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Condolences pour in for Professor Khurshid Ahmed’s passing

By
Zaka Ullah
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0
SUKKUR, Apr 14 (APP):Prominent social and political figure Syed Shafqat Ali Shah on Monday has expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Jamaat-e-Islami leader Professor Khurshid Ahmed.
 Professor Ahmed was renowned for his distinctive contributions to knowledge and politics.
Syed Shafqat Ali Shah described Professor Ahmed’s services as unforgettable and extended his condolences to the bereaved family, saying, “In this hour of grief, we stand with the deceased’s family”.

Multi-stakeholder consultation proposes key amendments to Draft Bill banning E-Cigarettes in KP

By
Zaka Ullah
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0
PESHAWAR, Apr 14 (APP):A multi-stakeholder consultation on the draft bill prohibiting e-cigarettes and vapes in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) proposed critical amendments to strengthen the legislation before its submission to the Health Department.
Organized by Blue Veins, a civil society organization, in collaboration with the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Tobacco Control Cell (KPTCC), the consultation brought together legal experts, district administration officials, representatives of the Tobacco Control Programme, social activists, and media professionals in Peshawar.
In his welcome address, Qamar Naseem, Programme Manager at Blue Veins, highlighted the absence of laws regulating newer tobacco products like e-cigarettes and vapes in Pakistan.
“The tobacco industry markets these products as harm-reduction tools, but the WHO and health experts confirm that they are more dangerous than traditional cigarettes,” he stated.
Qamar added that over 40 countries have already banned e-cigarettes due to their severe public health risks.
To address this regulatory gap, civil society organizations and public health advocates have long demanded comprehensive legislation.
Responding to this need, a draft bill titled “The Prohibition of E-Cigarettes/Vapes, E-Liquids/Flavoured Additives and Related Chemicals Bill 2025 (Khyber Pakhtunkhwa)” has been developed.
The draft is now under consideration by the Health Department and the provincial government.
Following the incorporation of stakeholder feedback, the draft will be submitted to the Technical Advisory Committee of the Health Department.
 After review, it will be forwarded to the Law Department for vetting, and finally presented to the KP Legislative Assembly for approval.
During the consultation, participants discussed critical aspects of the draft bill, including sentencing guidelines (imprisonment duration, fines), enforcement mechanisms (designation of authorities), and existing legal loopholes.
Ajmal Shah, Coordinator of the KP Tobacco Control Cell, noted that in the absence of specific legislation, businesses selling e-cigarettes operate in a legal grey area.
“District authorities and police are cooperative, but current laws do not cover these products, creating enforcement challenges,” he explained.
Syed Zainab Naqvi, former Assistant Commissioner of Peshawar and Deputy Director of the Education Monitoring Authority, highlighted the administration’s difficulties in confiscating and destroying illegal tobacco products due to legal gaps.
She emphasized the urgent need for a comprehensive law to protect youth.
Miss Haseena Khan, Assistant Commissioner of Hayatabad and Focal Person for Tobacco Control, praised the collaborative drafting efforts and reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to implementing tobacco control regulations.
She commended Blue Veins and the Provincial Tobacco Control Programme for taking the lead on regulating newer tobacco products.
“This consultation marks a crucial step toward curbing youth vaping and aligning KP’s policies with global health standards,” she remarked.

401 shops sealed, equipments seized

By
Samina Ch
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0
sealed
FAISALABAD, Apr 14 (APP):The civil  defence department sealed 401 shops over gas decanting and confiscated equipments from 330 outlets in addition to lodging FIRs against eight violators.
According to Civil Defence Officer Rana Abbas, teams sealed 401 shops and
confiscated equipments from 330 shops, including 280 shops in Faisalabad City,
16 in Samundri, 19 in Chak Jhumra, 15 in Jaranwala and Khurarianwala.
He said that cases were also got registered against the owners of eight shops
involved in the violation of public safety laws.

Sindh Solar Energy Project launched in Shikarpur, 80 families benefited

By
Zaka Ullah
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0
SUKKUR, Apr 14 (APP):A significant step towards promoting renewable energy and providing relief to poor households was taken in District Shikarpur with the inauguration of the Sindh Solar Energy Project.
The ceremony, held at the local venue, marked the distribution of 80 solar home systems to eligible Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) beneficiaries.
The event was organized by the Sindh Rural Support Organization (SRSO) and saw the participation of prominent figures, including  MPA Imtiaz Ahmed Shaikh, District Council Chairman Shikarpur Zulfiqar Ali Khan Kamario, Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) Shikarpur Zafar Abbas, and Rais Gul Muhammad, Environmental and Social Development Officer of the Sindh Solar Energy Project.
Speaking the event, MPA Imtiaz Ahmed Shaikh highlighted the project’s objectives, stating that the Sindh Solar Energy Project aims to promote solar power generation and improve electricity access for poor households across Sindh Province.
The project aligns with the Sindh Government’s goal of promoting renewable energy and reducing reliance on traditional power sources, he added.
The Sindh Solar Energy Project, supported by the World Bank with $100 million in funding, plans to provide 200,000 solar home systems to households in rural areas with low or no electricity access.

Aror University Sukkur conducts admission entry test for fall 2025

By
Zaka Ullah
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0
SUKKUR, Apr 14 (APP):Aror University of Art, Architecture, Design & Heritage, Sukkur on Monday successfully held an Admission Entry Test for the Fall 2025 academic session. Over 1,000 candidates from across the country participated, vying for admission to 14 degree programs, including BS Artificial Intelligence, Architecture, and Environmental Sciences.
The test was conducted under the leadership of Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Zahid Hussain Khand, with necessary facilities and security measures in place, including Rescue 1122 and police security. The answer key have been uploaded on the university’s website.

Usman Tariq reported for suspect bowling action

By
Samina Ch
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0
RAWALPINDI, Apr 14 (APP):Quetta Gladiators spinner Usman Tariq was reported by on-field umpires Ahsan Raza and Chris Brown for a suspect bowling action during his side’s HBL PSL X match against Lahore Qalandars at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Sunday evening.
As per the rules, Usman can continue to bowl in future matches. However, if he is reported again, he will be suspended from bowling and will need to obtain clearance from an ICC accredited lab before he can resume bowling ,  Pakistan Cricket Board  said in a media release on Monday.

Shipping activity at Port Qasim

By
Samina Ch
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0
KARACHI, Apr 14 (APP):Shipping activity was report at the port where two ships, Lovestakken and KK Marlin carrying Chemicals and Gasoline berthed at Engro Vopak Terminal and FOTCO oil Terminal respectively Sunday.
       Meanwhile two more ships, Orchid Kefalonia and Sinar Toraja carrying Canola oil and LPG also arrived at outer anchorage during last 24 hours.
       A total of seven ships were engaged at PQA berths during the last 24 hours, out of them two ships, Siya Ram and KK Marlin are expected to sail on today afternoon (.)
Cargo volume of 116,368 tonnes, comprising 116,368 tonnes imports cargo and nil export cargo was handled at the port during last 24 hours.
       There are 06 ships at Outer Anchorage of Port Qasim, out of them two ships, Asia Inspire and IVS Went-Worth & three more ships, Victoria Glory, Eleni-T and MSC Roberta carrying Palm oil, Coal, Mogas and Container are expected to take berths at LCT, PIBT, FOTCO and QICT are respectively on today Monday 14th April, while four more container ships, MSC Positano, MSC Yamuna-VI and SM Kaveri are due to expected arrive at outer anchorage on Tuesday.

Daytime temperatures to remain 6-8 degrees Centigrade above normal in Sindh

By
Samina Ch
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0
KARACHI, Apr 14 (APP):Pakistan Meteorological Department on Monday predicted hot and dry weather for most parts of the Sindh province during the next 24 hours.
Whereas, chances of gusty winds during afternoon are also predicted.
The daytime temperatures would remain between 6 and 8 degrees Celsius above normal.
Mainly, hot and dry weather is likely to prevail

IFC reaffirms support for macroeconomic reforms

By
Muhammad Ashraf Wani
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0

ISLAMABAD, Apr 14 (APP):The International Finance Corporation’s (IFC) Global Director for Public Private Privatization & Corporate Finance Advisory, Ms Linda Rudo Munyengeterwa here on Monday expressed strong interest in supporting the country’s macroeconomic reform, investment and privatization initiatives.

Ms Linda, who is leading IFC delegation to Pakistan, said this during a high-level meeting with Federal Minister for Finance and Revenue, Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, , according to press release issued by finance ministry.

She conveyed that the IFC delegation had come here with an open mind, intending to explore the market and engage with key government stakeholders to identify potential areas for investment.

The IFC delegation reaffirmed their willingness to work closely with stakeholders in Pakistan, offering both advisory services and investment support aimed at achieving long-term and inclusive economic development.

IFC’s extensive global experience across various sectors, including infrastructure, energy, transport, public finance, and privatization, was highlighted as a valuable asset that could be leveraged to support Pakistan’s development agenda.

The delegation emphasized their readiness to partner with Pakistan in exploring viable opportunities for collaboration and investment.

The Finance Minister welcomed the IFC delegation and acknowledged the valuable technical expertise and advisory support extended by the institution in various sectors. He noted that macroeconomic stability, which forms the foundation of economic resilience, had been largely restored in Pakistan.

He further underscored the government’s commitment to maintaining this stability and ensuring long-term, sustainable economic growth.

Recognizing the fiscal challenges in managing public finances and meeting the country’s expanding development needs, the Minister stressed the importance of utilizing the expertise and financial resources of international institutions like IFC through public-private partnerships.

He affirmed that such collaborations could facilitate the implementation of essential reforms and enhance efforts to develop efficient energy, transport, and infrastructure systems in response to the demands of a growing population.

PM’s youth programme to offer Interest-Free loans for overseas employment

By
Samina Ch
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0
ISLAMABAD, Apr 14 (APP):The government has planned to provide interest-free loans of up to Rs 1 million to 100,000 young people going abroad for work under the PM Youth Program loan scheme to help young Pakistanis seeking career opportunities abroad.
According to an official, the loan package will include all travel allowances, covering key expenses such as skills training, visa costs, and initial settlement costs.
He said that the loan will be offered with a flexible repayment plan, featuring equal monthly installments spread over a tenure of 7 to 8 years.
Eligible applicants must be between 21 and 45 years old, with a valid job offer or recruitment through licensed Overseas Employment Promoters.
He said this move was designed to empower young Pakistanis to explore global career opportunities, fostering economic growth and development.
By providing financial support, the government aimed to enhance the skills and employability of its youth, ultimately contributing to the country’s progress.
The scheme was expected to have a positive impact on the lives of thousands of young Pakistanis, enabling them to pursue better career opportunities worldwide.
“With this initiative, the government demonstrates its commitment to investing in the country’s future generations and promoting economic development”, he stated.
By supporting its youth, the government hoped to reap long-term benefits, including increased economic activity and a more skilled workforce, and this initiative was a step towards empowering Pakistan’s youth to compete globally,he added.

Exchange Companies-Opening

By
Samina Ch
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0
Kerb Currency
KARACHI, Apr 14 (APP):Following were the Opening Rates of foreign currencies in kerb market issued by the Exchange companies Association
of Pakistan, here on Monday.
F.C.                         BUYING        SELLING
INTER BANK               280.60         280.65
USD                          280.15         282.00
EURO                         318.15         321.50
GBP                          367.40          370.00
JPY                              1.94           1.97
AED                           76.30         76.80
SAR                           74.55         75.00

VC GCU meets Chairman HEC Islamabad

By
Samina Ch
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0
HYDERABAD, Apr 14 (APP):The Vice Chancellor of GC University Hyderabad, Professor Dr. Amjad Ali Arain, held an important meeting with the Chairman of the Higher Education Commission- HEC Islamabad, Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, to discuss key university matters and ongoing academic developments.
During the meeting, Professor Dr. Amjad Ali Arain apprised the Chairman of the recent progress and initiatives undertaken at GC University Hyderabad to enhance the quality of education, infrastructure, and research culture.
He highlighted the university’s strategic goals, achievements, and future plans aimed at fostering academic excellence.
Chairman HEC, Dr. Mukhtar Ahmed, appreciated the efforts and commitment of the Vice Chancellor and expressed full support for the university’s vision.
He assured continued collaboration and assistance from HEC in the advancement of higher education at GC University Hyderabad.
The visit reflects GC University Hyderabad’s dedication to building strong partnerships with HEC to further strengthen its academic and administrative capabilities.

US Congress members term Pakistan visit a success, call for stronger bilateral ties

By
Samina Ch
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0
By Rehan Khan
ISLAMABAD, Apr 14 (APP):A delegation of visiting US Congress members has described their recent trip to Pakistan as highly successful and productive, expressing optimism for stronger Pakistan-US relations in the future.
During their visit, the American lawmakers held meetings with senior political and military leadership of Pakistan, which they said would contribute to further strengthening bilateral ties.
Congressman Jack Bergman highlighted the strategic importance of the Pakistan-US relationship, stating, “The significance of our partnership is undeniable and will remain relevant in the years to come.”
He underscored that the positive impact of enhanced cooperation would not be limited to Pakistan and the United States (US) but would also extend to other developing regions around the world.
“We are working in specific sectors and promoting partnerships. One such critical area is mineral development,” Bergman said, adding that this collaboration would lay the foundation for robust industries that could benefit not only Pakistan but the global economy.
He further noted that new mining technologies and innovative products are essential for future industrial growth, and emphasized shared values between the two countries. “Our relationship is vital because both nations believe in the principles of freedom,” he remarked.
Congressman Thomas Richard Suozzi began his remarks with a warm “Assalamualaikum” and thanked the Pakistani people for their hospitality. “The visit has been remarkable. We are grateful for the warm welcome extended to us,” he said.
US Congress members term Pakistan visit a success, call for stronger bilateral ties
Suozzi called for building bilateral relations on strong foundations, acknowledging the role of the Pakistani diaspora in the US. “We see Pakistani immigrants as ambassadors who have excelled on American soil,” he added.
He praised Pakistanis as hardworking, educated, and family-oriented individuals, and stressed the importance of joint efforts to promote economic security and enhance economic activity between the two nations.
Congressman Jonathan Luther Jackson also lauded the visit, saying, “I witnessed the spirit of faith, unity, and discipline in Pakistan.” He termed the visit a unique opportunity to strengthen ties based on shared history and mutual trust.
US Congress members term Pakistan visit a success, call for stronger bilateral ties
“I firmly believe that Pakistan has a very bright future,” Jackson said, adding that he visited religious sites and met with top leadership in Pakistan.
He reaffirmed his commitment to deepening relations, expanding cooperation, and supporting Pakistan’s progress.

SC summons reports on forest lands across the country

By
Samina Ch
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0
ISLAMABAD, Apr 14 (APP):The Supreme Court has summoned comprehensive reports from all provincial governments and the federal government regarding the forest land case.
A five-member constitutional bench headed by Justice Aminuddin Khan, and comprising Justice Jamal Khan Mandokhail, Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar, Justice Syed Hasan Azhar Rizvi and Justice Shahid Bilal Hassan was conducting the proceedings.
During the hearing, the apex court directed all provinces and the federal government to submit detailed reports, including data on encroached and reclaimed forest land.
Justice Jamal Mandokhail questioned the status of the forest land issue within Islamabad’s jurisdiction, to which the government counsel responded that the matter had been resolved.
Justice Mandokhail remarked that “We don’t just want reports, we need to see the reality,”.
Highlighting the harsh conditions in cold regions, Justice Mandokhail asked, “What should people in Ziarat do when temperatures drop to minus 17 degrees Celsius—should they stop cutting trees without any alternative? Has the government provided alternate energy sources in cold areas?”
The government counsel informed the court that LPG is being supplied to Ziarat. Justice Muhammad Ali Mazhar then questioned whether any subsidies are being provided to the impoverished residents of mountainous regions.
Justice Aminuddin Khan stated that it is the government’s responsibility to provide better facilities to the people, while Justice Mazhar pointed out that reports have been submitted since 2018, but no significant progress has been observed.
Justice Hasan Rizvi noted that forest land in Sindh is being eroded by the sea, and Justice Mandokhail added that it is not the Supreme Court’s job to plant trees.
The Supreme Court adjourned the hearing indefinitely after directing the federal and provincial governments to submit their detailed reports.

Two, including girl, killed

By
Samina Ch
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0
FAISALABAD, Apr 14 (APP):A youth killed his sister and her paramour in the area of Chak Jhumra police station.
A police spokesman said on Monday that Abdur Rehman of Chak No 111-JB killed Iqra Saeed and her paramour Mazhar Hameed with the help of his brother-in-law Iftikhar.
On information, Regional Police Officer Zeeshan Asghar took notice of the incident and directed the police to ensure immediate arrest of the culprits.
The police took the bodies into custody and started investigation, the spokesman
added.

Over Rs. 2.58 billion development project approved for South Waziristan

By
Samina Ch
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0
PESHAWAR, Apr 14 (APP):The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has approved a development project worth over Rs. 2.58 billion for South Waziristan.
The project, titled “Special Integrated Area Development Programme”, is aimed at accelerating development activities in the merged districts, particularly South Waziristan.
Initially, the project was estimated at Rs. 2.18 billion, but under the revised PC-1, an additional Rs. 400 million was added, bringing the total to Rs. 2.58 billion. Currently, Rs. 900 million has been allocated for the project’s initial phase.
The project will be implemented with the support of various departments, including Local Government, Irrigation, Agriculture, Livestock, Industries (TEVTA), Youth Affairs, Sports, Culture, Forestry, Environment, and others.
According to official documents on Monday, Rs. 493 million has been allocated for the Local Government, and Rs. 379 million for the Irrigation Department. Separate funds have also been allocated for agriculture, industry, sports, youth affairs, the social sector, forestry, and youth internship programs.
The budget for the Youth Engagement Internship Program has been increased from 4.5 million to 15 million. Additionally, over 120 million has been added to the funds allocated for the TEVTA industry.
Similarly, new sectors such as Small and Medium Enterprises, Sports, Youth Affairs, and Non-Timber Forest Products have also been included.
According to the Department of Development and Planning, this project will be completed over a period of three years from 2024 to 2027, and the various departments involved will take responsibility for their respective roles.

Pakistan to host UN peacekeeping ministerial preparatory meeting from Tuesday

By
Samina Ch
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0
ISLAMABAD, Apr 14 (APP):Pakistan is set to co-host the third United Nations Peacekeeping Ministerial Preparatory Meeting here from April 15-16, 2025, in collaboration with the Republic of Korea.
The event will take place at the Centre for International Peace and Stability (CIPS), National University of Sciences and Technology (NUST), Islamabad.
Bringing together global stakeholders under the theme “Towards a Safer and More Effective Peacekeeping: Use of Technology and Integrated Approach,” the meeting will set the stage for the upcoming UN Peacekeeping Ministerial in Berlin, Germany (13–14 May 2025)—the UN’s flagship biennial gathering of Foreign and Defense ministers focused on strengthening peacekeeping operations.
Senior dignitaries from the Government of Pakistan, along with top UN officials including Mr. Jean-Pierre Lacroix, Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, and Atul Khare, Under-Secretary-General for Operational Support, will attend the Islamabad meeting, a press release issued here on Monday said.
The two-day preparatory meeting will feature a series of panel discussions focusing on the future of peacekeeping, including discussions on various sub-themes to deliberate upon evolving challenges to peacekeeping operations; the role of technology for making the future of peacekeeping safer and more effective; countering threats to the safety and security of peacekeepers using technology; the role of regional and cross-regional organizations in supporting United Nations peace operations; the effective performance of peacekeepers; and an integrated approach for sustainable and durable peace.
The meeting will provide an opportunity to highlight Pakistan’s commitment to the United Nations peacekeeping as a leading troop-contributing country. Over the years, Pakistan has deployed 235,000 peacekeepers in 48 UN missions. 181 Pakistani peacekeepers paid the ultimate sacrifice in the service of international peace and security.
Pakistan’s hosting of the preparatory meeting will signify its continued commitment to UN Peacekeeping and its tangible contribution to the collective promotion of peace and security envisaged in the UN Charter.

Police Khidmat centers facilitate 41,000 people

By
Samina Ch
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0
FAISALABAD, Apr 14 (APP):The Police Khidmat Centers facilitated more than 41,000 people across the region during last 40 days.
A police spokesman said on Monday that practical steps were taken actively to ensure
provision of police services to the masses timely and efficiently.
He said 10,749 people were issued learner driving permits while 774 people were facilitated with renewed driving licenses and 166 with international driving licenses.
Similarly, Khidmat Centres facilitated 14,258 people with police verification certificates,
8,130 with police character certificates, 1,698 with tenant registration cases, 780 with vehicle verifications and 2,173 individuals with medico-legal certificates, he added.
He said the centres were providing 15 services, including mobile phone verification, employee background checks, etc.

Funeral prayers offered of two brave sons of Sindh police held in Larkana

By
Samina Ch
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0
LARKANA, Apr 14 (APP):The funeral prayers of two brave sons of the Sindh Police, who sacrificed their lives for peace, were held on Monday.
Police officer Muhammad Ayub Ghanghro, who was martyred while performing duties at Karachi’s Chakiwara Police Station, was laid to rest with official honors in his ancestral village, Bhai Khan Ghanghro.
 The funeral was attended by SP Investigation, ASP Ratodero, retired Flight Lieutenant Muhammad Ali, police officials, personnel, and individuals from various walks of life.
Meanwhile, Head Constable Mir Muhammad Kalhoro, who was martyred after sustaining injuries in a motorcycle accident while on duty in the Hadirat Rasoolabad area under the jurisdiction of Shahid DSP Abdul Malik Bhutto Police Station in Larkana city, was honored at a funeral held at the Larkana Police Headquarters.
On this occasion, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Larkana Ahmed Chaudhry QPM, PSP, stated in his message, “Martyrs and ghazis (wounded heroes) are the pride of the police department. Their sacrifices have tightened the noose around criminals.”

IRSA releases 76,800 cusecs water

By
Samina Ch
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0
ISLAMABAD, Apr 14 (APP):Indus River System Authority (IRSA) on Monday released 76,800 cusecs water from various rim stations with inflow of 95,900 cusecs.
According to the data released by IRSA, the water level in River Indus at Tarbela Dam was 1415.92 feet which was 13:92 feet higher than dead level of 1402.00 feet. Water inflow and outflow in the dam was recorded as 28,900 cusecs and 20,000 cusecs respectively.
The water level in River Jhelum at Mangla Dam was 1106.10 feet, which was 55.10 feet higher than its dead level of 1,050 feet. The inflow and outflow of water was recorded 27,200 cusecs and 17,000 cusecs respectively.
The release of water at Kalabagh, Taunsa , Guddu and Sukkur was recorded as 55,700, 34,200, 27,800 and 6,600 cusecs respectively. Similarly, from River Kabul, a total of 27,200 cusecs of water released at Nowshera and 6,100 cusecs released from River Chenab at Marala.
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