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CCPO reviews Muharram security plan

By
Kamran Muraad
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LAHORE, Jun 13 (APP): Capital City Police Officer (CCPO) Bilal Siddique Kamyana on Friday chaired a meeting to review security preparations for the upcoming Muharram and assess the performance of Iqbal Town and Saddar police divisions.
CCPO Bilal Siddique Kamyana emphasised that the safety of mourners and maintaining peace during Muharram is the top priority.
Police officers were instructed to collaborate closely with the community’s peace committees to finalise security measures in accordance with government standard operating procedures (SOPs).
Furthermore, the CCPO directed the police to ensure robust security for the Chinese community residing in Lahore.
Bilal Siddique expressed satisfaction with the security arrangements made during the Pakistan Super League matches and the recent Eid-ul-Azha estivities. He called for enhanced cooperation with the Crime Control Department to effectively prevent crime.
A strict directive was issued for disciplinary action against police personnel showing negligence in investigating narcotics cases. He assigned task to the deputy inspector general (DIG) Investigation of holding such officers accountable.
To improve outcomes, police officers were urged to strictly implement departmental SOPs and maintain continuous follow-ups. The CCPO called on the police to actively contribute towards creating a drug-free society and to take proactive measures against modern narcotics, including ice and heroin.
Additionally, the use of hotel and travel software was recommended to track and apprehend wanted criminals.
The meeting was attended by DIG Administration Imran Kishwar, DIG Investigation Zeeshan Raza, DIG Operations Faisal Kamran, SSP Investigation Muhammad Naveed, SSP Operations Tasawar Iqbal, along with SPs, ASPs, Circle Officers, SHOs, and Investigation Incharges from the Iqbal Town and Saddar divisions.

Maritime Minister calls for balance between industrial growth, ecological preservation

By
Kamran Muraad
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KARACHI, Jun 13 (APP): Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry on Friday emphasized the need to balance industrial growth with ecological preservation at ports, underscoring a strategic vision that aligns economic development with environmental sustainability.
In a statement issued here, the minister urged upon the Port Qasim Authority (PQA) to intensify efforts to protect the environment across all industrial zones under its jurisdiction, stressing the importance of responsible industrial growth alongside ecological preservation.
The minister directed PQA management to ensure that all industrial units have installed sewage treatment plants. He warned that failure to comply should result in penalties under environmental laws for pollution and improper waste discharge to curb industrial pollution and safeguard marine and coastal ecosystems.
Praising PQA’s engagement of independent third-party for environmental monitoring, the minister urged the port to maintain impartial, data-driven assessments of industrial compliance. This approach will improve transparency and strengthen regulatory enforcement.
Highlighting PQA’s commitment to the global Green Port Initiative, Maritime Minister noted that the authority has successfully planted over 25,000 trees within port areas, significantly contributing to carbon sequestration and ecosystem restoration.
“These efforts underscore PQA’s unwavering dedication to environmental responsibility and a sustainable, greener future for maritime sector,” the minister stated adding it aligns with broader government policies to modernize maritime infrastructure and enforce stricter environmental regulations, including waste management and afforestation projects.
The Ministry continues to collaborate with port authorities, industry stakeholders, and environmental agencies to ensure the ports contribute positively to climate resilience and marine conservation, he added.
The Federal Minister’s directives reflect a strategic vision to balance industrial development with ecological stewardship, safeguarding coastline and marine biodiversity for future generations. The Port Qasim Authority’s proactive environmental measures set a benchmark for sustainable port operations in the region.

Citizens asked to voluntarily donate blood

By
NNPS Desk
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ISLAMABAD, Jun 13 (APP): On the occasion of World Blood Donor Day, the World Health Organization (WHO) and Pakistan’s Ministry of Health made an appeal to the population to urgently and voluntarily donate blood.

WHO Representative in Pakistan, Dr Dapeng Luo, who also donated blood, said that medical centres in Pakistan need over five million blood donations annually – and will require 5.6 million by 2030 –, but they are currently receiving only approximately 2.3 million donations per year.

He said that WHO will continue to work with Pakistan to strengthen a blood service that promotes voluntary donations and gives patients access to safe blood and blood products in sufficient quantity, as a key component of an effective health system.

“Voluntary blood donations can save lives and give hope to those in need. With a single donation, each of us can save up to three lives,” said Dr Luo.

He said that WHO is standing with Pakistan to continue reinforcing the country’s blood banks and the use of standardized screening blood methods and protocols to ensure safe and adequate blood supplies for all, leaving no one behind.

Approximately 1.9 million of the 2.3 million annual blood donations in Pakistan (82 per cent) come from family or replacement donors, while voluntary, non-remunerated blood donations account for only 18% of the total.

Voluntary blood donations are the safest and most sustainable source of blood, as voluntary donors are less likely to transmit infectious diseases and can contribute to build systems in which every patient has access to safe blood regardless of their income or social status.

“The real heroes are those who donate blood without any hesitation. It is a very noble cause,” said Dr Nelson Azeem, Parliamentary Secretary, Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination.

“Giving blood is giving life, and together we can do this. We are in the phase of revitalizing the Regional Blood Transfusion Centre.”

“I appreciate the effort of WHO and the technical support being provided. Their continuous support will ultimately result in proper screening and proper testing, ” said Director General Health, Dr Shabana Saleem.

Under the international theme ‘Give blood, give hope – together we save lives’, near 150 volunteers participated in a blood drive organized by the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) in collaboration with WHO.

IGP reviews Muharram security plan

By
Kamran Muraad
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LAHORE, Jun 13 (APP):Inspector General of Police (IGP) Punjab Dr. Usman Anwar chaired a high-level meeting at the Central Police Office (CPO) on Friday to review security arrangements for Muharram and discuss other key professional matters.
Senior police officers, including additional inspectors general (AIGs) and deputy inspectors general, attended the meeting, while the AIG South Punjab, capital city police officer Lahore, regional police officers, city police officers and district police officers, joined via video link.
Addressing the meeting, the IGP praised the police force for maintaining excellent security during Eid-ul-Adha. He emphasised the need for foolproof security throughout Muharram and instructed officers to work in close coordination with district administrations, peace committees, community leaders, and other stakeholders to ensure a peaceful environment.
Dr. Usman directed the resolution of all conflict-prone areas and disputes ahead of Muharram.
Commending the efforts of district officers and the Crime Control Department (CCD), the IGP noted a significant reduction in crime rates across several districts, including Lahore. He congratulated the CCD for arresting more than 100 Category-A criminals in the Multan region and directed continued efforts to bring high-profile offenders to justice.
The IGP instructed district officers to intensify intelligence-led operations against Kacha area criminals and ensure the timely submission of challans for heinous crimes in court.
Dr. Usman Anwar acknowledged improvements in major cities such as Lahore, Rawalpindi, Sargodha, Multan, Gujranwala, and Dera Ghazi Khan. He emphasised collaboration with district administrations and transport departments to prevent road accidents and meet the 100 performance targets set by the chief minister of Punjab.
He further ordered the restriction of three-wheelers, rickshaws, and donkey carts on main highways, while allowing buses and wagons on designated routes. Strict action was directed against vehicles carrying passengers on rooftops and overloaded goods transporters.

DPM contacts Iranian Foreign Minister, condemns blatant Israeli aggression

By
NNPS Desk
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ISLAMABAD, Jun 13 (APP): Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister (DPM/FM), Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar on Friday spoke with the Foreign Minister of Iran, Seyed Abbas Araghchi.

During the interaction, the DPM/FM reiterated strong support of Pakistan to the Government and brotherly people of Iran for achieving peace and stability in the region while condemning the blatant Israeli aggression against the Islamic Republic of Iran in total disregard of the UN Charter and international law, a DPM’s Office news release said.

The DPM/FM also conveyed deepest sympathies on the loss of many precious lives during Israeli attacks.

PPP rejects KP budget as misleading

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
PESHAWAR, Jun 13 (APP):The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) has strongly opposed the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa budget, with its parliamentary leader Ahmed Karim Kundi dismissing it as unrealistic and poorly planned.
During a press briefing, he raised serious concerns about the government’s financial claims and priorities.
Ahmed Kundi expressed skepticism over the provincial government’s announcement of a 150-billion-rupee surplus, directly challenging Advisor Muzammil Aslam’s presentation.
“How can they claim such figures when their actual capacity doesn’t exceed 150 billion rupees in development spending?” he asked.
The PPP leader went further, comparing the budget to the work of “forty thieves,” suggesting financial mismanagement.
The opposition leader also targeted Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, blaming his administration for the province’s worsening economic conditions.
He cited alleged mismanagement of key assets like the FATA House and accused the government of failing to introduce meaningful youth initiatives. “This budget shows PTI is exploiting its own ideological supporters,” Kundi remarked.

Commander Coast witnesses interest free financing assistance

By
Kamran Muraad
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KARACHI, Jun 13 (APP): The team from Sahil Welfare Association had the privilege of attending and observing the interest-free loan distribution process conducted by the Akhuwat Foundation.
Commander Coast Navy Rear Admiral Faisal Amin Hilal E Imtiaz Military, was the chief guest and Chairman Akhuwat Foundation Dr. Amjad Saqib, Dr. Danish Aman, Haji Rafiq Pardesi, were guest of honor.
This initiative will empower numerous small business owners, enabling them to establish sustainable livelihoods and support their families with dignity.
Sahil Welfare Association is proud to have recently partnered with the Akhuwat Foundation to launch its first joint venture in Ormara, Balochistan. This collaboration aims to extend financial support to the deserving local community through interest-free microloans.
This is just the beginning, and together, we will be able to establish many more branches to provide interest-free financial assistance to small and deserving entrepreneurs across the costal belt of Pakistan.

Punjab Home Dept tightens Muharram security, launches monitoring e-portal

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
LAHORE, Jun 13 (APP):The Punjab Home Department has issued comprehensive security directives for the peaceful and safe observance of Muharram across the province, including the establishment of a centralised e-portal for monitoring religious processions and gatherings.
According to a spokesperson for the Home Department, all deputy commissioners (DCs) have been instructed to upload detailed information regarding processions, gatherings (majalis), speech restrictions, and inter-district movement limitations within five day. The department has directed the DCs in all districts to prepare emergency response plans and finalise them through their respective District Intelligence Committees. Updated lists of provocative or banned speakers are to be compiled and submitted to the Home department.
Inspector General of Police, Punjab, has been asked to submit recommendations for the deployment of Army and Rangers personnel at sensitive locations. Suggestions were also sought about the temporary suspension of mobile phone services in high-risk areas to prevent any misuse of communication channels during the religious observances, added spokesperson.
Special monitoring teams will be formed to prevent the illegal use of loudspeakers, and strict action will be taken against violators under the Sound System Regulation Act, 2015.
Law enforcement agencies and district administrations have been tasked with identifying all sensitive locations and ensuring foolproof security arrangements.
To promote religious harmony, the Auqaf Department has been directed to hold meetings of the Interfaith Harmony Committees at the divisional level. The spokesperson clarified that no processions or gatherings will be allowed at unauthorized venues, and complete monitoring of all events will be ensured through the newly developed system.
The administration has also been instructed to ensure the removal of hanging or hazardous electrical wires along procession routes to avoid accidents.
The department emphasised that stringent implementation of SOPs and security protocols will be ensured throughout the province to maintain peace and order during Muharram.

PTA strengthening leather sector trade between Pakistan, Malaysia

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
KARACHI, Jun 13 (APP): A high-level delegation of the Pakistan Tanners Association (South Zone), led by chairman Dr. Danish Aman along with members Muhammad Shafi, Danish Naseem, and Mubashir Salam, met with Consul General of Malaysia Herman Hardynata Ahmad at the Malaysian Consulate to discuss avenues for enhancing bilateral trade, particularly in the leather sector.
The primary focus of the meeting was to explore the ways to improve trade volumes between Pakistan and Malaysia, with special emphasis on the leather industry, a sector where both countries have strong potential yet underutilized collaboration.
Herman Hardynata Ahmad acknowledged Malaysia as a high-potential and quality-driven market, particularly for finished leather goods such as footwear, handbags, and garments.
He mentioned that while Malaysia imports significant quantities of leather from countries like China, Vietnam, and Italy, Pakistan has not yet fully tapped into this demand due to limited visibility, branding, and trade facilitation.
He said there was a need for collaborative trade promotion of both countries.
Both sides agreed that increased participation in trade fairs, B2B meetings, and joint ventures could boost confidence and open more channels for leather trade.
The Consul General encouraged the Pakistan Tanners Association to consider organizing a Pakistan Leather Expo or Roadshow in Kuala Lumpur to showcase Pakistani craftsmanship and quality standards.
Malaysian envoy said bilateral trade between Pakistan and Malaysia reached approximately USD 1.4 billion in FY2023, with Pakistan’s exports valued at around USD 400 million, compared to imports worth nearly USD 1 billion.
However, the leather sector trade remains relatively small, contributing less than USD 20 million annually, despite Pakistan being among the top ten leather producers in the world.
PTA Chairman Dr. Danish Aman, in his remarks proposed the launch of an e-commerce initiative to connect Pakistani leather manufacturers with Malaysian buyers and distributors through digital platforms.
He emphasized the global trend toward digital B2B trade, pointing to platforms like Alibaba and Amazon Business that have transformed international sourcing, especially in the post-COVID era.
Dr. Aman also highlighted the industry’s recent investments in sustainable practices and compliance, including ISO certifications and environmental-friendly tanning processes, which align with Malaysian import standards and buyer expectations.
In the end traditional Ajrak, Sindhi cap and shield were presented to the Malaysian Consul General.

SA passes resolution against Israeli attack on Iran in new session

By
Kamran Muraad
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0
KARACHI, Jun 13 (APP): The Sindh Assembly’s new session on Friday unanimously passed a resolution against Israeli attack on Iran.
The Assembly adjourned Budget session for some time and called a new session immediately to discuss and pass the resolution
Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah started the new session with a recitation from Holy Quran.
He tabled a resolution condemning the Israeli attack on Iran.
He said that the international community should intervene to prevent this conflict from spreading.
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