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NGC energizes 500 kV K2/K3 Transmission Line to evacuate power from nuclear plants

By
Kamran Muraad
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ISLAMABAD, Jul 29 (APP): The National Grid Company of Pakistan Ltd. (NGC) has successfully energized the 500 kV K2/K3–Matiari and KKI–Port Qasim transmission line circuits, marking a major step forward in strengthening the nation’s power infrastructure besides evacuating 2,200 MW electricity from K2 and K3 nuclear power plants near Karachi.
The newly commissioned transmission line establishes a dedicated link between the K2/K3 facilities of KANUUP (PAEC) with the existing 500kV Port Qasim – Matiari transmission line and has been completed at an approximate cost of Rs 18.45 billion, said a press release.
This critical enhancement in the transmission infrastructure significantly augments the reliability, stability, and transmission capacity of the national grid.
The energization of the transmission line will witness an increase in NGC’s grid resilience in the southern region, catalyzing regional development and creating job opportunities while contributing to a broader economic growth. The project will also support Pakistan’s energy security vision by ensuring induction of clean nuclear energy into the energy mix.
Despite numerous obstacles, this milestone was realized through unwavering support of Ministry of Energy (Power Division), Board of Directors NGC and collective efforts of key NGC departments, including Project Delivery (South), Asset Management (South), Telecom, HVDC (South), TSG (South), Transmission Line Design, Material Procurement & Management, Protection & Control, Power System Planning and special support from ISMO.
Managing Director (NGC), Engr. Muhammad Shahid Nazir, congratulated all teams involved for their dedication and efforts. He noted that this successful completion underscores NGC’s commitment to advancing Pakistan’s transmission capabilities and delivering reliable power to the load centers for a brighter future

SEPCO directed to Implement Federal Ombudsman’s decisions

By
Kamran Muraad
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SUKKUR, Jul 29 (APP): A crucial meeting was held at the Federal Ombudsman Regional Office in Sukkur on Tuesday, chaired by Syed Mehmood Ali Shah, Regional Head. The meeting was attended by a delegation from Sukkar Electric Power Company (SEPCO), led by Superintending Engineer Muzafar Khuhawar, along with Deputy Manager Commercial Javed Abbasi.
During the meeting, Syed Mehmood Ali Shah stressed the importance of implementing decisions made by the Federal Ombudsman in a timely manner. He emphasized that compliance with the findings is crucial, particularly in cases related to citizen relief and service resolution.
SEPCO officials were urged to expedite actions to ensure that directives are executed within the specified timeframe.
Syed Mehmood Ali Shah warned that failure to comply promptly may lead to the exercise of relevant legal provisions, reaffirming the office’s commitment to upholding the mandates of the Federal Ombudsman and protecting public rights.
The meeting concluded with SEPCO officials assuring that they would prioritize the implementation process and submit compliance reports within the specified timeline.

Sindh CM, Kyrgyzstan Deputy PM discuss bilateral relations, trade

By
Kamran Muraad
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KARACHI, Jul 29 (APP): The Chief Minister of Sindh, Syed Murad Ali Shah, met with a 10-member delegation led by the Deputy Prime Minister/Chairman of Kyrgyzstan, Edil Baisalov, to strengthen bilateral relations and enhance trade cooperation between the two nations.
    The meeting was attended by provincial ministers, Sharjeel Memon, Nasir Shah, Saeed Ghani, Special Assistant to CM Qasim Naveed, Chairman P&D Najam shah, Secretary to CM Raheem Shaikh, DG MOFA Irafn Soomro. The Kyrgyz delegation includes Ambassador  Kalychbek, Deputy Foreign Minister Tamerbek Erkinov, Deputy Minister of Trade Sanchirbek Bolotov, Deputy Minister of Transport Almazter Gumbay, and other senior officials.
   During the meeting, discussions revolved around enhancing bilateral relations and trade cooperation. Chief Minister Shah noted that currently, Pakistan imports agricultural products from Kyrgyzstan, while Kyrgyzstan imports textiles from Pakistan. He emphasized the need to increase the trade volume between the two countries.
    The Chief Minister also highlighted that many Pakistani students are pursuing medical education in Kyrgyzstan, but they are facing challenges due to certain issues. He expressed the desire for these students to receive protection and the opportunity to study in a conducive environment.
   Additionally, the meeting discussed various investment opportunities in Sindh. The Chief Minister mentioned that both Sindh and Kyrgyzstan could collaborate on agricultural development and also work together in the transport sector.
 After the meeting, it was agreed that the Sindh Department of Investment would engage in discussions with Kyrgyzstan regarding diplomatic cooperation to promote trade.

Millers for Nutrition Initiative launched to boost food fortification

By
Kamran Muraad
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ISLAMABAD, Jul 29 (APP): Nutrition International, in collaboration with TechnoServe, officially launched the Millers for Nutrition initiative in Pakistan on Tuesday.
The initiative brings together key food fortification stakeholders to improve the nutritional quality of staple foods such as wheat flour and edible oil, aiming to combat micronutrient deficiencies and support national health goals.
Millers for Nutrition is a global initiative that advances the vital role of millers in reducing malnutrition and improving public health through food fortification — a practice of adding essential micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) to commonly consumed food to improve its nutritional value.
The coalition aims to ensure access to quality fortified staple food for one billion people worldwide by 2026.
Taking forward the global initiative in Pakistan, Nutrition International will engage wheat flour and edible oil millers, empowering them through targeted capacity building, provision of testing equipment and premixes, and support through strong partnerships with the government and industry.
This will be complemented by celebrating and recognizing industry champions and promoting women’s leadership in large-scale food fortification.
“The Millers for Nutrition Coalition is an important step that will advance the nutrition agenda in Pakistan,” said Badaruddin Kakar, Central Chairman of Pakistan Flour Mills Association (PFMA). “Along with a strong regulatory environment, raising consumer awareness is equally vital so people can make healthier choices in staple foods.
He said that PFMA is committed to working closely with Nutrition International and other partners to take this initiative forward for the lasting benefit of our people and the country’s future.
“We are fully committed to achieving and sustaining 100% fortification of edible oil with Vitamins A and D,” said Shaikh Abdul Razzaq, Former Chairman of the Pakistan Vanaspati Manufacturers Association (PVMA).
“This is vital to safeguarding the health of our children and future generations. I urge oil millers across Pakistan to actively participate in this important initiative, and PVMA remains fully cooperative with Nutrition International and regulatory authorities to accelerate this progress.”
Large-scale food fortification has the potential to help individuals achieve optimal growth, maintain health, and improve their lifelong earning potential,” said Dr. Shabina Raza, Country Director, Pakistan, Nutrition International, while speaking at the launch event.
“Micronutrient deficiencies remain a major public health challenge in Pakistan. The Millers for Nutrition initiative is a critical step forward, complementing Nutrition International’s ongoing efforts to strengthen food fortification and expand access to essential nutrition for millions,” she added.
 “We are thrilled to introduce Millers for Nutrition in Pakistan,” said Rizwan Yusufali, Global Program Director, TechnoServe. “We want to unite passionate stakeholders to support Pakistan’s Millers and food processors in achieving fortification excellence and driving meaningful change in the battle against malnutrition. Together, we can transform the future of nutrition in Pakistan”.
The national launch event held in Islamabad brought together public and private sector leaders, including millers and representatives from the Pakistan Flour Mills and the Pakistan Vanaspati Associations, to strengthen partnerships and commit to action.
Other speakers said that Millers for Nutrition initiative is a vital step in advancing Pakistan’s national goals on food fortification.
They said that this initiative connects millers with strategic fortification partners who are industry experts, suppliers, social enterprises, and other solution providers to access best-in-class technical assistance and specialized training on industry’s best practices.
According to them, such support from partners not only improves the nutritional quality of food products but also increases operational efficiencies and competitiveness of the businesses.
They said by engaging millers, the initiative aids in strengthening industry practices and aligning them with the country’s efforts toward food fortification as a strategy to reduce micronutrient deficiencies and improve nutrition outcomes.

Crackdown on overpriced sugar: shops sealed, 19 arrested in ICT

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
ISLAMABAD, Jul 29 (APP):The Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) administration has intensified its efforts to regulate the price of essential commodities, with a particular focus on sugar.
In the last 24 hours, two retail shops were sealed, 19 shopkeepers were taken into custody, and fines amounting to Rs 66,500 were imposed on violators selling sugar above the officially fixed rate.
The enforcement operations were carried out under the supervision of price control magistrates in various markets and sectors of the city.
According to the spokesman of ICT administration, the actions are part of a broader campaign to ensure the availability of sugar at government-notified prices and to discourage profiteering.
During the crackdown, several shopkeepers were found charging more than the approved per kilogram rate for sugar. After on-the-spot inspections, the authorities took legal action, including sealing shops and detaining those found guilty of price manipulation.
The administration stated that the campaign will continue without any pause, and daily monitoring of prices will be ensured through regular field visits by magistrates. Areas with repeated violations will face stricter actions, including extended sealing of shops and higher penalties.
In addition to enforcing fines, the administration has also issued a public appeal, urging citizens to report any violations related to sugar pricing. Residents have been asked to cooperate by informing the relevant authorities whenever they find a vendor overcharging. Complaints can be registered through the district administration’s helpline or official complaint platforms.
Officials said that strict implementation of price control measures is necessary to protect consumers, especially in the current economic climate. They reiterated that action against violators will be swift and without discrimination. All retailers are bound to display price lists in a visible place at their shops and adhere strictly to the rates set by the government.
The administration further warned wholesalers and retailers against hoarding or manipulating supply chains to artificially inflate prices. Raids may also be conducted at godowns and supply points if irregularities are suspected.
Shopkeepers and traders’ associations have been advised to cooperate with the administration. A number of trader representatives have reportedly assured authorities of their support in stabilising prices and discouraging profiteering practices.
A spokesman said that enforcement drives will cover all sectors, from main markets to small neighbourhood shops. The administration is also reviewing the current supply and demand situation to ensure that price controls do not lead to shortages.
Officials stressed the importance of fair trade practices and warned that those exploiting market conditions for undue profit will face consequences under relevant laws.
Citizens are encouraged to participate in the campaign by keeping receipts of their purchases and lodging complaints in case of any discrepancies. Photos, videos, and location details can help authorities take timely action.
The ongoing operation is part of a wider effort to regulate the prices of essential food items, including flour, ghee, rice, and pulses. However, sugar remains a priority due to its frequent price fluctuations and its wide use in households.
So far, the administration claims that the visible presence of enforcement teams and the imposition of fines have served as a deterrent in many markets. The crackdown is likely to continue over the next few weeks until complete price compliance is achieved.
Through this drive, the administration aims to send a clear message that price violations will not be tolerated and that protecting consumer rights remains a top priority for local authorities.

WASA activates pumping system

By
Ahmed Waheed
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FAISALABAD, Jul 29 (APP):Water & Sanitation Agency (WASA) Managing Director Sohail Qadir Cheema inspected the Dawood Chowk disposal station and reviewed newly repaired and reinstalled pumping machinery to enhance sewerage services in adjoining localities.
He said that WASA is committed to ensuring efficient drainage services for residents of the surrounding areas. In this connection, the station’s pumping system has been made fully operational.
He said that inactive pumps have been restored and two additional pumping machines would be installed soon to further boost capacity. He directed the Deputy Director Electric Cell to take special measures regarding the station’s double feeder system to ensure uninterrupted operations.
He highlighted the urgency of infrastructure improvements and said that tendering process for the procurement of a new main force line and additional pumping machinery linked to the Dawood Chowk station would be completed at the earliest so that construction and installation work can begin without delay.
He said that WASA would provide high-quality sewerage and drainage services and there would be no compromise on service standards.
He urged the field staff to stay active and vigilant. He directed the officers to ensure special monitoring of drainage operations to promptly address any issues affecting the public.
Deputy Managing Director (Services) Ikramullah Chaudhary, Director Operations Farooq Najeeb, Deputy Director Zain-ul-Abideen, and others were also present on the occasion.

Newly appointed SPs, DSPs call on additional IG Riot force

By
Kamran Muraad
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LAHORE, Jul 29 (APP): Newly appointed Superintendents of Police (SPs) and Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSPs) of the Riot Management Police (RMP) called on Additional Inspector General Riot, Khurram Shakoor, here on Tuesday.
The delegation included SP RMP Multan Region Tanveer Ahmed, SP RMP Sargodha Region Akhtar Hussain and nine newly posted DSPs from various regions, while Deputy Inspector General (DIG) RMP Asad Sarfraz Khan was also present.
Welcoming the officers, Additional IG Khurram Shakoor briefed them on the organisational structure, responsibilities and core objectives of the Riot Management Police. He underscored the importance of maintaining discipline, adhering to standard operating procedures and ensuring optimal utilisation of available resources.
“Discipline, patience and resilience should be the defining traits of an RMP officer, especially in high-pressure situations,” he said.
He reiterated the department’s commitment to the welfare of personnel, noting that the RMP operates under the vision of Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz, with a prime focus on ensuring law and order across the province.
DIG Asad Sarfraz Khan expressed confidence in the capabilities of the RMP, citing the professional training and high morale of officers serving across districts. He emphasised that the force is well-equipped to implement modern policing strategies in line with the government’s vision.
The newly appointed officers pledged their full cooperation and dedication to fulfilling the mandate of the Riot Management Police.

ECP disqualifies PTI MNA Abdul Latif Chitrali

By
Kamran Muraad
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ISLAMABAD, Jul 29 (APP): The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) on Tuesday disqualified Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)-backed legislator Abdul Latif Chitrali and declared his National Assembly seat (NA-1, Upper and Lower Chitral) vacant following the denotification of his electoral victory, according to the official notification.
The Anti-Terrorism Court in Islamabad has sentenced Chitrali to 10 years in prison following his conviction over involvement in the May 9 events.
“As a result, Abdul Latif Chitrali stands disqualified under Article 63(1)(h) of the Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan,” the notification read.

PBS, UNFPA organize capacity-building workshop

By
Ahmed Waheed
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PESHAWAR, Jul 29 (APP):A 3-day capacity-building workshop titled “Data Interpretation and Use” commenced here on Tuesday, jointly organized by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) and the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA).
The workshop, being held from July 29 to 31, is aimed at promoting evidence-based planning and policy-making by empowering provincial stakeholders to optimally utilize PBS’s comprehensive databank.
The event brought together over a hundred senior planners, statisticians and development experts from across key government departments including Planning and Development, Education, Health, Industries, Labour, Livestock, Local Govt and Rural Development, Finance, Communication and Works, Agriculture and other vital sectors.
The workshop focused on enhancing participants’ technical capacity in utilizing socio-economic data sets for effective governance and resource optimization.
Muhammad Sarwar Gondal (Sitara-e-Imtiaz), Senior Member (Support Services/Resource Management), PBS, in his inaugural speech, delivered an insightful presentation on the breadth of PBS’s data resources, including datasets from population and housing censuses, PSLM, HIES, labour force surveys and economic indicators.
He highlighted real-time case studies to illustrate how robust data interpretation can translate into effective policy decisions.
Gondal also invited participants to the upcoming Data Fest 2025 to be held on 11–12 November 2025 at Pak-China Friendship Center, Islamabad, encouraging cross-sectoral data collaboration and visualization.
Presiding over the inaugural ceremony, Dr Naeem uz Zafar (Sitara-e-Imtiaz), Chief Statistician of Pakistan, emphasized the critical role of reliable statistics in achieving sustainable development and ensuring good governance.
He reaffirmed PBS’s commitment to supporting provincial governments through enriched data services, digital dashboards, and institutional capacity development.
Mahjabeen Qazi, UNFPA Provincial Head, underscored the importance of data-informed governance for accelerating progress on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
She praised the proactive collaboration between PBS and KP govt departments as a promising model for other provinces.
Fayyaz Alam, Additional Secretary for Education, KP, on behalf of KP govt, appreciated PBS and UNFPA for conducting the workshop at a crucial juncture.
He noted that in line with the Chief Minister’s directive and the Chief Secretary’s vision, all departments have been tasked with developing actionable roadmaps for governance reforms and that such workshops offer the tools to build them effectively.
Throughout the workshop, participants are engaging in hands-on sessions covering key sectors such as health, education, WASH, labor, trade, prices, and living standards.
 Live demonstrations of PBS’s interactive dashboards, custom time series, and sector-specific indicators are being delivered, alongside practical group exercises to enhance data application skills in real-world planning scenarios.
An on-site Data Dissemination Desk has also been established to provide instant access to relevant data sets and guidance to all participants.
This collaborative initiative marks a significant stride toward fostering a data-literate governance culture in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, bridging the gap between numbers and narratives, and paving the way for strategic, inclusive, and transparent development.

SBP to announce monetary policy on Wednesday

By
Kamran Muraad
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KARACHI, Jul 29 (APP):The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) is all set to announce the first Monetary Policy of the current fiscal year 2025-26 on Wednesday, July 30, 2025.
The central bank has announced that the meeting of the Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of SBP will be held on July 30, 2025 to decide about the Monetary Policy and later SBP Governor, Jameel Ahmad, will announce the Monetary Policy decision at a press conference.
The MPC will review the overall financial and fiscal situation, major economic indicators, data of different sectors and major developments taken place since the announcement of the previous monetary policy.
The monetary policy committee, in its previous meeting on 16 June 2025, had taken a cautious stance and kept the policy rate unchanged at 11 percent in view of inflation expectations, potential external sector risks and multiple risks emanating from regional geopolitical conflicts.
On the other hand, the business and Industrial community of Karachi, emphasizing the significance of lower policy rate in boosting economic activities in the country, reiterated their demand to slash the policy rate down into single digit viz-a-viz inflation.
Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), North Karachi Association of Trade and Industry (NKATI) and several other chambers and associations of the business community, in separate statements, demanded significant reduction in the policy rate to foster industrialization, boost exports, promote competitiveness and uplift the national economy.
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