KARACHI: The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has issued its official money-market exchange rates for Wednesday, May 6, 2026. The figures reflect the ready (spot) interbank benchmarks and are the authoritative reference for banks, currency dealers, importers, exporters, and remittance companies operating in Pakistan. Here is a detailed breakdown of the dollar rate in Pakistan today alongside all major international currencies, based on the latest SBP data.US Dollar (USD) Rate in Pakistan TodayThe US dollar to Pakistani rupee exchange rate is Rs 278.32 on the ready market today, edging slightly lower from Rs 278.52 recorded just yesterday on May 5. The one-week forward rate is quoted at Rs 279.06, while the one-month forward stands at Rs 280.54. The one-year forward rate is priced at Rs 291.33, consistent with gradual rupee depreciation expectations baked into forward markets. The dollar has now softened modestly for several consecutive sessions, a trend traders will be monitoring to determine whether it represents a sustained shift or near-term consolidation. As Pakistan's primary reserve and trade currency, the USD/PKR rate continues to be the most closely watched financial indicator for businesses, policymakers, and households alike.UK Pound Sterling (GBP) Rate in Pakistan TodayThe British pound to Pakistani rupee rate today is Rs 376.09 on the spot market, pulling back from Rs 377.46 on May 5 as sterling faces mild headwinds in global currency markets. The one-week forward rate is Rs 376.83, and the one-month forward is quoted at Rs 378.40. The one-year forward rate stands at Rs 390.10. Despite today's dip, the pound remains comfortably above the Rs 376 level that has served as a key support zone in recent weeks. For Pakistani workers and students in the United Kingdom, the pound rate in Pakistan today remains an important benchmark for planning remittances and managing cross-border finances. Exchange companies across the country will be reflecting today's GBP/PKR level in their buying and selling rates.Euro (EUR) Rate in Pakistan TodayThe euro to Pakistani rupee rate today is Rs 328.29 on the ready market, a notable recovery from Rs 325.92 on May 5 and the strongest level seen in recent sessions. The one-week forward rate is Rs 328.99, and the one-month forward is Rs 330.49. The one-year forward stands at Rs 346.14. The euro's rebound today may reflect broader strength of the single currency against the US dollar in international markets, which in turn lifts the EUR/PKR cross. Today's euro rate in Pakistan is particularly relevant for the textile and garment industry, where a large share of export contracts with European Union buyers are invoiced in euros, and for importers of European machinery, chemicals, and consumer goods.Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD) Rate in Pakistan TodayThe Kuwaiti dinar retains its position as the highest-valued currency in today's SBP rate sheet, with the ready rate quoted at Rs 911.71. This marks a noticeable uptick from Rs 909.62 on May 5, reinforcing the dinar's strength and its importance as a remittance currency for Pakistan. The one-week forward is Rs 913.54, and the one-month forward is priced at Rs 917.97. The one-year forward rate extends to Rs 957.39. Kuwait hosts hundreds of thousands of Pakistani workers across sectors ranging from oil and petrochemicals to healthcare, retail, and domestic services. Today's Kuwaiti dinar rate in Pakistan means higher rupee receipts for families awaiting transfers from Kuwait, and will be prominently displayed at exchange companies and digital remittance platforms nationwide.Omani Riyal (OMR) Rate in Pakistan TodayThe Omani riyal to Pakistani rupee rate today is Rs 723.99 on the spot market, holding virtually flat against the Rs 724.03 recorded yesterday, demonstrating the characteristic stability that defines Gulf currencies anchored to the US dollar. The one-week forward rate is Rs 724.15, the one-month forward is Rs 726.53, and the one-year rate is priced at Rs 756.88. Oman continues to be a key destination for Pakistani expatriate workers, particularly in construction, logistics, oil field services, and hospitality. The OMR rate today will serve as the primary reference for exchange companies and hawala networks processing remittance transfers from Muscat, Salalah, and Sohar to families across Pakistan.Qatari Riyal (QAR) Rate in Pakistan TodayThe Qatari riyal is trading at Rs 76.49 against the Pakistani rupee on the ready market today, practically unchanged from Rs 76.48 on May 5, reflecting the riyal's firm and unwavering peg to the US dollar. The one-week forward stands at Rs 76.62, the one-month rate is Rs 76.96, and the one-year forward is priced at Rs 79.90. Qatar's significance as a remittance corridor for Pakistan has grown steadily, with a large Pakistani workforce active in the country's ongoing infrastructure, energy, and services expansion. Today's QAR rate in Pakistan is the benchmark used by exchange companies and fintech remittance platforms for transfers from Doha and other Qatari cities to Pakistani cities and towns.Canadian Dollar (CAD) Rate in Pakistan TodayThe Canadian dollar to Pakistani rupee rate today is Rs 205.46 on the spot market, extending its upward trajectory from Rs 204.71 on May 5, Rs 204.15 on April 28, and Rs 203.66 on April 20 — marking four straight weeks of gains for the loonie against the rupee. The one-week forward is Rs 206.18, and the one-month forward is quoted at Rs 207.47. The one-year forward rate stands at Rs 216.52. The CAD's consistent strengthening against the rupee over recent weeks reflects firmer oil prices and resilient Canadian economic data. For the growing Pakistani-Canadian diaspora — including students at universities across Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta, as well as permanent residents remitting earnings home — today's Canadian dollar rate in Pakistan translates into increasingly favourable rupee receipts with each passing week.Other Currency Rates in Pakistan TodayAmong the remaining currencies in today's SBP release, the Japanese yen (JPY) is quoted at Rs 1.93, the Swiss franc (CHF) at Rs 356.84, and the Australian dollar (AUD) at Rs 200.45. The Swedish krona (SEK) is Rs 30.60, the Norwegian krone (NOK) Rs 30.47, and the Danish krone (DKK) Rs 44.02. The UAE dirham (AED) stands at Rs 75.82, the Singapore dollar (SGD) at Rs 218.37, and the Saudi riyal (SAR) at Rs 74.26. The New Zealand dollar (NZD) is at Rs 164.20 and the Malaysian ringgit (MYR) at Rs 70.73. The Bahraini dinar (BHD) is Rs 738.50, the Hong Kong dollar (HKD) Rs 35.86, and the Indian rupee (INR) Rs 2.93. The South African rand (ZAR) is at Rs 16.63, the Bangladeshi taka (BDT) at Rs 2.28, and the Chinese yuan (CNY) at Rs 40.90. The Sri Lankan rupee (LKR) is Rs 0.88, the Thai baht (THB) Rs 8.58, the Turkish lira (TRY) Rs 6.18, the South Korean won (KRW) Rs 0.19, the Russian ruble (RUB) Rs 3.72, the Mexican peso (MXN) Rs 15.96, the Indonesian rupiah (IDR) Rs 0.0164, and the Chinese offshore yuan (CNH) Rs 40.90. The Kazakhstani tenge (KZT) is quoted at Rs 0.60.Disclaimer: All rates cited are official SBP money-market (interbank) ready rates for May 6, 2026.

LAHORE: The Punjab government has partially relaxed its austerity-related restrictions, exempting sports facilities, IT companies, and call centres from the mandatory 8:00 p.m. closing time, according to an official notification issued on Wednesday.The notification, issued by the Chief Secretary Punjab, stated that sports-related activities, including gyms, will no longer be subject to early closure hours.It added that IT firms and call centres, particularly those working with international clients, have been granted exemptions due to operational requirements across global time zones.The decision follows an earlier directive issued on April 6, 2026, which enforced early business closures as part of broader austerity measures.Officials said the move aims to facilitate healthy recreational activities while supporting key economic sectors and ensuring business continuity.Read More: Karachi traders urge immediate end to lockdown restrictionsEarlier, President of the Karachi Electronics Dealers Association, Rizwan Irfan, urged Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah to lift lockdown restrictions or extend business hours amid the ongoing heatwave.He noted that due to intense heat and humidity, most customers prefer visiting markets after 5 p.m., making it difficult for traders to operate effectively within limited hours.He added that restricting business activity to just four hours has severely impacted trade and called on authorities to either remove the restrictions or allow extended evening operations to meet consumer demand.

PESHAWAR: The Excise Taxation and Narcotics Control Department Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on Wednesday announced a crackdown on unregistered vehicles and those defaulting on token tax payments.In a statement shared on social media, the department said special teams comprising police and excise officials will be formed to check unregistered cars, motorcycles, and other vehicles plying on roads.Authorities have urged vehicle owners to immediately register their unregistered vehicles and clear any outstanding token taxes to avoid inconvenience.The department warned that strict legal action will be taken against violators, including heavy fines, vehicle impoundment, and further legal proceedings.Officials added that impounded vehicles will only be returned to their owners upon the presentation of valid registration and verified documents.The District Excise, Taxation and Narcotics Control office also appealed to citizens to comply with regulations and ensure timely payment of token taxes. 

LAHORE: The government of Pakistan has suspended new gas connections nationwide due to the ongoing gas supply crisis, ARY News reported on Wednesday, citing well-informed sources.The move comes just months after the government had lifted an earlier ban on new connections.As soon as the federal government lifted ban on new gas connections, Sui Northern Gas Company (SNGPL) was inundated with applications for new connections.Under the Fast Track category, around 400,000 new applications were received till January 15, according to Sui Gas authorities.Meanwhile, approximately 300,000 applications were received under the normal merit category, SNGPL officials confirmed.According to details, the Ministry of Petroleum has issued an official notification regarding the suspension of new gas connections.Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited has also halted the issuance of demand notices. Sources said that even consumers who had already paid urgent or regular processing fees would not receive new connections at this stage.Officials stated that gas supplies are expected to improve once the situation in the Strait of Hormuz stabilises.They added that liquefied natural gas (RLNG) cargo vessels are currently unable to arrive because of disruptions linked to the Strait of Hormuz situation.Authorities described the ban on new gas connections as temporary and said the process would resume once RLNG supplies return to normal.

KARACHI: The Met Office has issued alert regarding another heatwave in Sindh from May 07, Thursday (tomorrow).The Met Office has warned that the temperatures could soar between 47 to 49 Celsius in daytime.Sindh's upper and central districts could be hit by an extremely hot weather. "Temperatures could soar to intense heat in Dadu, Shaheed Benazirabad, Ghotki, Khairpur, Naushahro Feroz, Jacobabad, Larkana and Sukkur districts".A hot and dry weather spell continuing in most of the areas in country as various parts of Sindh and Balochistan.“Maximum temperature in Turbat has reached to 46 Celsius today,” the Met Office said.The weather office has advised citizens to observe caution, avoid exposure to the Sun, particularly in peak hours of day and get hydrated by drinking maximum water.The extreme heat, which has persisted for last two days, has claimed 14 lives in the metropolis, eight heatwave deaths reported in city on Monday.

CHARSADDA: Police have identified one suspect allegedly involved in the murder of prominent cleric Maulana Muhammad Idrees, officials said on Wednesday.Maulana Idrees was martyred in a targeted attack on Tuesday in the Utmanzai area of Charsadda, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.According to police, the suspect was identified with the help of CCTV footage, and raids are being conducted in Akbarpura and Nowshera to apprehend him.The investigation is being jointly carried out by the police and the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD). Authorities have also launched search operations in the suburbs of Charsadda.Officials said the identified suspect is believed to be linked to a banned outfit. The scope of the investigation has been widened, including profiling of suspects, tracking of suspicious vehicles, and examination of call data records.The investigation team has contacted relevant institutions to obtain mobile phone data from the crime scene.Police have also recorded the statement of the driver of Maulana Idrees’ vehicle and decided to include suspects from previous high-profile cases in the Mardan region in the probe.Maulana Idrees was a senior teacher at Darul Uloom Haqqania and a former member of the provincial assembly affiliated with Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI).He was on his way to deliver a Hadith lesson as usual when the attack occurred.Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif expressed grief over the killing and extended condolences to the bereaved family.Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Muhammad Sohail Afridi strongly condemned the attack and sought a report from police authorities. He termed the incident tragic and assured full support to the bereaved family, while directing officials to ensure the best medical care for the injured personnel. 

KARACHI- The Iranian rial (IRR) remains a major point of interest in Pakistan’s informal currency market as of Wednesday, May 6, 2026, with steady buyer interest helping maintain the local premium. Currency dealers across Karachi, Quetta, and Lahore indicate that the standard bundle of 1 crore Iranian rials (10 million IRR) is trading between PKR 8,000 and PKR 10,000 in the cash segment. This level continues to stand three to four times above the earlier baseline near PKR 2,500, despite the rial’s ongoing weakness versus leading global currencies.Current Rates as of May 6, 2026 Rates vary by dealer, city, and deal volume — always verify with authorized exchange companies for real-time quotes. Open Market (Informal Cash Market in Pakistan – Premium Bundle Rate) (Approx. based on PKR 8,000–10,000 for 1 crore / 10 million IRR) 1 PKR buys approximately 1,000 Iranian rials 10 PKR buys approximately 10,000 Iranian rials 1,000 PKR buys approximately 1,000,000 Iranian rials (10 lakh rials) 1 crore IRR costs approximately PKR 8,000–10,000 Authentic / Mid-Market Rate (International benchmark / official conversion rate – no local premium) (Approx. 1 PKR ≈ 4,715–4,725 Iranian rials) 1 PKR buys approximately 4,720 Iranian rials 10 PKR buys approximately 47,200 Iranian rials 1,000 PKR buys approximately 4,720,000 Iranian rials (approx. 47.2 lakh rials) (Equivalent: 1 crore IRR ≈ PKR 2,115–2,125) Why people are still buying the Iranian rial in Pakistan Demand stays fueled by two primary drivers: Speculation and investment: Buyers and traders keep acquiring rials in anticipation of possible gains linked to US-Iran diplomatic developments, sanctions relief hopes, or other regional geopolitical changes that might bolster the currency going forward. It is widely seen as a quick-profit play amid current conditions. Cross-border trade needs: Ongoing requirement for physical rials persists in informal and semi-official trade with Iran, particularly for petroleum products, fuel, food items, and other merchandise via Balochistan border channels. Recent adjustments in transit and export policies have backed this flow, where cash settlements in rials are essential. Experts warn that although the domestic premium offers trading chances, the Iranian rial continues to show high volatility on the global stage. Small buyers should watch out for hazards like fake notes and abrupt shifts if trade patterns or political events evolve.

The Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) has released data on large-scale manufacturing production, showing a 6.48 per cent increase during the July–March period of the current fiscal year.According to the bureau, large-scale industrial production in March 2026 rose by 11.09 per cent compared with the same month last year. However, on a monthly basis, industrial output in March 2026 declined by 5.19 per cent compared to February.The bureau stated that the Large-Scale Manufacturing Index (LSMI) remained at 123.03 points during the July–March period.For March 2026, the quantum index reached 124.89 points. The food sector contributed 1.79 per cent to overall industrial growth, while the automobile sector contributed 1.50 per cent.The garments sector recorded a 1.08 per cent increase, while petroleum products contributed 0.79 per cent growth. The cement sector also posted a 0.50 per cent increase in overall industrial performance.In contrast, the pharmaceutical sector recorded a decline of 0.31 per cent, while iron and steel performance fell by 0.27 per cent.

QUETTA: An officer of the Frontier Corps (FC), Lieutenant Colonel Khalid Hussain, was martyred during an intelligence-based operation (IBO) in Balochistan.According to officials, Lt Col Khalid Hussain sustained injuries during the operation while displaying exceptional bravery and later he embraced martyrdom.His funeral prayers were offered at the headquarters of Frontier Corps Balochistan (North) in Quetta, where a large number of senior military, civil, and political officials attended.Participants paid tribute to the martyred officer, honoring his sacrifice for the country and describing it as a lasting example of courage and dedication to national peace and stability.Lt Col Khalid Hussain will be laid to rest in his native village with full military honors.Officials said the nation will always remember the sacrifices of its brave sons who laid down their lives for the security and integrity of the country.Read More: Corps Commanders’ Conference maps security priorities amid evolving threat landscapeEarlier, Pakistan’s top military leadership on Tuesday reaffirmed its commitment to eliminating militant networks and ensuring national security during the 275th Corps Commanders’ Conference (CCC), chaired by Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, said a statement issued by Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).According to the military media wing, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, NI (M), HJ, COAS & CDF, presided over the 275th Corps Commanders’ Conference (CCC) at General Headquarters (GHQ), Rawalpindi.The Forum paid rich tribute to the Shuhada of the Armed Forces, Law Enforcement Agencies, and innocent civilians who laid down their lives in defence of the motherland. Paying profound tribute to their unmatched sacrifices, the Forum reaffirmed that the enduring legacy of the martyrs continues to serve as the bedrock of Pakistan’s national security, unity, and resilience.The COAS & CDF, Asim Munir, expressed satisfaction over the high standards of operational preparedness, professionalism, and combat readiness of the Pakistan Armed Forces. He commended commanders and formations for their unwavering commitment, vigilance, and success in ongoing intelligence-based counter-terrorism operations across the country.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has instructed the formulation of a comprehensive strategy to meet future energy requirements through renewable energy sources.He was chairing a review meeting in Islamabad today on the progress of reforms in the power sector.The Prime Minister said electricity generation through renewable sources, including hydropower, solar energy, and biogas, will further reduce production costs and have a positive impact on economic growth. He directed the authorities to accelerate efforts to reduce dependence on imported fuel.Shehbaz Sharif also made it clear that there will be no leniency for those involved in electricity theft. He directed that departmental action be taken against electricity distribution companies that have violated the Economic Merit Order in recent days. He added that the implementation of the project to install smart meters on transformers in areas prone to electricity theft should be expedited.The Prime Minister called for accelerating efforts to promote a competitive electricity market in the country. He also directed that work on supplying 400 megawatts of electricity to the private sector under the wheeling system in the first phase be fast-tracked.The meeting was informed that losses related to electricity theft, non-recovery, and other inefficiencies in distribution companies have significantly decreased due to effective measures compared to last year.It was informed that transmission losses have reduced from 18.3 percent in June 2024 to 15.3 percent in March 2026. Similarly, electricity bill recovery has improved from 90 percent in June 2024 to 96.46 percent in March 2026.The meeting was also updated that work on the inclusion of the private sector in three distribution companies is underway, and the bidding process will be completed by November this year.It was further shared that smart meters have been installed on 2,500 loss-making feeders.

ISLAMABAD: Supreme Court and the Federal Constitutional Court (FCC) are not bound to each other, they are equal courts, a division bench of the apex court headed by Chief Justice Yahya Afridi said in a detailed verdict on jurisdiction.The key verdict interpreting the two courts' jurisdictions said that the FCC's decisions will be implementable over other courts."Article 189 doesn't offer subordination of the one court to other," the Supreme Court describes. "The appeals of the constitutional petitions filed under Article 189 will be heard by the constitutional court," the bench said in its verdict.The SC bench said that clubbed constitutional and regular cases should be sent to separate forums for hearing. "The constitutional cases will be heard by the constitutional court and the regular cases will be heard by the supreme court, the decision read."To avoid contradictory verdicts, the principle of "judicial respect" will be followed, and both courts will decide cases while respecting each other's jurisdictions," according to the verdict.The FCC will hear the appeals filed under the Article 199, while general civil and regular appeals will remain with the supreme court, the decision read."The Federal Constitutional Court has a specific constitutional jurisdiction after the 27th Constitutional Amendment.The court ordered to de-club relevant cases in a joint verdict given by the Peshawar High Court. "The civil appeals will remain under the hearing of the supreme court while the constitutional petitions' appeals will be heard by the constitutional court"."The contempt of court cases will be heard by the concerned court whose orders have been violated," the verdict read.

The Sindh government has decided to postpone the Pink Games due to severe heatwave conditions across the province.According to the Sindh Sports Ministry, the Sindh Pink Games were scheduled to take place from 8 to 10 May in Shaheed Benazirabad, also known as Nawabshah.Sports associations had requested the postponement of the event because of the extreme weather conditions.Around 1,500 athletes were expected to participate in 21 different sports during the Pink Games. The Sindh Sports Ministry stated that new dates for the event will be announced soon.Meanwhile, the hot and dry weather spell continuing in most of the areas in country as various parts of Sindh and Balochistan are hit by scorching hot weather.“Maximum temperature in Turbat is expected to hit 45 Celsius, while the mercury could soar to 44 Celsius in Mithi, Jacobabad and Nawabshah,” the Met Office predicted.The maximum temperature in Hyderabad, Sukkur and Larkana likely to reach to 42 Celsius.Temperatures in Karachi have slightly dropped comparing to yesterday, still the weather in the port city will remain hot and dry and expected to hit 38 Celsius, the Met Office said on Wednesday.

KARACHI: The hot and dry weather spell continuing in most of the areas in country as various parts of Sindh and Balochistan are hit by scorching hot weather."Maximum temperature in Turbat is expected to hit 45 Celsius, while the mercury could soar to 44 Celsius in Mithi, Jacobabad and Nawabshah," the Met Office predicted.The maximum temperature in Hyderabad, Sukkur and Larkana likely to reach to 42 Celsius.Temperatures in Karachi have slightly dropped comparing to yesterday, still the weather in the port city will remain hot and dry and expected to hit 38 Celsius, the Met Office said on Wednesday.Another heatwave is expected in Sindh from May 07, while the next spell of soaring temperatures in Karachi will begin from May 13.The Met Office has denied any possibility of rainfall in the city in May, according to existing weather calculations.The weather office has advised citizens to observe caution, avoid exposure to the Sun, particularly in peak hours of day and get hydrated by drinking maximum water.The port city sizzled on Monday in the hottest day of this summer as the maximum temperature soared above 40 Celsius due to suspension of sea breeze combined with relentless hot, dry northwesterly winds pushing the city into heatwave conditions.The extreme heat, which has persisted for last two days, has claimed 14 lives in the metropolis, eight heatwave deaths reported in city on Monday.

Rawalpindi: The Australian Royal Military College (RMC), Duntroon, has declared Pakistani Army Cadet Sardar Arsam Abbas (PMA 152 Long Course) the “Overall Best Foreign Military Cadet” on the passing out parade held at RMC Duntroon, Canberra on 5 May 2026, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said on Wednesday.According to ISPR, the award is conferred upon the highest performing foreign military cadet across all facets of training. The military's media wing called it a testament to the highest standards of professionalism, commitment and excellence demonstrated by the junior leadership of the Pakistan Army.The commissioning parade was reviewed by the Australian Chief of Army Lieutenant General Simon Stuart, AO DSC. The event was witnessed by members of diplomatic corps including the Pakistani High Commissioner in Canberra, families of graduating cadets and Australian Defence Force officials.ISPR further stated that Pakistan and Australia share a longstanding military relationship. Since 2013, 7 officers of the Pakistan Army have served as platoon commanders on the faculty of RMC, while 46 Pakistani Army cadets have graduated from this prestigious institution since 2009.This marks the 14th occasion on which a Pakistani Army Cadet has been declared the Overall Best Foreign Military Cadet “including Lieutenant Nasir Hussain Khalid Selhria Shaheed, Tamgha-e-Basalat, who embraced shahadat on 4 September 2020 in North Waziristan District.The name of Lieutenant Nasir Shaheed is also inscribed on the memorial stone at the RMC parade ground, symbolising the enduring legacy of courage sacrifice and honour of brave Pakistani Army Officers, ISPR added.

ISLAMABAD: Electricity consumers across Pakistan, including those served by K-Electric, are likely to receive major financial relief amounting to nearly Rs64 billion, ARY News reported on Wednesday.According to details, power distribution companies (DISCOs) have submitted a petition seeking adjustments for the first quarter of 2026.The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority is scheduled to hear the request on 19 May in Islamabad. The distribution companies have sought relief of Rs63.936 billion for the January to March period.The petition includes a proposed reduction of Rs36.837 billion under capacity charges, while a further decrease of Rs11.243 billion has been requested under system usage charges and market operation fees. At the same time, the companies have sought recovery of Rs2.777 billion under monthly adjustment losses.A reduction of Rs23.51 billion has also been requested under incremental units. Officials said the proposed reduction in electricity prices would also apply to K-Electric consumers. Electricity bills now payable online via QR code Earlier, Chief Minister of Sindh, Syed Murad Ali Shah, unveiled plans to generate and distribute affordable electricity through a provincial transmission and distribution framework, aiming to provide relief to domestic consumers and boost industrial growth across the province.He shared this vision while meeting with Danish Ambassador Maja Derrous Mortensen at the CM House, where both sides discussed strengthening bilateral cooperation, investment opportunities, renewable energy, and environmental sustainability.The chief minister Sindh said the provincial government was working on initiatives to produce low-cost electricity and ensure its efficient supply through a Sindh-run transmission company. He said improved generation efficiency and reduced line losses would help lower electricity costs for consumers.

The US Department of State has announced the phased closure of the U.S. Consulate General in Peshawar, citing security considerations and the need for more efficient allocation of diplomatic resources. Responsibility for diplomatic engagement with Pakistan’s Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KPK) province will now shift to the US Embassy in Islamabad.In an official statement, the State Department emphasized that the move reflects its “commitment to the safety of diplomatic personnel and efficient resource management.” While the physical presence in Peshawar will wind down, U.S. officials stressed that engagement with the region will continue through other diplomatic channels.The decision comes against the backdrop of a fragile security environment in Peshawar and the broader Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region. In recent years, KPK has witnessed a resurgence of militant activity, including attacks on security forces, government installations, and civilian targets. Peshawar, once considered relatively stabilized after major counterterrorism operations, has again faced periodic security incidents, raising concerns among foreign missions.The State Department’s current travel advisory places Khyber Pakhtunkhwa under a high-risk category, urging U.S. citizens to reconsider travel due to terrorism and security threats. The advisory highlights risks such as improvised explosive devices (IEDs), targeted killings, and ongoing counterterrorism operations, particularly in areas bordering Afghanistan.Despite the closure, US officials reiterated that policy priorities in Pakistan remain unchanged, including strengthening economic ties, supporting regional stability, and maintaining cooperation with Pakistani authorities. Diplomatic operations will continue through U.S. missions in Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore.The move also aligns with broader remarks by President Donald Trump, who has previously advocated reducing the U.S. diplomatic footprint globally. In his statements, President Trump called for scaling back what he described as “unnecessary” embassies and consulates, arguing that resources should be concentrated where they are most strategically needed.

Bhakkar: The Green Pakistan Initiative (GPI) has successfully transformed vast stretches of barren land into lush, productive farmland in the Bhakkar district of Punjab.Experts have described the initiative as a cornerstone of the province’s agricultural revolution and a key driver of environmental resilience.The GPI aims to shift from traditional farming methods to a technology-driven, corporate agricultural model. This approach is designed to convert thousands of acres of uncultivated land into productive assets.By introducing modern technology and corporate farming practices, the initiative has brought significant areas of barren land under cultivation. It has also increased agricultural output, improved the efficient use of water resources, and contributed to meaningful improvements in the livelihoods of local farmers.[video mp4="https://arynews-1313565080.cos.ap-singapore.myqcloud.com/zip-archives/wp-content/uploads/2026/05/WhatsApp-Video-2026-05-06-at-7.15.58-AM.mp4"][/video]The program places strong emphasis on environmental protection by promoting the responsible use of water and natural resources, while laying the foundation for a sustainable, long-term green economy. Expansion of Modern Agriculture and Exports Under the Green Pakistan Initiative, steady progress is being made toward innovation in agriculture, expansion of exports, and achieving self-sufficiency.CEO of Pantera Limited, Furqan Ali Akhtar, stated that a modern 1,800-acre agricultural farm in Bhakkar was developed in just 60 days, setting a new benchmark.He added that irrigation at the farm is ensured through 13 central pivot systems and a 2.4-megawatt hybrid solar power system.Chief Operating Officer of Pantera Farms, Farooq Saeed, noted that just four months ago, the land consisted of sand dunes ranging from 20 to 50 feet in height, which were transformed into cultivable land within a short period.Out of the total 1,800 acres, 1,300 acres are currently under cultivation, where wheat and Rhodes grass are being grown. Rhodes grass is also being exported.Farooq Saeed emphasized that the project would not have been possible without the full support of GPI, including infrastructure development and timely resolution of issues.He further stated that the Green Agri Mall has ensured the transparent and timely provision of quality seeds, fertilizers, and agricultural inputs.Additionally, through collaboration with Chinese companies under the GPI, hybrid seeds have been introduced in Pakistan for the first time.

KARACHI: Demonstrating unwavering vigilance and commitment to international maritime obligations, Pakistan Navy promptly responded to a distress call from the multi-purpose offshore vessel MV GAUTAM operating in the Arabian Sea.The vessel, carrying seven crew members, including six Indian and one Indonesian nationals, suffered a critical technical failure while en route from Oman to India, leaving it stranded at sea.Upon receiving a distress alert from the Maritime Rescue Coordination Centre (MRCC) Mumbai, the Pakistan Navy, in coordination with Pakistan Maritime Security Agency (PMSA) immediately initiated a swift and coordinated response. Leveraging its robust maritime surveillance and response capability, Pakistan Navy ensured rapid deployment of PMSA Ship KASHMIR.The ship rendered timely assistance to the distressed vessel, including the provision of food, medical aid, and other necessary supplies to the crew, along with technical assistance to restore essential systems.This prompt response highlights Pakistan Navy’s steadfast commitment to ensuring the safety of life at sea and upholding international humanitarian and maritime responsibilities, irrespective of nationality. The operation stands as a testament to Pakistan Navy’s role as a responsible and capable maritime force, always ready to respond to emergencies across regional waters. 

ISLAMABAD: The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has published a list of 98 illegal housing schemes on its official website to protect the public from widespread property fraud.Property scams have become increasingly common across Pakistan, with naive citizens lured by promises of affordable homes, plots, and apartments. Victims are often persuaded to invest their savings in projects that either do not exist or lack legal authorisation.The CDA has uploaded the list of unauthorised housing and agro-farming schemes on its official website, urging citizens to verify the legal status of any project before making financial commitments.According to the authority, these schemes have not obtained the required No Objection Certificates (NOCs) and approval, therefore, they have no legal standing in Islamabad.The CDA has also issued a list of fake housing projects and informed the public that the CDA Ordinance, 1960, ICT (Zoning) Regulations, 1992 and the revised rules and procedures for development of private housing schemes empower the CDA to regulate the planning and development of housing/farm housing.CDA also highlighted a two-stage approval process for private housing schemes. Developers must first secure approval of layout plans (LOP), followed by the issuance of an NOC after fulfilling all regulatory requirements. Only then are they permitted to begin development work and sell plots.

LAHORE: Protecting property from illegal occupation and damage is a major concern for owners, but the Punjab government has now introduced a new measure to ensure citizens' assets remain safe and secure, ARY News reported. To achieve this, the provincial government has launched the Green Property Certificate, a document that provides official legal verification of both property ownership and physical possession. To encourage public adoption, the government has introduced a subsidized fee for a limited time.How to Obtain the Certificate Property owners wishing to secure their assets should visit their nearest Land Record Center to submit an application. Once applied, a verification process begins. Relevant officials will scrutinize all documents and applicant information, followed by a physical on-site survey. The certificate is issued only after final verification by the Assistant Director of Land Records and other senior officials. Key Benefits and Cost Savings The primary advantage of the Green Property Certificate is that it provides foolproof legal standing regarding who owns the land and who occupies it. Currently, the government has fixed the subsidized fee at only Rs 900. Without this subsidy, the expected cost of the certificate would be significantly higher, making this a vital window for owners to secure their property affordably.