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ISLAMABAD: The Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) has said that the state-owned enterprises (SOEs) extensive role in the transmission and distribution sectors, hinders power sector's development.A report on the state of competition in power sector, released by the CCP, points out strong presence of SOEs and the resulting impact on competition within the power sector.The report recommends the government to open the power market and enforce the model of Competitive Trading Bilateral Contract Market (CTBCM).The CCP report recommends direct agreements between the power producing and selling companies for purchase and transmission. The Competition Commission report also suggests the end of in-between role of the Central Power Purchasing Agency (CPPA).The NEPRA had approved implementation of the CTBCM model in 2020.The commission's report also recommends separation of power production, transmission and distribution."There is need to upgrade the outdated power transmission system on emergency basis," according to report."The state-owned distribution companies have been in nine to 35 percent line losses and the only solution of line losses has been privatization of the distribution companies," report said. "More efficient distribution entities are bearing losses of the underperforming DISCOs," according to CCP report.The report suggests that the buyers should enter in direct purchase agreements with the power generation plants.The CCP also recommend instant shutdown of outdated power plants to decrease the burden of capacity payment. It recommends implementation of the Transmission Line Policy 2015.The competition commission also recommends inviting private sector to join the transmission infrastructure.The CCP recommends privatization of the DISCOS to bring the line losses down.At the report’s launch, CCP Chairman Dr Kabir Ahmed Sidhu emphasised the critical role of a competitive power sector in driving economic growth and providing affordable energy to consumers.
LAHORE: Polluted air persists in Punjab and Lahore remains on the top of the list of the world's big cities with over 700 Air Quality Index reading, ARY News reported on Saturday.Bad air continuing to haunt Lahore and several other cities of Punjab despite authorities' desperate steps to curb smog.Shrine city of Multan with its 1659 AQI reading has been the most polluted place of Pakistan with dangerous level of hazardous pollutants in the air.The Lahore-Islamabad and Lahore-Sialkot Motorway sections have been closed for vehicular traffic owing to poor visibility caused by thick fog.Punjab government recently announced closure of schools upto higher secondary level in smog hit districts of the province till 17 November.The schools' shutdown in Lahore, Sheikhupura, Kasur, Nankana Sahib, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Hafiz Abad, Mandi Bahauddin, Sialkot, Narowal, Faisalabad, Chinniot, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh, Multan, Lodharan, Vehari and Khanewal districts.The decision made as the province grappling with severe air pollution, which have soared to alarming levels, affecting the public health, especially of children.Lahore has been consistently ranked top among the most polluted cities globally, prompting urgent action from authorities.Senior provincial minister Marriyum Aurangzeb said that the air direction from India, has been towards Lahore resulting in increasing smog. “This issue could not be resolved without talking to India.”“Polluted eastern winds, blowing from India, have direction towards Lahore,” secretary environment protection agency, Jahangir Anwar said.“This polluted air has added to smog in Lahore and given extraordinary boost to the AQI reading,” Anwar said.Talking to AFP earlier, senior environmental protection official said, “We have never reached a level of 1,000.”For days, Lahore has been enveloped by smog, a mix of fog and pollutants caused by low-grade diesel fumes, smoke from seasonal agricultural burning and winter cooling.Air pollution level in Lahore once soared to more than 80 times over the level deemed acceptable by the World Health Organization (WHO), AFP said in a report.The level of deadly PM2.5 pollutants — fine particulate matter in the air that causes the most damage to health — peaked at 1,067, before dropping to around 300 in the morning, with anything above 10 considered unhealthy by the WHO.
LAHORE: A Change of guards’ ceremony held at the mausoleum of Allama Iqbal in Lahore on 147th birth anniversary of the great poet and thinker, ARY News reported on Saturday.Smartly turned-out contingents of Pakistan Rangers and Pakistan Navy took charge of the guards’ duties.Commander Central Punjab of Pakistan Navy, Rear Admiral Azhar Mehmood, who was the chief guest of the ceremony.The chief guest inspected the contingents of Rangers and Pakistan Navy and laid floral wreath at the Mazar on behalf of Admiral Pakistan Navy, Naveed Ashraf, and offered Fateha.Allama Iqbal was born on 9th November 1877 in Sialkot.He passed his M.A in philosophy from Government College Lahore after which for higher education he went to London and did his law from Lincoln’s Inn.He did his PhD in philosophy from Germany’s Ludwig Maximilian University, Munich.Acting President Yousaf Raza Gillani and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have paid tribute to Allama Muhammad Iqbal on his 147th birth anniversary.Acting President Gillani in a message on the anniversary, has said that Allama Iqbal's philosophy and thought created the path to the independent country. "We renew our determination for the unity, peace and prosperity of the country"."Allama Iqbal was an insightful poet and philosopher, and his thought and writings had profound impact over the subcontinent as well as the world, and created the spirit for freedom in Muslims," Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said."His philosophy united the Muslims of Subcontinent and given them the dream of a separate homeland. We must renew our determination to give reality to the teachings of Iqbal," he added.
QUETTA: At least 24 persons were killed and more than 40 were injured including women and children in an explosion at Quetta railway station's platform, ARY News reported on Saturday.Commissioner Quetta Hamza Shafqaat giving account of the deadly railway station bombing in Quetta this morning said that the blast took place at 8:25am leaving 24 dead and more than 40 injured.The Commissioner said that five injured of the blast have been in a critical condition."According to preliminary information it was a suicide bombing," Commissioner added.The blast took place at the time of the departure of Jaffar Express when large number of passengers were present at the railway station, police said. The injured have been transferred to hospital for medical attendance."It might be a suicide bombing," SSP Operations Mohammad Baloch earlier said. "Police inquiring into the nature of the explosion. Police has collected CCTV footages of the blast," police officer further said.Baluchistan's chief minister Sarfaraz Bugti has condemned the incident and vowed to eliminate terrorism.Sources said that that the security forces have cordoned off the railway station after the deadly blast.The railway authorities have said that two trains, Chaman Passenger and Jaffar Express, were scheduled to depart from Quetta to Chaman and Peshawar respectively. The passengers of both trains were present at railway station platform at the time of the blast.Acting President Yousaf Raza Gillani has condemned Quetta blast and vowed to take all possible steps for complete elimination of terrorism.Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has denounced the explosion in Quetta and summoned investigation report of the incident. "Terrorists have to pay heavy price of their heinous act," he added.Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has said that terrorists are trying to create instability in Pakistan. "The nation will foil their designs", he said.People's Party's Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari condemning the terrorism incident in Quetta said that those targeting innocent citizens could not be given any concession. "We are backing all steps to get rid of the terrorists and their facilitators".
ROJHAN: The Punjab police claimed to have killed Shahid Lund, the ringleader of Kathca area's (riverine area) notorious Lund gang, in an encounter, ARY News reported.Initially, the Punjab Police confirmed that Shahid Lund was killed by his own associates but later claimed that the Lund gang's ringleader was fatally shot in a joint operation by Rahim Yar Khan and Rajanpur police.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Tm2pCJOuukShahid Lund, who was wanted in several high-profile cases such as murder and kidnapping for ransom, had been on the run for some time. The Punjab government had placed a reward of Rs 10 million on his capture, highlighting the severity of his criminal activities.Initially, the Punjab Police claimed that Shahid Lund was shot dead by his accomplice Umar Lund, following a heated argument between the two. Umar Lund and his companions reportedly opened fire, resulting in Shahid's death, as per the initial claim of police.Read More: Cop martyred, notorious dacoit killed in Katcha area operationMoments after, the police said that Shahid Lund was killed by the law enforcers, adding that the joint operation by Rahim Yar Khan and Rajanpur police had been in progress for two months, aimed at eliminating criminal elements in the region.Meanwhile, the inspector general of police lauded the successful operation by the police forces of Rahim Yar Khan and Rajanpur.Earlier, a cop embraced martyrdom while two sustained injuries as Sindh Rangers and Police carried out a joint operation against Katcha area dacoits, resulting in the killing of a most wanted criminal and the arrest of two others in injured condition.According to a Rangers spokesperson, the paramilitary force and police in a joint operation also detained six suspected individuals. The killed robber was identified as the brother of Malguzar Bhulkani with head money on him.
Thailand's rich history, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture have made it a favorite travel destination for tourists from all over the world.Citizens of numerous countries, including Pakistan, need to apply for a visit visa in order to travel to Thailand for tourism.Pakistani nationals who wish to visit Thailand can apply for a tourist visa directly from the Thai embassy in Pakistan or through approved intermediaries.Thailand visa typesThailand provides Pakistani applicants with two types of visit visas: single entrance and multiple entry.Documents required Passport with at least 6-month validity Application forms Cover letter Bank statement (1 year) 2 passport-size photos 2 copies of CNIC 2 copies of passport NTN Letter Confirmed air ticket Confirmed hotel Booking Thailand visa fee in PakistanThe fee of a three-month-valid single-entry tourist visa is Rs13,000, while the cost of a six-month-valid multiple-entry visit visa is Rs65,000 as of November 2024.
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Railways (PR) has decided to launch two special trains to facilitate the Sikh community for their annual event, ARY News reported.The first special train will depart from Karachi on 12th November at 10:30 PM. Additionally, a shuttle train will start its journey from Larkana at midnight and merge with the Karachi special train at Rohri station. Pakistan Railways has made this arrangement to ensure smooth travel for pilgrims coming from different regions.The second special train is scheduled to depart from Nankana Sahib on 16th November at 4:00 PM. For the return journey, a shuttle train will leave from Rohri and head towards Larkana.These special trains have been organised to accommodate Sikh pilgrims and provide them with convenient travel options for attending the annual religious event at Nankana Sahib.Read More: Pakistan Railways offers 50pc concession for specially-abled personsSimilarly on 4 Nov, Pakistan Railways announced to run a special train from Karachi to Raiwind in an attempt to facilitate the participants of Tableeghi Jamaat. The ministry aimed to generate approximately Rs 8.5 million the newly special service to achieve the fiscal year (2024-25) revenue target of more than Rs100bn.Earlier in September, Pakistan Railways announced a 50 per cent concession in fares to facilitate specially-able persons traveling in all express and passenger trainsAccording to an official of Railways Ministry, the concession will be granted upon producing Computerized National Identity Card bearing disability logo.He said that a 50 percent discount has also been offered to the attendant accompanying visually impaired persons.
ISLAMABAD: The Judicial Commission of Pakistan (JCP) on Friday nominated all judges of the Sindh High Court (SHC) as members of constitutional bench for expeditious disposal of the existing huge backlog of cases.All judges of the SHC can hear constitutional cases till 24th November 2024 as the Judicial Commission of Pakistan will take up the matter once again 25th November.The decision was taken in the second meeting of the Judicial Commission of Pakistan, constituted under the 26 Constitutional Amendment held in the Supreme Court here.The meeting was chaired by Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Justice Yahya Afridi and discussed one-point agenda of formation of a constitutional bench within the SHC.Chief Justice SHC Justice Muhammad Shafi Siddiqui proposed that all judges of the court might continue hearing the constitutional cases till November 24.“Following an extensive and thoughtful exchange of views, the commission unanimously endorsed the proposal put forth by Chief Justice of the High Court of Sindh, Mr Muhammad Shafi that all the existing Judges of the High Court are nominated to be the Judges of Constitutional Benches for expeditious disposal of the existing huge backlog of cases,” a press statement issued here read.Read More: Justice Aminuddin nominated as head of constitutional benchThe Judicial Commission of Pakistan meeting was attended by Justice Syed Mansoor Ali Shah, Justice Munib Akhtar, Justice Amin-ud-Din Khan and Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhail SHC Chief Justice Muhammad Shafi Siddiqui, Federal Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar, Federal Minister for Law and Justice, Attorney General of Pakistan Mansoor Usman Awan and Senator Farooq Hamid Naek.The others who attended the meeting included Senator Syed Shibli Faraz, Sheikh Aftab Ahmad, Omar Ayub Khan, Khurshid Barucha, Sindh Law Miniser Ziaul Hassan Lanjar and member Sindh Bar Council Qurban Ali Malano.The Registrar of the Supreme Court also attended as Secretary to the Commission.Earlier on November 5, Senior Supreme Court judge Justice Aminuddin Khan has been appointed as the head of the 7-member constitutional bench formed by the Judicial Commission of Pakistan.The Judicial Commission of Pakistan headed by Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Yahya Afridi nominated Justice Aminuddin as head of the constitutional bench by a majority of 7-5 members.The JCP formed a seven-member constitutional bench including Justice Aminuddin Khan, Justice Ayesha Malik from Punjab, Justice Naeem Akhtar Afghan and Justice Jamal Mandokhel from Balochistan.Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar and Justice Hasan Azhar Rizvi from Sindh, and Justice Musarrat Hilali from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa have also been nominated as members of the constitutional bench.
QUETTA: Talat Aziz, a Punjab University student, who recently surrendered to authorities from the banned Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA), shared insights into the outfit's recruitment tactics, ARY News reported.Talat Aziz revealed that his association with certain Baloch students at the university led to his brainwashing towards joining the banned BLA.Talat Aziz said that he was convinced to take up arms for the 'so-called ' independence of Balochistan and was lured by the idea of 'starting a new life in the mountains'.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f71O3mDeWHYTalat Aziz appealed to his Baloch brothers and sisters, not to fall prey to misleading narratives about missing persons and false promises of freedom that aim to destroy their future.Talat Aziz accused Baloch student councils at Punjab University of playing a pivotal role in brainwashing youth. "I am a Pakistani, and Balochistan is a beautiful province of Pakistan," he stated with conviction.He further claimed that BLA terrorists target young minds by spreading hatred against Punjabis."BLA terrorists are involved in radicalising the youth and influencing them through protests organized by the Baloch Solidarity Committee," added Talat Aziz.He mentioned that he recognised a young man in the mountains whose picture he had seen during a protest by the Baloch Solidarity Committee, underscoring the deceptive tactics used to recruit youth.Similarly on 25 Sept, a Baloch woman, Adila Baloch, was arrested in Turbat for planning a suicide attack. She revealed that terrorists blackmail and manipulate Baloch women into committing such acts.Speaking to the media alongside her parents, Adila Baloch, a qualified nurse who was running a World Health Organization project, shared her regret over being misled by terrorists.Read More: Adila Baloch: Arrested female suicide bomber makes startling revelationsAdila explained, “I was deceived in such a way that I was ready to carry out a suicide attack without considering the innocent lives that would be lost. Terrorists showed me dreams of a new and better life.”Adila Baloch further said without informing her family, she followed the terrorists into the mountains. She mentioned that she wasn’t the only one; other misguided Baloch youth were also present. She urged Baloch youth to avoid making the same mistake she did, warning, “This only brings destruction, and such actions do not lead to freedom. If you come across such people, inform your parents. This is a path to ruin, and suicide bombing is a forbidden and haram act. I don’t want other Baloch youth to make the same mistakes I did.”
ISLAMABAD: Director General (DG) Passports Mustafa Jamal Qazi has said that the department is now printing 40,000 passports daily, up from a previous capacity of 20,000 passports.Mustafa Jamal Qazi highlighted that the installation of modern passport printers has been successfully completed in the passport department, which has resulted in an increase in the department's printing capacity. With the introduction of 10 new printers, the production capacity has doubled.Not working 24 HoursIn addition to that, a spokesperson for the Directorate General of Immigration and Passports (DGIP) has issued an important announcement regarding the operation hours of passport offices.The spokesperson clarified that reports of passport offices in Islamabad operating around the clock are not true, stating that no decision has been made to extend office hours to 24 hours.Additionally, the spokesperson mentioned that various proposals are being evaluated to potentially operate the offices continuously, with plans for future service expansion contingent on enhanced printing capabilities.The spokesperson noted that services will be broadened in all major cities, including Islamabad.Also read: Pakistan e-Passport fee update for October 2024The secure document enhances travel ease and extends benefits to overseas Pakistanis, strengthening Pakistan’s global travel standing.Pakistani passports are issued by the Government of Pakistan to its citizens for international travel. The Passport Act of 1974 governs passport issuance, ensuring stringent regulations. Pakistan offers Diplomatic, Official, and Ordinary passports. Ordinary passports are for general citizens and can be obtained through the Directorate General of Immigration and Passports (DGIP) by meeting specific criteria and submitting required documents. Recent advancements include the introduction of e-passports with enhanced security features.
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif said that the federal government is committed to achieving the target of 25 billion US Dollars in IT exports over the next three years, hoping that Pakistan would get 5G internet service soon. Speaking to a delegation of a private group in Islamabad on Friday, PM Shehbaz said the government is working to develop and promote the telecommunication sector. He expressed the government's determination to achieve the target of USD 25 billion through IT exports in the next three years.PM Shehbaz said that steps are being taken to introduce 5G internet services for faster and reliable internet services in Pakistan. He said this will also help achieve the vision of Digital Pakistan.Describing the role of telecom sector as very important in promoting cashless and digital economy, the prime minister expressed Pakistan's willingness to work with the group for promotion of Information Technology, digitisation and artificial intelligence.The delegation appreciated the government's efforts regarding economic stability in the country. It recognised that Pakistan has become an important country for investment in the IT and telecom sector.Air chief calls on PM ShehbazMeanwhile, Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu called on Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.In the meeting, they discussed the professional matters pertaining to the Pakistan Air Force, according to a PM Office press release.Read More: 11 companies express interest for consultancy on 5G spectrum auctionEarlier, a total of 11 expressions of interest (EOIs) were received from various reputed consulting firms through EPADS on the release of the IMT (International Mobile Telecommunications spectrum) spectrum to enhance Next Generation Mobile Broadband Services in Pakistan.According to a statement, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) invited bids through advertisements published in national and international media and on the PPRA website.PTA will shortlist the firms and accordingly RFP will be issued to the shortlisted consultants, said a news release.The EOI for the consultancy on the release of the IMT (International Mobile Telecommunications spectrum) spectrum to enhance Next Generation Mobile Broadband Services in Pakistan 2024 was opened at PTA HQs on 15 July 2024.The selected consultant will carry out stakeholder consultation and provide professional analysis and advice to the Government of Pakistan for the 5G / IMT auction process and successful completion of the auction in a transparent manner, averting collusion and ensuring competition in the auction process.
ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif on Friday announced the Bijli Sahulat Package, offering up to Rs 26 per unit relief in electricity bills during the three winter months—December, January, and February—, ARY News reported.Addressing an event in connection with Youm-e-Iqbal, the prime minister said that under the Bijli Sahulat Package, domestic consumers would get pp to Rs 26 per unit relief while commercial consumers would receive up to Rs 22.71 per unit relief.PM Shehbaz Sharif also announced up to Rs 15.05 per unit relief for industrial consumers. He said the consumers would be given relief in three months of winters—December, January and February—.According to the Power Division tariff relief will be provided on excess electricity consumption compared to previous year. It is to be noted here that the consumers using up to 25% more electricity than the reference benchmark will be eligible for the relief package.Earlier, the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) was advised to increase electricity power tariff across the country.According to details, preparations are underway to increase electricity prices across the country, including Karachi, as part of the quarterly adjustment. This hike is expected to place an additional burden of Rs. 8.73 billion on consumers already facing high utility costs.A request has been submitted to NEPRA seeking to impose an additional burden of Rs. 8.72 billion on electricity consumers. This adjustment pertains to the first quarter of the current fiscal year and aims to address rising energy costs. NEPRA will hold a hearing on 20 Nov regarding this proposal.
KARACHI: Citizens Police Liaison Committee (CPLC) on Friday released the data on the crime situation in Karachi for last 10 months. Statistics indicate that from January one to October 31, over 62000 incidents of crime were reported, and more than 16000 cellphones were stolen in the city. The report says that throughout this 10-month period, a total of 16,777 mobile phones were stolen. The report further notes that more than 39,000 individuals had their motorcycles taken. Furthermore, there were 1,489 documented cases of car theft.During this timeframe, 19 incidents of kidnapping for ransom were recorded. A total of 80 cases of extortion were reported.In this span of time, 478 individuals lost their lives in various incidents.The CPLC report also mentioned that in these 10 months, 11 police personnel were martyred, and 105 citizens lost their lives during attempts to resist robbery.Last year, Additional IG Karachi, Khadim Hussain Rind claimed the crime rate in Karachi has dropped amidst the expulsion of illegal immigrants including Afghanis from the port city. Street crimes claim another life in Karachi About CPLCCitizens Police Liaison Committee, Sindh (CPLC) is a non-political statutory organization. Established through Sindh Government Notification dated 15-04-1990.CPLC’s Charter was promulgated on 24th October 2003 for smooth functioning of the organizationCPLC is a unique example of a public-private partnership whereby citizens have come forward as volunteers, took charge to rectify the deteriorating law and order situation in coordination with law enforcement agencies, and worked untiringly to achieve its objectives.CPLC has 8 Zonal Offices in Karachi with its head office CPLC Central Reporting Cell, located inside the Sindh Governor House. CPLC also has district offices in Hyderabad, Shaheed Benazirabad, Mirpurkhas & Jamshoro too.
RAWALPINDI: The court on Friday reserved its verdict on Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi's bail plea in the Toshakhana-II case, ARY News reported.During the hearing in Rawalpindi, the counsel of Imran Khan and Special Prosecutor completed their arguments whereas Special Central Judge Shah Rukh Arjumand presided over the case.The court will announce the reserved verdict on the acquittal pleas of Imran Khan, and his wife Bushra Bibi on November 12.Earlier, the FIA challenged Bushra Bibi, wife of Imran Khan, bail in the Toshakhana-II case in the Supreme Court.The FIA stated in its plea that bail was granted in Islamabad High Court judge’s chamber and it violates Supreme Court guidelines. The FIA also claimed that Bushra Bibi was involved in the case along with her husband Imran Khan.Also read: Bushra Bibi’s bail in Toshakhana-II case challenged in SCEarlier, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) granted bail to Bushra Bibi in the Toshakhana-II case.IHC Justice Miangul Hassan Aurangzeb accepted the post-arrest bail plea of Bushra Bibi against Rs1 million surety bonds.The court also directed authorities concerned to immediately release the former first lady.On July 13, Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi were arrested in a fresh National Accountability Bureau (NAB) reference related to Toshakhana, hours after their acquittal in the Iddat case.The development came after the Islamabad district and sessions court accepted the appeals filed by former prime minister Imran Khan and his spouse against their conviction in the Iddat case.The couple was sentenced to seven years in prison and awarded a fine of Rs500,000 each, in February earlier this year after a trial court found their nikah to be fraudulent.
ISLAMABAD: The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has released updated statistics on tax returns for the current year 2024, ARY News reported on Friday.As of November 6, a total of 5.215 million tax returns have been submitted. In the same timeframe last year, the FBR received 2.959 million tax returns.This indicates a 76 percent increase in tax return submissions compared to the previous year. For the fiscal year 2024, 2.051 million returns have been filed.During the same period last year, there were 1.036 million new returns filed. It was projected that there would be an additional 3.692 million returns filed last year.As part of ongoing efforts, over 132 billion new tax returns have been recorded. In the prior year, the total tax filings during this period amounted to approximately 77 billion and 1.3 crore.Also read: FBR expedites action against tax evader companies, individualsFrom July one to November six, 660,000 new return filers have been registered.Last year, the figure for new returns filed during this period reached 1.346 million.On the other hand, the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) ruled out extension in the deadline of filling income tax returns.After two extensions, the FBR denied any further extension in the deadline, which expired on (October 31).Earlier, FBR emphasized that individuals earning Rs50,000 per month are required to submit income tax returns. Those failing to do so will be classified as non-filers or late filers.Non-filers will face restrictions on international travel, their mobile phone SIM cards will be blocked, and their electricity and gas services may be disconnected, the body officials said.
With the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 approaching, the Indian cricket team has once again communicated their refusal to travel to Pakistan and prefers to hold their matches at a neutral venue, TOI reported on Friday.The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) has informed the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and other involved parties of their decision, according to the TOI report, with Dubai being a likely location for some matches."Indeed, the BCCI has expressed its concerns regarding the Champions Trophy matches in Pakistan. They are in favor of playing these matches at a neutral location, and Dubai is a strong option for hosting the games involving the Men in Blue," a source tracking the situation shared with TOI.Dubai emerges as a prime candidate for hosting the tournament, and the governing body has prior experience with hosting various events there, including the recent Women's T20 World Cup."There are no issues regarding Dubai. Accommodation is not problematic, logistics are manageable, and everything can be arranged efficiently. The ICC is well-prepared when it comes to handling events in Dubai," a source informed TOI.PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, however, categorically refused to comment on the report and said that BCCI has not conveyed anything in written."We will accept it (their concerns) once we get it in writing," said Naqvi while speaking to media in Lahore.About the EventThe ICC Champions Trophy is a prestigious international cricket tournament held every four years, featuring the top eight ranked teams in the world ¹. It's often referred to as the "Mini World Cup" due to its similarity in format to the Cricket World Cup, but with fewer teams and a shorter duration ¹. The tournament typically lasts around two and a half weeks, with teams competing in a round-robin format followed by knockout stages.Tournament FormatThe Champions Trophy has undergone changes in its format over the years. Initially, it was a knockout tournament, but from 2002 onwards, it has featured a round-robin format with two groups of four teams each. The top two teams from each group progress to the semi-finals, followed by the final.History and WinnersThe first Champions Trophy was held in Bangladesh in 1998, with South Africa emerging as the winners. Since then, the tournament has been held in various countries, with Australia and India being the most successful teams, having won the trophy twice each ¹. Other winners include Pakistan, Sri Lanka, West Indies, and New Zealand.Upcoming TournamentsThe next ICC Champions Trophy is scheduled to take place in Pakistan in 2025, followed by India in 2029.
LAHORE: The Punjab government has taken a major step to combat the hazardous smog conditions in the province by shutting down amusement parks and museums for 10 days, from November 8 to 17, ARY News reported.As per details, the districts affected by this ban include Lahore, Gujranwala, Faisalabad, Multan, Sheikhupura, Kasur, Nankana Sahib, Gujarat, Hafizabad, Mandi Bahauddin, Sialkot, Narowal, Chiniot, Jhang, and Toba Tek Singh.Additionally, Lodhran, Vehari, and Khanewal districts are also under the smog-related restrictions.Earlier today, it was revealed that Pakistan's air pollution reached alarming level, with seven cities topping the list of the world's most polluted cities.Multan takes the unfortunate lead with an Air Quality Index (AQI) score of 2,135, followed closely by Lahore at 676.The situation is expected to deteriorate further next week, as meteorologists predict worsening smog conditions due to low wind speeds of 11km/h around Lahore and 7km/h near Multan. Multan: AQI score of 2,135 Lahore: AQI score of 676 Peshawar: hazardous air quality Islamabad: hazardous air quality Haripur: hazardous air quality Rawalpindi: hazardous air quality Karachi: hazardous air quality Smog: A Practical Guide for Lahore residents 2024 Yesterday, the Punjab government made a decision to put into action revised SOPs aimed at controlling emissions from outdoor cooking stations and barbecue grills, as the average Air Quality Index in Lahore has exceeded hazardous levels.According to details, notice issued by Punjab Environmental Protection (EPA) Director General Dr. Imran Hamid Sheikh, these SOPs will take effect in the Lahore district from November 20, 2024, until January 31, 2025.The Health Advisory System for Critical Air Pollution Events (HAS-CAPES), established on December 13, 2022, held its first meeting of the Provincial CAPEs Committee (PCC) on October 21, 2024, which confirmed that a Critical Air Pollution Event has occurred in Lahore, given the current elevated levels of the Air Quality Index (AQI).
LAHORE: An anti terrorism court (ATC) in Lahore granted bail to Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan in four May 9 cases, ARY News reported.As per details, the ATC judge Arshad Javed heard the bail pleas and approved the pleas filed by the former prime minister Imran Khan.The Prosecutor general Punjab Farhad Ali presented his arguments before the court and apposed the bail pleas saying that Imran Khan had informed his workers to attack important state buildings if he is arrested.Earlier, PTI founder Imran Khan on Tuesday moved Islamabad High Court (IHC) against the transfer of May 9 cases to military courts.The PTI founder filed a plea through his lawyer Aziz Karamat Bhandari. The former prime minister has made the secretary law, secretary home, IG Islamabad, IG Punjab, IG Jails, DG FIA and the federal government respondents.He pleaded with the court not to transfer May 9 cases for military court trials.In a separate development, the Anti-Terrorism Court acquitted all 18 accused, including PTI workers, in the May 9 riots case due to lack of evidence.Also read: 'PTI founder will be acquitted in all cases in six weeks'The defendants were accused of protesting in Landi Kotal on May 9, blocking the Torkham Road, damaging property, and damaging an Anti-Narcotics Force vehicle.However, the court found no evidence against them and acquitted all 18 defendants.May 9 violenceViolent clashes were broken out across Pakistan after former prime minister Imran Khan was arrested on May 9, 2023.The protests were held in remote and major cities as the party workers were agitated due to their chairman’s arrest, with Balochistan, Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Islamabad summoning the armed forces to ensure law and order.Army installations, including Corps Commander’s house in Lahore, had come under attack during the protests by PTI workers.It is pertinent to mention that the PTI founder is named as main accused in all the May 9 riots cases.
KARACHI: Major General Muhammad Shamraiz on Friday officially assumed the office as Director General (DG) Sindh Rangers, ARY News reported quoting Rangers spokesperson. According to the spokesperson, the command of Sindh Rangers was officially transferred from Major General Azhar Waqas to Major General Muhammad Shamraiz. Today, a ceremony took place at the Rangers headquarters in Sindh, IG Sindh Ghulam Nabi Memon and several high-ranking officials were also in attendance, the spokesperson added. It is worth mentioning here that as the local police failed to control criminal activities and provide security to the citizens in Karachi, Sindh Rangers came forward and shared essential information on how citizens can seek help in emergencies.Deputy Superintendent Rangers (DSR) Mazhar Abbas stated that Pakistan Rangers in Sindh are committed to protecting the lives and property of young citizens, with their emergency helpline, 1101, providing swift assistance upon receiving calls for any urgent situation.Also read: Rangers’ deployment in Karachi extended for six monthsCitizens facing emergencies can dial Rangers Helpline 1101, where the command and control system at Rangers headquarters coordinates help.The command room is equipped with multiple monitoring screens, including a route map of Karachi, while various city areas are under CCTV surveillance.DSR Mazhar Abbas explained that the 1101 helpline serves as a quick response force, responding to complaints within 3 to 5 minutes.Citizens can contact the Rangers through multiple platforms, including WhatsApp, text messages, email, and the SOS application.He mentioned that complaints are categorized into two types: those needing immediate action and those requiring ground verification.For immediate action, the mobile vigilance team patrolling nearby areas is dispatched to the complaint location, while calls needing verification are investigated for further action.
The Lahore High Court (LHC) on Friday mandated that all markets close by 8:00 PM each day and remain shut on Sundays as part of efforts to address the intense smog affecting the city.While issuing the order, Justice Shahid Karim noted that despite numerous hearings and calls for action, there has been a lack of effective measures to combat smog. He expressed a desire to avoid issuing orders that cannot realistically be enforced.This ruling to close markets came after various government departments presented performance reports on their efforts to mitigate smog before Justice Karim. The court instructed authorities to limit vehicle access to motorways and the Ring Road and to impose a complete ban on the entry of trucks and trailers into the city.https://youtu.be/Y_nYmub0bB0?t=57The court pointed out that trucks and trailers play a significant role in contributing to smog and environmental pollution. It ordered the deployment of police to manage heavy traffic.Justice Karim voiced his frustration, remarking that the court has continuously urged the government to take action regarding smog control at every session.The court underscored that emissions from heavy vehicles are the leading cause of pollution and questioned the effectiveness of the current measures.The judge asked why fines of Rs50,000 for buses do not lead to better compliance and how vehicles lacking fitness certificates are permitted on the roads. The court’s directives aim to greatly reduce traffic and the pollution it causes in an effort to lessen the severe smog crisis. Punjab shuts schools in smog hit districts until Nov 17 Punjab is facing a severe air quality crisis, with pollution levels reaching to dangerous heights in the capital city Lahore which is facing green lockdown and several other measures. The city’s overall Air Quality Index (AQI) reading hit an alarming record of 1,165 on Wednesday morning.Some areas reported even higher AQI levels, with Defence Phase VIII reaching 1,696, Davies Road at 1,464, and Gulberg at 1,306, according to international air quality monitors. The concentration of harmful chemicals in Lahore’s air is reported to be 131 times higher than World Health Organization guidelines.
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