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PRA assures to highlight business community issues in parliament

By
Amjad Shafique
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0
ICCI
ISLAMABAD, Sep 21 (APP):President Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) Ahsan Zafar Bakhtawari on Thursday said that Pakistan needs business-friendly and long-term economic policies to wriggle out of the current crisis and promote business and investment activities.
He was addressing a luncheon hosted by ICCI in honour of the newly elected Parliamentary Reporters Association (PRA), which was also attended by representatives of the National Press Club and Rawalpindi Islamabad Union of Journalists.
Speaking on the occasion, Ahsan Zafar Bakhtawari said that parliamentary reporters have an important role in keeping society informed about the activities of Parliament which is commendable.
He said that Bangladesh and many other countries have left Pakistan behind by creating business-friendly policies.
Bangladesh is trying to increase pharmaceutical exports in the coming days. Due to high utility tariffs, the cost of doing business has increased manifold, he remarked.
He urged the the government to revise contracts with IPPs because if they are not revised, people will not be able to pay their electricity bills in the coming days.
The people of Pakistan cannot bear the burden of circular debt, which has surged to trillions of rupees. The parliamentary reporters should raise all these issues in the Parliament so that the issues of the business community and the people are addressed, he added.
Usman Khan, President, Parliamentary Reporters Association, thanked ICCI for hosting lunch in their honor and assured that PRA would highlight the issues of the business community through its platform for their redress.
He said that PRA will also raise its voice in Parliament for better protection of the interests of the business community so that they can be facilitated in the growth of business activities.
Zafar Bakhtawari, former President ICCI and Secretary General UBG Pakistan showed concerns over the rising political polarization in the country due to which the economy is also suffering.
He stressed that the media should play a role in promoting unity and end polarization in the nation.
He urged that  businessmen should be encouraged as role models in society as they are playing a vital role in the development of the country.
The business community should be given representation the highest positions of the country to formulate business-friendly policies.
Anwar Raza, President, National Press Club said that Ahsan Zafar Bakhtawari is working diligently to solve the issues of the business community and he is a torchbearer for the youth.
He assured that NPC will play a role in creation of an enabling environment for the business community.

BRT opens new Chamkani to Malik Saad route via Ring Road

By
NNPS Desk
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0

PESHAWAR, Sep 21 (APP): Peshawar Bus Rapid Transit System, known as Zu Peshawar, achieved another milestone on Thursday with the inauguration of its new route, DR-4B connecting Chamkani to Malik Saad station via Ring Road.
Special Assistant to the Caretaker Chief Minister, Zafar Ullah Khan attended the inaugural ceremony of the new route as chief guest.
This much awaited addition to the Zu Peshawar network brings the total number of routes to 14, further enhancing the city’s public transportation infrastructure. The inauguration event, held at the BRT Chamkani Station, was attended by Secretary Transport, Ziaul Haq, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) TransPeshawar Dr. Tariq Usman and other officials.
Zafar Ullah Khan emphasized the importance of efficient and accessible public transit in promoting sustainable urban development and improving the lives of the residents of Peshawar.
This route will consist of a total of 19 stops namely Chamkani, Sardar Garhi, Chughal Pura, Government Primary School, Pir Zakori Bridge, Motorway Bridge, Kamboh Adda, Pahari Pura, Kabutar Chowk, MMC Hospital, Wazir Colony, Abasyn University, Patang Chowk, Shaheed Tahseen Chowk, Charsadda Adda, Eidgah, Shahi Bagh, Bacha Khan Chowk and Malik Saad Shaheed.
A spokesperson for TransPeshawar told media that the route would be especially beneficial to the people living on Ring Road, as well as students of the universities in this area. “This route is expected to serve as a vital artery for commuters, connecting these two crucial areas of the city while reducing travel times and congestion on the roads. With the operationalization of this, Zu Peshawar continues to revolutionize the way people move in Peshawar, offering a reliable and eco-friendly transportation alternative”, she told.
She further added, “Zu Peshawar caters to approximately 300,000 passengers daily, making it a lifeline for the city’s residents and commuters. The new route is expected to further enhance the accessibility and convenience of public transportation, contributing to the city’s sustainable growth.”
The inauguration ceremony included a ribbon-cutting ceremony and the presentation of souvenirs to key dignitaries. Guests also had the opportunity to visit the Control Centre, gaining insights into the technology and operations that make Zu Peshawar a modern and efficient public transit system.
The addition of DR-4B to the Zu Peshawar network is testament to the commitment of the government and stakeholders to meet the growing transportation needs of Peshawar’s residents. This development reflects the city’s forward-looking approach to urban planning and sustainability.
The citizens of Peshawar had been eagerly awaiting this route, and its opening represents a significant step forward in the TransPeshawar’s efforts to enhance its service.
APP/aqk

Supreme court upholds CCP’s enquiry, information gathering powers

By
NNPS Desk
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0
Supreme Court

ISLAMABAD, Sep 21 (APP): In a historic judgment, the Supreme Court of Pakistan has unanimously upheld the statutory powers of the Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP). The powers relate to gathering of information and conducting of enquiries.

A three-member bench comprising former Chief Justice Umar Ata Bandial, Justice Mansoor Ali Shah, and Justice Ayesha A. Malik passed the judgement, said a press release issued here.

The Supreme Court declared that there is no restriction on CCP’s general regulatory powers to call for information under Section 36 of the Competition Act, 2010.

It has also stated a clear obligation on undertakings to fully comply with CCP’s directives for the provision of information.
The apex court has further declared that CCP is not obligated to provide detailed reasoning before commencing an enquiry.
The court stated that initiation of an enquiry under Section 37 of the Act is not an adverse action. It is merely a fact-finding exercise distinct from show cause proceedings under Section 30 of the Act.

In 2020, CCP inquired about cooking oil and ghee companies for information about ghee and cooking oil prices. Dalda Foods was the sole entity to challenge in the Islamabad High Court.

Dalda asserted that CCP did not possess sufficient grounds to justify the enquiry or the call for information. The Islamabad High Court had set aside CCP’s call for information letters and the initiation of enquiry. The high court had imposed extraordinary requirements on the exercise of CCP’s regulatory and enquiry powers. CCP had Challenged the decision of the High Court before the Supreme Court of Pakistan.

While allowing the CCP’s appeal the Supreme Court has set aside these requirements, which included the requirement to provide detailed reasoning to an undertaking when initiating an enquiry and to pass a reasoned order in this regard. Hence the stance and actions of the CCP were upheld in the historic and landmark judgement of the Supreme Court.

Increased surveillance & enforcement underway in rural areas to combat dengue

By
Amjad Shafique
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0
dengue
ISLAMABAD, Sep 21 (APP):In an effort to combat the spread of dengue fever in rural Islamabad, the Assistant Commissioner Rural, on the directions of the Deputy Commissioner Irfan Nawaz Memon, visited various areas of the Rural Sub-Division.
 Assistant Commissioner Rural conducted inspections of garbage bins, tyre shops, service stations, and construction sites, ICT Spokesman said on Thursday.
Accompanied by dengue monitoring teams, the Assistant Commissioner Rural identified and issued warnings to several violators of dengue prevention guidelines. In two cases, however, the violations were so egregious that the Assistant Commissioner ordered the arrest of the perpetrators, who were subsequently transferred to the police station.
The heightened surveillance and enforcement measures in rural Islamabad reflect the growing concern among health officials about the potential for a dengue outbreak in this region. Dengue is a mosquito-borne viral infection that can cause a range of symptoms, including fever, headache, muscle aches, and rash. In severe cases, dengue can lead to hospitalization and even death.
While dengue is most commonly associated with urban areas, there is increasing evidence of its presence in rural areas as well.
This is due in part to factors such as climate change, which is expanding the range of mosquitoes capable of transmitting dengue.
The public is urged to cooperate with dengue prevention efforts by taking steps such as eliminating standing water around their homes and businesses, using mosquito repellent, and wearing protective clothing.

AIOU holds RDs conference

By
Amjad Shafique
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0
AIOU
ISLAMABAD, Sep 21 (APP):Vice Chancellor,  Allama Iqbal Open University (AIOU), Prof. Dr. Nasir Mahmood  chaired the Regional Directors Conference of Punjab at Multan Regional Campus the other day.
Different educational issues from admissions to examinations and issuance of degrees were discussed and various measures were suggested for the convenience of students in the meeting.
Dr. Nasir Mehmood said there was a need to promote and popularize education as well as social and economic activities to eradicate poverty, unemployment, and illiteracy.
Regional offices and Model Study Centres of AIOU will be established in every part of the country that lacks the basic facilities for education.
Dr. Nasir Mehmood said that the university had prepared an academic calendar to complete all teaching and administrative matters, and regional directors played an important role in  implementation of the academic calendar.
He asked regional directors to submit the results of the assignments within the stipulated time frame to conduct the final examinations as per scheduled timings.
He further said that the student supported system was our priority as students’ facilitation were very important in the distance education system.
The regional directors assured the Vice Chancellor to comply with the academic calendar and complete all academic activities on time.
In the end, the Vice Chancellor praised the long-standing services of the Regional Directors for the development of the University in wonderful words.
Director General Regional Services, Dr. Malik Tauqeer Ahmed Khan described the services of the Regional Offices in detail. Regional Director Multan. Ghulam Hussain Khosa hosted the conference.

PIC grants swift access to 50-year property records, upholding right to information

By
Amjad Shafique
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0
PIC
ISLAMABAD, Sep 21 (APP):The Pakistan Information Commission (PIC) promptly facilitated a citizen’s access to property records spanning 50 years in just one month, underscoring the commission’s strong commitment to upholding the Right of Access to Information Act, 2017, and ensuring the public’s fundamental right to information.
According to details, Sarfraz A. Bhatti, a concerned citizen, sought assistance from the Pakistan Information Commission when faced with challenges in obtaining property documents from the Capital Development Authority (CDA).
His appeal was set for a hearing on August 23, 2023. During the hearing, the CDA clarified that the requested records, dating back to 1978, necessitated additional time for retrieval.
After numerous hearings and unwavering dedication, the Pakistan Information Commission efficiently obtained and furnished all the requested 50-year-old property records to Bhatti.
In expressing his contentment, Bhatti praised the diligent endeavors of the Pakistan Information Commission in facilitating his access to the information he had sought. He emphasized that this achievement underscores the pivotal role the PIC plays in guaranteeing citizens’ access to essential public records.
The Pakistan Information Commission underscored the commission’s unwavering commitment to its mission. It stated that even in the face of resource limitations, the commission is resolute in guaranteeing that public records are delivered to citizens within the legally prescribed time frame. Citizens can file appeals with the commission at no cost to access public records from any public entity.
Access to information is a constitutional right in Pakistan, and the Commission’s endeavors are geared towards empowering citizens by facilitating their access to vital information and ensuring accountability within public bodies.
The Pakistan Information Commission commends the Capital Development Authority and the public body for their commitment to locating and furnishing the 50-year-old records to Bhatti, in accordance with the directives of the commission.

Peshawar District Govt allocates Rs. 65 million for solarization of Churches, renovation of temples

By
NNPS Desk
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0

PESHAWAR, Sep 21 (APP): The district government of Peshawar has allocated a hefty fund of Rs. 65 million for solarization of Churches in the city besides renovation of worship places of minority communities.
This was said by Mayor Peshawar, Zubair Ali while talking to media person here on Thursday after inauguration of renovation work at Peshawar Press Club.
Talking to newsmen, Mayor Zubair Ali said that he was giving special attention to minority community and in this regard had started face lifting of different Churches, Temples and Gurdwaras.
A hefty amount is allocated for solarization of Churches on which work is completed in most of places, he reiterated, adding, the district government has decided to award 1000 scholarships to deserving students for free studies and among these around 50 students will be selected from minority and 50 from religious seminaries.
He said the government has also announced cash award schemes for position holder students to encourage them by giving prize of Rs. 150,000 to first, Rs. 100,000 to second and Rs. 50,000 for third position position holder.
Similarly, teachers were also encouraged by announcing laptop scheme for those whose students showed excellent performance.
The Mayor said public sector schools lacks basic facilities like laboratories and for this purpose steps are being taken to equip them with modern needs.
Earlier while inauguration of PPC facelift, Zubair Ali announced applying titles and marble in the front portion and within the premises.
He also issued directives for provision of two electric water coolers for Press club and provision of necessary playing kits and accessories for journalist community.
District government, he continued, has also chalked out a plan of giving honorarium to senior columnists and writers who are now not able to continue writing due to health issues.
He asked president Peshawar Press Club, Arshad Aziz Malik to decide the amount of honorarium and inform the district government.
On this occasion, Zubair Ali also announced a cash grant of Rs. 500,000 for Peshawar Press Club.

Theft of 25000 units of electricity caught on Sep 20

By
Amjad Shafique
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0
Power theft
BAHAWALPUR, Sep 21 (APP):A crackdown against power theft is underway in Bahawalpur at the direction of Deputy Commissioner Zaheer Anwar Jappa.
MEPCO and district administration are jointly conducting the operation against power theft.
 On September 20, as many as 9 instances of power theft were caught where more than 25000 units of electricity were stolen. A fine of Rs 40,000 was collected and 9 cases were registered.
 Since September 7, an overall theft of 325,000 units of electricity has been apprehended in 222 instances. A fine of more than Rs 6.07 million has been recovered and 222 cases registered.

Rehmatul-Lil-Alameen Conference at Police Lines

By
Amjad Shafique
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0
Rehmatul-Lil-Alameen Conference
SIALKOT, Sep 21 (APP):The Rehmatul-Lil-Alameen Conference was held at Police Lines, here on Thursday.
Addressing the participants, District Police Officer (DPO) Sialkot Muhmad Hasan Iqbal said a solution to all problems being confronted by the Muslim Ummah lied in following the Islamic teachings and Sunnah of Holy Prophet (PBUH).
He said that the life of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was the best example for seeking any guidance in all spheres of life. He said that sectarian harmony and unity among the ranks of Muslims was need of the hour, which could help solve problems being faced by Ummah.
The DPO said that Islam gives lesson of peace, love, affection, tolerance, respect, brotherhood and patience.
Police officers, jawans and ulema belonging to all schools of thought participated in the conference.

Govt making new Mines, Mineral policy to protect rights of local people: Umair

By
NNPS Desk
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0

QUETTA, Sep 21 (APP): Adviser to Caretaker Chief Minister Balochistan on Minerals Sardarzada Umair Muhammad Hassani said that the government was making a new Mines and Minerals Policy to protect the rights of local people and attract investors which would further increase the development of Balochistan.
He expressed these views while addressing a press conference in the office of the Mines and Minerals Department in Hub on Thursday.
The Adviser said that the mining sector of Balochistan was being taken up on modern lines as there were vast investment opportunities in the mining sector of Balochistan to bring out the minerals here in a better way and in a modern way.
He said that our effort was to increase the royalty income of the Mining and Mineral Department to 15 billion annually saying that artificial intelligence engineering was being introduced in the mining sector of Balochistan. A mechanism is being created to ensure proper use of funds of companies which will bring innovation in mining industry, he added.
The Adviser said that he would also visit Dera Bugti, Chagai in Loralai very soon and would inform the Caretaker Chief Minister about the development of mineral resources there and the issues of the local people.
The daily wages of the laborers working in Dudar Zinc Company will be fixed as per international laws, he expressed.

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