KARACHI: The matric examinations in Karachi, which were scheduled to begin on Tuesday, April 7, have been postponed.Chairman of the Karachi Matriculation Board, Ghulam Hussain, announced that the final examinations will now commence on Friday, April 10.The Chairman stated that this decision was made in the best interest of the students across Karachi to ensure they are better accommodated.The Controller of Examinations for the Board of Secondary Education Karachi (BSEK) stated that the board is currently transitioning from a manual system to a digital one.He explained that due to an increased volume of data, the software has become overloaded and is experiencing temporary technical faults. Consequently, the decision to reschedule the examinations was made as an emergency measure.The Controller further informed that a revised examination schedule will be issued soon, noting that the exams will still be held at the centers already assigned to the students.Earlier, the Karachi Matriculation Board announced that schools can obtain their students' admit cards from the board on Monday, April 6, by presenting an official authority letter.Board of Secondary Education, in its statement, stated that the admit cards can be collected from the conference hall of the board situated at the first building block B from 9 am morning. 

KARACHI: The Sindh government has declared April 6 an official holiday for Christian employees in Karachi and other parts of the province, allowing them to celebrate Easter without work obligations.The provincial government on Saturday announced April 5 and 6, Sunday and Monday, as official holidays for the Christian community across the province.The announcement, approved by Chief Secretary Sindh, Asif Haider Shah, ensures that Christian employees can fully honor Easter, one of their most sacred religious festivals, without work obligations.All government and semi-government offices, including local councils and corporations, will remain closed during these two days. The holiday applies to Christian staff in provincial departments, autonomous bodies, corporations, and local government councils, giving them the opportunity to partake in Easter traditions and celebrations with their families and communities.The decision shows Sindh government’s ongoing commitment to religious harmony and inclusivity, sending a strong message of respect to minority communities.Ahead of the festival, authorities across Pakistan have ramped up security measures. Thousands of churches and Good Friday events will be closely monitored with high-tech CCTV systems and special security arrangements, as local officials conduct thorough inspections to ensure public safety. The government has emphasized maintaining interfaith peace while allowing Christian communities to celebrate freely. 

ISLAMABAD: The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) has introduced two modern features in the latest version (5.5.7) of the Pak ID mobile app to better facilitate citizens, ARY News reported.The updated features include passport capture/upload and swift biometric verification, both designed to streamline the application process.Key Enhancements: Global Accessibility: Citizens from 193 countries can now apply for any visa category with increased ease.Automated Data Entry: Users can now upload a photo of their passport or capture it directly through the app. The system automatically extracts essential information, such as the user’s name, passport number, and expiry date.Advanced Biometrics:Version 5.5.7 introduces a dedicated biometric verification section, allowing for seamless facial recognition across all application categories.To access these new features, users can update their Pak ID app or download it from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store to enjoy a faster, smarter, and more efficient experience.Two modern features of capture, biometrics introduced in NADRA Pak Mob IDThe National Database Registration Authority (NADRA) on Sunday issued a complete list of over 3,000 e-sahulat franchises set up across the country to serve consumers.The list also contains information about the owners of these franchises. The NADRA officials have said that these franchises offer a variety of services to people such as the issuance of a computerized national identity card (CNIC), the renewal of the old one and other facilities. Read More: NADRA issues list of e-sahulat centre set up across Pakistan Similarly, they have informed that parents can also obtain B-forms (child birth certificates) for their kids under 10 years of age, while the CNICs of dead persons are also cancelled at these centers.The officials have said that the people living in far-flung areas will no longer need to visit the NADRA offices since these franchises will offer them all the facilities they require.

PESHAWAR: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) government has decided to limit business hours across the province as part of measures aimed at conserving electricity, ARY News reported.According to reports, under the new directives, markets and commercial plazas in divisional headquarters will close at 9:00 PM, while in other districts, they will shut by 8:00 PM.Restaurants, cafes, wedding halls, and all events have been instructed to conclude by 10:00 PM in KP. However, home delivery and takeaway services will be allowed to continue beyond closing hours.The revised timings by the KP government will also apply to private offices, academies, banks, jewellery shops, and fitness centres.Industrial, manufacturing, and export units have been exempted from these restrictions. However, showrooms and retail outlets associated with industries will be required to follow the prescribed business hours.The KP government has also directed that unnecessary and decorative lighting, including façade and ornamental lights, must remain switched off.The authorities said the move is aimed at reducing electricity consumption and promoting efficient energy use in commercial activities.All administrative secretaries and commissioners have been instructed to ensure strict implementation, while deputy commissioners will monitor markets at the district level to enforce the orders.Also Read: Markets to close at 8 PM; restaurants at 10PMSimilarly, the Government of Balochistan announced new operating hours for markets, wedding halls, and restaurants across the province.According to the Balochistan Home Department, all markets and shopping centres in Quetta will now close at 8:00 PM.However, essential services, including medical stores, tandoors, and naan shops, have been exempted from the restrictions.Officials further stated that all events at wedding halls, banquet halls, and hotels must conclude by 10:00 PM.Restaurants and hotels have also been directed to shut operations by 10:00 PM, as per orders issued by the Additional Chief Secretary (Home).The new timings have been implemented as part of administrative measures to regulate business hours in the province.

QUETTA: The Government of Balochistan has announced new operating hours for markets, wedding halls, and restaurants across the province, ARY News reported.According to the Balochistan Home Department, all markets and shopping centres in Quetta will now close at 8:00 PM.However, essential services including medical stores, tandoors, and naan shops have been exempted from the restrictions.Officials further stated that all events at wedding halls, banquet halls, and hotels must conclude by 10:00 PM.Restaurants and hotels have also been directed to shut operations by 10:00 PM, as per orders issued by the Additional Chief Secretary (Home).The new timings have been implemented as part of administrative measures to regulate business hours in the province.Also Read: Markets to close at 8 PM; restaurants at 10PMEarlier, a proposal was given to shut down all markets, bazaars, and commercial zones at 8:00 PM to combat the ongoing energy crisis, ARY News reported.According to details, the federal government has accelerated consultations with all four provinces, as well as Gilgit-Baltistan, to develop an energy-saving program in response to regional tensions and rising costs.Sources within the Ministry of Energy revealed that under the new conservation plan, a revised schedule for shops and markets across the country has been proposed.The ministry suggests that bazaars and commercial zones operate from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Meanwhile, it has been suggested that restaurants and hotels close by 10:00 PM.To implement the program effectively, all provincial governments, chambers of commerce, and various trade organizations have been asked to submit their feedback.Additionally, energy consumption data has been collected from all power distribution companies (DISCOs) to ascertain exactly how much electricity can be saved through these timing adjustments.

After a sharp increase in petroleum prices, a further rise in the prices of ghee and edible oil is now expected, adding to public concerns over inflation.In Pakistan, increases in fuel prices typically lead to a rise in the cost of essential goods. Following the recent hike, prices of various items, including transport fares, have already gone up despite government assurances.An adviser to the Pakistan Vanaspati Manufacturers Association, Kainat Raza, has warned of a significant increase in ghee and cooking oil prices.She stated that higher fuel prices have sharply raised production costs for ghee mills, while the rise in diesel prices has made transportation expenses increasingly unaffordable.According to her, prices of ghee and edible oil could increase by Rs100 to Rs150.

KARACHI: Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah on Sunday said that the public transport will not hike fares and charge same fare that was being received before February 28.Addressing a press conference alongside with transporters, Sindh's chief minister said that the government will shoulder burden of the expensive fuel adding that the Sindh government will provide Rs one lac subsidy to each registered bus via the federal government.He clarified that the subsidy is not being paid from the NFC. "It was easier to give relief only in government transport fares, but freezing fares of all buses will be more beneficial".He said the war brings dire consequences, which could become even more serious.Murad Ali Shah said that it is a success that petrol has been available at pumps in Pakistan. "In other countries petrol has dried at pumps," chief minister said.He said the transporters being offered package to freeze hike in public transport fares. "Transporters have consented to participate in the government's scheme", he further said.He said transporters will not hike the fares of their coaches, minibuses, coasters and vans, the government will compensate transporters for hike in diesel prices, he added."The public transport fares will remain same that were being charged on February 28," he added.

Serious administrative challenges have emerged ahead of Karachi matric board exams, prompting the Grand Alliance of Private Schools Associations Sindh to demand a postponement and announcement of a new schedule.An emergency meeting of the association was held to review the situation, particularly concerns over incomplete arrangements and the non-issuance of admit cards for Karachi matric exams.The organisation has urged Sindh Minister for Universities and Boards, Muhammad Ismail Rahu, to delay the exams, which are due to begin on 7 April, by at least one week.It stated that examination centres have not been finalised, logistical arrangements remain incomplete, and many institutions are still unaware of their designated centres. In addition, admit cards for a large number of students have yet to be issued.The alliance warned that, with only one day remaining, it is not feasible to complete all necessary preparations, leaving students, teachers and parents in a state of distress.It further noted that under the current circumstances, conducting fair and transparent examinations for around 400,000 students would not be possible, and called for immediate intervention to ensure a smooth and organised examination process.

KARACHI: The Met Office has forecast light to moderate rainfall with thunderstorm in Karachi and other parts of Sindh on Monday (tomorrow) and Tuesday under the influence of a weather system.The rainy weather system could also bring windstorm in the city.Currently partly cloudy weather prevails in Karachi as sea breeze has been suspended.A westerly wave is expected to enter Baluchistan from Iran tonight that will influence weather conditions in Sindh and bring light to moderate rainfall in the region on April 06 and 07.The PMD said that light to moderate rain is also expected in other districts including Jamshoro, Dadu, Kambar Shahdadkot, Naushahro Feroze, Shaheed Benazirabad, Sanghar, Mirpur Khas, Matiari, Hyderabad, Tando Muhammad Khan, Tando Allahyar, Thatta, Badin, and Sujawal.The Met Office earlier predicted more rain-windstorm with thunderstorm as another western disturbance to approach western parts of Baluchistan on April 5 (evening) and likely to persist in upper parts till April 9.Under the influence of this weather system, rain and thunderstorm (with isolated heavyfalls/hailstorm) is expected in Balochistan’s Chagai, Dalbandin, Kharan, Quetta, Ziarat, Chaman, Pishin, Qilla Abdullah, Qilla Saifullah, Nushki, Harnai, Zhob, Kalat, Khuzdar, Barkhan, Mastung, Sibbi, Kohlu, Naseerabad and Loralai districts from April 5 (night) to April 7 with occasional gaps. While in Panjgur, Turbat, Kech, Awaran districts, Makran Coast (Gawadar, Pasni, Ormara) and Lasbella on April 6.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar spoke with Foreign Minister of Iran Abbas Araghchi on telephone and exchanged views on the evolving regional situation.During the conversation, Ishaq Dar reiterated Pakistan's support for all efforts aimed at de-escalation and underscored the importance of resolving issues through dialogue and diplomacy.Both sides agreed to maintain close contact in view of ongoing developments.Earlier, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar held a telephone conversation with the Foreign Minister of Egypt, Badr Abdelatty.They discussed the latest regional developments and ongoing diplomatic efforts, underscoring the importance of dialogue and de-escalation. Both sides agreed to remain in close contact.Pakistan has been actively positioning itself as a neutral facilitator amid escalating tensions between Washington and Tehran, offering Islamabad as a venue for dialogue.The initiative reflects Islamabad’s broader effort to de-escalate regional tensions, particularly in the wake of heightened hostilities following US and Israeli strikes against Iranian targets.

PESHAWAR: Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has issued alert for district authorities after rain forecast for most of the districts of the province under the influence of a weather system from April 06 to 09.The PDMA has cautioned against a strong westerly wave system with impact to various districts of the province.It is to be mentioned that the PMD forecast widespread rains and thunderstorm (snowfall over mountains) expected in Chitral, Dir, Swat, Kalam, Shangla, Buner, Kohistan, Malakand, Battagram, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Balakot, Haripur, Mardan, Nowshera, Peshawar, Kurram, Bajaur, Mohmand, Khyber, Orakzai, Swabi, Charsadda, Kohat, Hangu, Karak, Bannu, Lakki Marwat, Tank, Dera Ismail Khan and Waziristan from April 6 to 9 with occasional gaps. “Heavy falls/Hailstorm is also likely at scattered places on April 7 and 8.The PDMA has warned against landslides and flash floods in different parts of the province, while likely urban flooding in plains including Peshawar, Mardan and Nowshera."Strong winds and hailstorm could damage weaker structures, poles and solar panels," according to the PDMA.The disaster management authority has also advised farmers to take precautionary measures to protect standing crops across the province.

Residents reacted angrily after the announced reduction in petrol prices by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif was not implemented at some fuel stations.According to details, a violent incident took place at a petrol pump in Karachi's Surjani Town, where enraged individuals vandalised property and assaulted staff.Following the incident, the petrol pump administration contacted the police and requested legal action. Police officials stated that strict action would be taken against those involved, with the help of CCTV footage.Authorities further said that despite the official price reduction, the pump was allegedly charging higher rates, which triggered the public reaction.It is worth noting that the Prime Minister had announced a reduction of Rs80 per litre, lowering the price from Rs458 to Rs378, effective from midnight. However, some pump owners reportedly failed to comply with the directive.During his address, the Prime Minister also announced a Rs100 per litre subsidy for motorcycle users, with the mechanism already outlined.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi has launched “Ehsaas Fuel Support Programme” to provide Rs2000 monthly petrol subsidy to motorbikers across the province. The scheme aims to provide financial relief to the public, under which registered motorcycle and scooter owners will receive a monthly fuel subsidy of Rs2,000. Eligibility: Applicants must own a motorcycle or scooter registered in their name, with complete transfer documentation to get petrol subsidy.Unregistered vehicles or those registered under another person’s name will not qualify. Registration process (via Dastak App): Users are required to download the app from the Play Store or App Store, create an account, and enter vehicle registration and chassis details.Applicants must also provide personal information including name, father’s name, CNIC number, registered mobile number and address before submitting the application for the petrol subsidy scheme. Required documents: CNIC (front and back), vehicle registration book or smart card, a clear image of the vehicle, and verification from both buyer and seller in case of ownership transfer. Verification process: Applications will be verified through e-Sahulat and further scrutinised by the Excise and Taxation Office before approval or rejection is communicated. Key instructions: Applications containing incorrect information or incomplete ownership transfer will be rejected. In case of transfer, verification from both parties is mandatory.Registration will commence from 6 April.The initiative is part of the provincial government’s efforts to ease the impact of rising inflation on low-income groups.

ISLAMABAD: A proposal has emerged to shut down all markets, bazaars, and commercial zones at 8:00 PM to combat the ongoing energy crisis, ARY News reported.According to details, the federal government has accelerated consultations with all four provinces, as well as Gilgit-Baltistan, to develop an energy-saving program in response to regional tensions and rising costs.Sources within the Ministry of Energy revealed that under the new conservation plan, a revised schedule for shops and markets across the country has been proposed.The ministry suggests that bazaars and commercial zones operate from 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Meanwhile, it has been suggested that restaurants and hotels close by 10:00 PM.To implement the program effectively, all provincial governments, chambers of commerce, and various trade organizations have been asked to submit their feedback.Additionally, energy consumption data has been collected from all power distribution companies (DISCOs) to ascertain exactly how much electricity can be saved through these timing adjustments.Read More: Pakistan strengthens Climate-Commerce link to secure food supplyThe new program is expected to be implemented initially for a two-month period rather than as a permanent fixture. The Energy Ministry is currently reviewing stakeholder suggestions and electricity-saving estimates. A final decision on a uniform national policy is expected next week.

ISLAMABAD: The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) is continuing its efforts to facilitate citizens by deploying mobile registration vans to far-flung areas of the country, ARY News reported. These mobile units are scheduled to visit remote regions from April 6 to April 11. The initiative aims to provide essential registration services to residents who live far from NADRA centers. To find the specific schedule and locations for your area, please visit the official NADRA website. https://www.nadra.gov.pk/mobile-registration-vans-schedule/Earlier, the Senate Standing Committee on Interior has approved a key government bill granting the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) enhanced powers to regulate identity documents and strengthen national security mechanisms.According to reports, the bill was presented in the Senate by Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar on the direction of the Interior Ministry. Following its approval by the committee, the proposed legislation will now be tabled in the upcoming Senate session for final consideration.Under the proposed amendment, the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) will be authorized to block any Computerized National Identity Card (CNIC) for a period of up to 60 days.Officials from the Interior Ministry stated that identity cards are highly sensitive documents linked directly to national security and economic stability. Any misuse, they warned, could pose serious threats, making it essential to grant NADRA stronger regulatory powers.The ministry further highlighted that in the absence of clear legal provisions, NADRA has faced operational challenges in taking timely action. Criminal elements often exploit legal loopholes to delay or avoid proceedings, rather than cooperating with authorities.With the proposed changes, NADRA will be able to act more decisively in cases involving suspicious or fraudulent identity records. Authorities believe the move will enhance enforcement capacity and help prevent misuse of national identification systems.NADRA— Latest News Earlier, the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) expanded access to its selected services by extending them to an additional 1,000 e-Sahulat franchises across Pakistan.According to a spokesperson, citizens can now avail these services at around 3,000 e-Sahulat centres nationwide. The facilities include issuance of B-Forms for children up to the age of 10, renewal of national identity cards, obtaining duplicate cards in case of loss, and cancellation of identity cards of deceased family members.The expanded services are now available in multiple districts, including Islamabad, as well as major urban centres such as Karachi, Lahore, Hyderabad, Peshawar and Quetta, along with a wide range of districts across Sindh, Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Azad Jammu and Kashmir.Officials said the initiative is aimed at improving public access to essential registration services and reducing the burden on NADRA offices by bringing facilities closer to citizens.

MUZAFFARGARH: Recent rains and hailstorm have severely damaged the tomato crop in Muzaffargarh, Pakistan, with over 40 percent losses reported across the district, according to the agriculture department.Farmers, including Abdur Rehman, Suhail, Muhammad Akram, said tomato plants cannot withstand standing water, as prolonged moisture causes fungal infections and root damage, leading to widespread crop destruction.They warned if rains continue in the coming days, tomato prices are likely to surge in local markets. Read Also: Pakistan strengthens Climate-Commerce link to secure food supply ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is seeking to align its trade and climate strategies to safeguard the country’s food supply chain, amid growing concerns over affordability and efficiency.Federal Minister for Commerce of Pakistan, Jam Kamal Khan held a meeting with Romina Khurshid Alam, who recently assumed charge as Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Climate Change, along with a delegation representing Pakistan’s food chain sector.The meeting focused on aligning Pakistan’s trade and climate policies to ensure a resilient, efficient, and sustainable food supply chain amid evolving global and domestic challenges.Participants emphasized that while food availability and accessibility remain relatively stable, affordability and supply chain efficiency require immediate attention.

Karachi/Doha, April 4, 2026 — The Qatari Riyal (QAR) is trading at 76.58 Pakistani Rupee (PKR) today at 9:33 PM PKT, holding steady at the same level seen on March 28. The rate remains in the lower range that has persisted since mid-2025, with Qatar’s strong energy sector continuing to provide a reliable anchor in relatively calm market conditions. The QAR-PKR pair has shown limited movement in recent weeks. Recent rates include 76.58 PKR (Mar 28), 76.36 PKR (Mar 21), 76.64 PKR (Mar 14), 76.74 PKR (Mar 7), 76.73 PKR (Feb 28), 76.76 PKR (Feb 21), 76.79 PKR (Feb 14), and 76.73 PKR (Jan 31). Earlier in the period, the rate reached higher levels such as 77.93 PKR (Sep 5), 77.88 PKR (Aug 12), and the 2025 peak of 78.26 PKR on July 19. June 2025 closed at 77.86 PKR after opening near 77.39 PKR. Pakistan’s ongoing economic reforms and external support have helped the PKR maintain relative strength against the QAR throughout this timeframe. The QAR-PKR exchange rate is shaped by supply and demand in the foreign exchange market, influenced by trade flows, remittance volumes, and economic policies. The Qatari Riyal, pegged at 3.64 QAR per USD, continues to draw stability from Qatar’s dominant position as a major exporter of liquefied natural gas. The Pakistani Rupee, floating freely, responds more directly to domestic inflation, political developments, and foreign reserve changes — factors that have generally supported the PKR in recent months. The ongoing conflict involving Iran continues to affect regional energy markets. Disruptions around the Strait of Hormuz and related infrastructure have kept oil prices elevated, adding inflationary pressure on energy-importing countries like Pakistan. While Qatar benefits somewhat from higher energy values as an LNG exporter, the broader uncertainty in the Gulf adds volatility to shipping routes and regional currencies, indirectly influencing the QAR-PKR movement. For the over 125,000 Pakistani expatriates in Qatar, the current lower rate continues to reduce the value of remittances sent home. A 1,000 QAR transfer today is worth 76,580 PKR — unchanged from late March but 810 PKR below the June 2025 starting level of 77,390 PKR. This persistent gap adds pressure on families in Pakistan for education, healthcare, housing, and daily living expenses. On the other hand, individuals earning in PKR may still find imported goods in Qatar somewhat more affordable. The Qatari Riyal (QAR), introduced in 1966 as QR or ر.ق, is dollar-pegged and managed by the Qatar Central Bank, forming a stable pillar of the Gulf economy. The Pakistani Rupee (PKR), denoted ₨ since 1948, is overseen by the State Bank of Pakistan and adjusts to shifting economic and geopolitical conditions.

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan is seeking to align its trade and climate strategies to safeguard the country’s food supply chain, amid growing concerns over affordability and efficiency.Federal Minister for Commerce of Pakistan, Jam Kamal Khan held a meeting with Romina Khurshid Alam, who recently assumed charge as Coordinator to the Prime Minister on Climate Change, along with a delegation representing Pakistan’s food chain sector.The meeting focused on aligning Pakistan’s trade and climate policies to ensure a resilient, efficient, and sustainable food supply chain amid evolving global and domestic challenges.Participants emphasized that while food availability and accessibility remain relatively stable, affordability and supply chain efficiency require immediate attention.The delegation highlighted the need to minimize disruptions to essential industries, particularly the dairy and food sectors, which are highly sensitive to energy fluctuations and logistical inefficiencies.Minister Jam Kamal Khan said the government was committed to maintaining uninterrupted economic activity in key sectors, adding that better energy use and improved logistics would be central to strengthening supply chains.He noted that sustainable growth in trade depends on strengthening domestic supply chains and enhancing coordination between federal and provincial stakeholders.On this occasion, Romina Khurshid Alam stressed the importance of integrating climate resilience into food systems, pointing out that climate-smart agriculture, efficient resource utilization, and reduced wastage are key to long-term food security.She highlighted the government’s focus on encouraging behavioral change, energy conservation, and environmentally responsible practices across industries.The delegation also shared insights on fuel consumption patterns, transport inefficiencies, and the need for optimized freight systems, including better utilization of trucking capacity and greater reliance on rail networks.Both sides agreed that policy measures should focus on efficiency improvements rather than restrictive approaches, ensuring that economic momentum is maintained.Special attention was given to promoting alternative mobility solutions, digital supply chain management, and public-private collaboration to enhance productivity while reducing environmental impact.The meeting concluded with a consensus on developing a coordinated framework between commerce and climate institutions, aimed at strengthening Pakistan’s food systems, supporting industry continuity, and advancing sustainable economic growth.

LAHORE: Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif announced a major relief package aimed at reducing the financial burden on the public, including a subsidy on petrol, ARY News reported The CM of Punjab, in a message on X (formerly Twitter) apprised about the relief package. I am pleased to announce a massive relief package for the people of Punjab! Fuel Subsidy: Motorbike owners can now get 20 liters of petrol/month at a discounted rate of Rs. 100/liter.How to apply (Starting April 4): 📞 Call 1000 📱 Use the 'Maryam Ko Batayen' App 🌐 Visit… pic.twitter.com/B7ckyB9oiB— Maryam Nawaz Sharif (@MaryamNSharif) April 3, 2026 According to the relief package, motorbike registration fees across Punjab have been abolished, while transfer fees have also been waived. In addition, every registered motorbike owner will receive a monthly subsidy of Rs. 2000.Under this initiative, registered motorbikes will be eligible for a fuel subsidy of 100 rupees per litre on up to 20 litres of petrol per month.The relief package has been launched with immediate effect, and a clear mechanism has been introduced for citizens to access the subsidy. Motorbike owners can apply by calling helpline 1000, through the mobile application Maryam ko Batayn available on the Play Store, or via the official web portal:Maryam Nawaz Sharif reiterated that the government remains committed to easing the economic burden on the common man and is working tirelessly to ensure that meaningful relief reaches every household.Earlier, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Friday announced free rides that all public transport in Islamabad would be free of cost for the next 30 days, following directives from Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif.The minister shared the development on the social media platform X, stating that the initiative would come into effect from tomorrow and would apply to the general public across Islamabad.The move is aimed at providing immediate and broad-based relief amid rising transport expenses for daily commuters.According to the Interior Ministry, the government will bear Rs 350 million in expenses to implement the month-long free-transport scheme.Officials said the measure reflects the administration’s commitment to easing the financial burden on citizens while improving accessibility to public mobility services.The government expects the initiative to benefit thousands of commuters each day, particularly students, workers, and low-income households who rely heavily on public transport.Further details on operational adjustments and routes covered under the scheme are expected to be shared in the coming days.

As of today, April 4, 2026, one Omani Riyal (OMR) is trading at 725.92 Pakistani Rupees (PKR), slipping slightly from last week's 726.14 PKR. For those in Pakistan monitoring the OMR to PKR exchange rate, the pair has continued to trade in a narrow, relatively stable band even as the Iran conflict keeps global energy markets on edge. The Omani Riyal (﷼) maintains its long-standing stability, pegged to the US Dollar at 2.6008 since 1986 and supported by Oman's oil and gas revenues. The Pakistani Rupee (₨), guided by the State Bank of Pakistan, draws ongoing strength from healthy remittance inflows while contending with the fallout from elevated global fuel costs. This week the OMR/PKR pair saw only a minor softening, staying within a tight range. Brent crude has remained highly volatile due to the Iran war, recently trading between roughly $100 and $115 per barrel after peaking higher in March amid severe disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz. Diplomatic efforts and ceasefire signals have triggered sharp swings, but the overall elevated price level continues to offer some underlying support to the oil-linked Riyal through potential revenue gains for Oman. On the PKR front, February 2026 remittances stood at a solid $3.29 billion, up 5.2% year-on-year, with significant contributions from Gulf countries including Oman. This flow helps provide a buffer for the Rupee despite higher energy import bills. The rate remains below the longer-term average near 732 PKR, but the oil dynamics are limiting sharper declines for now. The ongoing Iran conflict — now in its fifth week with continued US-Israeli actions, Iranian responses, and persistent heavy restrictions on shipping through the Strait of Hormuz — continues to dominate energy markets. The strait, a vital route for a large portion of global oil and LNG, has seen drastically reduced traffic due to security risks, vessel attacks, and Iranian control measures. While this has driven record monthly gains in oil prices earlier in March and created potential windfalls for nearby exporters like Oman, it significantly raises Pakistan's oil import costs as a net importer. This could push up local inflation and place gradual pressure on the PKR if the disruptions persist. Recent talks of ceasefires and diplomatic channels (including Pakistan's role) have introduced some volatility, but strong Gulf remittances are helping mitigate the immediate impact. For Pakistani families depending on earnings from Oman, today's rate means a worker sending 500 OMR home receives roughly 362,960 Pakistani Rupee — a steady sum that still helps cover groceries, school fees, and household needs, even as fuel and transport costs in Pakistan feel the strain from high global oil prices. Trade between Oman and Pakistan (around $1–1.2 billion yearly, with Pakistan exporting textiles and rice while importing energy products) is navigating these mixed conditions: the oil-linked Riyal offers some balance, but prolonged high energy prices could increase costs for Pakistani importers. For travel, 1,000 PKR still converts to about 1.378 OMR for a Muscat trip, with very little weekly change. The coming weeks will hinge on whether diplomatic progress eases the Hormuz situation or if oil prices remain elevated amid ongoing tensions. February's healthy remittance data provides some reassurance, but the regional uncertainty keeps the potential for sudden movements alive. For live rates, reliable sources like Xe, Investing.com, or official State Bank of Pakistan channels are the best bet