Friday, July 18, 2025
Home Blog Page 751

WASA’s tube wells to be converted to solar system for water supply to public: PHE Minister

By
Kamran Muraad
-
0
QUETTA, Jun 02 (APP): Balochistan Minister for Public Health Engineering (PHE) Sardar Abdul Rehman Khetran expressed his concern over the rising electricity rates and said that all tube wells of WASA should be converted to solar system in any case for supplying water to people in the area.
He said this while chairing an important meeting of Water and Sanitation Authority (WASA) Quetta Board of Directors.
Secretary PHE Imran Gachki, Additional Secretary Planning and Development Waqar-uz-Zaman Kayani, Station Commander Quetta Brigade Kamran Sarwar, Director WASA Naseebullah, Additional Deputy Commissioner Quetta, Administrator Metropolitan Corporation and other high officials attended the meeting.
The budget of WASA Quetta for the financial year 2025-26 was presented in the meeting, while the ex-post facto approval of the adhoc relief allowance 2024 (25% and 20%) was given.
A 15 percent increase in pension of retired employees and appointment of police personnel on deputation in WASA were also approved in the meeting.
Minister PHE Sardar Khetran directed that water supply to Quetta city from Mangi Dam should be fully restored by December 2025.
He said that we are not giving the amount of water, we should give to the public and we are not getting the amount of revenue as we should get.
Expressing concern over the rising electricity rates, he said that all tube wells of WASA should be converted to solar system in any case.
The provincial minister said that development projects are being converted to solar across the world and steps would be taken in Balochistan on the same lines.
The meeting also decided to immediately start working on outsourcing and solarization of Sewage Treatment Plant (STP).
Permission was also granted for auctioning of WASA’s dead stock and unusable items.
While directing to improve the department’s performance, the minister said that “months’ work should be completed in days so that revenue increases and better services are provided to the public.
It was agreed in the meeting that if adhoc relief is being given to employees of other boards, then WASA employees would also be given this facility.
Sardar Khatiran criticized the tanker mafia and said that the public buys water from tankers for Rs 3,000 but avoids paying government dues.
The MD WASA briefed the meeting that in some areas of the city, the public is not even aware of water bills.
The minister further said that strict action has been issued against absent employees of the department.
In the meeting, Secretary PHE Imran Gachki suggested that WASA should launch water bottles under public-private partnership, because the department has quality water treatment plants.

Minister Chaudhry chairs key progress review meeting on land reforms of ports

By
Shahzad Ahmad
-
0
ISLAMABAD, Jun 02 (APP):Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs, Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry chaired a high-level progress review meeting on Monday to assess and accelerate ongoing land reform initiatives at the Port Qasim Authority (PQA) and Karachi Port Trust (KPT).
The meeting brought together senior officials to evaluate current progress, discuss key strategies, and identify coordinated solutions to long-standing issues of land encroachment and under utilization at the two major seaports.
During the meeting, the Federal Minister underscored the strategic importance of safeguarding and developing ports land for sustainable economic growth and investment.
He suggested both PQA and KPT to form a joint anti-encroachment force with the mandate to secure and protect the property of both ports from illegal occupation and misuse.
The Minister emphasized that this dedicated force should operate with full authority and coordination with local law enforcement agencies to ensure effective on-ground enforcement.
“The maritime sector is a critical pillar of Pakistan’s economic framework. We cannot allow valuable port land, which holds tremendous economic potential, to remain encroached or underutilized,” said Minister Chaudhry. “It is imperative that both PQA and KPT work together to enforce land protection measures, implement digital transparency, and enable private sector investment through proper planning and legal frameworks.”
Management of the Port Qasim Authority briefed the Minister on the ongoing initiatives being undertaken as part of a new comprehensive masterplan. This masterplan will include the regularization and optimal use of leftover pockets of land, reclaimed areas, and currently non-utilized plots. These spaces are intended to be repurposed for high-value investment, commercial use, and strategic infrastructure development aligned with national economic priorities.
A significant highlight of the meeting was the PQA’s plan to introduce a digital land automation system, a standalone module that will bring transparency, traceability, and operational efficiency to land management. The system will be fully integrated with the PQA Port ERP system, enabling seamless data synchronization, digital record-keeping, and real-time decision-making.
The Karachi Port Trust (KPT) management also presented their updates and reaffirmed their commitment to addressing the issue of encroachment on port land.
The KPT officials informed the Federal Minister that enforcement actions are already underway and that the Trust is closely collaborating with the Survey of Pakistan, which is actively conducting a detailed land demarcation survey to accurately identify and map the boundaries of KPT land holdings. This demarcation exercise is expected to pave the way for stronger legal action against encroachments and provide a foundation for more informed land-use planning.
Minister Junaid Anwar Chaudhry lauded both authorities for their ongoing efforts but reiterated the urgency of translating planning into tangible results.
The Minister also expressed his resolve to personally oversee the progress of these initiatives and announced that monthly review meetings will be held to monitor implementation and resolve inter-agency bottlenecks. He urged all maritime stakeholders to align their activities with the national vision of sustainable port development and economic resilience.
“The maritime sector holds the key to transforming Pakistan into a regional trade and logistics hub. Unlocking the potential of port land through strategic reforms, enforcement, and digitization is a top priority of our ministry,” said the Minister.
The meeting concluded with a commitment from both PQA and KPT leadership to work in unison toward a modern, secure, and investment-ready port infrastructure framework.

Scattered showers bring brief relief to city

By
Kamran Muraad
-
0
LAHORE, Jun 02 (APP): Scattered showers brought brief relief to the city on Monday evening after a hot and dry day. Though light and patchy, the rain improved the weather in several areas across Lahore.
According to the MET office, continental air was dominant over much of the country, accompanied by a shallow westerly wave affecting northern regions. Forecasters expect mainly hot and dry conditions to persist in most areas, with intense heat over the plains. However, isolated rain, wind, or thunderstorms may occur in Upper Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Northeastern Punjab, the Potohar region, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Kashmir.
Rain was also reported in Muzaffarabad, Garhi Dupatta, Rawalakot, Dera Ghazi Khan, and Dera Ismail Khan.
Sibbi recorded the highest temperature in the country at a scorching 48°C, while Lahore’s maximum was 39°C.
Meanwhile, the city’s air quality index (AQI) averaged 71, with PM2.5 levels reaching four times higher than the World Health Organization’s annual guideline.

Gold price surges

By
Kamran Muraad
-
0
LAHORE, Jun 02 (APP): Gold continues to move up in local and global markets, with per tola rate of yellow metal moving up by Rs5900 on Monday.
According to the All Pakistan Gems and Jewellers Sarafa Association (APGJSA) sources, the price of gold in Pakistan has recently seen fluctuations, and it shows price of gold per tola increased by Rs5,900 to close at Rs353,100. Similarly, the price for 10 grams of gold rose by Rs5,058, reaching Rs302,726.
The international gold rate also showed strength on Monday, climbing by $59 to $3,347 per ounce, with an additional premium of $20, said APGJSA.
Meanwhile, market analysts attribute the rise in gold prices to increasing global demand and ongoing economic uncertainties, which typically drive investors towards precious metals as safe-haven assets.

Islamabad Model Jail construction nears completion: CDA Chairman reviews progress

By
Kamran Muraad
-
0
ISLAMABAD, Jun 02 (APP): CDA Chairman Muhammad Ali Randhawa, conducted an inspection visit to the Islamabad Model Jail construction site on Monday.
The delegation, which included IG Islamabad Syed Nasir Ali Rizvi and other senior officials, reviewed the ongoing construction work and received detailed briefings on the project’s progress.
During the visit, senior officials informed Chairman Randhawa that the construction work is being completed in phases.
Under the first phase, 98% of the RCC compound and boundary walls have been finished, while 72% of the barracks construction is complete.
Additionally, 96% of the admin block and 75% of road infrastructure and sewage work has been finalized.
Officials further reported that the jail’s hospital and central kitchen are 70% complete.
All 24 watchtowers have been constructed, with an additional 10 towers expected to be finished within the next month. The central watch tower is 72% complete.
Chairman Randhawa directed authorities to ensure uninterrupted water and electricity supply to the facility.
He also emphasized the need to finalize the design and estimates for the sewage treatment plant at the earliest. “Furniture for the admin block, hospital, and warden barracks should also be prepared without delay,” he added.
Stressing the importance of quality and timely completion, Randhawa instructed officials to maintain high construction standards while expediting the remaining work. “There should be no compromise on the quality or timeline of this important project,” he stated.
The Islamabad Model Jail, once completed, will serve as a modern correctional facility with improved infrastructure and amenities.
Authorities assured that all remaining construction work would be completed efficiently while adhering to the highest quality standards.

ICCI, ICT administration unite in Dengue control efforts

By
Kamran Muraad
-
0
ISLAMABAD, Jun 02 (APP): To curb the spread of dengue fever in the federal capital, the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) and the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) Administration have pledged close collaboration in prevention efforts.
This development was made during the visit of Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC) East, Ms. Mehreen Baloch, along with District Health Officer Dr. Syeda Rashida Batool  and Dengue Focal Persons Dr. Mazhar and Dr. Sultan, to the ICCI.
They held a detailed meeting with ICCI President  Nasir Mansoor Qureshi to outline a coordinated strategy against the dengue threat.
The session focused on strengthening coordination for preventive actions, including awareness campaigns and anti-dengue spraying operations in major business areas.
It was mutually agreed that no raids would be conducted at business premises until a designated cut-off date, promoting a cooperative approach over punitive measures.
The ADC lauded the business community’s contribution to national development and commended the ICCI’s pivotal role in bridging the public-private sector gap. She emphasized that the Chamber’s active engagement would significantly support efforts to prevent the outbreak of dengue in the capital.
The ICCI President Nasir Mansoor Qureshi, in his welcome remarks, reaffirmed the business community’s commitment to the nation despite numerous challenges.
He shared the Chamber’s initiatives aimed at promoting entrepreneurship, improving the investment climate, and facilitating business operations.
He stressed the need for preventive and corrective approaches rather than punitive actions, and announced that volunteers from various market associations would support the awareness efforts.
The meeting concluded with shared insights from other participants, including  Senior Vice President Abdul Rehman Siddiqui, Dr. Rashida, Dr. Mazhar, and Dr. Sultan, reaffirming the collective resolve to eliminate the threat of dengue through collaborative and sustained action.

ATC adjourns protest case hearing, orders PTI founder to appear via video link

By
Kamran Muraad
-
0
ISLAMABAD, Jun 2 (APP): The Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) of Islamabad on Monday adjourned the hearing of protest-related cases against the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) founder due to his absence.
Judge Tahir Abbas Sipra of the Anti-Terrorism Court adjourned the hearing of protest-related cases after the PTI founder did not appear before the court. The hearing was scheduled as part of ongoing proceedings in cases registered against him and others at the Bara Kahu police station.
During the hearing, no progress was made due to the PTI founder’s unavailability. The court, taking note of his absence, decided to delay the proceedings without taking any action.
The judge ordered that the PTI founder must attend the next hearing through video link, and instructed the authorities to ensure this arrangement is in place. The next hearing is scheduled for June 16.

Balochistan govt committed to equip youth with technical skills: Sarfraz Bugti

By
NNPS Desk
-
0

QUETTA, Jun 02 (APP): Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti on Monday emphasized that the Balochistan government is committed to equipping youth with technical skills and creating dignified employment opportunities.

The chief minister said that the government plans to train 30,000 youth over the next five years, with a goal of enabling them to secure employment abroad.

Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti held an important meeting with Chairperson of the National Vocational and Technical Training Commission (NAVTTC), Gulmina Bilal, to discuss vocational education, IT training, and various initiatives aimed at empowering youth in the province.

Highlighting the Balochistan government’s commitment to transparency and merit, the chief minister noted that all appointments in the education and health departments have been made purely on merit. “We are ensuring transparency across all technical and vocational institutions under our vision of merit-based governance,” he said.

The CM described the youth as the province’s most valuable asset and stressed the need to restore their trust in the state. “We are utilizing all available resources to ensure the welfare of our young people,” he added.

He further remarked that through vocational education and modern IT training, youth will not only achieve financial independence but will also contribute significantly to national development.

NAVTTC Chairperson Gulmina Bilal briefed the chief minister on ongoing NAVTTC programs, particularly those designed for women and marginalized communities. She reiterated NAVTTC’s commitment to expanding its activities in Balochistan.

Appreciating NAVTTC’s efforts, Chief Minister Bugti assured the commission of the provincial government’s full support in its mission to empower the youth of Balochistan.

Historic victory for Pakistan at Asian Rowing C’ship

By
Kamran Muraad
-
0
ISLAMABAD, Jun 02 (APP): In a groundbreaking performance that marks a new era for rowing in Pakistan, the national indoor rowing team secured a total of 14 medals including 10 gold, at the Asian Indoor Rowing Championship held in Pattaya, Thailand.
Historic victory for Pakistan at Asian Rowing C’ship
Competing against 25 countries, the underdog Pakistani squad stunned traditional powerhouses such as India, Iran, Thailand, South Korea, and Japan, proudly raising the national flag and making the national anthem echo across the international arena. Despite being a small contingent, the Pakistani rowers delivered an outstanding performance that defied expectations, said a press release.
The Pakistan Rowing Federation, along with other sports stakeholders, gave the athletes a grand welcome upon their return.
President of the Pakistan Rowing Federation, Hamdan Nazir, and Chairman Rizwan-ul-Haq praised the players’ exceptional performance, stating that Pakistan’s rowing athletes are now ready to compete — and succeed — at the global level.

CDA launches major crackdown on illegal housing societies

By
Kamran Muraad
-
0
ISLAMABAD, Jun 02 (APP): Capital Development Authority (CDA) has announced sweeping measures against illegal housing and cooperative societies operating in the federal capital.
The decision was made during a high-level meeting chaired by CDA Chairman Muhammad Ali Randhawa, on Monday.
Senior officials including CDA board members, planning directors, and enforcement officers attended the session.
It was decided that the CDA will immediately publish a comprehensive list of unauthorized housing societies in major newspapers and on its official website. “We want every citizen to easily verify a society’s legal status before investing their hard-earned money,” stated a CDA spokesperson.
Authorities have imposed a complete ban on construction material sales to illegal societies.
Building material suppliers must now verify a society’s approved layout plan and valid No-Objection Certificate (NOC) before any transaction. Violators will face strict legal consequences.
The crackdown particularly targets societies involved in illegal plot transfers and those avoiding mandatory CDA transfer fees. “These unauthorized developments not only cheat investors but also create urban planning nightmares,” explained the spokesperson.
The measures come after increasing complaints about fraudulent housing schemes cheating thousands of citizens.
The CDA urges the public to always cross-check any property investment through their official channels before making payments.
For verification of housing societies and regular updates, citizens can visit the CDA’s official website or contact their helpline.
1...750751752...28,061Page 751 of 28,061

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