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36 cases of illegal occupation of properties disposed of

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FAISALABAD, Nov 27 (APP): The district dispute resolution committee disposed of 36 cases of illegal occupation of properties of the destitute/widows and handed over the possession to the legal owners.
This was stated by the Deputy Commissioner Capt (retd) Nadeem Nasir while chairing a meeting here on Thursday, in which the applicants were also present. The officers of various departments were also present.
He said that CM Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif had strictly instructed for immediate evacuation on the properties of the destitute/widows.
In this regard, implementing the ordinance 2025 is being ensured strictly for the safety of the properties of the citizens.

Aisam, Muzammil create history, move in ATP Challenger Tour semis

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ISLAMABAD, Nov 27 (APP): Pakistani duo of Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi and Muzammil Murtaza created history on Thursday by moving in the men’s doubles semifinals of ATP Challenger Tour, played at the PTF Tennis Complex here Thursday.
In the men’s doubles, Aisam-ul-Haq and Muzammil Murtaza defeated Johan Nikles of Switzerland and Vadym Ursu of Ukraine 6-3, 6-7(5), 10-7, securing their place in the semifinals for the first time in Pakistan tennis history.
This remarkable achievement makes them the first Pakistani duo to reach the semifinals of an ATP Tour event, a moment of immense pride for the nation and a significant milestone in Pakistan’s tennis history.

DC reviews price control, anti-profiteering measures, anti-encroachment drive

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BAHAWALPUR, Nov 27 (APP): A key meeting of the District Enforcement and Regulatory Board was held under the chairmanship of Deputy Commissioner Bahawalpur, Dr. Farhan Farooq, which reviewed in detail the district-wide performance on price control, action against profiteering, Punjab Enforcement and Regulatory Authority (PERA) force operations, and the ongoing anti-encroachment campaign.
The meeting was attended by Additional Deputy Commissioner (Revenue) Taib Sami Khan, Additional Deputy Commissioner (General) Muhammad Taib, Assistant Commissioner Bahawalpur City Khalil Ahmed, Assistant Commissioner Bahawalpur Sadar Qurat-ul-Ain, District Public Prosecutor Nadeem Iqbal Khakwani, and other officials from relevant departments.
During the briefing, the participants were informed that effective actions related to price control had been carried out across various tehsils in recent days. In Bahawalpur City, SDEO and EOs conducted 636 inspections during the current month, resulting in fines totaling Rs. 1.117 million, while 5 individuals were arrested through summary trials. Similarly, in Tehsil Bahawalpur Sadar, 626 inspections were carried out over the past 26 days, leading to fines amounting to Rs. 413,000.
The meeting was further informed that operations under the anti-encroachment campaign continued across multiple locations, including Androon Bazaar, Model Town B, Yazman Road, Bandra Puli, Ahmedpuri Gate, Farooqabad, Hasilpur Road, and Mele Wali Gali. Encroachments were removed from roads, footpaths, and marketplaces to improve traffic flow and ensure ease of movement for the public.
Addressing the meeting, Deputy Commissioner Dr. Farhan Farooq directed newly appointed PERA Force officers to accelerate efforts to improve the price control mechanism in line with the vision of the Chief Minister Punjab. He instructed that the zero-tolerance policy against encroachments be implemented strictly and that daily monitoring in markets be ensured.
He stressed that providing genuine relief to the public is the government’s top priority, urging all departments to further enhance their performance and field teams to avoid any negligence in monitoring and enforcement activities.

Women chamber,Bank of Khyber launch key training program for women’s economic empowerment in Abbottabad

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ABBOTTABAD, Nov 27 (APP): The Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry Hazara Division, in partnership with the Bank of Khyber, has organized a comprehensive training program aimed at boosting women’s economic independence, entrepreneurial capacity, and access to financial services. A large number of businesswomen from across the region participated in the session.
During the training, experts from the Bank of Khyber briefed participants on a range of easy-loan schemes, government financial programs, modern methods for business expansion, and emerging investment opportunities. They guided women on how to choose the most suitable schemes at different stages of their business journey and how to move ahead with confidence.
Participants described the session as highly productive, saying it strengthened their confidence and equipped them with practical knowledge crucial for informed business decisions.
For several years, the Women Chamber of Commerce and Industry Hazara Division has been conducting training programs, workshops and seminars to empower women economically. These activities aim to introduce women to modern business skills, financial awareness and opportunities aligned with international standards.
Firdousia Durani, founding president of the chamber, said the initiative reflects their mission to make every woman in Hazara economically strong and self-reliant. She added that collaboration with the Bank of Khyber is part of this ongoing effort and expressed hope that women from Hazara would soon gain access to national and international business platforms—ultimately strengthening the regional economy and creating new employment opportunities.
She assured that the chamber will continue offering similar programs to provide women with stronger platforms and more opportunities for growth.

KP Food Authority unearths synthetic milk network in Hattar

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PESHAWAR, Nov 27 (APP): The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Food Safety and Halal Food Authority has unearthed a nationwide network involved in producing synthetic, fake and hazardous milk unit during a major late-night operation.
The raid was conducted under the direct supervision of Director General KP Food Authority Wasif Saeed, along with Director Operations Yousaf Khan and Director Technical Dr. Abdul Sattar Shah, who led a special food safety team to Hattar Industrial Zone, Haripur.
According to DG Wasif Saeed on Thursday, the network had shifted its operations to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa following strict crackdown by the Punjab Food Authority. “Based on intelligence-driven information, this notorious network was previously identified in Punjab and has now been intercepted in KP,” he told media during a detailed briefing.
During the raid, a large quantity of chemicals, raw materials and heavy machinery used to prepare synthetic milk was recovered. Tankers filled with hazardous milk were seized on the spot and later discarded. The DG confirmed that the factory was operating illegally and supplying synthetic milk to major cities, including Islamabad and Rawalpindi.
The investigation revealed that the network was allegedly producing around 100,000 litres of synthetic milk daily, posing severe risks to public health. Food Authority officials sealed the factory, arrested three individuals including the unit manager and confiscated all equipment.
An FIR has been registered and legal proceedings have been initiated.
Saeed further disclosed that the district food authority team in Haripur has been suspended for negligence in the matter.
“We will not allow such enemies of public health to operate,” he said, adding that food adulteration is an act of ‘food terrorism’ and culprits will face strict punishment.
The DG also appreciated the support of the district administration and police during the successful operation.

Federal Ombudsman’s swift intervention secures Rs 450,000 dues for Abbottabad widow

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ABBOTTABAD, Nov 27 (APP): In a significant relief for a local widow, the Federal Ombudsman’s Regional Office Abbottabad has succeeded in securing the payment of Rs 450,000 in outstanding dues from the Karachi Port Trust (KPT), following a prompt response to her complaint.
According to official sources, the complainant a resident of Abbottabad reported that her late husband had served in the Karachi Port Trust. After his death, his pension was initially transferred to her name but was discontinued after a single month of payment.
Acting on her grievance, Federal Ombudsman Ejaz Ahmad Qureshi directed the issuance of an immediate notice to the KPT. The department complied with the directive and released the long-pending dues without delay.
Expressing gratitude, the widow thanked the Federal Ombudsman and the Regional Office In-charge, Rashid Ahmed, for resolving her long-standing issue.
Rashid Ahmed stated that the Federal Ombudsman Secretariat remains dedicated to providing timely and impartial relief to citizens, ensuring that government departments fulfil their responsibilities efficiently.

Sardar Yousuf urges following Quran’s guidance for success in life & hereafter

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ISLAMABAD, Nov 27 (APP): Minister for Religious Affairs Sardar Muhammad Yousuf urged the Muslim Ummah to follow the teachings of the Holy Quran, emphasizing that true success—both in this world and in the hereafter—lies in adhering to its guidance.
Addressing the concluding session of Pakistan’s first International Qirat Competition at the Convention Centre on Thursday, the minister said that hosting such a prestigious event was an honour for the country and a significant achievement for the Ministry of Religious Affairs.
He said that the best Qurra (Quran reciters) from 37 Islamic countries participated in the competition and enlightened the hearts of listeners with their beautiful voices.
“This is the first international qirat competition in Pakistan, and it will continue in the future as well,” the minister added.
Sardar Yousuf said that all the reforms and initiatives undertaken by the Religious Affairs Ministry during Nawaz Sharif’s tenure had greatly benefited the country.
Similarly, under the leadership of Shehbaz Sharif, the Ministry of Religious Affairs was now reviving those initiatives to better serve the people of Pakistan and the Muslim Ummah.
He emphasized the need for unity, mutual respect, brotherhood, and peace, noting that these values were essential for the positive growth and flourishing of society.
Sardar Yousuf said that the legislation and reforms initiated by the incumbent government are reaping great benefits for the country, especially in the fields of economy, defence, and social development.
The minister emphasized the development of society in a wholesome Islamic environment, in line with the teachings of Islam.
He extended his gratitude to the chief guest of the event, Speaker National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq, and all the esteemed foreign and Pakistani judges for gracing the event.
Speaking on the occasion, Sardar Ayaz Sadiq said that over the past few days, the participating Qurra had filled the capital, Islamabad, with the fragrance of spirituality and the sublime melody of the Quran.
“This gathering marks not just the final round of a prestigious global competition, but the culmination of an extraordinary journey of unity, devotion, and reverence,” he added.
The speaker said that the Quran is not merely a sacred scripture, but a complete code of life—a book of timeless wisdom for every age and for every condition of humanity.
It is the source of ethics, justice, and human dignity upon which a healthy and peaceful society must be built, he added.
Sardar Ayaz Sadiq said that the profound impact of the Holy Quran’s recitation transcends every language and culture, adding that when the Qur’an is recited, hearts are softened, souls are uplifted, and nations draw closer together.
At the end of the concluding session, Sardar Ayaz Sadiq and Sardar Muhammad Yousuf conferred certificates and shields upon the judges of the event.
It may be mentioned that Pakistan’s first International Qirat Competition concluded on Thursday.
The first, second, and third-place winners will be announced at the closing ceremony on Saturday, November 29.

ITA cracks down on polluting vehicles to improve Islamabad’s air quality

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ISLAMABAD, Nov 27 (APP): The Islamabad Transport Authority (ITA) has expanded its operations against vehicles causing air pollution, as part of ongoing efforts to stabilise the federal capital’s air quality index.
The latest enforcement round resulted in 27 additional smoke-emitting vehicles being shifted to police stations.
The Chairman of the Islamabad Transport Authority said the administration will not allow any vehicle to operate if it contributes to rising pollution levels. He said that maintaining the city’s AQI is a priority and strict steps will continue.
Deputy Commissioner (DC) Islamabad, Irfan Memon said transport teams have been directed to set up checkpoints on a daily basis, covering both urban routes and major entry and exit points. These checkpoints are aimed at detecting smoke-emitting vehicles and removing them from regular traffic flow.
He added that the operation is not limited to main roads, as monitoring has also been expanded to smaller routes and intersections where such vehicles often go unnoticed. The administration aims to ensure that no polluting vehicle bypasses inspection teams.
Officials said the vehicles seized during recent checks were found emitting visible smoke and violating environmental standards set for public and private transport. After being moved to police stations, the vehicles will only be released once owners show compliance with fitness and emission requirements.
The Chairman urged residents to support the drive by reporting vehicles emitting heavy smoke. He said that public cooperation can help prevent further air pollution and can make enforcement more effective. Citizens were encouraged to call attention to any vehicle that risks worsening the city’s air quality.
Irfan Memon said the district administration is working closely with the Transport Authority to sustain this campaign for as long as required. He stressed that reducing air pollution requires joint effort from enforcement teams and the public.
He added that action against pollution-causing vehicles is essential for maintaining a manageable AQI and safeguarding the environment. The administration plans to continue the crackdown without pause until significant improvements in emission compliance are observed across the city.
Officials reiterated that protecting the city’s air quality is a shared responsibility. They asked all drivers to ensure their vehicles meet emission standards before bringing them onto the roads. The administration affirmed that enforcement will remain strict and consistent, with checkpoints operating daily to identify and seize smoke-emitting vehicles.

Bahawalpur DRC resolves 11 long-pending land disputes in Yazman

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BAHAWALPUR, Nov 27 (APP): District-level Dispute Resolution Committees (DRCs) in Bahawalpur have stepped up efforts to deliver fast and transparent justice, with the Yazman committee successfully resolving 11 longstanding land-related disputes in its latest meeting chaired by Deputy Commissioner Dr Farhan Farooq.
According to the district administration, the cases — some of them pending for years — were settled after both parties were heard, revenue records examined, and property documents including ownership deeds, registries, and mutations verified on the spot. Illegal occupations were removed immediately, and rightful possession was restored to legitimate owners in each case.
All decisions were announced transparently in the presence of both parties, ensuring fairness and clarity in the proceedings.
Deputy Commissioner Dr Farhan Farooq encouraged citizens facing land or property issues to approach the DRC without hesitation. “If a claim is proven valid on the basis of revenue records, the matter will be resolved promptly, fairly, and transparently,” he said, adding that the Government of Punjab and district administration are committed to protecting citizens’ legal rights and shielding them from unnecessary litigation.
Calling the active role of DRCs “a milestone in providing relief to the public,” Dr. Farhan emphasized that the committees are designed to bring justice to people’s doorstep.
The meeting was attended by District Police Officer Muhammad Hassan Iqbal, Additional Deputy Commissioner Revenue Captain (retd) Tayyab Sami Khan, and officers from the revenue departments. The administration stated that such initiatives will continue to ensure timely justice and strengthen public trust in local governance.

France-Pakistan artistic collaboration unveils vibrant urban art fresco in Islamabad

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ISLAMABAD, Nov 27 (APP):A landmark urban art fresco was unveiled at Mövenpick Hotel Centaurus, marking a significant milestone in Pakistan’s contemporary art scene.
The event, hosted by Mövenpick Hotel Centaurus in collaboration with the Embassy of France in Pakistan, celebrated the fusion of French and Pakistani artistic talent.
France-Pakistan artistic collaboration unveils vibrant urban art fresco in Islamabad
The large-scale mural, created by renowned artists Seth Globepainter and Nasty from France, and Affan Tariq and Spraytherapy from Pakistan, symbolizes the strong cultural bond between the two countries. The event brought together diplomats, artists, media representatives, and civil society partners to witness the unveiling of the vibrant artwork.
French Ambassador to Pakistan, Nicolas Galey, and Mövenpick Hotel Centaurus General Manager, Nicolas Verdun, highlighted the importance of artistic collaboration and urban art’s impact on community engagement and cross-cultural understanding.
France-Pakistan artistic collaboration unveils vibrant urban art fresco in Islamabad
The event also honored Pakistan Sweet Home, reflecting Mövenpick’s commitment to social responsibility. CEO of Pakistan Sweet Home, Zamurd Khan, joined dignitaries in appreciating the artistic showcase.
Guests engaged with the artists and participating organizations, strengthening the spirit of collaboration that defined the event. This initiative showcases the transformative power of art in uniting communities and fostering cultural appreciation.