Thursday, August 14, 2025
Home Blog Page 691

12 outlaws nabbed; drugs & weapons seized

By
Shahzad Ahmad
-
0
ISLAMABAD, Jul 09 (APP):Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) Police’s  Aabpara, Margalla, Shalimar, Sumbal, Khanna, Nilore, Bhara Kahu, and Bani Gala police teams arrested eight suspects involved in various criminal activities.
An official told APP on Wednesday that the ICT police recovered 796 grams of ice, 220 grams of heroin, five pistols with ammunition, and a dagger from the possession of the accused.
He said that during a special campaign to apprehend proclaimed offenders and absconders, police teams arrested four more criminals.
He said the ICT Police, under the special direction of Inspector General of Police (IGP) Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi, continues its effective crackdown on crime and criminal elements to ensure peace and tranquility in the federal capital.
He said the Islamabad Police remains committed to protecting the lives and property of citizens and will not allow any elements to disrupt public order. Ensuring peace and safeguarding citizens is the top priority of the Islamabad Police.
Cases have been registered, and further investigations are underway

Nayyab Ali urges awareness campaign for Helpline 1099 to support transgender community

By
Shahzad Ahmad
-
0
ISLAMABAD, Jul 09 (APP):Prominent transgender rights activist Nayyab Ali on Wednesday called for increased awareness about the Ministry of Human Rights’ toll-free helpline 1099, emphasizing its critical role in protecting the rights of the transgender community in Pakistan.
Talking to APP, Nayyab Ali said the helpline is a crucial tool for transgender persons facing violence, discrimination, or legal challenges. “The transgender community must be informed that help is available. Helpline 1099 offers free legal advice and support in cases of harassment and rights violations,” she said.
Launched by the Ministry of Human Rights, Helpline 1099 is operational nationwide and functions around the clock to receive complaints related to human rights abuses, including those targeting transgender individuals under the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2018.
Nayyab Ali stressed the need for grassroots campaigns, community outreach, and collaboration with media and civil society to ensure transgender persons across urban and rural areas are aware of their right to seek assistance.

Dr. Malik Baloch calls on CM Bugti

By
Muhammad Zubair
-
0
QUETTA, Jul 09 (APP):National Party (NP)’s Chief, Member of Provincial Assembly (MPA) Dr. Abdul Malik Baloch met with Chief Minister Balochistan Mir Sarfraz Bugti on Wednesday.
The meeting discussed in detail the overall situation of the province, development process, public issues and other important matters of mutual interest.
On this occasion, Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti said that cooperation of all democratic forces is indispensable to address the challenges being faced by the province and achieve the goals of public welfare and development.
He said that creating a serious, constructive and collaborative political environment for the development of Balochistan is the need of the hour.

WHO to support monsoon floods’ vulnerable people

By
Shahzad Ahmad
-
0
ISLAMABAD, Jul 09 (APP):The World Health Organization (WHO) will provide emergency health assistance to 1.3 million vulnerable people across 33 priority districts in anticipation of potential monsoon floods.
In this regard Monsoon Contingency Plan 2025 was discussed and prepared. WHO joined hands with the Government of Pakistan and health sector partners.
During a meeting of the Health Sector Coordination Forum, led by the Ministry of Health and co-led by WHO, the Government of Pakistan and partners focused on the review and finalization of the contingency plan to ensure preparedness ahead of potential monsoon-related flooding, which poses significant threats to public health and the delivery of essential health services.
The main objectives of this plan are to ensure a coordinated and timely emergency response, maintain uninterrupted delivery of essential health services to populations in high-risk areas, and strengthen disease surveillance, early warning systems, and rapid outbreak response.
The 33 priority districts identified in the contingency plan are located in Punjab (10), Sindh (10), Balochistan (9), and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (4).
Priority populations included pregnant and lactating women, children under five, persons with disabilities, the elderly, internally displaced persons (IDPs), and underserved communities in high-risk or flood-prone areas.
Main interventions included prepositioning and distribution of emergency health kits and supplies, enhanced surveillance and outbreak detection and response, improved water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) interventions in health facilities, and service delivery through static and mobile facilities, outreach services, and telemedicine, among others.
“WHO stands with Pakistan and partners to be ready to save lives by supporting rapid response, surveillance and the continuity of essential health services in the event of a natural disaster.”
In a context marked by the impacts of climate change, which are exacerbating risks, it is crucial to be ready to protect the health of all, particularly the most vulnerable,” said WHO Representative in Pakistan Dr Dapeng Luo.
According to the Global Climate Risk Index 2021, Pakistan ranks as the 8th most affected country by extreme weather events between 2000 and 2019, experiencing frequent and severe natural disasters, including floods, droughts, heatwaves, and pandemics.
Among these, monsoon-induced floods remain the most recurrent and destructive, with catastrophic impacts on human health, infrastructure, and livelihoods.
The 2022 floods affected over 33 million people across 116 districts, damaged more than 2,000 health facilities, and placed enormous strain on the public health system.
In the context of recurring emergencies, anticipatory and coordinated health planning remains essential to save lives.
As of today, the Pakistan Metrological Department (PMD) and the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) have issued a countrywide flood alert due to intense monsoon activity and a warning of widespread heavy rainfall (7-9 July).
According to NDMA, a total of 79 fatalities and 140 injuries have been reported since the onset of the monsoon on 26 June.

Islamabad partners with Baku experts to boost city beautification efforts

By
Shahzad Ahmad
-
0
ISLAMABAD, Jul 09 (APP):The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has accelerated efforts to enhance Islamabad’s urban aesthetics, with a renewed focus on green spaces, landmark beautification, and international collaboration.
In a high-level meeting held at the CDA headquarters, Chairman CDA Muhammad Ali Randhawa, was briefed by visiting horticulture experts from Baku on ongoing and upcoming beautification projects across the capital.
The delegation from Baku highlighted major progress in the beautification of key areas, including Srinagar Highway, Melody Market, and Saidpur Village.
One of the central initiatives discussed was the transformation of the CDA Model Nursery under the “Gardenia Hub” project, which aims to upgrade the nursery into a modern horticultural center featuring international-standard flower shops, plant varieties, and advanced greenhouse facilities.
“This partnership reflects our commitment to sustainable and visually appealing urban development,” said Chairman CDA Muhammad Ali Randhawa. “We will also ensure that nursery staff are trained to operate and maintain this new facility to international standards.”
Experts from Baku are collaborating with local architects and CDA teams to bring international landscaping practices to Islamabad.
Chairman Randhawa emphasized the importance of using eco-friendly and climate-appropriate plant species, especially for median strips and roadside landscaping along major highways.
“All beautification work must align with our long-term city planning,” he added, calling for continued close cooperation between CDA and Baku teams.
As part of a broader vision, Randhawa announced that the CDA will also engage the private sector in these beautification efforts under Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives. “Renowned brands and businesses will be invited to participate in tree-plantation and urban greening campaigns, helping to strengthen Islamabad’s image as a green and livable city,” he said.
The meeting was attended by senior CDA officials, including Member Administration & Estate Talat Mahmood, Member Finance Tahir Naeem, Member Environment Esfandyar Baloch, Member Engineering Syed Nafeesat Raza, and Member Planning Dr. Khalid Hafiz.
Various city development and beautification issues were also reviewed, with strict directives issued for timely implementation.

Regional Director Ombudsman pays surprise visit to Kohsar hospital

By
Muhammad Zubair
-
0
HYDERABAD, Jul 09 (APP):The Regional Director of the Provincial Ombudsman Hyderabad Syed Sajjad Haider Shah conducted a surprise visit to Kohsar Hospital, Latifabad under the directives of Provincial Ombudsman Sindh Sohail Ahmed Rajput (Tamgha-e-Imtiaz),.
According to a handout, during the visit, he inspected the attendance register and reviewed the availability of medicines. He carried out a detailed inspection of various departments including Orthopedic, Medical, Male & Female Wards, Surgical, General OPD, Cardiology, Gynecology OPDs, Labour Ward, Family Planning and the Dental Units.
On this occasion, the Regional Director emphasized the need to properly manage the records of the Chest OPD. He also obtained detailed information about the emergency department and emphasized on improving the treatment and other facilities provided to the patients.
He also obtained detailed information from the relevant staff at the Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) Center regarding the vaccines given to children to protect them from infectious and deadly diseases and emphasized the importance of the availability of the cold chain and its functionality.
Medical Superintendent (MS) of the hospital Dr. Jameel Khan informed that despite repeated written complaints to the energy department, no response had been received regarding malfunctioning of the hospital’s solar power system. The RD assured that this issue along with the repair of the hospital boundary wall would be addressed. He also directed that the pathology lab be made fully operational using all available resources.
At the conclusion of the visit, Syed Sajjad Haider Shah held an awareness session, informing hospital staff about the role, purpose and services of the Ombudsman’s Office. He briefed them on how citizens can seek assistance and lodge complaints for the prompt resolution of their issues.

Turkish Foreign, Defence Ministers depart after concluding successful visit

By
Shahzad Ahmad
-
0
ISLAMABAD, Jul 09 (APP):The Minister of Foreign Affairs of Turkiye, Hakan Fidan, and Minister of National Defence of Turkiye, Yasar Guller, Wednesday departed from Islamabad after the conclusion of a successful visit.
The visit reinforced the unwavering bond between Pakistan and Turkiye, a Ministry of Foreign Affairs news release said.
Additional Secretary (Afghanistan and West Asia), Ambassador Syed Ali Asad Gillani, was present to see off the Ministers at the airport.

KP govt vows to modernize  civil defence department

By
Muhammad Zubair
-
0
PESHAWAR, Jul 09 (APP):Advisor to the Chief Minister on Information, Dr. Muhammad Ali Saif conducted an extensive review of the Civil Defence Department’s operations during his visit to the directorate on Wednesday.
The advisor inspected training facilities and was briefed on the department’s emergency preparedness measures.
During the visit, Director Civil Defence Syed Zahid Usman Kakakhel presented a detailed overview of the department’s activities. “Our personnel and volunteers have shown exceptional performance during Muharram security arrangements and recent flood relief operations across all 36 districts,” Kakakhel reported.
He particularly highlighted the bravery of volunteer Hilal from Swat who rescued several people during the Swat River floods.
Dr. Saif praised the department’s work, stating, “Civil Defence serves as our first line of protection not just in war, but more importantly during natural disasters and public emergencies.” He announced the government’s plans to modernize the department, including the approval of Rs. 10,000 rewards for outstanding personnel.
The advisor observed a joint training exercise with police personnel, emphasizing the importance of such coordination for public safety. However, the department faces significant challenges including lack of fire safety equipment, inspection vehicles, emergency gear, and a proper training academy.
Director Usman Kakakel said that KP govt vows to modernize civil defence department stressed the need to implement the 2005 National Assembly resolution mandating civil defence training for 9th and 10th grade students. “This will help build disaster awareness from grassroots level,” he explained.
Dr. Saif assured that these issues would be presented to Chief Minister Ali Amin Khan Gandapur for immediate action. “We envision a Civil Defence system where every citizen is trained and the department can respond effectively to all emergencies,” the advisor concluded, reaffirming the government’s commitment to strengthen the department.

Senate panel urges PTV overhaul to tackle financial strain

By
Shahzad Ahmad
-
0
ISLAMABAD, Jul 9 (APP):The Senate Standing Committee on Information and Broadcasting on Wednesday sought a workable plan to revamp Pakistan Television’s (PTV) to overcome financial problems and demanded full lists of its staff and anchorpersons in response to growing scrutiny over the organization’s budgetary challenges.
The meeting chaired by Senator Ali Zafar, the committee deliberated on key legislative and administrative matters relating to the media sector. The Committee voiced concern over recent recruitment at PTV despite mounting financial strain and the loss of revenue following the removal of the TV license fee from electricity bills.
The committee also requested detailed reports on matters concerning APP pensioners, operational affairs of Radio Karachi, and a full-year record of paid advertisements issued by the Press Information Department (PID).
Ministry officials reported that PTV’s annual budget of Rs. 11 billion had been fully utilized, with
Rs. 8.5 billion spent solely on salaries.
Senator Ali Zafar raised questions about inconsistencies between reported salary disbursements and on-ground realities, and called for a future briefing on viable reform strategies. With 3,507 regular employees, the committee demanded employment records from the past five years. Senator Sarmad Ali voiced concern over persistent financial losses and hinted at the possibility of privatization.
Secretary for Information and Broadcasting Ms Ambreen Jan informed the committee that to offset the financial shortfall, Pakistan Television (PTV) would receive its allocated funds from the Ministry of Finance in quarterly installments.
The Secretary informed the committee that emoluments exceeding Rs 500,000 per month had been reduced, 84 employees had been terminated, and 280 staff members with unverified academic credentials were undergoing dismissal proceedings. Additionally, a team has been assigned to inspect 104 PTV boosters to identify and shut down malfunctioning units.
The meeting discussed key legislative and regulatory matters, including the Prohibition of Unethical Advertisements Act, 2025, the Right of Access to Information (Amendment) Bill, 2023, financial challenges facing Pakistan Television (PTV) and Radio Pakistan, and issues arising under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA).
The Senate body deferred consideration of private member’s bill titled Indecent Advertisements Prohibition (Amendment) Act, 2025, introduced by Senator Afnanullah Khan.
Senator Afnan Ullah, outlining key aspects of the bill, voiced concern over the increasing portrayal of gambling, alcohol, and inappropriate attire in TV and social media content. He pointed to betting advertisements during international cricket matches and depictions of alcohol use in drama serials as clear examples of regulatory gaps. In the bill Senator introduced various amendments, proposing an immediate halt to advertisements promoting alcohol and gambling, noting their detrimental impact on societal norms.
He said the surge of indecent content in TV drama serials, undermines cultural and religious values. He stated that the proposed bill seeks to amend existing laws and prohibit offensive language that could negatively impact those norms.
Sarmad Ali called for action by PTA or religious advisory bodies and proposed creating a content monitoring authority.
Senators voiced concerns over the enforcement of existing PEMRA regulations.
Senator Pervaiz Rashid argued that current penalties have been ineffective in curbing violations and warned against excessive regulation of cultural norms, particularly in relation to attire.
Senator Afnan clarified that the proposed legislation is not intended to target women. The committee agreed to move forward with voting on the bill, as the Chairman stressed the importance of maintaining balance, avoiding harsh measures or undue police involvement, and consulting the Minister for Information for a final stance.
Secretary for Information and Broadcasting, Ms. Ambreen Jan, highlighted that Pakistani TV channels often air international sports events containing alcohol and gambling promotions, which fall beyond local regulatory control.
PEMRA Chairman Muhammad Saleem stated that the authority had successfully revised the content of six television dramas and altered 32 advertisements to ensure compliance with national regulations.
Senator Afnanullah withdrew the bill following PEMRA’s commitment to rigorously enforce a ban on alcohol and gambling advertisements aired on television screens.
Senator Zarqa Suharwardy Taimur raised concerns regarding government departments providing incomplete or selective information under the Right of Access to Information (Amendment) Bill.
Senator Ali Zafar backed the proposal for mandatory written justifications in cases of information denial and supported inviting the Information Commissioner for further consultation. Senator Zarqa referenced Scotland as a model for transparency and prompt responses by public institutions.
The Committee also discussed challenges facing the cinema industry. Ministry officials clarified that film censor boards operate at both federal and provincial levels.
Senator Pervaiz Rashid highlighted the disconnect between the number of board members and the lack of active film production, citing the shortage of screening venues. He called for government investment in cinema infrastructure and recommended involving the Ministry of Finance to explore funding options.
The Committee decided to move forward with voting on the bill, as the Chairman underscored the importance of maintaining a balanced approach—avoiding harsh provisions or unnecessary police involvement—and consulting the Minister for Information for a final stance.
The committee concluded by discussing the registration of cases against journalists and social media activists under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA). It resolved to summon the Interior Secretary in the next session for further clarification on the matter.
The meeting was attended by Senators Pervaiz Rashid, Sarmad Ali, Jan Muhammad, Syed Waqar Mehdi, Dr. Zarqa Suharwardy Taimur, and senior officials from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and relevant departments.

Pakistan Post’s top official calls on DGPR Noor Khetran

By
Muhammad Zubair
-
0
QUETTA, Jul 09 (APP):Manager Marketing Pakistan Post Faisal Jahangir met with Quetta Director General Public Relations (DGPR) Muhammad Noor Khetran here on Wednesday.
He was briefed about the various services of Pakistan Post.
Faisal Jahangir said that currently 86 GPOs have been digitized and computerized across the country, users would be able to determine the location of letters sent through the track and trace system while sitting at their homes, where their letter has just reached.
He said that in view of the modern era, Pakistan Post services have also been accelerated, letters sent through the Urgent Mail Service (UMS) are sent by ship so that the letter reaches the recipients in less time.
Customers are being provided services at their doorsteps. Post offices are open in different areas of Quetta city. Utility bills are often collected at the post office. There are also post offices in the Civil Secretariat, he said.
He said that due to this facility, the employees of the Secretariat do not have to go out of the office and all their letters and utility bills, etc. are collected at the post offices of the Secretariat. For the convenience of businessmen, Pakistan Post has the facility of cash on delivery and VP parcel, he said.
DGPR Muhammad Noor Khetran appreciated the services of Pakistan Post.
He said that Pakistan Post is our national institution and all government institutions should benefit from the services of Pakistan Post.
Director General Public Relations Balochistan Muhammad Noor Khetran and Faisal Jahangir also signed an agreement for sending mail between Pakistan Post and the Public Relations Department Balochistan.
1...690691692...28,567Page 691 of 28,567

ABOUT US

Serving the nation since 1947 by providing an accurate, objective, uninterrupted flow of news to the people, the national news service is pursuing a comprehensive strategy to transform the existing news operations into a forward-looking service – APP Digital for its diverse subscriber-base and the public.

Contact us: news@app.com.pk

FOLLOW US

Copyright © Associated Press of Pakistan