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Malala Fund, Culture Ministry join hands to safeguard Pakistan’s cultural heritage

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
ISLAMABAD, Jun 05 (APP): In a significant step toward preserving Pakistan’s rich and diverse cultural heritage, Chief Executive Officer of the Malala Fund, Ms. Nishat Riaz, held a high-level meeting with Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture, Aurangzeb Khichi on Thursday, at minister’s office.
Malala Fund, Culture Ministry join hands to safeguard Pakistan’s cultural heritage
The meeting, also attended by Parliamentary Secretary Farah Naz Akbar, focused on strengthening collaboration to promote cultural preservation, particularly in underrepresented regions like Gilgit-Baltistan.
The meeting aimed to explore joint efforts to safeguard and promote Pakistan’s cultural assets while addressing challenges related to cultural sustainability. Discussions centered on preserving intangible heritage, empowering youth and women through cultural engagement, and building institutional support for regional cultures.
Aurangzeb Khichi appreciated the Malala Fund’s continued efforts in promoting education, gender equality, and cultural harmony.
He emphasized that Pakistan’s cultural heritage is a vital pillar of the nation’s identity and highlighted the importance of unified efforts from all stakeholders for its preservation and promotion.
Ms. Nishat Riaz shared insights into various ongoing initiatives of the Malala Fund in the fields of education and culture.
She underscored the importance of engaging youth and women, especially in Gilgit-Baltistan, in cultural activities to foster inclusivity and identity.
She reiterated the Fund’s commitment to not only advancing education but also promoting cultural development, expressing a desire to enhance strategic collaboration with the government.
The key proposals discussed during the meeting included documentation of local traditions, the establishment of cultural museums, support for emerging artists, and organizing regional and national cultural festivals.
Both sides agreed on the need to strengthen future cooperation to ensure that Pakistan’s cultural legacy is effectively preserved and passed on to future generations.
Aurangzeb Khichi assured the Malala Fund of the Ministry’s full support, adding that education and culture are deeply interconnected, and joint initiatives in these areas will deliver sustainable and meaningful outcomes.

Aurangzeb Khichi stresses proactive planning, environmental protection to tackle flood risks

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
ISLAMABAD, Jun 05 (APP): Federal Minister for National Heritage and Culture, Muhammad Aurangzeb Khan Khichi Thursday emphasized the urgent need for proactive planning and effective utilization of water resources to address the growing threat of floods.
Aurangzeb Khichi stresses proactive planning, environmental protection to tackle flood risks
He made these remarks during a high-level meeting with Federal Minister for Water Resources, Mian Muhammad Moeen Wattoo, and former Federal Minister for Science and Technology, Changez Khan Jamali.
The meeting focused on the pressing water issues in Balochistan and Punjab, as well as strategies for early flood prevention.
Minister Aurangzeb Khichi stated that environmental protection is as vital as preserving the country’s cultural heritage, and both must be prioritized equally. “Timely measures to mitigate flood risks and the sustainable use of water resources are the need of the hour,” he said.
Federal Minister for Water Resources, Mian Moeen Wattoo, assured that water distribution among provinces would strictly follow the existing formula, ensuring each province receives its rightful share.
He reiterated that no province’s water would be diverted to another.
Former Minister, Changez Khan Jamali, called for a joint federal-provincial strategy to develop a long-term and sustainable solution to the country’s water and flood-related challenges.
The three leaders agreed that close coordination between federal and provincial governments is essential for tackling water issues and flood risks. They expressed a joint commitment to collaborate with all relevant institutions to implement practical solutions and alleviate public hardships.

Shipping industry plays important role in facilitating global trade, enhancing environmental sustainability; Minister

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
ISLAMABAD, Jun 5 (APP): Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry underscored the pivotal role of Pakistan’s shipping industry in bolstering international trade, emphasizing the country’s major trade volume managed through seaports.
Speaking at a dinner last late night hosted by Aasim A. Siddiqui, Managing Director of Pakistan Intermodal Limited (PIL), and attended by senior management from shipping lines and terminal operators, the Minister emphasized the government’s commitment to modernizing maritime infrastructure and enhancing operational capacities across the nation.
Minister Chaudhry highlighted that over 90% of Pakistan’s trade volume is managed through seaports, with the maritime sector contributing more than 10% to the country’s GDP and providing employment to over 2 million individuals, both directly and indirectly.
He noted that the Karachi Port Trust alone has the capacity to handle over 125 million tons of cargo annually. In the fiscal year 2023, the shipping sector generated approximately $235 million in revenue, with oil tankers accounting for about 70% of this figure.
Addressing the financial implications of relying on foreign shipping companies, the Minister pointed out that Pakistan spends an estimated $6-8 billion annually on freight charges. He emphasized the potential for significant cost savings and growth by expanding local shipping capacities and terminal operations.
He said the government is actively inviting global shipping companies to invest in Pakistan’s maritime sector, leveraging the country’s strategic location. A notable initiative includes a fast-track strategy for a $1 billion investment with Hutchison Port Holdings Limited, focusing on modernizing the Karachi International Container Terminal (KICT) and South Asia Pakistan Terminals Limited (SAPT) .
Minister Junaid Chaudhry assured industry leaders that their concerns are being addressed through close coordination with provincial authorities, including the Chief Minister of Sindh, to ensure cohesive policy implementation across all levels of governance.
Aasim A. Siddiqui welcomed the Minister’s engagement with the industry and expressed optimism that such collaborative forums would accelerate the sector’s growth trajectory. He reiterated PIL’s commitment to aligning with the Ministry’s vision by investing in modern fleet capabilities and sustainable operational practices.
The event concluded with a mutual commitment to continued dialogue and partnership between the government and maritime stakeholders, aiming to realize Pakistan’s aspirations of a modern, efficient, and environmentally responsible maritime economy.

CPEC to continue to making greater contributions to prosperity of two countries, region: Prof Cheng

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
BEIJING, Jun 5 (APP): Senior Research Fellow at the Charhar Institute, Prof Cheng Xizhong has said that under the joint efforts of the two countries, the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor will continue to develop along the right track, making greater contributions to the stability and prosperity of the two countries and the region.
The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor is a landmark project of the Belt and Road Initiative, holding significant strategic importance for the development of both China and Pakistan. Throughout the years, the two sides have always promoted the construction of the Corridor with a high level of political mutual trust and pragmatic cooperation, jointly achieving fruitful results in the process, he said in a statement.
He said that from the perspective of the project itself, the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor covers multiple fields such as infrastructure construction, energy development and industrial cooperation, injecting strong impetus into Pakistan’s economic development and improving the local people’s well-being.
For example, the corridor construction has driven the improvement of Pakistan’s transportation network, promoted the increase of employment opportunities and enhanced the stability of energy supply. These tangible benefits have won the broad support and endorsement of the Pakistani people, he added.
The attempt by the external force to undermine the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor is essentially driven by jealousy of the friendly cooperation between China and Pakistan and a desire to disrupt regional peace and development. However, such schemes are doomed to fail.
He said, first of all, China and Pakistan are all-weather strategic cooperative partners, and the friendship between the two countries has withstood the test of time and has a solid political foundation. The two sides have always supported each other and closely cooperated on issues involving each other’s core interests. For any act of undermining the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, the governments and peoples of the two countries will firmly oppose and fight back, and jointly safeguard the construction and development of the corridor.
Second, the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor is not a zero-sum game, but a model of mutual benefit and win-win cooperation. It has not only brought development opportunities to Pakistan, but also built an important platform for economic cooperation between China and South Asia, which is in line with the common interests of the countries in the region. Such cooperation based on common interests has strong vitality and resilience, and the destructive acts of the external force are difficult to shake the foundation of its development.
Third, in today’s world, peace and development remain the themes of the times, and mutually beneficial cooperation is the common aspiration of all countries. Many nations have recognized that the construction of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor plays a positive role in regional stability and prosperity, and they oppose the destructive acts of the external force. The just forces in the international community will serve as an important support for resisting such destructive behaviours.
Fourth, to ensure the smooth construction of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, China and Pakistan have established a sound cooperation mechanism and security guarantee system, and taken a series of practical and effective measures to address various risks and challenges. The two sides have strengthened collaboration at multiple levels such as security, law and public opinion, forming a strong joint force that can effectively prevent and combat sabotage by the external force, he said.
Any attempt to undermine the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor is contrary to the trend of the times and the will of the people in the region and the world at large, and will surely be resolutely opposed by the people of China and Pakistan and spurned by the international community.

RCB unveils grand cleanliness plan on Eid-ul-Azha

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
RAWALPINDI, Jun 05 (APP): The Rawalpindi Cantonment Board has finalized a grand sanitation plan to maintain cleanliness during the Eid-ul-Azha, deploying hundreds of workers, vehicles and heavy machinery across its jurisdiction.
Officials confirmed that 700 sanitation staff, including 560 sanitary workers, 19 supervisors, and one Chief Public Health Officer, will be on duty throughout the three-day holiday period. The board has mobilized 110 vehicles for waste collection, including 14 mini dumpers, 7 dumpers, and 8 tractor trolleys, with additional equipment on standby.
Addressing a news briefing at RCB on Thursday, Additional CEO RCB, Arshad Khan and Deputy CEO RCB, Nasir Kamal informed media that a control room has been established in RCB which will operate round-the-clock during the Eid days to monitor cleanup operations. The plan includes 30-minute response time target for addressing sanitation issues reported by residents.
Nasir Kamal, Dy CEO informed that preparatory work has already begun, with all designated waste collection points being cleaned and disinfected in advance.
“The cantonment area has been divided into 10 operational zones, each with dedicated teams and supervisors. Monitoring squads will ensure proper coverage of all areas”, he added.
He urged the residents to cooperate with the RCB’s field staff and dispose of animal waste at specified collection points near their homes.
Additional CEO Arshad Khan said that some complaints regarding unauthorized informal sacrificial markets were redressed.
“Some were demolished with confiscating the animals and others were intimated to refrain from doing such practices and we’re imposed with financial fines”, he said.
Arshad Khan informed that special surveillance teams have been deployed to take action against the violators on the spot.
He also urged the residents to contact the helpline (051-9274421-23) for immediate reporting of sanitation issues.
The Add’l CEO further said that reappearance of encroachments will be dealt with strictly.
“Bringing the animals on main roads can harm the walkers, therefore, residents must also play their responsible role in this regard”, he said.

Govt resolved to implement eco-friendly policies, stricter plastic regulations: PM

By
Ishtiaq Rao
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0

ISLAMABAD, Jun 5 (APP): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday calling the plastic pollution an environmental challenge threatening ecosystems, economy, and future generations, reaffirmed his government’s commitment to eco-friendly policies, responsible consumption, and stricter plastic regulations.

“Real change begins with each of us — in our homes, our communities, and our choices,” the prime minister said in his message on World Environment Day, annually observed on June 5.

He said that on the Day, Pakistan joined the international community in reaffirming its commitment to safeguard our planet and pursue sustainable development.

The prime minister said that this year’s theme — “Putting an End to Plastic Pollution” — was both timely and urgent.

“Plastic pollution is an environmental challenge that threatens our ecosystems, our economy, and future generations. From choking our rivers and seas to harming marine life and contaminating our food chain, plastic waste has reached alarming levels across the globe — and Pakistan is no exception. This calls for a bold and collective action,” he remarked.

He said that the Day should serve as a reminder of our shared responsibility — to ourselves and to the generations yet to come.

Islamabad Cattle Market | Eid-ul-Adha 2025

By
Maryam Zahra
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0

 

Punjab Police inks MoU for free cardiovascular screenings and healthcare support

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
LAHORE, Jun 05 (APP): Punjab Police has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Sarwar Shaheeda Research Institute of Cardiovascular Science Trust to provide free cardiovascular screenings and ongoing medical support for its employees.
The agreement was formalized during a ceremony at the Central Police Office (CPO) where Inspector General of Police (IGP) Punjab, Dr. Usman Anwar and Dr. Shoaib Sarwar, President of the Trust, jointly signed the MoU. Vice President Mian Asmatullah and board member Agha Nabeel were also present.
Under the MoU, all regional police officers (RPOs) across Punjab have been appointed as regional ambassadors of the Trust. The collaboration includes the organization of annual cardiovascular health camps at the CPO, alongside quarterly camps at regional and district police offices throughout the province.
These camps will provide police personnel with free cardiovascular health screenings, including tests for blood pressure, blood sugar and other heart-related conditions conducted by the Trust’s medical professionals. Furthermore, the Trust has committed to offering comprehensive medical support to police employees diagnosed with cardiovascular diseases.
Expressing his gratitude, IGP Dr. Usman Anwar thanked Dr. Shoaib Sarwar and his team for their dedication to the welfare of the police force. He emphasized that the initiative marks a vital step toward improving the overall health and well-being of Punjab Police personnel.
The signing ceremony was also attended by Additional IGP Welfare and Finance Imran Arshad, DIG Welfare Ghazi Muhammad Salahuddin, AIG Welfare Abdul Rahim Shirazi, and AIG Finance Nida Umar Chattha.

DC chairs meeting; ICT admin finalizes Eid clean-up plan

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
ISLAMABAD, Jun 05 (APP): As Eid-ul-Azha approaches, the Islamabad district administration has chalked out a comprehensive plan to ensure timely disposal of animal waste and maintain cleanliness during the three-day festival.
In this regard, the Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Islamabad chaired a meeting to review preparations for sanitation during Eid-ul-Azha. Assistant Commissioners and magistrates from across the district participated in the session to discuss practical steps for waste management during the eid holidays.
The meeting focused on how to efficiently collect and dispose of animal remains, especially during the peak days of Eid when a large number of sacrificial animals are slaughtered. The administration is aiming to prevent waste from piling up in streets and open spaces.
Officials reviewed the availability of resources for the clean-up drive, including staff, vehicles, and waste disposal materials. The goal is to maintain basic sanitation across all Union Councils (UCs) of Islamabad throughout the Eid holidays.
DC Islamabad Irfan Nawaz Memon emphasized that all available resources will be used to keep the city clean during and after the Eid celebrations. He directed the teams to be present in the field and coordinate closely with local representatives.
To assist in proper waste disposal, the administration will distribute biodegradable bags to citizens. These bags will help in storing animal waste before collection by sanitation teams. The district administration hopes this step will reduce the chances of waste being thrown in open areas or near residential streets.
A control room will be established to monitor the clean-up operation. It will remain active throughout Eid to ensure quick response in case of complaints. Citizens will be able to contact the control room to report unattended waste or delays in waste collection.
DC Memon also appealed to the public to play their part by cooperating with the sanitation teams. He urged residents to use the biodegradable bags for animal waste and to inform the authorities if garbage is not collected in time. Public awareness campaigns will be launched before Eid to share these instructions with households.
According to district officials, the sanitation teams will be assigned to each UC, where they will operate in shifts to manage the waste load. Supervisors will ensure that every area is covered and that no remains are left behind for long periods.
Temporary collection points will be set up across Islamabad to speed up waste removal. These points will act as transfer stations before the waste is finally moved to designated dumping sites.
Meanwhile, Magistrates and Assistant Commissioners will be responsible for inspecting their assigned areas during Eid. They will report directly to the control room and coordinate with the sanitation staff. Any negligence in the cleaning operation will be addressed immediately.
Special focus will be placed on crowded residential sectors, markets, and areas with a high number of animal sacrifices. Officials have been instructed to prepare for increased workload during the first two days of Eid, when most sacrifices take place.
The administration will also provide additional vehicles and machinery where needed. Water sprinkling and lime powder will be used after waste removal to control odor and prevent flies.
To encourage participation from the community, mosques and local committees will be informed about the campaign. Loudspeaker announcements and mobile messages will be used to spread information regarding waste collection points and contact numbers.
DC Memon said that timely action and cooperation from all departments would ensure a smooth clean-up operation. He stressed that the success of the campaign depends equally on administrative work and responsible behavior from the public.

Shipping Activity at Port Qasim

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
KARACHI, Jun 05 (APP): Three ships, Hansa Africa, Al- Thakhira and DSI Phoenix carrying Container, LNG and Coal, berthed at Qasim International Container Terminal, Engro Elengy Terminal and Pakistan International Bulk Terminal respectively on Wednesday.
 Meanwhile another chemical carrier ‘GC Argon’ with chemicals also arrived at outer anchorage on Thursday morning .
 A total of eight ships were engaged at PQA berths during the last 24 hours, out of them a containers ship Hansa Africa’ left the port on today morning,
while another general cargo carrier ‘Duabi Crown’ expected to sail on Thursday afternoon.
Cargo volume of 196,483 tonnes, comprising 148,893 tonnes imports cargo and 47,590 export cargo carried in 3,425 Containers (1,162 TEUs Imports &
2,263 TEUs Export) was handled at the port during last 24 hours.
There are seven ships at Outer Anchorage of Port Qasim, out of them two ships, Sedra and GC Argon & two more ships, Maritime Kelly and CMA CGM
Zanzibar carrying Steel Plates, Chemicals, Palm oil and Container are expected to take berths at MW-1, EVTL, LCT and QICT respectively on Thursday, while another containers ship ‘MSC Roberta-V’ due to arrive at outer anchorage on Friday.

Trade deficit narrows 23.47% in May 2025

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
ISLAMABAD, Jun 5 (APP): Exports from the country during May 2025 grew by 17.43 per cent, whereas imports into the country decreased by 7.58 per cent compared to the previous month (April) of the financial year 2024-25.
The trade deficit stood at $2.619 billion in May 2025, down 23.47 per cent from the previous month, according to the latest figures released by the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS).
Exports from the country during the month of May 2025 were recorded at $2.553 billion as compared to the exports of $2.174 billion, showing an increase of about 17.43 per cent on a month basis, it added.
Meanwhile, imports into the country during the month under review went down from $5.596 billion to $5.172 billion, registering a decrease of about 7.58 per cent, it said.
On a year-on-year basis, the trade deficit of the country grew by 26.16 per cent as exports decreased by 10.07 per cent, whereas the imports increased by 5.23 per cent in May 2025 as compared to the same month of the last year, it added.
The exports from the country during the month of May 2025 were recorded at $2.553 billion as compared to the exports of $2.839 billion of the same month of the previous year, the data revealed.
On the other hand, imports into the country during the period under review were registered at $5.172 billion as compared to the imports of $4.915 billion of the same month of the previous year, the data revealed.
During the last 11 months of the current financial year, exports from the country witnessed about 4.72 per cent growth, whereas imports increased by 7.30 per cent as compared to the corresponding period of the last year, it added.
During the period from July to May, 2024-25, exports from the country were recorded at $29.445 billion as against the exports of $28.117 billion of the same period of the last year.
Imports into the country during the period under review were recorded at $53.450 billion as compared to the imports of $ 49.815 billion of the same period of the last year.

IRSA releases 235,044 cusecs water

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
ISLAMABAD, Jun 5 (APP): Indus River System Authority (IRSA) on Thursday released 235,044 cusecs water from various rim stations with inflow of 155,670 cusecs.
According to the data released by IRSA, the water level in River Indus at Tarbela Dam was 1465.32 feet which was 63.32 feet higher than dead level of 1402.00 feet. Water inflow and outflow in the dam was recorded as 76,800 cusecs and 155,000 cusecs respectively. The water level in River Jhelum at Mangla Dam was 1163.70 feet, which was 113.70 feet higher than its dead level of 1,050 feet. The inflow and outflow of water was recorded 33,826 cusecs and 35,000 cusecs, respectively.
The release of water at Kalabagh, Taunsa , Guddu and Sukkur was recorded as 174,428, 153,583, 124,381 and 60,633 cusecs, respectively. Similarly, from River Kabul, a total of 23,100 cusecs of water released at Nowshera and 3064 cusecs released from River Chenab at Marala.

Severe heatwave expected across country during Eid Holidays, Met Office warns

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
ISLAMABAD, Jun 05 (APP): The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has issued a severe heatwave warning across most parts of the country during the upcoming Eid-ul-Adha holidays and the following week.
According to the Met Office, a high-pressure system is expected to develop over the country on June 07, which will grip most regions from June 08 onwards, significantly increasing day temperatures.
Daytime temperatures are expected to rise 5-7C above normal in the upper half of the country, including central and upper Punjab, Islamabad, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Kashmir, and Gilgit-Baltistan from June 7-12.
In the southern half, covering upper and central Sindh, southern Punjab, and parts of Balochistan, temperatures are likely to remain 4-6C above normal during the same period.
Dust storms and gusty winds are also anticipated over the plains due to excessive surface heating.
The Met Office has urged the general public, especially children, elderly, and women, to avoid prolonged sun exposure and stay well-hydrated.
The citizens are advised to take all precautionary measures to prevent heat-related illnesses.
Rising temperatures in the northern areas could accelerate the snowmelt rate, potentially affecting water flows in rivers. The authorities have urged the judicious use of water and requested farmers to plan their crop activities in line with the forecast.
All concerned departments have been advised to stay alert and take necessary actions to mitigate risks during this severe weather spell.
The Met Office also recommended regularly checking official weather updates for the latest information and safety guidance.

Meeting held to launch of high-tech material testing lab

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
SIALKOT, Jun 05 (APP): A meeting was recently held to launch the “Establishment of Material Testing Laboratories” project in Sialkot.
This initiative was a result of close collaboration between the Urban Unit, UNIDO, the Industries Department of Punjab, and the Sialkot Chamber of Commerce & Industry.
The President Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) Ikram-ul-Haq met Nima Bahramalian, Industrial Development Expert from the Quality Infrastructure and Smart Production Division, Department of Digitalization, Technology and Innovation at UNIDO (Vienna); Badar-ul-Islam, National Program Coordinator at UNIDO Pakistan; and Qasar Wasique Ahmed, Enterprise Development Expert for the Materials Testing Laboratory Sialkot project.
It was informed that the project’s PC-1 had been approved and the costing vetted by the Communication & Works Department. With UNIDO’s technical assistance and supervision, the project was now set to enter the execution stage.
This initiative aimed to set up modern facility in Sambrial that will provide internationally accredited testing services for surgical instruments and fan cluster products. It represents a significant achievement, showcasing the synergy between the Sialkot Chamber and the Urban Unit.
Key stakeholders include the Planning & Development Board, Government of the Punjab; Ministry of Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, Government of Pakistan; UNIDO – United Nations Industrial Development Organization; and the Industries, Commerce and Investment Department, government of Punjab.

Motorway police launch crackdown against overcharging ahead of Eid-ul-Azha

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
ISLAMABAD, Jun 5 (APP): In a bid to ensure safe and fair travel for commuters, the National Highways and Motorway Police (NHMP) have launched a nationwide campaign targeting overcharging and overloading by public transport operators during the Eid-ul-Azha.
According to the spokesperson of the Motorway Police, all bus companies have been strictly directed to refrain from charging passengers more than the officially approved fares. “Strict action will be taken against violators,” said Additional Inspector General (IG) of the North Region.
“Heavy fines will be imposed on transporters found guilty of overloading or overcharging,” the Additional IG warned. “No concession will be granted when it comes to the fitness of passenger vehicles.”
Passenger vehicles operating without valid route permits and fitness certificates will be sent back and barred from entering the motorways. Authorities emphasized that only roadworthy vehicles will be allowed to operate to ensure passenger safety.
As part of the campaign, Motorway Police officers were holding briefings at different sections of motorways for passenger vehicle drivers. The officers outlined the consequences of overloading and speeding, emphasizing the importance of adhering to regulations for a safer journey.
The Motorway Police has reiterated its commitment to providing safe, smooth, and fair travel for all commuters.
For any complaints or assistance, travelers are encouraged to contact the Motorway Police Helpline at 130.

Advanced Neonatal intensive care unit inaugurated in Dera Ismail Khan

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
Dera Ismail Khan , Jun 05 (APP): A major step forward in public healthcare has been marked in Dera Ismail Khan with the inauguration and operational launch of a state-of-the-art Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), offering critical care services for premature and seriously ill newborns in the region.
This advanced medical facility is now one of the most well-equipped in the province, designed to meet international standards of neonatal care, and features specialized zones and cutting-edge equipment aimed at delivering high-quality neonatal care in accordance with modern medical standards, the hospital official said.
The NICU features a dedicated phototherapy room outfitted with 20 LED-based units that use deep blue light technology to effectively treat neonatal jaundice. It also includes an incubator room with 15 modern incubators that provide continuous automated monitoring of infants’ heart rate, oxygen saturation, respiratory patterns, and body temperature.
To support newborns facing severe breathing difficulties, the unit houses 10 high-tech ventilators capable of delivering both Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) and high-frequency ventilation. Ten digital monitors have been installed throughout the unit to track vital signs such as ECG, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and body temperature in real time.
The facility also includes two portable digital X-ray machines capable of producing over 100 diagnostic images daily, enabling rapid and on-site radiological assessments. For cases requiring specialist input, a telemedicine room has been set up to facilitate consultations with international neonatal experts.
A fully functional laboratory within the NICU provides immediate diagnostic services, including blood tests, electrolyte analysis, and sepsis screening. For postnatal care, the facility has been equipped with 50 advanced bassinets to ensure the safety and comfort of newborns during recovery.
In addition, resuscitation units have been installed with oxygen blenders, suction devices, and Ambu bags to handle emergencies effectively. The NICU also features a Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) room, offering a supportive and comfortable environment where mothers can stay close to their infants and engage in skin-to-skin contact, which is known to aid neonatal development and bonding.
 the facility represents a major step forward in delivering quality, accessible healthcare in Dera Ismail Khan. “This NICU is one of the most advanced in the province and brings world-class neonatal care within reach for thousands of families,” the hospital official said.
Residents have welcomed the project with enthusiasm, seeing it as a long-overdue addition to the region’s healthcare landscape. “This facility is a blessing for our city,” said Amina Bibi, a local mother. “We finally have the medical care our newborns need—right here, at home.”
The NICU is now fully operational and receiving patients, the official said.

Natural Drinks | Meat Digestion | Natural & Effective | APP Exclusive

By
Maryam Zahra
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0

 

The following are some effective ways to preserve sacrificial meat for a longer period of time :

By
Maryam Zahra
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0

 

PM takes notice of polio case in Diamer; directs improved immunisation

By
Ishtiaq Rao
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0

ISLAMABAD, Jun 5 (APP): Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday taking strict notice of a polio case reported in the Diamer district, directed the relevant authorities to improve immunization further.

The prime minister, in a meeting with Federal Minister for National Health Syed Mustafa Kamal and Prime Minister’s Focal Person for Polio Ayesha Raza Farooq here, expressed deep concern over the recently reported polio case in the Gilgit-Baltistan district, according to a PM Office press release.

Prime Minister Shehbaz instructed strict monitoring of the Union Councils where more polio cases were being reported and immunization was not satisfactory.

Pakistan urged to secure US financial support for development amid boost in ties

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
WASHINGTON, Jun 05 (APP): A prominent Pakistani-American business leader has said Pakistan must strive to benefit from the uptick in Pakistan-US relations by securing financial support for its development and infrastructure projects.
Mossadaq Chughtai, who runs energy, data center and pharmaceutical companies, was commenting on the international dimension of a tax-cut bill the U.S. President Donald Trump has described as one big beautiful bill and is trying to get passed in Congress.
He noted that the Bill has provisions which offer an opportunity for Pakistan to benefit from.
“The Pakistan-US cooperation should translate into economic gains for Pakistan, this bill has foreign appropriations, which could help Pakistan consolidate its economic growth plans,” he said.
Chughtai, who founded a think tank two decades ago, said the Pakistani leaders should convince the current U.S. Administration that, as a close ally, Pakistan should have a share of about $20 billion in foreign appropriations to lift its manufacturing and industrial sectors.
“If that does not happen, this would not be considered Pakistan’s success.”
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