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Lahore receives record 182mm rainfall, current spell to continue till July 13: PDMA

By
Muhammad Zubair
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LAHORE, Jul 10 (APP):The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) of Punjab has issued a weather alert warning of heavy monsoon rains across most parts of the province over the next 24 hours, with the current rain spell expected to persist until July 13.
According to a PDMA report released on Thursday, Lahore recorded the highest rainfall with 182mm during the ongoing spell. Other districts also experienced significant downpours, including Sialkot 77mm, Gujranwala 67mm, Chakwal 65mm, Jhelum 64mm, Hafizabad 60mm, Gujrat 52mm, Mandi Bahauddin 47mm, and Attock 45mm. Faisalabad received 51mm, Narowal 44mm, Okara 33mm, Toba Tek Singh and Sheikhupura 25mm, each, Rawalpindi and Kasur 23mm, Mangla 19mm, Sargodha 18mm, Dera Ghazi Khan 16mm, Jhang 11mm, Mianwali 10mm, Sahiwal 8mm, and Murree up to 1mm.
Director General PDMA Irfan Ali Kathia confirmed that this is the second spell of monsoon rains and it is likely to continue until July 13. He warned of potential heavy downpours in Lahore, Rawalpindi, Faisalabad, Multan, Bahawalpur, Sargodha, Gujranwala, Dera Ghazi Khan, Sahiwal, and Mianwali divisions. He urged citizens to take precautionary measures during the rains. “Avoid taking shelter in mud houses or dilapidated buildings during thunderstorms. Stay indoors during lightning and drive slowly with a safe distance between vehicles,” he advised.
In case of any emergency, citizens are encouraged to contact the PDMA helpline at 1129.

PTA partners with Opensignal to strengthen network quality monitoring

By
Kamran Muraad
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ISLAMABAD, Jul 10 (APP): Opensignal, an independent global network analytics organization, will support Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) for strengthening the capability of monitoring and enhancement of Quality of Service (QoS) and Quality of Experience (QoE) for telecoms subscribers across the country.
The initiative is aimed at providing objective, real-time insights into network performance using crowd-sourced data. Crowdsourcing is a recognized methodology for enabling evaluation of network quality and consumer experience across various technologies, including fixed broadband and mobile networks (2G/3G/4G/5G etc.), said a news release.
Opensignal’s advanced, data-driven insights will be utilized to monitor and enhance network performance, ensuring reliable and high-speed connectivity for consumers in line with international standards set by the International Telecommunication Union (ITU) and global best practice.
PTA will receive consistent, and real-time data on key performance indicators such as 4G/5G speeds, latency, coverage gaps, and user experience.
This information will reinforce the PTA’s ability to make evidence-based decisions that advance consumer interests, promote investment and facilitate network expansion.
The initiative underscores PTA’s commitment to transparency and consumer protection

Police arrest triple murder accused

By
Muhammad Zubair
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SARGODHA, Jul 10 (APP):The Special Operations Cell in Sargodha has arrested a key suspect wanted in a triple murder case.
According to a police spokesperson, the arrest was made under the supervision of Regional Police Officer (RPO) Muhammad Shehzad Asif Khan. A special team comprising DSP Qasim Hayat Ranjha, Javed Iqbal Jisra, and Inspector Irfan Ahmed tracked down and apprehended the accused, Qasim Ali Khan, in Muscat and produced him before the court.
Qasim Khan was allegedly involved in the cold-blooded killing of three individuals — Jahangir, Imran, and Nasir — in September 2022, reportedly over an old enmity.
RPO Muhammad Shehzad Asif Khan directed the investigation team to carry out a transparent and merit-based inquiry, ensuring that all legal requirements are strictly followed throughout the process.

Punjab to launch university-level courses at Emergency Services Academy: Minister Salman

By
Muhammad Zubair
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LAHORE, Jul 10 (APP):Punjab Minister for Health and Emergency Services Khawaja Salman Rafique has announced that various universities will be affiliated with the Emergency Services Academy to introduce university-level courses, in line with the vision of Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif.
He made this announcement while presiding over a meeting at Rescue Headquarters on Thursday. During the session, Secretary Emergency Services Dr. Rizwan Naseer briefed participants on ongoing improvements in rescue operations and emergency preparedness.
The minister stated that a joint meeting with relevant stakeholders will soon be convened to formulate safety training regulations. This initiative will be based on detailed data regarding cylinder blast emergencies and traffic accidents. He added that all stakeholders would be provided with this data to design effective, preventive measures.
Khawaja Salman Rafique also highlighted that rescue teams across Punjab are currently on high alert in view of the ongoing monsoon rains and potential flooding. He praised the continuous efforts of the Punjab Emergency Service in responding to emergencies swiftly and efficiently.
Secretary Dr. Rizwan Naseer informed the meeting that trained personnel, rescue boats, engines, and essential equipment have been deployed in flood-prone areas. He added that the Punjab Emergency Service, in collaboration with government agencies, is working round the clock to protect and serve the public, especially in flood-affected regions.
The Punjab government, he said, is utilizing all available resources to address the challenges posed by the ongoing rainy season.

DPM Dar meets Russian FM on sidelines of ASEAN Forum

By
Kamran Muraad
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ISLAMABAD, Jul 10 (APP):Deputy PM/Foreign Minister, Senator Ishaq Dar on Thursday met Russian FM Sergey Lavrov on the sidelines of the 32nd ASEAN Regional Forum in Kuala Lumpur.
They reaffirmed their commitment to further strengthening of bilateral relations and agreed to meet again next week during SCO council of Ministers meeting, a DPM’s Office news release said.

Both motorcycle riders must wear helmets: ITP launches awareness campaign

By
Kamran Muraad
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ISLAMABAD, Jul 10 (APP):Islamabad Traffic Police (ITP) has made it mandatory for both the rider and pillion passenger, regardless of gender, to wear helmets while riding motorcycles in the federal capital.
An official told APP on Thursday that the initiative has been launched under the special direction of Inspector General of Police (IGP) Islamabad Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi, with Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) Captain (R) Syed Zeeshan Haider leading its implementation.
CTO Zeeshan said that a two-week comprehensive awareness campaign has been launched prior to the enforcement drive. “The campaign includes public seminars, social media outreach, radio broadcasts, and distribution of educational materials to inform citizens about the life-saving benefits of helmet use,” he stated.
He warned that after the awareness phase, strict legal action will be taken against violators. “If either the rider or the pillion passenger is found without a helmet, traffic police will impose fines under relevant traffic laws. In case the passenger fails to comply, the rider will be held responsible,” he explained.
Emphasizing the importance of helmets, the CTO noted that their use can reduce the risk of head injuries by up to 50 percent during accidents. “Our goal is not punishment, but protection. Ensuring the safety of commuters remains our top priority.”
He further added that this step is part of ITP’s broader vision for a modern, well-integrated traffic management system that ensures public safety in Islamabad.
The CTO urged citizens to extend full cooperation in making the initiative successful.

Maryam orders urgent preventive measures amid urban flooding threat

By
Muhammad Zubair
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LAHORE, Jul 10 (APP):In response to ongoing torrential rains across Punjab, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has issued urgent directives to prevent urban flooding and ensure public safety.
On Thursday, the chief minister instructed relevant authorities to promptly clear both central and internal roads in all cities of the province to maintain smooth traffic flow and avoid water stagnation on roads. She stressed the need for rapid and effective drainage in low-lying areas, stressing the importance of continuous on-ground monitoring.
The CM directed Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) officials to immediately reach the field and implement the standard operating procedures (SOPs) issued by the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) without delay.
She underscored the importance of coordinated efforts between departments to deal with the situation proactively and to protect citizens from the hazards of urban flooding.

LUBCA essential to implement land use, building master plans

By
Muhammad Zubair
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PESHAWAR, Jul 10 (APP):Director General of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Land Use and Building Control Authority (LUBCA), Khizar Hayat Khan has stated that establishment of institutions like LUBCA is essential for a country like Pakistan.
The purpose of such bodies is to provide public services and ensure implementation of land use and building master plans. He emphasized that any negligence in duties will not be tolerated.
He instructed all architects and Chief planning control officers to ensure compliance with regulations in their respective tehsils.
He shared these remarks during high-level meetings held on Thursday with architects and planning officers from various districts.
The DG was informed that so far, around 260 illegal housing societies in different districts have been issued notices, and legal action has been initiated against their owners. Operations against the remaining illegal housing schemes are also ongoing at a fast pace.
Expressing satisfaction with the department’s performance, Khizar Hayat Khan mentioned that Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, and Chief Secretary, Shahab Ali Shah, have directed preventive measures to avoid incidents similar to the Lyari tragedy.
All Chief Planning and Control Officers were instructed to compile records of dilapidated buildings in their areas so that such dangerous structures can be demolished to prevent loss of life and property.
He further directed that plazas misusing parking areas for other purposes should be issued notices, and action should be taken once deadlines expire to prevent traffic congestion in markets and on main roads.
Additionally, records should be maintained of commercial centers and buildings that were approved as residential structures but have been converted into plazas and markets.
Officers were also instructed to perform their duties honestly and without yielding to any pressure, and to facilitate citizens who visit offices for map approvals and other processes, so that the public experiences a positive change.

WASA clears rainwater within hours after rain on CM’s directive

By
Muhammad Zubair
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LAHORE, Jul 10 (APP):Lahore witnessed a historic rainfall of 136mm in a continuous eight-hour downpour, yet the city saw swift drainage efforts by WASA and relevant departments on the special directive of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif.
According to local government sources on Thursday, the chief minister closely monitored the drainage operations throughout the city, with field teams from WASA, PDMA, and district administration remaining actively engaged during the heavy rains.
Within a few hours, major roads and underpasses — including Dharmapura, Ferozepur Road, Iqbal Town, Samanabad, Mughalpura, Beijing, and Shadman underpasses — were cleared of accumulated rainwater. Key areas like Model Town, FC College, Nishtar Town, Zahoor Elahi Road underpass, Girja Chowk, and Shalamar Link Road were also promptly reopened for traffic.
WASA teams swiftly addressed blockages in stormwater drains and completed emergency cleaning operations to ensure uninterrupted water drainage. Officers and traffic wardens were directed by the Chief Minister to remain on the ground to maintain traffic flow and assist the public.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif praised the dedication of WASA officials who worked tirelessly in challenging conditions. “I commend those WASA officials who stood in torrential rain for hours to ensure the city’s drainage. Their efforts reflect our commitment to serving the people,” she said.
She also urged citizens to avoid unnecessary travel during such weather and assured them of the government’s proactive approach in managing emergencies and protecting public welfare.

Advisor to Punjab Ombudsman visits Sanat Zar

By
Muhammad Zubair
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0
SARGODHA, Jul 10 (APP):Advisor to Punjab Ombudsman Regional Office Sargodha Muhammad Ilyas Gill on Thursday visited Sanat Zar, a subsidiary institution of the Social Welfare Department.
During the visit, he was briefed on the various skill development courses being offered, particularly those aimed at empowering women and girls through vocational training and self-reliance opportunities.
On the occasion, the Advisor praised the institution’s facilities and training system, noting that institutions like Sanat Zar play a crucial role in promoting economic self-sufficiency among women and their positive role in society.
He appreciated the efforts of the institution’s staff, highlighting the commendable work being done by the Social Welfare Department to empower youth, especially women, through skill development.
Muhammad Ilyas Gill emphasized that the Punjab Ombudsman’s office is actively working to address public grievances and provide justice to citizens at all levels.
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