ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) predicted rain, thunderstorms, and windstorms across multiple regions, especially in the upper and central areas, within the next 24 hours. The PMD forecasted that Upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Upper/Central Punjab, Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan would likely see rain with windstorms or thunderstorms, with some areas facing heavy rain and hailstorms. The PMD cautioned that wind-dust storms, hailstorms, and lightning could damage unstable structures like electric poles, trees, vehicles, and solar panels from today through the morning of April 20. In Islamabad, partly cloudy conditions are expected with chances of rain, thunderstorms, and isolated hailstorms or heavy downpours.In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, rain-windstorms and thunderstorms with isolated hailstorms are likely in Chitral, Dir, Swat, Shangla, Kohistan, Buner, Malakand, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Battagram, Bajaur, Peshawar, Charsadda, Mardan, Swabi, and Khyber. Heavy rain and hailstorms are expected in several upper districts.In Punjab, most districts are likely to witness partly cloudy weather. Rain, wind, and thunderstorms with isolated hailstorms are forecasted in Murree, Galliyat, Rawalpindi, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Mianwali, Layyah, Hafizabad, Gujranwala, Mandi Bahauddin, Gujrat, Sialkot, Narowal, Khushab, Jhang, Lahore, Kasur, Bhakkar, Faisalabad, and Sargodha. Southern Punjab may experience gusty winds and isolated storms.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=52wEXdd-Gb8Sindh and Balochistan are likely to remain hot and dry, with strong winds likely during the forecast period.In Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan, cloudy weather is expected with rain, thunderstorms, and the likelihood of heavy rainfall or hailstorms in some areas.Over the past 24 hours, hot and dry weather prevailed across most of the country, with very high temperatures in the southern regions. However, upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, upper Punjab, and Gilgit-Baltistan received rainfall.In terms of recorded rainfall, Dir (Upper) received 08 mm, Kalam and Chitral 06 mm, Mir Khani, Pattan, and Drosh 04 mm. In Gilgit-Baltistan, Gopis recorded 07 mm, Bagrot 06 mm, Bunji and Astore 04 mm, Gilgit and Hunza 03 mm, Chilas 02 mm, and Skardu 01 mm. In Punjab, Hafizabad received 05 mm of rain.The highest recorded temperatures on Friday were Dadu, Sibi, and Shaheed Benazirabad at 47C, while Khanpur, Padidan, Bahawalnagar, and Rahim Yar Khan recorded 46C.The authorities advise the public to remain alert and take necessary precautions to avoid weather-related hazards.

KOHAT: A domestic dispute between two groups in the outskirts of Kohat claimed the lives of at least five people including three women, ARY News reported citing police.According to sources, the property dispute between the two groups had been going on for a long time, when both of them started firing as soon as they saw each other.The clash resulted in the death of five people. Eight other persons including four women also sustained injuries in the firing incident.The police have shifted the bodies to the hospital for formalities, while medical assistance is being provided to the injured in the hospital.Earlier last month, after a heated domestic dispute, a mother tragically poisoned her three children. The devastating act resulted in the death of her seven-year-old daughter, while her two sons are fighting for their lives in critical condition.Read More: Man kills father over domestic disputeRescue officials in Sialkot reported that the woman gave the poison to the children after an domestic dispute with her husband, who is living abroad.The ages of the affected children range from 3 to 9 years old. The accused woman has fled the scene, and a case has been registered based on a complaint filed by her brother-in-law in Sialkot.According to the Sialkot police, tragically, Ammara died due to the poison, while Muhammad Ghazi and Muhammad Hamza were transferred to the hospital in critical condition. One child’s condition is extremely serious.

ISLAMABAD: Pakistani people who intend to visit Hungary as tourists are required to get a Type C Schengen visa, which permits a stay of up to 90 days in any 180-day period.For those individuals who are applying for this visa, the Hungarian Embassy in Islamabad is the authentic authority to process applications.Applicants must provide proof of adequate financial income, including bank statements, to guarantee their eligibility.Bank Statement Requirement for Hungarian Schengen VisaThe main requirement for the Hungary Schengen visa is financial sufficiency proof. Applicants must submit bank statements expressing the last six months, duly stamped and signed by their respective banks.Additionally, applicants must provide their National Tax Number (NTN) certificate and other required documents that verify income-generating resources and means of survival.According to Official reports mention that the minimum daily financial requirement for staying in Hungary is HUF 10,000.Based on the latest exchange rates, Pakistani citizens must show a balance of approximately PKR 700,000 to cover a full 90-day stay in Hungary.The Hungarian Embassy may request additional proof of financial stability. If a traveller fails to meet these financial conditions, they may be denied entry at the border and returned.Other Required Documents for Visa ApprovalApplicants must submit several key documents alongside their visa application, including: Hotel booking confirmation Health insurance coverage Proof of return flight tickets Valid passport and completed visa application form Proper documentation is critical to avoid visa rejection and ensure smooth entry into Hungary.Read More: Pakistanis to travel visa-free to Hungary with THIS passportHungary Schengen Visa Fee in Pakistan – April 2025The fee to get the Hungary Schengen Visa in Pakistan stands at PKR 25,925 as of April 2025.Pakistani tourists planning a visit to Hungary should prepare in advance, ensuring their financial documents are complete and by Schengen regulations.For further details, applicants are advised to visit the official Hungarian Embassy website in Islamabad or consult designated visa application centres such as VFS Global.

LAHORE: More than 23,500 houses are in their final stages of completion under the ‘Apni Chhat Apna Ghar’ programme launched in September 2024 by the Punjab government.Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif presided over a special meeting in which a detailed review was made on the acquisition and recovery of loans under the ‘Apni Chhat, Apna Ghar’ programme.In just five months, the ‘Apni Chhat Apna Ghar’ program has offered loans worth Rs 30 billion, which are free of interest to 28,219 families. Under the program, the construction of over 23,500 houses is in its final stages of completion.This achievement is a new chapter in the history of Punjab, which showcases the government’s promise to provide housing and shelter to the homeless.In a high-level meeting, CM Maryam Nawaz went through the development of the designed Program and instructed officials to expedite the interest-free loan distribution process.Maryam Nawaz highlighted the importance of removing difficulties to ensure the program’s success. “In five years, no government has been able to build as many houses as have been built in the last five months,” she stated, highlighting the efficiency and impact of the program.The ‘Apni Chhat Apna Ghar’ Program, directed by the dream of Muhammad Nawaz Sharif, has been continuously bringing hope and happiness to many needy families.The initiative has accomplished a noteworthy milestone in housing development while also confirming the government’s dedication to public welfare.Read More: CM Punjab Maryam Nawaz opens three-day festivalEarlier, CM Punjab Maryam Nawaz highlighted the importance of Punjabi culture, requesting the youth to feel proud to speak the Punjabi language while also urging them to learn English.She mentioned Punjab and its traditions as essential to Pakistan’s identity.This festival aimed to bring happiness to the people of Punjab. The Punjab government under the leadership of CM Maryam Nawaz is taking such initiatives for the welfare of people, and giving ease to them in different walks of life.

HYDERABAD: Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari warned to part ways with the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) led federal government, if the canals on the Indus project is not rolled back.Addressing a public gathering in Hyderabad, Bilawal said that his party would cannot go alongside the federal government, if the controversial project is not taken back."The decision is not difficult if it is between Shehbaz Sharif and the people."“As the country burns in the crucible of terrorism, you [federal government] ignited a divisive discussion between brothers.”Bilawal also came down heavily on the federal government over its ill policies and said, “Every project of lion [PML-N’s electoral symbol] is anti-farmer.”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pl4LcKD6fBQ“These lions do nothing but drink the blood of the populace. They first destroyed farmers' livelihoods through the wheat scam, and now they are ruining farmers' lives under the guise of agricultural taxes,” Bilawal added.Bilawal said that President Asif Ali Zardari rejected the canals project in his address to the parliament yet the federal government is insisting to complete the same.“The PPP cannot deviate from its principles. We will save the federation, we will save the farmers and we will save the Indus River,” vowed Bilawal.The PPP chairman also announced to hold power show in Sukkur on April 25."Those who are seated in Islamabad are deaf and blind; they refuse to see or listen to the voices of the provinces." The federation is under danger, which is why we are rejecting these schemes on the basis of principles.Speaking on the occasion, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah said that a ‘large’ turnout is the public gathering is a clear indication of the public’s ‘trust and support’ for the PPP and against canals on Indus.“The people of Hyderabad have once again shown their strength and support for the PPP, sending a clear message to those who are trying to undermine the people’s trust,” he said.Read More: PPP misleading public on canals issue: Omar AyubMurad recalled that during critical times in the past, such as the controversial proposals for the construction of canals and dams, PPP was not in power, but the party never backed down from fighting for Sindh’s interests.“Whenever there was an attack on Sindh’s rights, PPP was not in power, but we stood firm in defending our land and our resources,” he said.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JfBE2kiBPp0Murad said that the PPP has always been against such projects that would harm the people of Sindh. He said Mohtarma Shaheed Benazir Bhutto had led a powerful protest at Khamo Shaheed to prevent the Kalabagh Dam project from proceeding.The chief minister said that the crowd that PPP would never allow such projects to materialize in the future.Murad also criticised rival political parties, particularly those engaging in artificial protests. “These parties were silent when crucial decisions regarding Sindh’s resources were made, but now they are trying to incite false outrage,” he said.“They were nowhere to be found when critical issues like the canals and dams were being discussed. Today, they speak only to create political noise.”

LAHORE: The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has updated the process to obtain a Child Registration Certificate (CRC), also called the B-Form, making it more streamlined and easier for parents to register their newborn babies. The B-Form is an essential and first Identity of every newborn child, which ensures their authorised acknowledgement in Pakistan’s national records.Eligibility and RequirementsTo get a NADRA B-Form, parents must show a document issued by the Union Council as proof of birth, which is valid for both inland and overseas births. Moreover, at least one parent must have a non-expired National Identity Card (NIC) or a National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis (NICOP).Online Application ProcessNADRA has initiated an online service which allows parents to apply for the B-Form for children up to one year old via the Pak ID Mobile App. The process includes: Logging into a Pak ID account or creating a new one. Selecting “Issuance of Identity Document” and choosing “Child Registration Certificate (CRC)”. Entering the 13-digit identity number and starting the application. Reviewing prefilled information and selecting processing priority. Uploading the child’s photograph and providing a digital signature. Entering the child’s details and uploading required documents. Verifying the fingerprints of one parent. Reviewing and applying. Parents must visit NADRA offices to complete the registration process for the children above one year old.NADRA B-Form FeeThe standard fee to get a NADRA B-Form is Rs 50, while an executive service is available for Rs 500.According to NADRA’s latest fee structure, the B-Form fee remains unchanged for 2025. The executive service ensures faster processing, allowing parents to receive the document within a few days.Read More: NADRA shares details of viral Arshad Chaiwala’s nationality Earlier, the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) submitted a report to the Lahore High Court regarding the nationality of viral Arshad Khan, aka “Chaiwala,”.NADRA’s report, citing findings from agencies, claimed that Arshad Khan is an Afghan national. In response, a show-cause notice was issued based on the agencies’ reports.

PUNJAB: Punjab has achieved a great milestone in assistive healthcare and created history by introducing advanced bionics technology for artificial limbs, ARY News reported. Under the leadership of CM Punjab Maryam Nawaz, the vision of this initiative is to empower disabled individuals by giving them state-of-the-art prosthetics that respond to brain signals for body movement.In a cheering ceremony, CM Maryam Nawaz not only inaugurated and announced about Punjab’s advanced bionics technology, but also installed a bionic arm for a six-year-old boy Suhail, whose arm below his elbow had been lost due to an accident.The ground-breaking technology has altered Suhail's life, and it allows him to move his hands for the first time since he had the accident.The young boy expressed his happiness with applause, and he gave a high-five to the Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, who motivated him and celebrated what he had achieved.The occasion also had the inauguration of the largest project for assistive devices in Punjab, including motor wheelchairs, three-wheeler scooters, and other mobility supports.The ceremony was attended by almost 300 special persons from Punjab, where they got free assistive devices which were made according to their needs. The initiative reflects the government's promise of equal opportunities and inclusivity for all.The introduction of advanced bionics technology aims to bring revolution to the lives of special people, offering them individuality, independence and a better quality of life.The program highlights Punjab's devotion to advancing healthcare and welfare services, with plans to distribute artificial limbs, hearing aids, and mobility tools worth one billion rupees.Read More: CM Punjab Maryam Nawaz opens three-day festivalEarlier, CM Punjab Maryam Nawaz highlighted the importance of Punjabi culture, requesting the youth to feel proud to speak the Punjabi language while also urging them to learn English.She mentioned Punjab and its traditions as essential to Pakistan’s identity.This festival aimed to bring happiness to the people of Punjab.

KARACHI: The Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) rejected a proposal of the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) seeking an increase in the Municipal Utility Charges and Taxes (MUCT), ARY News reported.In a statement issued here, the MQM-P spokesperson said that the increase in Municipal Utility Charges and Taxes (MUCT) will put an additional burden on citizens of Karachi.“Mayor Karachi has ruined the city with the full support of Sindh government,” the MQM-P added.The party maintained that the revenue generated by KMC is being ‘embezzled’ by the system instead of reaching the people. The MQM-P added that Karachi contributes more than 95 percent to provincial and more than 70 percent to revenue, yet the city is deprived of basic necessities.“Additional burden of taxes will make the lives of citizens more miserable. Instead of increasing municipal taxes, a third-party audit of KMC should be conducted. The people of Karachi have the right to know where their money is being spent,” the MQM-P added.The KMC led by City Mayor Barrister Murtaza Wahab has recommended increase in the municipal charges in K-Electric (KE) billsThe Municipal Utility Charges and Taxes (MUCT) rates would vary according to the consumption of the KE consumers. The KMC will present its recommendation to the City Council for approval to increase the municipal tax on K-Electric bills.The proposed changes include raising the fee for 51 to 100 units from Rs 20 to Rs 50, and for 101 to 200 units from Rs 50 to Rs 100. Similarly, if the recommendation is approved, the consumers using 201 to 300 units would pay Rs 150 instead Rs 100.Likewise, the charge for 301 to 400 units would increase from Rs 125 to Rs 200, while consumers using 401 to 500 units would pay Rs 225 instead of Rs 150.

The Qatari Riyal (QAR) is stable against the Pakistani Rupee (PKR) at 77.08 PKR. This stability is a reflection of Qatar's strong economic foundation, supported by huge hydrocarbon reserves and a dollar-pegged exchange rate.The stability of the QAR encourages a healthy trade and investment environment between Pakistan and Qatar. 1 Qatari Riyal = 77.08 Pakistani Rupee The stable exchange rate has important implications for both nations. Pakistani exporters, especially those in agriculture and textiles, benefit from stable prices, making them more competitive in Qatar's market and potentially increasing export revenues. Conversely, the stability attracts investors and firms venturing into Pakistan's expanding market, offering chances for partnerships and infrastructure investments.For Pakistan, the stable exchange rate of Qatari Riyal-Pakistani Rupee ensures steady remittance inflows from its huge expatriate community in Qatar. With Middle Eastern remittances contributing 55% of December 2024 total inflows for Pakistan, the strong value of QAR keeps this lifeline of economic importance intact, sustaining foreign exchange reserves and balance of payments.But any potential PKR depreciation can render the price of imports of Qatari energy products more expensive for Pakistan, damaging its trade balance. As both economies expand, the QAR-PKR exchange rate will be an important benchmark of their trade resilience. The divergence between Qatar's resource-backed stability and Pakistan's growth market potential will increasingly shape their economic coalition in future years. DOLLAR RATE IN PAKISTAN- LIVE

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has commenced the licensing of Virtual Private Network (VPN) service providers under the Class License for the Provision of Data Services in Pakistan. As part of this process, PTA has already granted Class Licenses to provide VPN services to three companies.“All VPN service providers operating without a license are advised to promptly obtain the required Class License to ensure compliance with the existing regulatory framework. Timely licensing will help prevent potential service disruptions and ensure uninterrupted access for their customers,” a press statement issued here read.Detailed information regarding the licensing process, eligibility, and application forms is available on the official PTA website: www.pta.gov.pk.Read more: PTA blames excessive VPN usage for internet slowdownThe use of VPNs is on the rise in Pakistan following the ban on X formerly known as Twitter.The PTA had revealed that the internet slowdown in Pakistan was primarily caused by excessive Virtual Private Network (VPN) usage.According to PTA, the increased use of VPNs has put additional pressure on the country’s bandwidth, resulting in slower internet speeds.The telecommunication authority has sent the report to Ministry of IT, highlighting the need to enhance bandwidth to meet the growing internet demand.

ISLAMABAD: Aleema Khanum, the sister of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan filed a contempt of court plea against authorities concerned for denying their meeting with the incarcerated former prime minister, ARY News reported.Aleema Khanum approached the Islamabad High Court (IHC) through her counsel through Advocate Ali Bukhari and maintained that the jail authorities are not allowing the visits, despite the court orders.Aleema Khanum requested the IHC to initiate contempt of court proceedings against the Punjab Home Secretary and Superintendent of Prisons for not following court orders.The petitioner argued that Imran Khan’s meeting with his lawyers and family members is his legal right. She said that a lists of lawyers, family members and friends who are willing to meet Imran Khan have also been compiled.Read More: PTI founder’s sisters barred from meeting at Adiala jailEarlier on Thursday, several PTI leaders including sisters of party founder Imran Khan were taken into custody near Adiala Jail after gathering to demand a meeting with the imprisoned former prime minister.The PTI leaders and three sisters of Imran Khan were present at the under-construction plaza on Adiala Road in Rawalpindi. Opposition Leader in National Assembly Omar Ayub, Niazullah Niazi, Ahmed Bachar, Zartaj Gul, Sunni Ittehad Council chief Sahibzada Hamid Raza, and other leaders were also taken into custody.The PTI leaders were taken into custody and transferred to a police van. They all were released after a brief detention.

Kuwait City/Karachi – April 18, 2025 – The Kuwaiti dinar (KWD) edged higher against the Pakistani rupee (PKR) in today's trading, exchanging at 915.11 PKR compared to 914.57 PKR the previous day.The marginal increase reflects ongoing fluctuations in currency markets influenced by global economic trends and domestic factors in both countries. How the Kuwaiti Dinar’s Value is Determined The Kuwaiti dinar, one of the world’s strongest currencies, is pegged to a weighted currency basket rather than the US dollar alone, giving it stability. Its value against the Pakistani rupee depends on: Pakistan’s economic health – Inflation, foreign reserves, and trade deficits weaken the PKR. Oil prices – As a major oil exporter, Kuwait benefits from high crude prices, strengthening the dinar. Remittance flows – Pakistani expatriates sending money home influence demand for the dinar. Impact on Pakistani Expats and Trade For the 300,000+ Pakistani workers in Kuwait, a stronger dinar means: ✔ Higher remittance value – Families in Pakistan get more rupees for each dinar sent. ✔ Increased purchasing power – Expats can save more when converting earnings to PKR.However, for Pakistani importers, a weaker rupee makes Kuwaiti goods (like oil and machinery) more expensive. Conversely, Pakistani exports to Kuwait become slightly cheaper, though the trade balance remains in Kuwait’s favor. DOLLAR AND OTHER CURRENCY RATES TODAY IN PAKISTANAbout the Currencies Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD): The highest-valued currency globally, backed by Kuwait’s oil wealth and strong economy. Pakistani Rupee (PKR): A freely floated currency influenced by inflation, political stability, and external debt pressures.

Karachi, April 18, 2025: The Australian Dollar (AUD) appreciated against the Pakistani Rupee (PKR) in the interbank market today, trading at 179.32 PKR compared to 177.78 PKR the previous day.The rise indicates increased demand for the AUD or a potential weakening of the PKR due to economic factors. Valuation Process Currency exchange rates fluctuate based on supply and demand dynamics, influenced by factors such as: Interest Rates: Higher Australian interest rates can attract foreign investment, boosting AUD demand. Trade Balances: If Australia exports more to Pakistan, demand for AUD rises. Economic Data: Strong Australian economic performance strengthens the AUD, while Pakistan’s inflation or deficit pressures may weaken the PKR. Market Sentiment: Global risk appetite often favors stable currencies like the AUD over emerging market currencies like the PKR. Impact on Trade A stronger Australian Dollar makes Australian imports more expensive for Pakistani buyers, potentially increasing costs for machinery, education, and agricultural products. Conversely, Pakistani exports to Australia, such as textiles and rice, may become more competitive. However, overseas Pakistanis sending remittances from Australia could benefit from higher PKR conversions. About the Currencies Australian Dollar (AUD): The official currency of Australia, managed by the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA), is a globally traded commodity-linked currency. Pakistani Rupee (PKR): Pakistan’s currency, regulated by the State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), is sensitive to inflation, foreign reserves, and geopolitical stability. Analysts suggest monitoring central bank policies and global economic trends for further exchange rate shifts. DOLLAR RATE TODAY IN PAKISTAN- LIVE

Pakistan security forces killed four Khwarij during an intelligence based operation in Swat, ARY News reported on Friday, quoting Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).According to the ISPR, security forces and law enforcement agencies conducted a joint intelligence based operation in Swat district on reported presence of Khwarij.During the conduct of operation, own troops effectively engaged khwarij location, resultantly four khwarij were killed, ISPR said.Weapons and ammunition were also recovered from the killed khwarij, who remained actively involved in numerous terrorist activities in the area, the military's media wing noted.Sanitization operation is being conducted to eliminate any other Kharji found in the area, as the security forces in coordination with law enforcement agencies of Pakistan are determined to wipe out the menace of terrorism from the country, ISPR added.Earlier, 11 khawarij were killed during IBOs in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said.“On 26-27 March 2025, eleven Khwarij were killed by the security forces in four separate engagements in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province”, the ISPR said.An intelligence based operation was conducted by the Security Forces in general area Mir Ali, North Waziristan District.During the conduct of operation, own troops effectively engaged the khwarij location and resultantly, five khwarij were killed.Read more: 11 Khwarij killed in KP IBOs: ISPRIn a second operation conducted in same general area, three more khwarij were successfully neutralized by own troops.

DERA ISMAIL KHAN: A police head constable was killed as unknown miscreants ambushed a police party within limits of Chaudwan police station here on Friday.According to police, some unknown miscreants who had already taken positions opened indiscriminate fire on Chawadan police station’s personnel when they were passing by Musazai Adda.The police promptly retaliated the fire and exchange of fire took place between police and unknown miscreants.However, head constable Javed Alam was martyred from firing of the miscreants, who managed to escape.Police cordoned off the area and started an operation to arrest the culprits.Read More: Judge, lawyer, former Nazim Kohat killed in separate incidents in KPEarlier, in a tragic incident, Senior Civil Judge (Admin) Mardan, Hayat Khan, and Advocate Khalid Khan were shot dead near the Rashakai Interchange on the Motorway Road within the jurisdiction of Risalpur Police Station.According to initial reports, unknown assailants opened fire on a car travelling towards Peshawar.As a result, Judge Hayat Khan, son of Pir Gul, a resident of Mohallah Bulandabad, Tehsil Kalam, District Swat, and Advocate Khalid Khan, son of Amresh Khan, a resident of Rustam, Mardan, died on the spot.Sources suggest that the motive behind the attack may be linked to an old enmity. Police have launched an investigation into the incident.

KARACHI: The Commissioner of Karachi has reduced the prices for Naan and Chapati roti in the Karachi Division, effective immediately, ARY News reported on Friday.Hassan Naqvi, the Commissioner, stated that the price of a 100-gram chapati has been set at Rs10 per piece.According to the new notification, the rates for tandoori naan have been fixed as follows - Rs15 for a 120-gram naan, Rs17 for a 140-150 gram naan and Rs22 for a 180-gram naan.The notification, issued under the authority of the Sindh Essential Commodities Price Control and Prevention of Profiteering and Hoarding Act, 2005 (Amended in 2008), reads: “In exercise of the powers vested under section 7 of the said Act, I, Syed Hassan Naqvi, Commissioner Karachi Division/Controller General of Prices & Supplies, Karachi, hereby notify the price of Naan & Chapati in the local limits of Karachi Division.”The Commissioner has warned that strict action will be taken against any violators of the newly fixed prices. He also directed tandoor owners to prominently display the updated price list at their business place.Read More: Wheat flour prices reduced in KarachiEarlier, the Karachi administration on Thursday announced new prices of wheat flour (Atta) in the city, reducing per kilogram rates by Rs 17, ARY News reported.According to a notification issued by Commissioner Karachi, the wholesale market price of fine wheat flour has been fixed at Rs 78 per kilogram (kg) while it will be available at Rs 90 per kg in the retail market.Similarly, the price of chakki flour is fixed at Rs 90 per kilogram after a reduction of Rs 10.Meanwhile, the retail price of regular wheat flour (2½ No. Atta) has been fixed at Rs 70 per kg while its wholesale rate is set at Rs 66 per kg.

KARACHI/DUBAI: As of April 18, 2025, the UAE Dirham (AED) to Pakistani Rupee (PKR) exchange rate remains steady at 76.40 PKR in the open market.This stability reflects ongoing fluctuations in the forex market, driven by domestic economic conditions and global trade trends, providing favorable rates for Pakistani expatriates sending remittances from the UAE. 1 UAE DIRHAM = 76.40 PAKISTANI RUPEES. The AED-PKR rate is shaped by multiple factors. The UAE Dirham, pegged to the US Dollar at approximately 3.67 AED per USD, benefits from the UAE’s robust oil-based economy and strong fiscal management.This peg ensures the Dirham’s value aligns with the US Dollar’s global performance. On the other hand, the Pakistani Rupee operates under a managed float system, with its value influenced by market demand, State Bank of Pakistan interventions, remittance inflows, trade deficits, and domestic inflation. The current rate of 76.40 PKR per AED suggests a stronger Dirham, likely due to rising remittances or improved economic conditions in Pakistan.Experts highlight the UAE’s significant economic ties with Pakistan, as millions of Pakistani workers there send substantial remittances home—around $3.1 billion in February 2025, per State Bank data. These inflows boost demand for the Dirham in Pakistan, impacting its exchange rate.The UAE Dirham, introduced in 1973 to replace the Qatar and Dubai Riyal, is the official currency of the UAE (including Dubai and Abu Dhabi) and is denoted as AED.The Pakistani Rupee, abbreviated as PKR or "Rs," has been Pakistan’s currency since 1947. While the Dirham’s strength stems from the UAE’s thriving economy, the Rupee’s value mirrors Pakistan’s broader economic prospects and challenges. The interplay between these currencies underscores the deep economic relationship between the two nations. DOLLAR RATE TODAY IN PAKISTAN

RAWALPINDI: The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has submitted a report to the Lahore High Court regarding the nationality of viral Arshad Khan, aka "Chaiwala,", ARY News reported.As per details, Arshad Chaiwala has challenged the blocking of his national identity card (CNIC) and passport in Rawalpindi bench of Lahore High Court.According to NADRA, Arshad Khan’s father, Zar Muhammad, was born in Sargodha, while Khan himself was born in Islamabad. However, discrepancies were noted in the name of his mother.NADRA’s report, citing findings from agencies, claimed that Arshad Khan is an Afghan national. In response, a show-cause notice was issued based on the agencies’ reports.Khan’s counsel requested additional time to submit further evidence, at this Justice Jawad Hassan adjourned the hearing until April 22.Arshad Khan’s rise to fame began when a photographer’s candid shot of him serving tea in Islamabad gained global attention.The viral moment led to modeling opportunities and, eventually, the creation of his own tea brand—now a multi-million-rupee success story.Earlier this year, Arshad Khan, famously known as Pakistan’s ‘chaiwala’ after his viral photo in 2016, took another step in his entrepreneurial journey by opening a new branch of Café Chaiwala Arshad Khan in South London.

PESHAWAR: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has taken a major step towards sustainable agricultural development by initiating the formulation of a dedicated “Mountain Agriculture Policy”.The move follows the approval of Chief Minister Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to establish a distinct framework addressing the unique ecological, topographical, and livelihood dynamics of the province’s mountainous regions.According to a letter issued by the Chief Minister’s Secretariat, the Agriculture Department has been directed to use the enclosed concept paper titled “Mountain Agriculture in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa”as a foundational document.The paper outlines the key rationale, strategic areas, and challenges, and is intended to serve as the basis for the formal policy.The department has been instructed to conduct stakeholder consultations, engage with public and private sector experts, and incorporate legal and operational planning for the proposed policy.The upcoming Khyber policy aims to introduce climate-specific land, soil, and water adaptations to ensure that farming practices in mountainous areas align with their unique environmental conditions.The policy also emphasizes the development of horticulture and livestock systems tailored to mountain conditions.To boost economic opportunities, the policy will work on enhancing value-chain development and access to markets.Investment in technology, research, and extension services in remote areas is another key priority. The policy aims to bridge the knowledge gap and provide mountain farmers with innovative tools and practices through local research and training programs.The final draft of the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Mountain Agriculture Policy is to be submitted within 45 days, along with a summary for final approval by the competent authority.This initiative is expected to play a crucial role in improving livelihoods, enhancing food security, and promoting climate resilience in the province’s high-altitude regions.

KARACHI: The strike of goods transporters on Friday entered its third day at Karachi ports against Sindh government’s crackdown on vehicles lacking fitness certificates, ARY News reported.Transporters have parked their vehicles at warehouses and truck stands across Karachi, disrupting the entire supply chain of imported goods.According to the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), thousands of containers remain stuck at the port, including those carrying essential food items.Asif Sakhi, a representative of the transporters, stated that the piling up of containers will result in the payment of detention charges amounting to millions of dollars.Read more: Karachi accidents: Front, back cameras declared mandatory for dumpersImport and export activities have come to a near halt, with 90% of trade operations reportedly suspended, said Amaan Paracha, another industry representative.He added that due to a lack of space, ships waiting offshore will not be able to dock.Paracha urged the Sindh government to take immediate steps to resolve the crisis and called for allowing transporters additional time to comply with vehicle fitness requirements.He also appealed to the FPCCI to play its role in initiating dialogue between the government and transporters to end the deadlock.It is to be noted that Sindh government has launched a crackdown on unfit vehicles across the province including Karachi after a number of road accidents involving heavy traffic.According to reports, over 260 people have lost their lives in road accidents in Karachi in 2025 so far.