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Rawalpindi-bound bus meets fatal accident, 20 lives lost

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ISLAMABAD, Aug 25 (APP): Atleast 20 persons died on the spot while the other one was injured when an ill-fated bus carrying dozens of passengers traveling from Hawaili Kahuta to Rawalpindi lost its control and flipped over Rawalakot road Azad Pattan on Sunday.
According to details, local sources said that rescue teams rushed to the scene, extricating survivors from the wreckage and transporting them to nearby hospitals, where many are receiving treatment for serious injuries, private news channels reported.
  The exact cause of the accident is still unknown, but authorities have launched an investigation into the tragedy. The deceased have been shifted to a local mortuary where their families have gathered to claim their loved ones.

Live stock affected by breach of Rohri canal vaccinated

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SANGHAR, Aug 25 (APP):The Livestock Department of Sanghar is continuing its efforts to treat and vaccinate livestock affected by the breach of the Rohri Canal.
 Under the guidance of Deputy Commissioner Sanghar, Imran-ul-Hassan Khwaja, the Livestock Department, led by Deputy Director Dr. Dost Akbar Mari, is running a camp at the Public School Tando Adam and in adjacent areas to provide treatment and vaccination to prevent diseases in animals.
So far, 20,075 animals in the affected areas of three Union Councils Faqir Sher Muhammad Dero, Mitho Khoso and Kunb Darho—have been vaccinated against diseases  including 11,098 small animals and 8,977 large animals. Additionally, 1,338 animals have been treated, including 798 small and 540 large animals.
Dr. Dost Akbar Mari, Dr. Khushi Muhammad and Dr. Altaf Ahmed Shah informed the media that teams are present in the affected areas and can be contacted for any advice or treatment.
Relevant officials, including Dr. Ghulam Murtaza Mari, Dr. Amir Lakho, Manthar Burdi, Shams Lighari, Mehar Khaskheli, Azam Brohi, and Ghulam Ali, were also present at the camp.

Rubella causes mental retardation, behaviour, language disorders in children as developmental defects

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By Jehangir Khan Tareen
MULTAN, Aug 25 (APP): Rubella is an acute mild exanthematous (skin eruption or rash occurring as a symptom in a disease such as measles) infection of children and adults resembling mild measles but with the potential to cause fetal infection and birth defect.
Nishtar Medical University (NMU) Senior Medical Officer, Dr  Imran Rafiq, told  APP on Sunday that unlike measles, rubella is only moderately contagious and prior to vaccination (MMR) incidence was the highest in the spring among children aged 5 to 9 years.
Once termed third disease, measles and scarlet fever being the first and second exanthematous infections in childhood, he said adding that after infection, through Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) vaccination, most people develop life long protection against this disease.
Reinfection occurs (majority asymptomatic) as demonstrated by rise in antibody titre in previously vaccinated people, the SMO informed.
There have been rare cases of congenital rubella acquired through the reinfection of a vaccinated mother. This disease spreads by droplets. Patients are at their most contagious when the rash is erupting and virus may shed from 10th day before to two weeks after its appearance, Dr Imran explained.
Rash may be immune mediated; it appears as immunity develops and viral titre falls. Infants with congenital  rubella shed large qualities of the virus for many months. About the clinical features he maintained that the incubation period of this disease is 12 to 23 days while postnatal rubella is a mild infection.
Adults may experience malaise, fever, anorexia, (loss of appetite) whereas the main symptoms are palpable and enlarged cervical and posterior auricular  and cervical lymph nodes and a maculopapular rash starting on the face and moving down which may be accompanied by coryza and conjunctivitis which last for 3 to 5 days, senior medic noted.
Complications are uncommon and Arthritis may occur affecting the wrist fingers and knee joint and dissolving over a month may be seen as a rash appears (women more than men).
Hemorrhagic manifestation occurs in  three thousand (children more than adults) and may be due to low platelet count as well as vascular damage.
He stated that Congenital rubella can be catastrophic in early pregnancy leading to fetal death, premature delivery, and many conjunctile defects.
The younger the fetus when infected the more severe the illness is, he said and added that in the first two months of gestation, there is an up to 85 pc chances of being affected by either multiple defects or spontaneous abortion.
In the third month  of gestation, there are around 30 pc chances of developing a single defect ( deafness)   dropping to 10 per cent  in the 4 month and nil after 20 week of gestation.
Replying to a question  Dr Imran said that temporary defects included: low birth weight, (LBW), low platelet count, enlarged liver and spleen, Hepatitis, meningitis and jaundice.
while permanent defects include hearing loss, cardiac abnormalities, small size head, inguinal hernia, cataract and glaucoma.
Developmental  defects may become apparent as the Infant grows, for example myopia. mental retardation diabetes, behaviour and language disorders. Positive IgM rubella or four field rise in IgG is diagnostic. All women of child bearing age  should be vaccinated before pregnancy.
Women should not become pregnant in the three months following vaccination, he recommended.

Director FIA Zone announces zero-tolerance policy on corruption, human trafficking

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FIA

ISLAMABAD, Aug 25 (APP): Director, Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) Lahore, Sarfraz Khan Virk on Sunday announced a comprehensive overhaul of the system, vowing to take stringent measures against perpetrators of human trafficking, corruption, money laundering, and unregistered online pharmacies, in line with Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi’s directives.
In an exclusive Interview with PTV News, the Director said that FIA Lahore has revolutionized its operations by integrating cutting-edge IT-based information systems and research-based methodologies, enabling the agency to tackle complex crimes with precision and efficiency.
Director Sarfraz Khan Virk revealed that this technological upgrade has significantly enhanced the agency’s capabilities, allowing for real-time data analysis, swift identification of patterns, and effective tracking of criminals.
With this modernized approach, FIA Lahore is now better equipped to combat human trafficking, corruption, money laundering, and other sophisticated crimes, ultimately ensuring a safer and more secure environment for citizens.
Director Sarfraz Khan Virk acknowledged that human trafficking remains a formidable challenge, necessitating a multi-faceted approach to combat this heinous crime.
He emphasized that FIA Lahore is steadfast in its commitment to eradicating human trafficking, recognizing its devastating impact on victims and their families.
The agency is working tirelessly to identify and dismantle trafficking networks, arrest perpetrators, and provide support to survivors, he added.
Director Virk also highlighted FIA Lahore’s zero-tolerance policy towards illegal immigration, revealing that the agency is taking stern actions against individuals and networks involved in this illicit activity.
He emphasized that FIA is working diligently to identify and apprehend human smugglers, while also assisting victims of illegal immigration.
The agency’s crackdown on illegal immigration has already yielded significant results, with numerous arrests and deportations taking place in recent months, he added.
Responding to a query, he said in a bid to combat the nefarious practice of illegal human organ transplantation, Director Sarfraz Khan Virk announced that FIA Lahore has launched a comprehensive crackdown on organ trafficking
syndicates.
Moreover, the agency has established a state-of-the-art laboratory to detect and prevent illegal organ transplants, he added.
This specialized lab, equipped with advanced forensic technology, will enable FIA to conduct thorough investigations and bring perpetrators to justice, he added.
By targeting the root causes of this illicit trade, FIA Lahore aims to protect vulnerable individuals from exploitation and ensure that medical procedures are conducted ethically and legally, he mentioned.
While warning against the dangers of unregulated online pharmacies, Director Sarfraz urged the public to exercise extreme caution when purchasing medicines online.
He advised citizens to avoid unregistered and uncertified online pharmacies, emphasizing that these platforms often sell counterfeit or substandard medicines that can pose serious health risks.
Instead, he recommended using only online pharmacies registered with the Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan (DRAP), ensuring that medicines are genuine, safe, and effective, he stressed.
By taking this precaution, individuals can protect their health and well-being, while also supporting the efforts of FIA Lahore to combat the illegal online pharmacy trade, he concluded.

Muqam expresses grief over loss of life in Pilgrims bus accident in Lasbela area

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ISLAMABAD, Aug 25 (APP):Federal Minister for Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit-Baltistan and SAFRON Engineer Amir Muqam expressed regret over the loss of life in the accident that happened to the pilgrims’ bus in Lasbela area of Balochistan province.
The federal minister expressed his condolences to the families of those who died in the accident, said a press release.
In this difficult time, I share the grief of the bereaved families, minister said.
The minister prayed for the forgiveness of those who died in the accident.
I pray for the speedy recovery of the injured, the minister remarked.

AJK hill station becomes captivating destination for nature lovers, tourists : Report

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ISLAMABAD, Aug 25 (APP): Nestled in the majestic mountains of AJK, a picturesque hill station has emerged as a captivating destination for tourists, offering a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of city life where its breathtaking landscapes, lush green forests and tranquil atmosphere has become a favorite among travelers seeking a rejuvenating experience.
“The Azad Jammu & Kashmir hill station is also home to several historical landmarks and cultural attractions, showcasing the region’s rich heritage,” a report aired by a private news channel.
“With its pleasant climate and warm hospitality, the AJK hill station is an ideal destination for families, couples and solo travelers alike,” said a tourist.
 The hill station’s stunning vistas and picturesque landscapes made it a photographer’s paradise. Every turn revealed a new and breathtaking view, from the misty valleys below to the towering peaks above, said a women tourist.
 “The locals were so friendly and welcoming. They made me feel like part of the community, and I left with a heavy heart and a promise to return”, a foreigner tourist from Canada.
 “The hill station offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and adventure activities. We are committed to preserving its charm and ensuring that tourists have a memorable experience,” PTDC tourism officer commented.
 “We are thrilled to see the hill station gaining popularity among tourists”, said a local.
 “We are constantly looking for ways to improve the tourist experience, whether it is through infrastructure development, training for local guides or promoting new attractions. Our goal is to make the hill station a world-class destination.” PTDC Development Officer added.

IIOJK people struggle for UN-pledged right to self-determination in valley

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ISLAMABAD, Aug 25 (APP): The people of Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) people are engaged in a struggle for the exercise of their United Nations-pledged right to self-determination in the valley.
A report released by Kashmir Media Service, Sunday, said Kashmiris’ freedom movement has been accepted as a just struggle at the global level as international law gives the Kashmiris the right to struggle for freedom from Indian bondage.
It said the UN Security Council resolutions on Kashmir have legitimized the Kashmiri people’s struggle to achieve their right to self-determination.
The report said Kashmiris’ struggle against Indian illegal occupation reflects the sentiments of the general populace of IIOJK.
It said the struggle for securing the right to self-determination is based on the UN charter and it will continue till the implementation of UN resolutions.
India is striving to equate Kashmiris’ freedom struggle with terrorism through false flag operations and concerted propaganda, it said, adding Modi must remember that people’s struggle for freedom could not be linked to terrorism.
The report maintained that the world must support the IIOJK people’s struggle for freedom and self-determination as the Kashmiris are determined to continue their struggle till taking it to its logical conclusion.

BISP committed to uplifting downtrodden; a symbol of hope for millions of vulnerable individuals, families: Rubina Khalid

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ISLAMABAD, Aug 25 (APP): Chairperson of Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) Rubina Khalid Sunday reiterated the BISP programme is committed to uplifting the downtrodden, saying it has become a symbol of hope for millions of vulnerable individuals and families nationwide.
Talking to a private news channel, Chairperson Rubina Khalid attributed the programme’s success to the dedication and hard work of BISP’s team and the support of the government and stakeholders.
She reiterated the programme’s commitment to continuing its vital work and expanding its reach to even more vulnerable populations.
Rubina Khalid announced the launch of a unique skill development program aimed at empowering deserving women and their family members.
She highlighted the significance of skill development in today’s fast-paced economy, adding that empowering women with skills is essential for their socio-economic uplift.
This program will not only enhance their employability but also enable them to start their businesses, breaking the cycle of poverty and dependence, she added.
Rubina Khalid highlighted the introduction of a computerized system in BISP, aimed at ensuring transparency and efficiency in the program’s operations.
This technological advancement has revolutionized the way BISP functions, enabling real-time monitoring and tracking of beneficiary data, payment disbursements, and program impact, she added.
The computerized system has also minimized the risk of errors and fraud, ensuring that benefits reach the intended recipients, she highlighted.
The Chairperson also emphasized that this technology-driven approach is a testament to BISP’s commitment to innovation and excellence in serving the most vulnerable populations.
Replying to a query, she said with the new banking system in place, BISP beneficiaries will have greater control over their finances enabling them to make informed decisions about their economic well-being. This enhanced financial autonomy is expected to have a positive impact on their overall quality of life, empowering them to break the cycle of poverty and build a brighter future for themselves and their families, she added.
Moreover, this digital payment system will not only facilitate faster payments but also provide a secure and transparent way to transfer funds to our beneficiaries, she said, adding that it is a major step forward in our efforts to empower deserving women and improve their socio-economic status.

Sufism begins its journey in South Punjab with a spark of divine love

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MULTAN, Aug 25 (APP): Sufism, or tasawwuf is known as the mystical heart of Islam and begins its journey with a spark of divine love to awaken the minds and souls of people towards Islam.
Some people are of the view that Sufism originated within Islam as a spiritual movement during the 8th-9th centuries CE while others believe that it began in the inner mystical reading of the Holy Qur’an.
“God awakens the lamp of divine light within the hearts of those who believe in Divine oneness. For the Sufi, this light is felt as love, tenderness, and guidance that is necessary to help us on the way. This light moves us back to the Divine, from pain of separation to the embrace of union” said Dr Ashraf Ali Qureshi, the divisional president of Jamiat Ulema Pakistan.
Islam as a religion was introduced via Southern Punjab only after the 8th century. The first Muslim state in Punjab was the Emirate of Multan, established in 855 CE after the disintegration of the Abbasid Caliphate.
Multan is the oldest city dating back to 5000 BC recognized as the sister historic oldest living city Rome following both of their rich archaeological and cultural heritage with historical linkages.
Previously called the “City of Gold” now the “City of Saints”, Multan among the rest of the regions across South Punjab become a thriving entity with all its spiritual and traditional essence.
Within a radius of twenty-five miles, there have been hundreds of mausoleums of saints who had propagated Islam in the sub-continent with a message of love and peace.
Historically, about 100,000 shrines have been constructed across the city and nearest towns in Southern Punjab with most of them either erased or destroyed with the passage of time due to expansion and development purposes, said an official of the local Auqaf department, Muhammad Arshad.
But in spite of that, around 3000 to 4000 shrines are intact yet with grandeur visited frequently by the devotees hailing from Southern Punjab and interior Sindh.
Among many, the most noteworthy Sufi saint of his time is Hazrat Sheikh Bahauddin Zakariya Suhrawardi also remembered as “Baha-ul-Haq”. He was born around 1170 AD in Kot Kehror (now known as Karor Lal Esan), a town located near Multan. Following his marvelous contribution, Multan earned a metaphoric title as “Baghdad of the East”.
The Sufi saint travelled from city to city in Southern Punjab and succeeded in winning the hearts of a large number of Hindus to convert them to Islam. His shrine is situated near the clock tower, the heart of the city.
According to certain chroniclers, Bahauddin Zakariya’s mother was a sister of the mother of Hazrat Baba Fariduddin Ganjshakar, one of the most revered and distinguished Muslim mystics of the medieval period.
The Khanqah (Shrine) of Shah Rukn-e-Alam, a masterpiece of architecture became the identity of Multan. It is situated on top of a small hillock, behind the old ruins of Multan Fort. The dome is more than 50 feet in diameter and height of over 100 feet. The entire complex is built with red bricks and decorated with wonderful woodwork.
Muhammad Arshad said that around 2000-3000 devotees among common visitors used to attend the three-day Urs of Hazrat Shah Rukn is scheduled to arrange from the 5th to 7th Jamadi-ul-Awwal every year. It’s solemnized by the custodian, Shah Mahmood Qureshi, the PTI’s leader.
Bibi Pak Daman (1170-1262) known as Bibi Rasti was the mother of Shah Rukn Alam. She was also a disciple of Bahauddin Zakariya. She is stated to have brought the Suhrawardiyya order of Sufism to Multan. She died in 1295 and was buried near the temple of Mai Totla (one of Multan’s three pre-Islamic deities) once stood. The tomb is roughly rectangular and is decorated externally with Multan’s signature blue and white tiles. The traditional design of the tomb appears as the ‘flat roof’ just like the mausoleum of Hazrat Shah Yusuf Gardez.
Yusuf Shah was born in 450 AH in the district of Gardez in Afghanistan. The saint travelled to the city of Multan as his father Shah Ali Kasswer directed him. The area around the shrine is occupied by the family itself and goes by the name ‘Muhallah Shah Gardez’. His descendants are known as Gardezis and are one of the few old noble families in the country. He died in 1136.
The Mausoleum of Shah Yusuf Gardez is present at Bohar Gate inside the walled city. The tomb was properly built in 1150 AD, about 14 years after his death. The mosque inside the South of the tomb was made by Sher Shah Suri (1639-1655).
There are some shrines of Sufi saints reported to have been constructed at deserted locations in the district. It included Hameed-ud-Din Hakim, Qutab-al-Qutaab, Syed Pir Sakhi Shah Hassan Parwana, Syed Hasan Khanjzee, Hazrat Shah Dana Shaheed, Abu Hassan Hafiz Jamal-ud-din called Musa Pak Shaheed, Hazrat Shah Kamal Qadari, Hafiz Muhammad Jamal Chisti Nazami, Pir Chup Wardi Waly, Mollana Hamid Ali Khan Naqshbandi. Hazrat Khawaja Awais Khagga, Pir Syed Wali Muhammad Shah (Chadar Wali Sarkar) and shrine of Hazrat Gul Shah.
“For the Sufi, love is the beginning and the end of the journey. The Sufi’s mystical journey starts with a spark of divine love that leads to the remembrance of God.
This journey of love and longing burn away ego, sense of a separate self, a process called ‘fana’, or annihilation, which leads to ‘baqa’ (eternity), abiding in God” said Shakir Hussain Shakir, the author of the book: Hazrat Shah Yusuf Gardez and Hazrat Shah Shams Tabrizi.

PM expresses deep grief over loss of lives in two separate bus accidents

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ISLAMABAD, Aug 25 (APP):Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Sunday expressed his deep grief and sorrow over the death of Zaireen in a bus accident on Makran Coastal Highway and other casualties in another road mishap near Rawalpindi.

The prime minister prayed for the eternal peace of the departed souls and for the bereaved families to bear the losses with fortitude, PM Office Media Wing said in a press release.

The prime minister directed the local administration to fully cooperate with the bereaved families. He also directed for timely treatment and caring for the injured in the accident.

According to media reports, a bus carrying Zaireen fell into a ravine on the Makran Coastal Highway, resulting in a number of deaths and injuries to other passengers.

In another mishap, scores of passengers were dead and injured after a coaster plunged into a gorge near the Azad Pattan Pana Bridge Rawalakot road. The unfortunate bus was en-route to Rawalpindi.