the presence of khawarij. Security officials said several militant hideouts were destroyed during the raid.Among those killed were Zamri Noor, described by officials as a key khawrij commander involved in spreading fear and instability in the region, and Afghan national Abdullah Saeed.Most wanted Khawarij commander Toor Saqib killed in North Waziristan IBOTwo police officers were also killed during the operation while performing their duties. The deceased officers were identified as Constables Waheedullah Khan and Noorullah Khan.Funeral prayers for the slain officers were offered at Police Lines Bannu, where senior civil and military officials, tribal elders and local residents attended in large numbers.Security sources said counterterrorism operations against militant groups were continuing with full intensity, adding that joint actions by law enforcement and security agencies would persist until militancy is fully eradicated from the region.

LAHORE: Nawab Town Police have traced the burglary case in which a family’s house was looted while they were away buying a sacrificial animal ahead of Eid al-Adha, ARY News reported.According to reports, police earlier reported that unidentified burglars had broken into the empty house in Nawab Town and escaped with valuables worth millions, including 25 tolas of gold, prize bonds, and foreign currency.The incident had taken place when the family had gone to a cattle market for sacrificial animal shopping during the Eid rush.According to the DIG Operations spokesperson, police have now arrested the suspects involved in the incident and successfully recovered stolen valuables.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QASWAlw55DoInvestigators revealed that a domestic maid, along with her mother, was behind the robbery. Officials said the mother fled to Renala Khurd with the stolen goods after the crime but was later arrested during a follow-up operation.The Operations Wing confirmed that recovered items include 25 tolas of gold and foreign currency, with the total value estimated at around Rs12.5 million.Police added that further investigation is underway, while evidence collected earlier, including fingerprints, helped trace the suspects.

HANGZHOU, China: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said Pakistan is seeking expertise, experience, and investment rather than loans and aid while addressing the Pakistan-China B2B Investment Conference in Hangzhou on Sunday.He said that with Chinese support and cooperation, Pakistan can produce agricultural products in line with Chinese requirements in terms of quality and other standards. He said Pakistan needs seeds, machinery and best agriculture practices, expertise and investment hoping that over the next five to seven years, Pakistan would increase its agricultural exports to China by about ten billion dollars.He emphasized the need to further enhance mutual cooperation in the fields of agriculture, information technology, artificial intelligence, and other sectors.Shehbaz Sharif said the government has established a Special Economic Zone in the port city of Karachi, spread over six thousand acres. He said the zone will feature modern infrastructure, a seamless business environment, and a one-window operation. He also offered land to Chinese investors on a long-term lease at highly attractive terms and conditions."We are celebrating 75 years of Pakistan China friendship," he said. President Xi Jinping is a visionary leader who has transformed China into a world-class economic and military power, adding that Pakistan, as a true friend, takes pride in China's achievements.The Prime Minister said China imports agricultural products worth one hundred billion dollars every year, while Pakistan's share in these imports is only a small fraction.He said billions of dollars MoUs have been signed from Shenzhen to Hangzhou and 30 percent of them have turned into agreements with billions of dollars value."We are providing IT training and international certification to Pakistani youth", he said. He said Pakistan is seeking expertise, experience, and investment rather than loans and aid.

QUETTA: Death toll rises to 16 in powerful explosion near Chaman Phatak area on a railway track, several others injured, ARY News reported. According to police officials, the blast occurred close to a moving train passing through the railway track, triggering a fire in the nearby section immediately after the explosion. The intensity of the blast was so severe that it was heard across distant areas, while windows and glass panes of nearby buildings were shattered.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vO_uwlbFvbIRailway authorities said the Jaffar Express, which was heading towards Peshawar, was stopped at Quetta railway station following the incident.An emergency was declared in major hospitals in Quetta, with doctors and medical staff called in to handle the influx of casualties. Rescue officials confirmed that more than 20 injured victims were shifted to Civil Sandeman Hospital for treatment.Shahid Rind, spokesperson for the Balochistan government, confirmed the death toll and said the martyrs included three FC personnel. He added that women and children were also among the injured and were receiving medical care.He described the attack as a cowardly act by terrorist elements targeting innocent civilians and said such incidents reflect the desperation of anti-state actors.Security forces cordoned off the area immediately after the blast, and evidence collection along with investigations is underway.Authorities further said all relevant departments in Quetta have been placed on high alert, while rescue and security operations continue to ensure timely response and investigation efforts.

BANNU: Pakistan security forces in a joint operation in Bannu killed 16 khawrij, ARY News reported on Sunday, citing security sources.As per details, a joint operation carried out by the Pakistan Army, police and the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) in the Bannu district has resulted in the killing of 16 khawrij, including two senior commanders.The operation was launched in the Miryan area following intelligence reports regarding the presence of khawarij. Security officials said several militant hideouts were destroyed during the raid.Among those killed were Zamri Noor, described by officials as a key khawrij commander involved in spreading fear and instability in the region, and Afghan national Abdullah Saeed. Most wanted Khawarij commander Toor Saqib killed in North Waziristan IBO Two police officers were also killed during the operation while performing their duties. The deceased officers were identified as Constables Waheedullah Khan and Noorullah Khan.Funeral prayers for the slain officers were offered at Police Lines Bannu, where senior civil and military officials, tribal elders and local residents attended in large numbers.Security sources said counterterrorism operations against militant groups were continuing with full intensity, adding that joint actions by law enforcement and security agencies would persist until militancy is fully eradicated from the region.

KARACHI: The Sindh government has revised public holidays for Eid al Adha 2026, with official holidays to be observed across the province from 26 to 28 May.According to a revised notification issued with the approval of Sindh Chief Secretary Asif Hyder Shah, the holidays will apply to all government departments, semi-government institutions and autonomous bodies.The notification also confirmed that local councils and municipal corporations across Sindh would remain closed during the Eid al Adha holidays.In addition, the provincial government has directed that offices across Sindh will operate on a work-from-home basis on Friday, 29 May.However, essential service departments have been exempted from the holiday schedule and will continue normal operations.The government further stated that officials and departments involved in budget preparations would continue working during the Eid break to ensure completion of financial planning and administrative processes. Eid al-Adha 2026 Holidays Announced in Sindh Earlier, the federal government had announced a three-day holiday running from May 26 to May 28.All federal government offices and private institutions will remain closed during the holidays, the federal notification stated.The Ruet-e-Hilal Committee announced that Eid-ul-Adha will be celebrated from May 27 to May 29, following the Zil Hajj moon sighting at a central meeting held in Karachi on May 17.

ISLAMABAD: The National Highways and Motorway Police (NHMP) has announced that its emergency helpline 130 is partially disrupted due to a technical fault, prompting authorities to issue alternative contact numbers for motorists and travellers.In an official statement, the NHMP said the temporary disruption had affected some helpline services, adding that alternative numbers for various motorway police sectors had been provided to ensure uninterrupted assistance during emergencies.Motorway police authorities advised members of the public to contact the relevant motorway police units through the substitute numbers in the event of accidents, emergencies or roadside assistance requirements.The motorway police apologised for the inconvenience and said efforts were underway to maintain support services through the backup contact system to minimise disruption for travellers.The NHMP also stated that further guidance and complaints could be submitted through its official social media handle, @NHMPofficial. Eid-ul-Adha: Motorway police share major update Officials said technical teams were working to resolve the issue and urged motorists to immediately contact the nearest motorway police unit if assistance was required during travel.The National Highways and Motorway Police is a federal law enforcement agency responsible for traffic regulation, commuter safety and crime prevention across Pakistan’s motorways, national highways and expressways. Its headquarters are based in Islamabad.Helpline 130 is widely used by motorists for emergency assistance, accident reporting and travel guidance, while the NHMP regularly issues public awareness advisories regarding traffic safety and motorway regulations.

ISLAMABAD: The Supreme Court (SC) of Pakistan has issued a significant and comprehensive ruling on khula and domestic disputes, holding that divorce through khula cannot be granted without the clear, informed and unambiguous consent of the wife.A three-member bench headed by Chief Justice Yahya Afridi issued the detailed judgment, authored by Justice Shahid Bilal Hassan in a 12-page ruling.The court observed that converting a case based on allegations of cruelty into a khula proceeding without the wife’s consent may adversely affect her financial rights. It directed that women must be given the option to decide whether to pursue allegations of cruelty or proceed with khula.The judgment further stated that where cruelty is not established but the marriage has effectively broken down, the wife must be given the right to choose her legal remedy, adding that courts cannot compel continuation of a “dead marriage”.The court expanded the definition of domestic violence to include not only physical abuse but also psychological harm, humiliation, coercion, neglect and emotional suffering.It noted that mental cruelty encompasses emotional distress, sustained disregard and severe psychological harm.The Supreme Court also clarified that the standard of proof in family cases should be based on “preponderance of probability”, in contrast to criminal cases which require proof beyond reasonable doubt. It emphasised that family courts should not demand unrealistic standards of evidence, such as eyewitness testimony or FIRs, in domestic matters. SC issues landmark ruling on pension rights for divorced daughters Family courts were instructed to avoid applying criminal evidentiary standards in civil family disputes and instead assess cases based on facts, conduct and surrounding circumstances.The case in question involved a marriage contracted on 19 September 2016, with separation proceedings initiated on 8 October 2016. The court noted that even within a short duration, allegations of cruelty may arise, and each case must be decided on its own facts.While the wife failed to substantiate allegations of cruelty, the court upheld earlier findings and noted that the marriage had effectively broken down, with the wife consistently seeking separation.The Supreme Court partially set aside the earlier khula decision and remanded the case to the family court for reconsideration of procedure and determination of financial rights.The family court has been directed to record the wife’s final statement to determine her choice. If she opts for khula, proceedings will continue in accordance with legal requirements; if she pursues allegations of cruelty, the case will be decided on that basis.The Supreme Court further directed the family court to dispose of the matter within 30 days.

Federal Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousaf has urged Pakistani Hajj pilgrims to strictly comply with Saudi laws and regulations during their pilgrimage.In a message to pilgrims in Makkah, the minister called on them to demonstrate patience, discipline and unity, stressing that their conduct reflects the true image of Pakistan.He advised pilgrims to take special care of their health and ensure proper water intake, particularly in the challenging climatic conditions.Sardar Yousaf said that arrangements for Pakistani pilgrims have been significantly improved, with enhanced facilities provided at key Hajj sites including Mina, Arafat and Muzdalifah.He stated that Hajj missions have been instructed to remain fully available for guidance and assistance, and urged pilgrims to immediately contact officials in case of any difficulties or complaints. PIA successfully completes pre-Hajj 2026 operation The minister further appealed to pilgrims to maintain calm and support fellow Hajj pilgrims during periods of crowding and extreme heat, emphasising patience as an essential part of the spiritual journey.He added that arrangements for accommodation, food and transport for Pakistani pilgrims were satisfactory, and reaffirmed that the government was committed to ensuring smooth facilitation throughout the Hajj process.Sardar Yousaf concluded by describing Hajj as a profound spiritual journey and requested pilgrims to remember Pakistan in their prayers.

KARACHI: The city administration has launched a crackdown against illegal cattle markets mushrooming across the metropolis on the instructions of Commissioner Karachi Syed Hassan Naqvi.Local officials have made scores of arrests and registered cases against the people responsible for illegal animal sale points ahead of the Eid ul Adha (Feast of Sacrifice).An illegal cattle market was removed from Shah Faisal Colony and a man was arrested, officials said.Deputy Commissioner Central Taha Saleem in a raid removed a cattle market at Piyala Hotel. The DC said that the responsible people being taken to task and personnel have been deployed at Piyala Hotel to curb animals' trading at the place. "The cattle market also removed twice from the point earlier," deputy commissioner said.DC Korangi Masood Bhutto has stated that various illegal cattle markets at Makhdoom Society A-3 subdivision Korangi and in Korangi number 5 near the bridge have been removed. "The animal markets at Nasir Jump, New Town police station, 16000 road Chakra Goth, Punjab Ground Shah Faisal and Reta Plot".DC Keamari Ameer Afzal Awaisi has said that illegal cattle markets have been removed from the Mauripur truck stand. "The animal markets were causing hurdles in the traffic to and from Hawkes Bay," official said.Commissioner Karachi Syed Hassan Naqvi has said that the illegal cattle were causing sanitary problems and hardships to citizens due to the traffic pressure. The district administrations have launched crackdown against animal markets with the assistance from police, commissioner said.

International Day of Markhor is being observed on Sunday (today).Proclaimed by the UN General Assembly following a resolution spearheaded by Pakistan, this observance highlights the ecological importance of the markhor, its natural habitat, and the need to protect this endangered wild mountain goat.This year, official theme of the day is "Markhor and Mountain Biodiversity: Strengthening Global Efforts for Ecosystem Conservation and Sustainable Development."The Markhor is the national animal of Pakistan, where it is also known as “screw-horned goat.” The resolution invites the UN Environment Programme (UNEP) to facilitate the observance of the International Day of the Markhor.In Pakistan, Markhors are found in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) province’s Chitral, Kohistan and Kalam regions, as well as the Gilgit-Baltistan region, the Balochistan province and parts of Azad Kashmir. UNGA declares May 24 as int'l day of Pakistan's Markhor Once believed to be on the brink of extinction, Markhor numbers have gradually increased, doubling in a couple of decades, with a particular jump since 2014.This is now the 10th straight year that numbers of the long-horned wild goat have grown.“The population of the Markhor has been increasing with an annual ratio of 2% since 2014,” Saeed Abbas, an official with the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) in Pakistan, was quoted as saying in a media interview.The animalr’s current estimated population is between 3,500 and 5,000, a majority of them in KP, followed by Gilgit-Baltistan and Balochistan, according to Abbas.

Pakistan has recorded a significant increase in foreign funding during the current financial year, with official data showing a sharp rise in external inflows compared with the previous year.According to the Ministry of Economic Affairs, the country secured $11 billion in external loans between July and April, marking an increase of around 83% compared with $6 billion received during the same period last year.The rise in foreign financing was supported by both bilateral and multilateral inflows, as well as deferred payment arrangements and rollovers of existing deposits.The ministry reported that total external financial inflows for the period included $8.31 billion in non-project financing and $2.7566 billion in project financing.In addition, Pakistan received $120 million in grants over the same period, compared with $570 million recorded in the corresponding period last year.A substantial portion of the inflows came in April 2026 alone, when the country received approximately $4.5 billion.Among key contributors, Saudi Arabia provided a $1 billion oil financing facility through deferred payment arrangements, while the Islamic Development Bank extended $480 million in loans. IMF seeks higher taxes on solar panels, EVs in FY2027 budget Multilateral lenders also played a significant role, with $1.924 billion received from the Asian Development Bank and $1.6639 billion from the World Bank Group.The report also noted that $3 billion in deposits from Saudi Arabia have already been rolled over, with a further $9 billion in safe deposit rollovers from Saudi Arabia and China expected during the fiscal year.Separately, Pakistan repaid $3 billion to the United Arab Emirates in April 2026. Overall, the Ministry of Economic Affairs estimates total external inflows for the current financial year at $19.39 billion.

HYDERABAD: The Hyderabad Electric Supply Company (HESCO) has declared the 11 KV Mohni Bazaar Feeder in Benazirabad district as free from load shedding.The spokesman of HESCO Sadiq Kubar informed here on Saturday that it happened to be the 55th feeder in the company’s jurisdiction, which would be exempt from the line-losses-based load shedding.According to him, the feeder in question mainly powered the city’s markets having 2,502 commercial consumers and 1,116 domestic.He told that the feeder consisted of 102 pole mounted transformers with its high transmission lines stretching to 7.8 kilometers and the low transmission cables to 6 kms.Separately, Hyderabad SITE Association of Trade and Industry (HSATI) praised HESCO’s Chief Executive Officer Faizullah Dahiri for declaring 11 KV Khattar Bifurcation Feeder in operation division Latifabad, Hyderabad, as exempt from load shedding.In a statement issued here on Saturday the association’s Chairman Zubair Ghangra stated that the development would help the industrial consumers to enhance their production.

SHIKARPUR: In a successful operation in the Kacha area of Shikarpur, the Sindh Police have safely recovered an 11-year-old girl who had been kidnapped from Peshawar. A high-profile robber was killed and several others were injured during the encounter, ARY News reported.The target of the operation, 11-year-old Hoorain Saeed Pathan, was rescued unharmed.During the intense exchange of fire, a key ringleader of the kidnappers, identified as Abdul Waheed (alias Mulla), was neutralized, while his accomplices sustained serious injuries. Later reports confirmed that a second robber, Yaseen Banglani, was also killed in the operation.The crackdown was initiated on the special directives of Inspector General of Police (IGP) Sindh, Javed Alam Odho, who has announced cash prizes and appreciation certificates for all members of the raiding police party.The IGP had tasked Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Shikarpur, Muhammad Kaleem, with ensuring the girl's safe recovery after a post regarding her abduction went viral on social media.The targeted operation in the Kot Shahu area of Kacha commenced on May 22, leading to the initial recovery of Jennifer Amir Masih—a Lahore resident who had been abducted after being lured with a fake job offer.Following continued pressure, the police successfully rescued Hoorain on May 23.The IGP Sindh highly commended the police officers, noting that their bravery, professional expertise, courage, and resilience in rescuing both girls were truly exemplary and worth praising.