RAWALPINDI: General Syed Asim Munir, NI (M), Chief of Army Staff (COAS) on Monday visited Wana in South Waziristan and Chehkan in Dera Ismail Khan to spend Eid-ul-Fitr with the officers and troops employed on the Western Border.COAS Asim Munir, offered Eid prayers, and prayed for the enduring stability and prosperity of Pakistan, said a news release by Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR) issued here.During his interaction, COAS Asim Munir extended warm Eid-ul-Fitr greetings to the troops, lauding their unwavering dedication and exemplary service to the nation.“Your commitment and resilience not only secure our homeland but also exemplify your profound love for Pakistan,” he stated.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IaeEnOq0SPUHe appreciated the performance of the Armed Forces and LEAs alongside the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa who have always braved against the menace of terrorism.In acknowledging the formations’ tireless efforts, the COAS Asim Munir attributed their achievements to the sacrifices of our martyrs and those who are committed towards the greater cause of peace and stability.Upon his arrival, the COAS was warmly received by the Corps Commander Peshawar.Read More: COAS calls for Pakistan’s transformation into a ‘Hard State’Earlier on March 18, Army Chief General Syed Asim Munir has underscored the need to improve governance and transform Pakistan into a hard state, ARY News reported on Tuesday.Addressing the Parliamentary Committee on National Security in Islamabad today, he said no agenda, movement, or individual is more important than national security.Army Chief General Syed Asim Munir expressed the resolve to defeat terrorists and all their facilitators through a unified national response.General Syed Asim Munir emphasized that all elements of national power must work in harmony to ensure sustainable stability.He described the fight against terrorism as a war for the survival of the nation and future generations.He underscored the need to improve governance and transform Pakistan into a hard state.General Syed Asim Munir questioned how long the country could continue making immense sacrifices as a soft state, expressing concern over filling governance gaps with the blood of armed forces and martyrs.The Army Chief urged Ulema to expose the distorted interpretation of Islam propagated by the Khawarij.

SIALKOT: After a heated domestic dispute, a mother tragically poisoned her three children. The devastating act resulted in the death of her 7-year-old daughter, while her two sons are fighting for their lives in critical condition, ARY News reported.Rescue 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.The police stated that the accused, Sidra Mohsin, has fled, and they are conducting raids at various locations in search of her. Authorities assured that she would be arrested soon.Read More: Mother arrested for killing son in fake kidnapping plotEarlier, In a shocking turn of events, the mother of the child who went missing a day before from Raiwind has been arrested for her involvement in his murder.The Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) Chaudhry Usman revealed that the mother, along with a friend and the maid, staged a fake kidnapping.According to the DSP, the mother and the maid together killed the child, Azlan, and then burned his body.The suspects dumped the burnt body in Kot Radha Kishan after setting it on fire.The body of the child has been moved to Jinnah Hospital for a post-mortem examination. DSP confirmed these details, shedding light on the horrific crime.A similar heart-wrenching tragedy occurred in December 2024, where a mother brutally killed her two children by slitting their throats.The tragic event took place within the jurisdiction of the Airport Police Station in Nawabshah.According to reports, the mother, identified as Komal Sheikh, was taken into custody. During initial interrogation, the mother confessed to the crime, admitting that she had killed her children with a knife in separate rooms.

RAWALPINDI: No political leader or family member visited Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan and his wife Bushra Bibi in Adiala jail on the first day of Eid ul Fitr, ARY News reported quoting sources.Jail sources mentioned that no formal request for a meeting had been made with either Imran Khan or Bushra Bibi on Eid ul Fitr. However, their family has requested a meeting for the second day of Eid ul Fitr. Latest- Imran Khan This marks the third consecutive Eid ul Fitr that Imran Khan is spending in Adiala Jail.Due to security reasons, the former Prime Minister was unable to leave the jail for the Eid ul Fitr prayers.https://youtu.be/_k-bSPZpJnoThe central mosque within Adiala Jail hosted the Eid prayers, with a large number of prisoners, detainees, and jail officials in attendance.Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf founder Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi, however, remained in their respective cells and could not participate in the Eid prayers.Sources also mentioned that Imran Khan did not wear new clothes for Eid this year and is continuing his religious observances in the current conditions of the jail.Read More: ATC orders authorities to arrange PTI founder’s call with his sonsJail authorities assured that security and arrangements were in place as usual to avoid any extraordinary incidents on the festive day.Earlier, an Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Rawalpindi granted PTI founder permission to speak with his sons over the phone.The court, presided over by Judge Amjad Ali Shah, approved the request, which was filed by Imran Khan’s lawyer, Faisal Malik.According to the court’s order, the jail administration is required to arrange the phone call, preferably during the upcoming Eid holidays.In addition, the court also directed authorities to provide Imran Khan with books, as requested by his lawyer.Earlier, PTI founder and his wife Bushra Bibi filed petitions in the Islamabad High Court (IHC), seeking suspension of conviction in the £190 million case.The petitions, filed through their lawyer Barrister Salman Safdar, argued that the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) had misused its authority and the conviction was based on incomplete investigations.

KARACHI: Strong earthquake tremors were felt across various areas of Karachi on Monday afternoon, with a magnitude of 4.7 recorded on the Richter scaleAccording to the Seismological Center, the earthquake occurred at a depth of 19 kilometers, with the epicenter located 75 kilometers north of Karachi.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LdQg__EcXjQ&pp=0gcJCb8Ag7Wk3p_UWhile there have been no immediate reports of significant damage or casualties, residents in several areas of Karachi reported feeling the tremors.Authorities are closely monitoring the situation, and residents of Karachi are urged to remain cautious.Read More: Magnitude 5.1 earthquake jolts Swat, adjoining areasEarlier, an earthquake measuring 5.1 on the Richter scale jolted Swat and its surrounding areas on Tuesday, the National Seismic Monitoring Centre (NSMC) said.The earthquake’s depth was recorded at 166 kilometers, with its epicenter located in the Hindu Kush Mountain range.Tremors were felt across Swat Mingora, Lower Dir, Chitral and adjoining regions, causing brief panic among residents. However, no immediate reports of damage or casualties were received.In September 2024, a 5.4-magnitude earthquake felt in parts of Pakistan, mostly Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and PunjabThe National Seismic Monitoring Centre (NSMC) confirmed that tremors were felt in Islamabad and parts of Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.The earthquake that was recorded at 1229pm PKT was of 5.7 Magnitude with a depth of 10km while its Epicenter was near DG Khan, says PMD in a statement.The quake jolted twin cities and several cities of Punjab and KP including Lahore, Sargodha, Chiniot, Okara, Jaranwala, Shorkot, Multan, Faisalabad, Mianwali, Sahiwal, Farooqabad and Peshawar.Tremors were also felt in Malakand, Lakki Marwat, Chitral, Mianwali, Kasur, Hafizabad and other cities of Punjab and KP.Following the tremors, people came out of their houses in fear by reciting Kalma-e-Tayyaba.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a telephone conversation on Monday with the Chief Advisor of the Government of Bangladesh, Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus to extend his warm wishes and greetings on the occasion of Eidul Fitr.While recalling their most warm and productive meetings in New York and Cairo on the margins of the UNGA and D-8 Summit last year, the prime minister expressed his satisfaction at the positive momentum in bilateral relations between the two countries, particularly in trade and travel.The two leaders reaffirmed their shared desire to further strengthen bilateral relations between Pakistan and Bangladesh.In this regard, Shehbaz Sharif said that Pakistan looked forward to the visit of the Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister to Dhaka in April and said that a trade delegation would also accompany him.Read more: Eidul Fitr being celebrated across Pakistan with religious zeal, fervorHe also underscored the need to revive institutional mechanisms to reinvigorate the bilateral relationship at all levels.The exchange of cultural troupes to promote people-to-people contact was also discussed. In this regard, PM Shehbaz Sharif invited a Bangladesh cultural troupe, comprising old and new artists, including the legendary Runa Laila, to visit Pakistan.The Prime Minister reiterated his invitation to the Bangladesh Chief Adviser to visit Pakistan at his earliest convenience.

Senior Sindh Minister and Pakistan People's Party (PPP) leader Sharjeel Inam Memon has strongly opposed any canal projects on the Indus River, urging Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to officially announce their cancellation on April 4.https://youtu.be/U-74rZSRRCM?si=iye5_eu4XsSiPgtFAddressing a press conference, Sharjeel Memon reaffirmed the PPP’s firm stance against 'controversial' water projects, stating, “We will not allow any canals on the Indus River.”He also took aim at critics, accusing some of acting under foreign influence, specifically India’s intelligence agency, RAW.Memon emphasized that the PPP remains open to dialogue only with those who truly support Pakistan.Read more: President Zardari didn’t approve canals project, says Sindh CMEarlier, Sindh’s Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah said that President Asif Ali Zardari didn’t approve any canal project in a meeting.“President was told about briefing on irrigation and additional land cultivation but the wrong minutes of the meeting issued,” Sindh’s chief minister said in a press conference.Referring to the meeting chaired by President Asif Ali Zardari, Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah said that the meeting minutes were wrongly used to suggest presidential approval of the canal projects.Murad Ali Shah said that in the pretext of the meeting chaired by the president, canals were approved.Sindh’s chief minister said that a complete record of water shortage in Indus River has been available. “We have challenged the Indus River System Authority’s (IRSA) certification in the Council of Common Interest (CCI) as any canal project must first be discussed and approved by the CCI”.

Firing incidents following Eidul Fitr prayers resulted in the deaths of six people, including a woman, while nine others sustained injuries in different parts of Pakistan, ARY News reported on Monday.In Swabi's Gadoon Amazai, two people were killed and two injured in an exchange of fire between rival groups after Eidul Fitr prayers.According to police, the incident was linked to an old enmity, and a passerby was also injured.In Bannu's Mandan police jurisdiction, a confrontation between two parties led to the deaths of a child and another person, while one individual sustained injuries.In Abbottabad's Mirpur area, two people were wounded in a shooting incident inside a mosque following Eid prayers. Police attributed the incident to personal enmity and are conducting further investigations.In Karak's Rahmatabad area, a man was shot dead under unclear circumstances, and a case has been registered. In Lower South Waziristan's Gangi Khel stop, police constable Shah Hussain was injured in a firing incident and shifted to the hospital.Read more: Five people killed over old enmity in PeshawarIn Umerkot’s Khosa Mohalla, a man shot and killed his former wife before fleeing. According to police, the suspect took the action after his ex-wife remarried following their divorce.In Karachi’s Super Highway Fakira Goth, a man was killed and another injured in a suspected robbery resistance case.The injured was shifted to the hospital in critical condition. In Malir City’s Ghazi Town, a young man was also wounded in a similar incident.Authorities have launched investigations into these incidents as law enforcement agencies work to ensure public safety during Eidul Fitr celebrations.

Amid security concerns, Balochistan government has enforced Section 144 across the province, ARY News reported on Monday. As per details, the Balochistan Home Department has enforced Section 144 due to security concerns, restricting public movement at recreational sites during Eidul Fitr 2025. In Quetta, the district administration has banned visits to popular spots, including Hanna Orak, Karkhassa, and Shaban. Authorities have urged citizens to avoid these areas during the festive days. Meanwhile, the Punjab Home Department has banned temporary mechanical rides set up for Eidul Fitr festivities, citing public safety concerns. Read more: Balochistan govt to take action against employees involved in anti-state narrative According to an official notification, rides installed on a permanent basis at amusement parks and play areas will be allowed to operate, provided they have a valid fitness certificate ensuring compliance with safety standards.The notification directed deputy commissioners to enforce the ban on temporary mechanical rides on Eidul Fitr's occasion, warning of potential risks due to inadequate safety inspections.The notification highlights that temporary rides, often assembled without proper safety checks, pose significant risks to public safety, especially during Eid when large crowds gather.

President Asif Ali Zardari and PML-N President Nawaz Sharif offered Eidul Fitr prayers in Nawabshah and Lahore, respectively, ARY News reported. As per details, President Asif Ali Zardari observed Eid prayer at Zardari House in Nawabshah, where a large number of people joined him. He prayed for the country's progress and later met with attendees, exchanging Eid greetings. Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly Ghulam Mustafa Shah, Provincial Minister Ali Hassan, and Zia Lanjar were also present at the gathering. Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) President Nawaz Sharif, accompanied by his sons Hassan and Hussain Nawaz, offered Eidul Fitr prayer at Jati Umra. Following the prayer, Nawaz Sharif and Maryam Nawaz visited the graves of Mian Sharif and Kulsoom Nawaz to offer Fateha. He also extended Eid greetings to party workers. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif celebrated Eidul in Lahore alongside his son, former Punjab Chief Minister Hamza Shehbaz. He offered Eid prayers in Model Town and exchanged greetings with attendees.Read more: Eidul Fitr being celebrated across Pakistan with religious zeal, fervor Pakistan People's Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari performed Eidul Fitr prayers at the mausoleum of democracy martyrs in Garhi Khuda Bakhsh in Larkana. He was accompanied by Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, former CM Syed Qaim Ali Shah, Nisar Khuhro, Agha Siraj Durrani, and other senior leaders. After the prayers, Bilawal Bhutto prayed for the country's security and prosperity and exchanged Eid greetings with citizens. Senate Chairman Yousuf Raza Gilani observed Eidul prayer in Multan, while National Assembly Speaker Ayaz Sadiq, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, and Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan performed their Eid prayers in Lahore.

ARY Group, one of Pakistan’s largest and most diversified business conglomerates with a strong presence in Middle East, Europe and North America, has announced a strategic investment in Chase, one of Pakistan’s oldest and most renowned retail store chains.With this investment, ARY Group aims to transform Chase into the largest retail chain in Pakistan and expand its international footprint as well.Salman Iqbal, CEO of ARY Group, expressed his vision for the collaboration, stating, “We want to take Chase to a different level, making it the largest retail store chain in Pakistan and expanding its reach internationally. Chase already has a presence in Birmingham, and we want to further take it to wherever ARY and the Pakistani community are. For this purpose we will now be rebranding our stores as ARY CHASE”.Faraz Iqbal, Owner of Chase Retail Stores, welcomed the partnership, highlighting the growth potential it brings. “This is a very positive step for Chase. With ARY Group’s investment, we will be able to serve a larger customer base both locally and internationally. This collaboration holds immense potential to deliver greater value to our customers in the future.”Chase opened its first retail store in 1984 and has built a strong reputation for offering quality products at competitive prices. The company has been a household name in Pakistan’s retail sector and continues to expand its presence in Pakistan and around the globe.As part of the initial expansion plan, ARY Group and Chase will open 100 new stores across major cities and towns in Pakistan, as well as internationally. This strategic growth aims to enhance accessibility, improve customer experience, and set new standards in retail excellence.This collaboration marks a significant milestone in Pakistan’s retail industry, promising better shopping experiences, increased job opportunities, and a stronger global presence for Pakistani brands.

Eidul Fitr is being celebrated with great religious zeal and fervor across the country today.Eid congregations are being held at open places, mosques and Eidgahs in all villages, towns and cities.Special prayers will be offered in the Eid sermons for development and prosperity of the country and liberation of Muslim territories, including Indian Illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, and Palestine.In Islamabad, main Eid congregation will be held at Faisal Mosque, where government dignitaries, foreign diplomats besides common people will offer Eidul Fitr prayer.President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, on the blessed occasion of Eid-ul-Fitr, have extended their heartfelt greetings to the entire Pakistani nation.In their separate messages, they emphasized that this day teaches lessons of joy, gratitude, brotherhood, and compassion.President Asif Ali Zardari said Eidul Fitr teaches the importance of unity and solidarity, encouraging everyone to foster unity, support one another, and contribute to steering Pakistan toward progress and prosperity.He also prayed for the people of Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, pleading Allah Almighty to grant them freedom and bless them with the joy of Eid soon.Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif highlighted that Pakistan currently faces threats from both internal and external enemies.He stressed need to avoid all forms of extremism, hatred, and sectarianism. To ensure the nation's integrity and stability, he called for unity and vigilance to prevent any conspiracy from succeeding.Read more: President and PM extend Eidul Fitr greetings to nationShehbaz Sharif said government is making every effort to achieve economic recovery, maintain peace and order, and ensure social stability.Prime Minister commended the sacrifices of the armed forces of Pakistan in the fight against terrorism and extended solidarity to the bereaved families of the martyrs.He also prayed for the martyrs of the Jaffar Express train incident.Shehbaz Sharif further emphasized people to remember their oppressed brothers and sisters of Palestine and Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir, who are engaged in their struggle for freedom.He reaffirmed Pakistan's unwavering support for them and urged the international community to act swiftly to halt human rights violations and deliver justice to these innocent Muslims.

President Asif Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have extended their heartfelt Eidul Fitr greetings to the nation, underscoring the values of unity and compassion in the face of challenges. ARY News reported on Sunday.Both leaders emphasized the significance of Eid as a day of joy, gratitude, and brotherhood, urging Pakistanis to uphold the virtues of piety, patience, and sacrifice cultivated during Ramadan.While extending Eidul Fitr greetings, President Asif Zardari, in his Eid message, emphasised the importance of charity, social responsibility, unity and compassion.He urged the nation to remember those facing financial difficulties and to generously pay Zakat, Sadaqat, and Fitrana, ensuring that no one is deprived of Eid celebrations.The President stressed the need for unity and solidarity, calling on Pakistanis to support each other and contribute to national progress and prosperity. He also extended prayers for the people of occupied Jammu and Kashmir, hoping for their freedom and peace.Likewise, in his Eidul Fitr greetings to the nation, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif highlighted the threats posed by internal and external enemies, calling for national unity to combat extremism, sectarianism, and hatred.Shehbaz Sharif reaffirmed the government's commitment to economic revival, peace, and social stability while acknowledging the sacrifices of Pakistan Army officers and soldiers in the fight against terrorism.The Prime Minister expressed solidarity with the families of martyrs, including those of the Jaffar Express tragedy, and extended support to the oppressed people of Palestine and Indian-occupied Jammu and Kashmir.Both leaders prayed for Pakistan’s peace, progress, and prosperity, urging the nation to embrace the true spirit of Eid by fostering brotherhood, unity and compassion.Read more: PM Shehbaz Sharif extends Eid greetings to Azerbaijan presidentEarlier, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif engaged in telephonic conversations with various world leaders to extend his warm Eidul Fitr greetings.Notably, he spoke with Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev, conveying heartfelt Eid wishes to him, his family, and the people of Azerbaijan.During the call, the Prime Minister expressed his hopes for peace, prosperity, and continued success for Azerbaijan.

KARACHI: As Karachi welcomed the joyous occasion of Eidul Fitr 2025, aerial firing incidents across the city cast a shadow over the celebrations, ARY News reported on Sunday.Multiple areas reported injuries due to stray bullets, highlighting the dangers of this reckless practice and causing injuries to citizens ahead of Eidul Fitr 2025.In Kasba Colony and Hyderi, two individuals, including a child, sustained injuries from stray bullets.Similar incidents were reported in Frontier Colony and Mianwali Colony, where two individuals were injured.Rescue officials confirmed these cases, emphasizing the need for public awareness.Karachi's Orangi Town Sector 11 and Nazimabad No. 1 witnessed injuries to two individuals, including a woman.In Landhi's Moinabad and Ranchore Line near Ram Swami, two more individuals were hurt due to aerial firing on the eve of Eidul Fitr 2025.Lyari also reported injuries to a child and another individual, while in Baldia's Qaimkhani Colony, a woman was injured by stray bullets.Police in Keamari took swift action, arresting three individuals involved in aerial firing and recovering weapons used in the incidents. SSP Keamari assured strict measures to prevent such occurrences in the future.While Eid is a time for joy and unity, these incidents serve as a reminder of the importance of celebrating responsibly. Authorities urge citizens to refrain from aerial firing to ensure the safety and well-being of all.Read more: Shawwal moon sighted, Eid ul Fitr to be celebrated tomorrow across PakistanPolice across Pakistan have been actively raising awareness about the dangers of aerial firing during Eidul Fitr 2025.Campaigns involving religious scholars and community leaders aim to discourage this practice and promote peaceful celebrations.Earlier this evening, the Shawwal moon was sighted in Pakistan, marking the joyous occasion of Eidul Fitr 2025.Citizens in Islamabad, various provincial capitals, and other cities observed the moon with the naked eye, signaling the end of Ramadan.

HYDERABAD: As Pakistan faces a severe water shortage crisis, Hyderabad farmers have taken proactive measures to address the issue by constructing small dams on their lands, ARY News reported.The innovative approach, supported by the Sindh government's Water Management Program, aims to conserve water, fight the water shortage crisis and ensure sustainable agricultural practices.The water shortage crisis has impacted agriculture across Sindh, leading these Hyderabad farmers to adopt new strategies to store and utilize water efficiently.A farmer shared, "These dams are a blessing for us. When water supply decreases, we use stored water to irrigate our crops."Another farmer explained that their water storage tank, designed for 25 acres, provides sufficient irrigation during critical periods.The initiative has shown promising results, with improved crop yields expected due to the conservation of canal water.Hyderabad farmers are utilizing these small dams not only for watercourses but also for drip irrigation systems, ensuring optimal water usage.As the holy month of Ramadan concludes, farmers express gratitude for these advancements, emphasizing the importance of water conservation during Eid celebrations."Eid is a time of reflection and gratitude. These small dams symbolize hope and resilience for our community," remarked a local farmer.The water crisis in Sindh, with major dams like Tarbela and Mangla, are reaching dead levels.This has led to a 50% water shortfall, affecting key crops such as cotton, sugarcane, and vegetables.The Sindh government and farmers are working together to mitigate the impact through innovative solutions like small dams.Read more: Sindh irrigation deptt issues water shortage and drought alertEarlier, Sindh's irrigation department warned of an imminent water shortage and drought in Karachi and other regions due to alarmingly low reservoir levels.The ongoing Rabi season's reduced rainfall caused water levels in the Tarbela and Mangla dams to drop to 0.102 MAF and 0.226 MAF, respectively, with predictions that both dams may hit dead levels within days and cause water shortage crisis.If the situation persists, the water shortage could exceed 50% at the start of the Kharif crop season, raising serious concerns for the region's agriculture.

LAHORE: The Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) Lahore has announced extended water supply timings during Eidul Fitr to ensure uninterrupted water supply for residents of the provincial capital. This initiative from WASA Lahore aims to meet the increased water demand during the festive occasion, reflecting the agency's commitment to public convenience and celebration.In preparation for Eid, WASA Managing Director Ghufran Ahmed chaired a high-level meeting with directors and executives to review water supply arrangements and finalize the tube well operation schedule and water supply timings.All operational staff's leaves have been canceled to ensure water supply timings are adhered and seamless water and drainage services during the Eidul Fitr holidays.Here are the scheduled water supply timings from WASA Lahore Session Eid Day Timings Regular Timings (Post-Eid) First Session 4:30 AM to 10:00 AM 5:00 AM to 9:00 AM Second Session 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM 12:00 PM to 2:00 PM Third Session 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM 5:00 PM to 8:30 PM The agency has also implemented measures to address any emergencies promptly, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free Eid celebration for Lahore’s residents.Read more: No gas load-shedding during Eid holidaysEarlier, the Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC) announced that there would be no gas loadshedding in Sindh, including Karachi, during the Eidul Fitr holidays, providing relief to citizens.According to the company's statement, the uninterrupted gas supply will be ensured from Chandraat (the night before Eid) until the third day of Eid.The Shawwal moon has been sighted in Pakistan on Sunday, and Eidul Fitr will be celebrated tomorrow, Monday, March 31.The moon was observed in Islamabad, provincial capitals, and other cities, where citizens saw the moon with the naked eye.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif held a telephone conversation with Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev on the occasion of Eidul Fitr and conveyed Eid greetings to him, ARY News reported on Sunday. During the call, Shehbaz Sharif wished his family and the people of Azerbaijan Eid Greetings, peace, prosperity, and continued success.Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening the deep-rooted fraternal ties between both countries and foster Pakistan-Azerbaijan relations.Building on PM Shehbaz's recent visit to Baku, the two leaders discussed upcoming high-level engagements. Azerbaijan's Minister of Economy is scheduled to visit Islamabad in the first week of April to finalize key investment agreements.These agreements, worth $2 billion, aim to enhance Pakistan-Azerbaijan relations, bilateral cooperation and mark a new chapter in the strategic partnership between the two nations.The visit will also set the stage for President Aliyev's anticipated visit to Islamabad later in April, which is expected to be a milestone in Pakistan-Azerbaijan relations.PM Shehbaz emphasized that these agreements would strengthen economic ties and open new avenues for collaboration in various sectors.The prime minister expressed optimism that President Aliyev's visit would further solidify the strategic partnership and foster mutual growth.Strengthening the bond of friendship, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's heartfelt Eid greetings to Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev reflect a shared commitment to peace and prosperity.Read more: PM Shehbaz forms committee for implementation of accords with AzerbaijanEarlier, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, during a meeting on Tuesday, established a committee to ensure the swift execution of agreements and Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) signed with Azerbaijan during his recent visit to the country.Chairing the session to review the progress of these accords, the Prime Minister instructed the relevant authorities to devise an action plan aimed at elevating the current trade volume between Pakistan and Azerbaijan to $2 billion.According to a press release from the Prime Minister's Office, the newly formed committee will be led by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar and will focus on preparing agreements in the energy and infrastructure sectors.

LAHORE: Punjab Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb, in the guise of an ordinary citizen, carried out a surprise inspection at Jinnah Hospital and Lahore Children’s Hospital, ARY News reported on Sunday.This initiative, carried out on the directives of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, accorded with the festive spirit of Eidul Fitr, emphasising the government’s commitment to public welfare during this auspicious occasion.During the surprise hospital inspections, Marriyum Aurangzeb inspected various hospital counters, wards, and pharmacies, reviewing the provision of free medicines, healthcare standards and cleanliness standards.She interacted with patients’ families to inquire about medical services, cleanliness, and the availability of free medicines.The Punjab minister also visited the Medical Superintendent’s office, where she praised the efforts of doctors and staff for their improved performance.These surprise hospital inspections followed Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s earlier inspection of Jinnah Hospital, which had revealed mismanagement, poor healthcare standards and complaints about the unavailability of free medicines.The Punjab CM had taken strict action, suspended the Medical Superintendent and implemented reforms to enhance service delivery.Within days, noticeable improvements were observed, including the introduction of a helpline for complaints and digital screens displaying real-time data on medicine availability.Maryam Aurangzeb’s visit, aligned with the spirit of Eid, highlighted the government’s dedication to ensuring quality healthcare for all.The minister extended Eid greetings to patients and staff, emphasizing the importance of compassion and service during this festive season.Read more: CM Maryam laments lack of medications in Jinnah Hospital LahoreEarlier, Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz visited Jinnah Hospital Lahore in response to numerous complaints from patients regarding the medical emergency department.During her inspection, she expressed strong dissatisfaction over the shortage of essential medications and inadequacies in emergency healthcare services. Engaging directly with patients, she gathered firsthand accounts of their struggles and concerns.This visit aligns with the broader healthcare reforms initiated by Senior Provincial Minister Maryam Aurangzeb, who recently conducted surprise inspections at Jinnah Hospital and Lahore Children’s Hospital to assess service standards and ensure improvements in public healthcare facilities.

ISLAMABAD: The Shawwal moon has been sighted in Pakistan, and Eid ul Fitr will be celebrated tomorrow, Monday, AYR News reported.The moon was observed in Islamabad, provincial capitals, and other cities, where citizens saw the moon with the naked eye.A meeting of the central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee was held in Islamabad under the chairmanship of Maulana Abdul Khabeer. Based on the testimonies received from across the country, the announcement was made that the Shawwal moon had been sighted.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M8CJDFgjriUChairman Abul Khabeer Azad stated that the Shawwal moon has been sighted, and Eid ul Fitr will be celebrated tomorrow across Pakistan. He thanked Allah for the blessings of Pakistan and prayed for the prosperity and development of the country.He also mentioned that the Pakistan Armed Forces are playing a crucial role in the defense of the country, and urged everyone to pray for their success in combating terrorism. He asked the nation to remember the martyrs of the armed forces in their prayers.Earlier, the Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC) had announced that there will be no gas loadshedding in Sindh, including Karachi, during Eid ul Fitr 2025 holidays.According to a statement, the gas supply will remain uninterrupted during the Eid holidays, bringing relief to the citizens.However, the company stated that the announcement will remain effective from night before eid (Chandraat) till the third day of Eid.Similarly, Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) Police has deployed over 3,500 officers and personnel across the city for patrolling and crime prevention duties during Eid ul Fitr 2025.Additionally, 500 traffic officers have been assigned to manage traffic flow, especially for tourists traveling to and from Murree.The Inspector General of Police (IGP) Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi has announced a comprehensive security plan for Eid-ul-Fitr to ensure the safety and convenience of citizens and tourists visiting the capital.Read More: Over 3,500 police personnel deployed in Islamabad for Eid securityHighlighting key measures, IG Rizvi stated that 18 security checkpoints have been established at the city’s entry and exit points to monitor and regulate movement.A crackdown will also be launched against street crime, reckless behaviour, and aerial firing to maintain public safety.IG Rizvi emphasized that all parks, including Lake View and Daman-e-Koh, have been designated as family parks to ensure a safe and enjoyable atmosphere for families during Eid celebrations.

KARACHI: The Government of Sindh has written another letter to the federal government over the contentious canal project from Indus River.The Sindh government has demanded the federal government to immediately convene a session of the Council of Common Interest (CCI) in its letter."The issue of the certification of the Cholistan canal project by the Indus River System Authority (IRSA) will be raised in the CCI session, so as to cancel the illegal step of the Irsa," letter read.Sindh government has said that the Irsa's water availability certificate has been a bundle of lie. "Sindh didn't receive its share of river water from the river authority according to the 1991 water accord"."The issue of the canal certification should be discussed in the CCI session," provincial government demanded in its letter.Pakistan People's Party earlier decided to forward the canals issue to President Asif Zardari to raise the matter with the federal government.President Zardari will discuss the matter of building six new canals on Indus River with the federal government after Eid ul Fitr, according to the party sources.The president will discuss the matter with the prime minister and demand to convene the session of the constitutional forum the Council of Common Interest (CCI) to discuss the issue.Sindh’s Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah yesterday said that President Asif Ali Zardari didn’t approve any canal project in a meeting.“President was told about briefing on irrigation and additional land cultivation, but the wrong minutes of the meeting issued,” Sindh’s chief minister said in a press conference yesterday.Referring to the meeting chaired by President Zardari, Murad Ali Shah said that the meeting minutes were wrongly used to suggest presidential approval of the canal projects.He said Sindh’s representative had recorded the province’s objection when the issue of six canals, without mentioning the name of Cholistan, was discussed in the ECNEC.

PESHAWAR: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has set a target to enroll 1 million children in schools during the new academic year’s admission campaign, ARY News reported.The provincial government has decided to launch an enrollment drive for the new school year.Provincial Education Minister Faisal Tarakai stated on Sunday that under this campaign the government aims to ensure that 1 million children are enrolled in schools.He emphasized that out-of-school children will be brought back into the education system at all costs.The admission campaign will continue until April 30, he said adding that to facilitate, students, will also be admitted to second-shift schools where necessary.