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NH&MP crackdown on overcharging on M-4 Khanewal sector

By
Shahzad Ahmad
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MULTAN, Jun 05 (APP):The National Highways & Motorway Police (NHMP) launched operation against overcharging and overloading by public transporters on the M-4 Khanewal sector, following the directives of Inspector General BA Nasir.
As part of this operation, hefty fines were being imposed on violators, and passengers are being refunded the excess fare charged by transporters. Authorities emphasized that exploitation of passengers—especially during the upcoming Eid-ul-Azha holidays—would not be tolerated under any circumstances.
Sector Commander Ghulam Abbas Gondal, directed officials concerned to perform their duties as a form of devotion.
To ensure smooth traffic flow during the festive rush, the Motorway Police has ramped up patrolling across the sector. In addition, Special Anti-Crime Squad would be deployed to safeguard the lives and properties of commuters.

Waqar Mehdi lauds Bilawal Bhutto Zardari’s diplomatic efforts on global stage

By
Shahzad Ahmad
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KARACHI, Jun 05 (APP):Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Sindh General Secretary, Senator Waqar Mehdi on Thursday praised PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto -Zardari for his impactful diplomatic engagement on the international front, calling it a “historic role” that exposed the “dark face of Hindutva” and countered Indian provocations.
In a statement, Senator Mehdi said the Pakistani delegation, led by Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, achieved a significant diplomatic victory by effectively presenting Pakistan’s position and countering India’s narrative.
“Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, by forcefully articulating Pakistan’s stance on critical issues such as Kashmir, the Indus Waters Treaty, and regional security, dismantled the false narrative promoted by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi,” Mehdi stated. He likened the rebuttal of India’s claims to the Pakistan Air Force’s defense against Indian Rafale jets.
Senator Mehdi added that during his diplomatic engagements, the PPP Chairman spotlighted the ongoing human rights violations in Indian-occupied Kashmir and exposed India’s proxy warfare tactics in the region. “He has shown the world the true face of Narendra Modi, who can no longer hide behind a diplomatic mask,” he said.
He further drew parallels between Bilawal’s diplomatic efforts and those of former Prime Ministers Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, calling it a revival of their legacy of international diplomacy.

3,500 officers on Eid Duty as police tighten security across capital

By
Shahzad Ahmad
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ISLAMABAD, Jun 05 (APP):Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) Police have finalized a comprehensive security and patrolling plan to ensure the safety of citizens during Eid-ul-Azha, deploying more than 3,500 police officers across the federal capital.
An official told APP on Thursday that the security measures are being implemented under the special direction of the Inspector General of Police (IGP). Deputy Inspector General of Police (DIG) Muhammad Javad Tariq said that officers will be deployed at mosques, imambargahs, shopping centers, graveyards, bus terminals, railway stations, and cattle markets to maintain law and order and assist citizens.
DIG Tariq said that special deployment has been made at major shopping hubs including Jinnah Super Market, F-6, F-10, and Aabpara Market. Dolphin Force personnel will conduct patrols in these areas to prevent any untoward incidents. DIG Tariq added that a shift-based security arrangement has also been made at the city’s bus terminals, where SHOs have held meetings with terminal managers to coordinate the deployment of volunteers for public assistance.
DIG Tariq said that police presence has also been ensured at graveyards and the railway station. A dedicated force will be deployed at Faisal Mosque for crowd management during Eid prayers. Moreover, Islamabad Traffic Police (ITP) has prepared a comprehensive traffic management plan to maintain smooth vehicular flow and effective parking arrangements across the city.
DIG Tariq said that a special patrolling plan will be implemented during Eid holidays, with Falcon and CRT vehicles actively patrolling their assigned sectors. Additional patrol vehicles have also been provided to local police stations to enhance vigilance. Special security measures have been taken at recreational points across Islamabad, and no parking will be allowed near places of worship.
DIG Tariq said that strict checking will be conducted at all entry and exit points of the city. Bomb Disposal Squad will carry out area checks to preempt any threats. Police teams have also been directed to patrol both urban sectors and rural areas during the holiday period. Commando units will assist local police in ensuring foolproof security.
DIG Tariq urged citizens to lock their homes securely before leaving for Eid prayers or celebrations and to stay in contact with local police. “Police officers are working round the clock to safeguard your life, property, and peace of mind,” he said.

NLPD donates books to govt colleges

By
Shahzad Ahmad
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ISLAMABAD, Jun 05 (APP):The National Language Promotion Department (NLPD) has gifted a collection of its published books to the libraries of government educational institutions across the country.
A special ceremony to this effect was held under the premises of NLPD the other day.
Director General of the NLPD, Professor Dr. Muhammad Saleem Mazhar, presented sets of books to the heads of various colleges.
More than 25 principals, both male and female, from public sector colleges participated in the event and received books for their respective libraries.
While addressing the gathering, Dr. Mazhar stated that the department possessed a rich collection of high-quality books that it aims to distribute to libraries in public educational institutions nationwide.
“Our objective is to nurture a love for reading among the youth and to acquaint them with the richness of Urdu language and literature,” he remarked.
He further emphasized that while Pakistan’s educational system was superior to that of many countries, continuous collective efforts are needed for further improvement.
 “Knowledge is a treasure that multiplies when shared, and no education is complete without the inclusion of language and literature,” he added.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Rashid Hameed, Executive Director of the NLPD, highlighted the crucial role of language and literature in societal development.
 “Today’s event marks the first step in our initiative to deliver these books to public college libraries. This effort will not only continue in the future, but students will soon also have digital access to our publications via our website,” he announced.
Deputy Director of the department, Mehboob Khan Bugti, gave a brief introduction to the organization.
 The ceremony concluded with the presentation of a set of 280 books to each participating college as a gift from the NLPD.
NLPD donates books to govt colleges

Zero tolerance against excessive fares; Provincial Minister

By
Shahzad Ahmad
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RAWALPINDI, Jun 05 (APP):Provincial Minister for Transport Punjab Bilal Akbar Khan on Thursday visited General Bus Stand Pir Wadhai where he reviewed the implementation of the fares. The provincial minister directed the administration to take action against those charging excessive fares. He also inquired from the passengers regarding the implementation of the fixed fares. He visited the waiting room and reviewed the cleanliness situation.
Talking to the media on this occasion, Provincial Minister for Transport Punjab Bilal Akbar Khan said that under the instructions of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, the implementation of the fixed travel fares was being ensured.
“These days, 1.2 million additional fares taken across Punjab have been returned to the passengers. More than 2.5 million fines have been imposed on those who charged excess fares”, he said while highlighting the punitive actions taken against the excessive fares.
He said that strict monitoring of the travel fares set for the convenience of passengers on the occasion of Eid-ul-Adha is underway.
“The provincial minister said that no one would be allowed to rob the public. No concession will be made to those who charge excess fares”, he added. He maintained that verloading in vehicles wer not allowed. The administration and traffic police, he said are ensuring the checking of vehicles and taking action against those who overcharge.
He paid tribute to the workers of Suthra Punjab for the excellent arrangements for cleanliness. He said that in case of any problem, passengers should file complaints on the helpline 1071, immediate redressal will be done.
The transport system is being digitized. Monitoring of route permits, including vehicle fitness, is being ensured. Illegal bus depots are being eliminated, he said.
Tahira Aurangzeb MNA, DC Rawalpindi, Secretary RTA Hafiz Muhammad Imran and other officers were also present on the occasion.

Pakistan’s appointment to key UN bodies validates int’l community’s confidence: PM

By
Shahzad Ahmad
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ISLAMABAD, Jun 5 (APP):Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday said Pakistan’s key appointments at UN bodies validate the international community’s confidence and trust in the country’s counter-terrorism (CT) credentials as well as an acknowledgment of its strong and unwavering commitment to eradicate this global menace.
The prime minister in a post on his X wall wrote: “It is a matter of great pride that Pakistan has been appointed as Chair of UNSC Sanctions Committee under Res.1988(2011); Vice Chair of of the 1373 (2001) Counter-Terrorism Committee; as well as Co-Chair of Informal Working Group (IWG) on documentation and sanctions.”
He added that as one of the biggest victims of terrorism, with over 90,000 casualties and more than $150 bn economic losses, Pakistan’s sacrifices in combatting this scourge have been second to none.

CDA mobilizes massive cleanup force for Eid-ul-Azha, deploys 2,500 workers, 250 vehicles

By
Shahzad Ahmad
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0
ISLAMABAD, Jun 05 (APP):The Capital Development Authority has launched its largest-ever Eid-ul-Azha cleanliness operation, deploying 2,500 sanitation workers and 250 vehicles across the federal capital.
The emergency measures come as the city prepares to handle more than 10,000 tons of sacrificial animal waste during the three-day festival.
Sanitation Director Tariq Ali told APP that the capital has been divided into five operational zones, with 107 specially-prepared disposal pits at 55 locations.
He said authorities have established two 24-hour emergency control rooms at the Sanitation Directorate (G-6/1-4) and Fire Headquarters (G-7/4), along with a central complaint center at Safe City in Sector H-11.
Residents can report waste collection issues through multiple channels including the sanitation helpline (1334 or 9213908), phone calls (9203216, 9211555), or WhatsApp/SMS (03355001213).
The CDA, Ali said has distributed biodegradable bags across urban and rural areas and warned against illegal dumping in drains, forests or public bins.
Sanitation director said special arrangements for rural areas, with union councils handling cleanup in 15 suburban regions. “We’ve learned from previous years,” Ali said. “Our sector-wise teams and modern equipment will ensure timely waste removal.”
He warned of strict legal action against violators, particularly those slaughtering animals outside designated areas.
He noted that the cleanup operation will continue until all sacrificial waste is properly disposed of, with special focus on major sectors during the first two days of Eid before shifting to suburban areas.
Meanwhile, Chairman Muhammad Ali Randhawa announced the cancellation of all sanitation staff holidays during a high-level meeting Wednesday. “We’re implementing a foolproof system to keep Islamabad clean and disease-free,” Randhawa said. “Our teams will work round-the-clock, but public cooperation is equally crucial.”
Randhawa appealed to citizens: “Help us maintain Islamabad’s beauty. Proper waste disposal protects everyone’s health.”

Commander of Air Force of Belarus visits Air Headquarters

By
Shahzad Ahmad
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0
RAWALPNDI, Jun 05 (APP):A high-level defence delegation, led by Major General Andrei Yulianovich Lukyanovich, Commander of the Air Force and Air Defence of Belarus, visited Air Headquarters Islamabad.
During the meeting, a wide array of mutual interests related to air power and military cooperation were thoroughly discussed, said an ISPR news release.
The discussions also reaffirmed the mutual commitment of both nations to further strengthening their longstanding bilateral relations, with both sides agreeing to sustain close and continuous engagement between their respective Air Forces.
On his arrival, a smartly turned out contingent of Pakistan Air Force presented a Guard of Honour to Major General Andrei Yulianovich Lukyanovich.
During the meeting, the Chief of the Air Staff highlighted the robust bilateral military ties between the two countries and assured that PAF is committed to extending full support for the basic to tactical-level training of pilots and maintenance crews for capacity building of the Belarus Air Force.
He reiterated his resolve to consolidate the existing bilateral Air Force to Air Force ties between the two countries by enhancing collaboration, particularly in the areas of training, technological development and operational capability.
A key highlight of the meeting was the mutual consensus on enhancing Air Force-to-Air Force cooperation through a variety of domains. This includes the initiation of high-level exchange programs aimed at fostering professional development between the two Air Forces.
Major General Andrei Yulianovich Lukyanovich expressed his sincere gratitude for the warm hospitality extended to him, underscoring the long-standing bond of friendship between Pakistan and Belarus.
The visiting dignitary conveyed keen interest of the Belarus Air Force in learning from the Pakistan Air Force’s rich operational experience, particularly in the context of wartime operations.
He also acknowledged PAF’s professionalism and effectiveness in complex operational environments and shared his Air Force’s eagerness to draw lessons from PAF’s combat-tested doctrines and training regimes. Major General Andrei Yulianovich Lukyanovich shared his earnest desire for structured and formal training programs to be conducted by PAF for Belarus Air Force personnel, indicating a new chapter of collaboration in capacity-building and operational proficiency.
The Commander of the Air Force & Air Defence of Belarus extended an invitation to CAS PAF seeking his participation in upcoming important and acclaimed defence-related events in Belarus, to bolster this relationship further by expanding and exploring new avenues for collaboration.
Both sides agreed to work on the modalities of the visit, with the aim of furthering the strategic dialogue and exploring new avenues for bilateral defence cooperation.
This visit of Major General Andrei Yulianovich Lukyanovich to Air Headquarters, Islamabad, highlights the strong commitment of both nations to further enhance their military partnership through continued dialogue and collaboration.

SECP issues consultation paper on ‘Peer-to-Peer and Crowd Lending’

By
Shahzad Ahmad
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ISLAMABAD, Jun 5 (APP):The Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) has invited feedback on a comprehensive Consultation Paper on the Challenges and Potential of Peer-to-Peer (P2P) and Crowd Lending in Pakistan.
The paper also includes proposed amendments to the Non-Banking Finance Companies & Notified Entities Regulations, 2008, aimed at expanding access to alternative finance, said a press release issued here on Thursday.
The rapid evolution of financial technologies and the growing demand for inclusive and innovative financing solutions has led SECP to conduct an in-depth review of the existing P2P lending framework. The paper presents a comparative analysis of international regulatory models and best practices to inform policy development.
The review identifies several structural and regulatory challenges currently constraining the growth of P2P and crowd lending platforms in Pakistan.
These challenges include the absence of securitized lending mechanisms, restrictions on eligible participants, limited options for credit risk diversification, and operational difficulties related to escrow account management.
To address these challenges, the SECP proposes a series of amendments to the P2P lending framework.
These proposed changes include increasing loan ticket sizes and exposure limits, strengthening governance requirements for NBFCs operating as P2P service providers, ensuring the financial sustainability of P2P platforms, introducing a trust account structure for fund management, enhancing risk disclosures, and introducing IT and cybersecurity standards for platforms.
The SECP has invited comments and suggestions from all stakeholders, including P2P platforms, fintech innovators, financial institutions, investors, and the general public. Stakeholder feedback will play a critical role in shaping a forward-looking, risk-sensitive, and enabling regulatory environment for P2P lending in Pakistan.
In addition, the SECP also proposed amendments to revise the definitions of SME/MSME and microenterprises, enhance credit bureau reporting requirements for lending NBFCs, amend the Code of Corporate Governance applicable to lending NBFCs, and relax the Fit and Proper Criteria for Fintech Startups in the lending space.
The Consultation Paper and draft notification of the proposed amendments are available on the SECP website. Comments may be submitted by June 20, 2025, via email to fahad.raza@secp.gov.pk.

Bilawal Bhutto presents Pakistan’s stance on international forums effectively: Sharjeel

By
Shahzad Ahmad
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0
KARACHI, Jun 05 (APP):Sindh Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon has paid tribute to Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari for his bold diplomacy and for presenting Pakistan’s clear and unwavering stance during his foreign tour.
He stated that today only one name is resonating in India and that is Bilawal Bhutto Zardari.
Sharjeel Memon said that PPP Chairman has presented Pakistan’s stance on every major issue, from Kashmir to Palestine, to the international community with exceptional courage, insight and political wisdom.
He added that Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari has emerged as a beacon of hope not only for Pakistan but for the entire region.
He stated that Bilawal Bhutto Zardari delivered a clear message to the international community that Pakistan seeks peace but will not compromise on its sovereignty and national security.
Sharjeel Inam said that Bilawal Bhutto Zardari effectively raised the voice of the Kashmiri people at the United Nations and provided a strong diplomatic response to Indian aggression.
He stated that Bilawal Bhutto reminded the world that Kashmir is not merely a border dispute, but a matter of self-determination and the fundamental human rights of millions Kashmiris.
Sharjeel Memon said that Bilawal Bhutto has demonstrated through his leadership, international vision, and democratic values that he is the true heir to the legacy of Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto.
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