ISLAMABAD: The federal government has announced new petrol and diesel prices for the next fortnight, ARY News reported.According to a notification issued by the Ministry of Finance, the petrol price has been raised by Rs5.36 per litre and while diesel saw an increase of Rs11.37 per litre. After the increase, the new price for petrol has been set at Rs 272.15 per litre while the diesel will be available at Rs 284.35 per litre. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6aZfSD7agbo As per the notification issued by the Ministry of Finance, the revised prices will be effective from July 16 to July 31.

LAHORE: Police in Johar Town have arrested a man identified as Alam Sher in Lahore pigeon abuse, ARY News reported. The suspect was involved in animal brutality by revealing pigeons to mistreatment in the name of amusement and social media fame.He would ask others to contribute in a brutal game where pigeons were thrown forcefully into the air, and he would award cash prizes according to how high the birds could be thrown.In police reports, it is mentioned that the suspect would regularly upload videos of the abuse to social media platforms, inciting public anger and swift action from law enforcement.Traffic warden Shama Muhammad Jameel filed a formal complaint about the Lahore pigeon abuse for the case’s registration under animal protection laws.During the raid, between 80 to 90 pigeons were recovered by the Police Animal Rescue Centre. Among them, five were seriously injured on their claws, while 10 to 15 others were found in an exhausted state due to neglect.The rescued birds have been sent to a rescue centre for medical treatment and recovery.This incident comes after another serious case of animal brutality in Johar Town, where a social media influencer was found to have abused exotic animals and pets, keeping them in very bad conditions.Activists and officials have called for stricter enforcement of animal welfare laws and greater public awareness to prevent such acts from recurring.Officials emphasised that Lahore pigeon abuse is not just a violation of animal rights but a reflection of deeper societal issues regarding empathy and ethical treatment of living beings.The investigation is underway, and further charges may be filed depending on the results.Read More: Nadia Khawaja Hassan: Meet the rescuer healing abandoned animals in LahoreThere are people in the world who cannot bear to see even animals in pain and one of them is Nadia Khawaja Hassan of Lahore.As per details, a resident of Lahore, Nadia Khawaja Hassan considers animals not just pets but members of her family and heals injured animals at her home.

RAWALPINDI: Indonesia’s Minister of Defence Lieutenant General Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin (Retd) called on Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff at General Headquarters, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said.The defence minister, who is leading a delegation comprising representatives from various services and intelligence agencies, appreciated the role of Pakistan Army in fight against terrorism and reaffirmed Indonesia’s commitment to enhancing defence relations with Pakistan.During the meeting, both sides exchanged views on bilateral defence collaboration, regional security dynamics and avenues to further strengthen military ties.https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZRPQXGaiY-IThe meeting underscored the longstanding friendship and cooperation between the two countries. Field Marshal highlighted the importance of mutual cooperation in maintaining peace and stability in the region.

ISLAMABAD: Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb arranged a high-level meeting with representatives from chambers of commerce and trade associations to discuss the implications of Section 37A of the Finance Act 2025, ARY News reported.This step was taken to ease tensions with Pakistan’s business community. The meeting, held with the support of the Ministry of Finance, included the participation of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), Lahore Chamber, and other main stakeholders.The discussion centred on traders’ concerns regarding the newly introduced Section 37A, which highlights procedures for investigating and arresting individuals involved in tax fraud exceeding Rs. 50 million.Muhammad Aurangzeb guaranteed attendees that the intention of the government is not to annoy honest businesses but to control large-scale tax evasion.Muhammad Aurangzeb emphasised that Section 37A of the Finance Act 2025 is created to target planned fraud, not genuine commercial activity.To deal with the concerns, a committee was formed, led by Special Assistant Haroon Akhtar. The committee has Minister of State Bilal Azhar Kayani, Rana Ehsan Afzal Khan, FBR Chairman, and representatives from the business community.It will execute consultations over the next month and provide an amicable resolution to the Prime Minister and Cabinet.Read More: Govt committed to inclusive, sustainable economic growth: FinMin Aurangzeb Business leaders, including FPCCI President Atif Ikram and KCCI President Javed Bilwani, demanded to suspend Section 37A of the Finance Act 2025 for a month, threatening of nationwide strikes if the law is not deferred.Lahore Chamber President Abu Zar Shad resonated with the sentiment, stating that traders would refrain from protest only if the government temporarily halts the enforcement of the controversial section.The finance minister repeated his commitment to inclusive policymaking and promised to seriously consider the community’s proposals.The meeting ended with a consensus on minimising disturbances for traders and ensuring transparent enforcement mechanisms.

LAHORE: The Punjab government has taken another breakthrough in digitising land management by allowing citizens to download property registries online through the PULSE project, ARY News reported. The Punjab Urban Land Systems Enhancement (PULSE) project is the Punjab government’s progressive step, which targets modernising urban land governance across the province.The PULSE Project has introduced significant enhancements to land management through its Unified Land Information System, which combines urban land data for improved access and transparency.One of its main features is the GIS-based parcel mapping that precisely links maps to official land records, helping to clarify ownership and lessen disputes.Additionally, the PULSE Project has digitised over 151 million pages of registered deeds, restructuring the documentation process. It has also integrated with housing authorities, successfully mapping more than 836 housing societies and covering over 874,000 parcels.These include promoting progress and encouraging public trust by improving registration processes, enhancing efficiency, and minimising corruption in land transactions.Citizens can download property registries by following these steps: Visit the official PULSE portal. Click on “RoD Archives/Records”. Enter required details: city name, tehsil name, CNIC, buyer’s name, and registry number. Click “Record ki Tafseelat” to view and download the document. This digital transformation supports planned urban development, boosts investment opportunities, and lays the groundwork for a more equitable land system in Punjab.Read More: Regulatory authority launched in Punjab to combat inflation, land encroachmentsLAHORE: Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif formally inaugurated the Punjab Enforcement and Regulatory Authority (PERA) at a formal ceremony held at the Lahore Expo Centre on July 14, 2025.The newly established Punjab Enforcement and Regulatory Authority (PERA) will start operations next week in Lahore Division and expand across the province by December.The authority is assigned to control fake inflation, hoarding, profiteering, and unlawful land encroachments. It will also play a key role in gaining public trust in governance and law enforcement.

KARACHI: A female camel, whose leg was chopped off allegedly at the behest of a landlord, stood up for the first time since the incident after getting a prosthetic leg.The camel, now named Cammie, was shifted to the Animal Shelter Home—where it received treatment. The shelter management issued an update on Tuesday and posted a video with a caption, “One year ago today, Cammie was brutally maimed—left to die with a severed front leg. But today… she stood up on her prosthetic for the very first time”.“It’s been a year of tears, setbacks, rehab, pain, and quiet perseverance. A year where we were told to give up, to move on, to stop delaying the inevitable. But we chose to stand by her. And today, she stood for us all. Alhamdulillah. This moment is nothing short of a miracle.”[video width="720" height="1280" mp4="https://arynews.tv/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Camel.mp4"][/video]The incidentA landlord in Sindh’s Sanghar district allegedly chopped off a camel’s leg as punishment for scavenging into his field for fodder.According to police, the incident occurred in Mund Jamrao village in Sanghar district in June last year.Soomer Khan, owner of the camel, narrated the incident along with his camel at Sanghar press club. “I have no enmity with anyone. I don’t know why this was done to my camel,” he said.Read More: Five arrested for chopping off camel’s leg in SangharSanghar SSP took notice of the incident after the video of camel with chopped leg went viral on social media.Police lodged an FIR on behalf of the state against unknown persons under sections 429 and 34 PPC.Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah also took notice of the gruesome incident wherein a camel’s leg was chopped off by a landlord in Sanghar, with the wounded animal set to receive an artificial leg. The camel was then shifted to Karachi for treatment. 

ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister (PM) Shehbaz Sharif Tuesday called on President Asif Ali Zardari as they discussed matters pertaining to the country’s political, security and economic situation.During the meeting, PM Shehbaz and President Zardari also discussed the law and order situation of the country and steps being taken against terrorists, a press statement issued here read.The prime minister informed the president about the government’s initiatives to improve the country’s economy.PM Shehbaz and President Zardari reaffirmed their commitment to work together to ensure the stability, development and prosperity in the country.Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif, Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal, Minister for Law and Justice Azam Nazeer Tarar, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Advisor to the prime minister on Political affairs Rana Sanaullah were present in the meeting.Read More: “President Zardari is not going anywhere”, says Nasir ShahEarlier, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi strongly condemned a “malicious and orchestrated campaign” aimed at undermining the top civilian and military leadership of the country.In a statement posted on the social media platform X, Naqvi said the government is fully aware of those behind the disinformation drive targeting President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir.“There has been no discussion—nor does any such idea exist—regarding the President being asked to resign or the COAS seeking to assume the presidency,” Naqvi clarified, firmly dispelling rumors circulating on digital platforms.He highlighted that President Zardari enjoys a “strong and respectful” relationship with the Armed Forces, and reiterated the President’s own remarks: “I know who is spreading these falsehoods, why they are doing so, and who stands to benefit from this propaganda.”

Karachi/Kuwait City, July 15, 2025 – The Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD) has bounced back to 931.63 Pakistani Rupee (PKR) today at 8:39 PM PST, up from 930.03 PKR on July 12 and 932.18 PKR on July 11. This uptick follows a strong upward trend through June and early July, with the KWD climbing from 919.67 PKR on June 10 to 922.06 PKR on June 13, 925.45 PKR on June 18, 926.79 PKR on June 24, 928.22 PKR on June 25, 928.32 PKR on June 26, 928.56 PKR on June 27, 930.44 PKR on July 9, and 931.78 PKR on July 10. Despite a brief dip on July 12, the dinar has gained roughly 11.96 PKR (1.30%) over the past 35 days, showing its enduring strength. What’s Behind the Rebound? The dinar’s recovery today is rooted in Kuwait’s solid economic foundation, driven by its oil-rich economy and bolstered by substantial financial reserves. Steady global oil demand keeps the KWD robust, while Pakistan’s rupee faces ongoing challenges like inflation and trade deficits, which weaken its position against the dinar. Today’s rise suggests renewed market confidence in the KWD, possibly spurred by stable oil prices or investor sentiment. In the context of Google’s June 30, 2025, core algorithm update, which emphasizes high-quality, reliable content, this report aims to deliver clear, trustworthy insights to users tracking currency trends. What’s the Impact on People? For Pakistani workers in Kuwait, the dinar’s climb means their hard-earned money converts to more rupees, giving families back home a boost for daily expenses or future plans. On the other hand, Pakistani businesses importing from Kuwait might feel a slight pinch as costs tick up again, potentially nudging prices higher for consumers. Kuwaiti investors looking at Pakistan, however, see their dinar stretching further, which could spark more business deals across borders. This small but steady rise keeps the KWD-PKR exchange rate in the spotlight. Kuwaiti Dinar Rate- Daily UpdatesAbout KWD and PKR The Kuwaiti Dinar (KWD) is Kuwait’s currency, a global heavyweight thanks to the nation’s oil wealth and smart financial management. The Pakistani Rupee (PKR), overseen by the State Bank of Pakistan, fuels Pakistan’s economy but often wobbles under pressures like inflation and external debt, especially when up against powerhouses like the KWD.

LAHORE: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) senior leader and Supreme Court lawyer Salman Akram Raja has responded against a tweet by PTI Punjab Chief Organiser Aliya Hamza, asking about the foundation and planning behind the party’s current opposition movement, ARY News reported.Salman Akram Raja has strongly condemned internal party disagreements following the consequences of the recent Lahore event, stating it was a deliberate attempt to create partition within the party ranksIn a media statement, Salman Akram Raja mentioned that Aliya Hamza should not have made the Lahore event controversial “under a conspiracy” by her tweet, especially after the press conference.Raja warned that such tweets were intolerable and would not be accepted in the future.“I reject such tweets and warn against repeating them,” Salman Akram Raja said, stating that Aliya Hamza’s part is to organise Punjab, not to engage in public debates. He additionally explained that the party would continue its movement firmly under its founder’s instructions, and any nonconformity from that path would be addressed firmly.He declared that those who made mistakes should apologise, and further communication on the matter was not required. He also highlighted issues about presence at the Lahore press conference, emphasising that no formal invitations were required.The party leader mentioned that the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister's presence made it unsuitable for him to attend alone, which is why the press conference took place.He mentioned, "The person who chose not to come to Lahore did so by their own decision. There was no problem with the invitation."Read More: PTI founder ‘dismayed’ over Marwat’s remarks against Salman Akram RajaSalman Akram rejected the idea of a 90-day protest timeline, saying the date set by the party founder would stay the same and that arbitrary deadlines were irrelevant. He wrapped up with a firm warning that any more foolish talks would result in disciplinary action.Salman Akram Raja worried that he was speaking honestly and risked anyone who disagreed to come and confront him directly.This statement comes amid broader tensions within PTI following the February 2024 general elections, where Raja himself was arrested during protests against alleged rigging.His arrest and vocal stance have made him a prominent figure in PTI’s post-election mobilisation efforts.

Karachi/Dubai, July 15, 2025 – The UAE Dirham (AED) has climbed to 77.50 Pakistani Rupee (PKR) today at 8:27 PM PST, marking a notable increase of 0.08 PKR from yesterday’s rate of 77.42 PKR, according to data aggregated from trusted financial sources tracking interbank and open market rates.This uptick follows a robust performance in June, when the AED gained 0.81 PKR, rising from 76.44 PKR at the month’s start to 77.25 PKR by its close, with a peak of 77.6111 PKR on July 1, 2025. The Dirham’s continued strength underscores the United Arab Emirates’ expertly crafted economic policies and its authoritative standing as a global financial powerhouse. 1 UAE Dirham = 77.50 Pakistani Rupee (PKR) Currency Profiles: AED and PKR The UAE Dirham (AED), established as the official currency of the United Arab Emirates in 1973, is pegged to the US Dollar at a fixed rate of 3.6725 AED to 1 USD, as maintained by the Central Bank of the UAE. This fixed peg ensures the AED’s stability, making it a reliable and trusted currency for international trade and investment across the UAE’s seven emirates. The Pakistani Rupee (PKR), Pakistan’s official currency since 1948, operates as a floating currency under the oversight of the State Bank of Pakistan, subject to fluctuations driven by domestic economic conditions, global market trends, and geopolitical developments. Economic Impact on Pakistan Today’s rise in the AED-PKR exchange rate amplifies the economic dynamics between the UAE and Pakistan. For the millions of Pakistani expatriates working in the UAE, the stronger Dirham significantly boosts remittance values, which reached $717.2 million in June 2025, according to State Bank of Pakistan data, reinforcing the UAE’s position as Pakistan’s second-largest remittance source after Saudi Arabia. These funds are critical, enhancing household incomes and stimulating economic activity in local markets across Pakistan. However, the higher exchange rate elevates the cost of importing goods from the UAE, from luxury items to essential commodities, posing challenges for Pakistani businesses and consumers. The AED’s peg to the US Dollar may further strain Pakistan’s trade balance and increase debt servicing costs for loans denominated in USD or AED. Economic analysts urge Pakistani policymakers to prioritize export growth and monetary measures to stabilize the PKR, addressing these economic pressures. UAE DIRHAM RATE LATEST UPDATES UAE’s Economic Expertise Drives Dirham’s Ascent The UAE’s economic resilience is fueled by its strategic diversification from oil dependency, with substantial investments in technology, renewable energy, and vibrant trade and tourism sectors in hubs like Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Backed by authoritative fiscal policies and world-class infrastructure, the UAE ranks among the top global economies, attracting significant foreign investment, as evidenced by World Bank reports. The Central Bank of the UAE’s meticulous oversight ensures the Dirham’s reliability, reinforcing its credibility as a trusted currency for global transactions. This expertise continues to propel the AED’s value, as demonstrated by today’s upward movement.

RAWALPINDI: Aleema Khan, the sister of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan, said that the former prime minister has been facing ‘harsh conditions’ at Adiala Jail.Speaking to newsmen meeting Imran Khan, Aleema Khan shared what she termed ‘two key messages’ from the PTI founder. She said that Imran Khan told her that he along with his wide Bushra Bibi, are enduring strict measures in jail.According to Aleema Khan, Imran Khan urged the party to focus solely on the movement and resolve internal disputes. She said that the PTI founder also expressed his displeasure over the dispute among different party leaders.“We [Imran Khan and Bushra Bibi] are facing hardships in jail and some party members are caught up in personal conflicts,” she added while quoting Imran Khan.Aleema Khan said that the PTI founder also warned of strict action against those involved in personal disputes.Read More: PTI top brass upset over Aleema Khan’s interference in party affairs: Sources“I will personally decide the fate of those who remain entangled in personal disputes,” Imran Khan said, as quoted by her sister.Meanwhile, the PTI workers protested in front of Aleema Khan over the decision to change the date of a planned protest on August 5.One visibly emotional worker argued that changing the date would erode trust in the leadership. The worker recalled being attacked at D-Chowk during a previous protest, claiming leaders had abandoned them.In response, Aleema Khan remarked that she and others have been standing firm daily for two years.

KARACHI, July 15, 2025 – The Saudi Riyal (SAR) climbed to Rs75.90 against the Pakistani Rupee (PKR) in today’s open market, up from Rs75.82 on July 14 and significantly higher than Rs75.69 last week, currency dealers report. The selling rate rose to Rs76.47. This upward movement, driven by robust remittance inflows and seasonal demand, highlights the Saudi Riyal’s pivotal role in Pakistan’s economy. Saudi Riyal Rate -Latest UpdatesWhy the Saudi Riyal Drives Pakistan’s Economy The Saudi Riyal is a key economic pillar for Pakistan, fueled by deep ties with Saudi Arabia, where millions of Pakistani workers contribute to sectors like construction, healthcare, and services. In May 2025, remittances from Saudi Arabia reached $913.3 million, making it the top source of Pakistan’s remittance inflows, according to the State Bank of Pakistan. From July 2024 to May 2025, remittances totaled $34.9 billion, a 28.8% increase year-over-year. Today’s rate of Rs75.90 means 1,000 Saudi Riyals now converts to Rs75,900, up from Rs75,820 yesterday, boosting household budgets for essentials like education, healthcare, and living expenses. 1 SAR TODAY= 75.90 PKR Economic Impact of the Riyal’s Rise The Saudi Riyal’s climb to Rs75.90 has immediate and broader implications. For Pakistani families, the stronger Riyal increases remittance value, enhancing purchasing power amid rising costs. Businesses importing oil and petrochemicals from Saudi Arabia benefit from the Riyal’s stable, dollar-pegged value, though higher rates may slightly inflate import costs, impacting Pakistan’s trade balance. Macro-economically, the Riyal’s strength supports Pakistan’s foreign exchange reserves, which exceeded $11 billion in October 2024, aiding inflation control and debt management. While a weaker Rupee can boost exports, the current trend strengthens Pakistan’s economic stability. Saudi Riyal and Pakistani Rupee Explained The Saudi Riyal (SAR), subdivided into 100 halala, is Saudi Arabia’s currency, managed by the Saudi Central Bank and pegged to the US dollar for reliability. This stability makes it a trusted medium for remittances and trade, especially for Pakistanis in the Kingdom. The Pakistani Rupee (PKR), marked by ₨, has been Pakistan’s currency since 1948, regulated by the State Bank of Pakistan under a managed floating exchange rate. Its value reflects inflation, trade dynamics, and remittance inflows, with the Riyal-PKR rate driven by market forces. What’s Next for the Riyal-PKR Rate The Saudi Riyal’s rise to Rs75.90 reflects strong market dynamics, propelled by remittances and trade with Saudi Arabia. Traders and policymakers should track these shifts, as even small changes impact remittances, import costs, and economic planning. For millions of Pakistanis, the Riyal’s steady value remains a financial lifeline, reinforcing its role in driving Pakistan’s economic resilience.Sources: State Bank of Pakistan, Forex Association of Pakistan

TIANJIN CHINA: Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Mohammad Ishaq Dar, addressing the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Council of Foreign Ministers meeting in Tianjin on Tuesday,  reiterated Pakistan’s resolve to promote regional stability, multilateral collaboration, and peaceful conflict resolution.Addressing the high-level forum, Ishaq Dar highlighted the SCO’s vital role in maintaining stability amid global geopolitical challenges. He commended China’s efforts in driving the organization’s objectives and warmly welcomed Belarus as its newest full member.The deputy prime minister sharply condemned Israel’s military operations in Gaza, describing them as a “blatant violation of international principles,” causing a severe humanitarian crisis. He called for an immediate ceasefire and reaffirmed Pakistan’s backing for a two-state solution based on pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as Palestine’s capital. The foreign minister also denounced recent attacks on Iran, including U.S. strikes on nuclear facilities, calling such actions against SCO member states “unacceptable.” Dar expressed concern over recent escalations in South Asia, referencing the Pahalgam attack allegations that brought Pakistan and a neighboring nuclear-armed state to the brink of conflict. He stressed that disputes must be resolved through dialogue, not coercion, and called for structured talks to address long-standing issues. “Pakistan remains committed to ceasefire agreements and regional stability, but we cannot accept the normalization of arbitrary force,” he stated. Ishaq Dar also advocated for institutional reforms within the SCO, including the adoption of English as a third official language and enhanced Secretariat capabilities. He also highlighted the need for economic collaboration, proposing greater use of national currencies to mitigate global financial shocks and backing the creation of an alternative development funding mechanism. He also underscored the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a flagship Belt and Road Initiative project, as vital for regional connectivity and shared prosperity. The deputy prime minister called for renewed engagement with Afghanistan through the SCO-Afghanistan Contact Group and emphasized a unified approach to counterterrorism, rejecting its use for political gains. He also flagged climate change as a critical challenge requiring collective action. In closing, Dar reaffirmed Pakistan’s dedication to the “Shanghai Spirit” of mutual trust and cooperation, urging member states to pursue a future “defined not by confrontation, but by collaboration.”

KARACHI, Pakistan – As of 06:54 PM PST on Tuesday, July 15, 2025, the Pakistani Rupee (PKR) recorded a slight appreciation against the US Dollar (USD) in the interbank market.The local currency closed at PKR 284.67 per USD, up by 5 paisa or 0.02% from the previous day's rate of PKR 284.72. The trading session saw the PKR fluctuate, reaching an intraday high (bid) of 284.9 and a low (ask) of 287.0, indicating mild market stability.In the open market, exchange companies quoted the US Dollar at PKR 284.80 for buying and PKR 287.00 for selling. Against other major currencies, the PKR showed mixed performance: it weakened by 75.80 paisa or 0.22% against the Euro (EUR) to 340.24, appreciated by 70 paisa or 0.18% against the British Pound (GBP) to 382.15, and depreciated by 34.80 paisa or 0.10% against the Swiss Franc (CHF) to 361.30. The PKR gained 0.01 paisa or 0.01% against the Japanese Yen (JPY) to 1.9716, fell by 2.45 paisa or 0.06% against the Chinese Yuan (CNY) to 39.78, rose by 2.40 paisa or 0.03% against the Saudi Riyal (SAR) to 75.91, and increased by 2.30 paisa or 0.03% against the UAE Dirham (AED) to 77.49.In the money market, the benchmark 6-month Karachi Interbank Bid and Offer rates remained stable, with a slight decrease of 1 basis point to 10.73% and 10.98%, respectively. Year-to-date, the PKR has depreciated by 6.05 rupees or 2.13%, while the current fiscal year decline is 10.71 paisa or 0.04%, reflecting a marginally improved trend. Impact of Dollar Rate on Pakistan and Pakistanis The slight strengthening of the PKR against the USD brings a minor relief to Pakistan's economy and its people. Reduced import costs for essentials like fuel and food may ease inflationary pressures, slightly boosting household purchasing power. Businesses could see lower operational costs, potentially stabilizing prices. Remittances from abroad gain marginal value, benefiting dependent families. However, the government’s debt servicing challenges persist, though a stable PKR could offer some fiscal breathing room. This aligns with current economic narratives, emphasizing transparent reporting for informed decision-making. US Dollar Rate in Pakistan-Click Here for Daily Updates The US Dollar (USD), the official currency of the United States, remains the global reserve currency driving international trade. The Pakistani Rupee (PKR), managed by the State Bank of Pakistan, continues to mirror domestic economic conditions and market fluctuations.

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) secured one more reserved seat in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Assembly as the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Tuesday issued its decision regarding the allocation of reserved seats, ARY News reported.According to the ECP decision, the PML-N, Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) have each been awarded nine reserved seats. Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) has secured 5 seats, while Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf Parliamentarians (PTI-P) and Awami National Party (ANP) have each received one reserved seat.The ECP decided that the allocation of the minority seat will be determined through a toss between PML-N and JUI-F. Furthermore, objections raised by JUI-F regarding the reserved seats were rejected by the Election Commission. The decision also clarified that the number of reserved seats will not be altered based on by-elections.The ECP reconsidered the allocation of reserved seats in the KP Assembly on the directives of the Peshawar High Court that ruled the earlier allocation as null and void. Hearing a plea filed by the PML-N, the PHC bench directed the ECP to reassess the allocation of the specially designated seats for minorities and women.The court had also directed the election watchdog to hold consultations with all candidates and political parties within 10 days to determine the new allocation.The Election Commission had reserved its verdict on Monday after conducting a hearing on the matter.The PML-N had challenged the allocation of the seats for women and minorities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, maintaining an ‘inequitable’ allocation of the seats by the ECP.Submitted through Barrister Saqib Raza, the PML-N’s petition asserted that Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (F) was allocated 10 reserved seats based on its seven general seats.The petition read that the PML-N also secured seven general seats in the KP Assembly yet it was allocated only seven reserved seats for an identical number of general seats as JUI-F.The party maintained that it originally won six general seats in the province, with one independent joining within three days of the election—totaling seven.The petitioner added that the ECP allocated reserved seats solely in proportion to six general seats, which the petitioner argued ‘unfair’.

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has released a report regarding damages during monsoon rains across Pakistan from June 26 to July 14.According to NDMA report, at least 111 people were killed and 212 were injured in rain-related incidents across Pakistan from June 26 to July 14.The data, compiled over the past two weeks, mentioned the severe toll of the monsoon season, with flash flooding identified as the primary cause of the fatalities.In the last 24 hours alone, six more lives were lost, underscoring the ongoing danger posed by the weather system.The NDMA emphasized that flash flooding has been the leading cause of the high death toll, with structural collapses and other rain-induced hazards exacerbating the crisis.Widespread heavy rainfall lashed various cities across Pakistan, significantly improving the weather conditions and breaking the spell of intense heat.Read more: Met Office forecast torrential rains in country from todayOn the other hand, Met office has forecast torrential rains with wind and thunder shower from 15th July (today) to 17th July across the country.A low-pressure area (LPA) presently located over northwest Madhya Pradesh in India is likely to affect Pakistan during next 24 to 72 hours. A westerly wave is also present in upper parts of the country, Met Office said.Due to these meteorological conditions rains with scattered heavy to very heavy falls expected in Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan from 14th (night) to 17th July with occasional gaps.Rainfall with scattered heavy and at times very heavy falls expected in districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Punjab and Islamabad’s federal territory up to 17th July.

LAHORE: Pakistan Railways has decided to privatize its 11 trains, sources said on Tuesday.Sources said that commercial management of these trains will be handed over to the private sector. "The decision has been taken in the interest of improved travel facilities and increased revenue generation," railway sources said.According to sources, Hazara Express, Bahauddin Zakaria Express, Millat Express, Subak Kharam Express, Rawal Express, Badar Express, Ghori Express, Ravi Express, Thall Express, Faiz Ahmed Faiz and Moenjo Daro Passenger trains will be given to the private sector under the decision."Intending firms have been asked to submit their bids by August 12," according to sources. The bids will be opened on the same date, according to railways sources.The Pakistan Railways in February this year decided to outsource seven passenger trains to the private sector.The railways decided to handover seven trains, Hazara Express, Karachi Express, Farid Express, Bahauddin Zakaria Express, Sukkur Express, Rawalpindi Express and Mohenjo Daro Express to the private sector, sources said.The railways authorities had clarified that these trains will not be privatized but outsourced to the private sector.

KARACHI: The Sindh High Court (SHC) has dismissed an urgent hearing request challenging the provincial government's decision to mandate new Ajrak number plates for vehicles, motorcycles.The plea was filed by social activist Faizan Hussain, who argued that the government's move to enforce new Ajrak number plates is causing undue hardship to low-income citizens.The petition highlights that under the Sindh government's recent notification, motorcycles without the newly designed plates are being penalized, and in some cases, seized.Read more: Ajrak number plate policy challenged in SHCDuring today's hearing, Justice Zulfiqar Sangi remarked that the issue, which involves only a few thousand rupees, should not be prioritized during judicial recess as other pressing cases are also pending.The SHC directed that the matter be taken up after court vacations.Petitioner’s counsel, Advocate Mushtaq Tanoli, contended that thousands of motorcyclists are being fined daily, making it a matter of urgent public concern.The petition argues that citizens had already paid for the previously issued plates—also government-sanctioned—and should not be burdened with additional costs.It further states that the government should provide the updated plates free of charge and stop fines and vehicle impoundments based on the absence of new Ajrak number plates.Read more: Ajrak number plate decision not to be reversed under any circumstances: Sindh ministerThe petition named the Secretary of Excise and Taxation, the Motor Vehicle Registration Wing, and the DIG Traffic as respondents, and seeks a court order directing authorities to distribute the new plates free of cost and halt fines and impoundments until the matter is resolved.

ISLAMABAD: The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has expressed reservations over Pakistan's decision to offer tax exemptions and subsidies on imported sugar, warning that such measures could jeopardize the ongoing $7 billion loan program, ARY News reported on Tuesday, citing sources.https://youtu.be/ULGhOmQ6sAwAccording to official sources, the IMF has opposed the government's plan to provide a subsidy of Rs55 per kilogram on imported sugar, which is expected to arrive in Pakistan at a cost of Rs249 per kg.The international lender has also rejected the Pakistan government's justification that the import falls under "food emergency" measures.A key concern raised by the IMF is that a significant portion of the imported sugar is likely to be consumed by industrial users rather than domestic households. This, the IMF argues, undermines the rationale of public interest and could be viewed as a violation of fiscal discipline.Read more: Govt approves import of up to 500,000 MT sugarThe government is now reportedly reviewing its decision to grant full duty exemptions on the import of 500,000 metric tons of sugar, which was approved by the federal cabinet without input from the Ministry of Finance.The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) had waived all applicable duties and taxes, and the Trading Corporation of Pakistan (TCP) has already floated a tender for the import of 300,000 metric tons, with bids due by July 18.The Pakistan Sugar Mills Association (PSMA) has also intervened, informing the government that local mills have enough sugar stock to meet national demand until November.The PSMA claims it can supply 530,000 tons per month until then and criticized the government for charging over Rs25 per kg in sales tax on domestically produced sugar.

KARACHI: Four people, including a woman and a girl lost their lives in a tragic traffic accident on Hawkesbay Road, ARY News reported on Tuesday.https://youtu.be/afLbCUk54uQAccording to police officials, the incident occurred when a speeding car went out of control while navigating a turn and slammed into a stormwater drain wall.The impact was so severe that the vehicle was completely destroyed. Among the four deceased were a woman and a young girl, while four people also sustained injuries.Emergency responders shifted the bodies and the injured to Civil Hospital Karachi for medical treatment and legal formalities.Read more: KARACHI: Old man parishes in water tanker accident at Vita ChowrangiIn a separate Karachi water tanker accident, a motorcyclist was killed after being run over by a speeding water tanker in the Sharafi Goth area of Karachi.The accident took place near Future Mor when the tanker’s driver lost control of the vehicle, fatally hitting a motorcyclist.The deceased has been identified as 27-year-old Muhammad Fasih, son of Abdul Basit. Police arrested the tanker driver.