Friday, December 19, 2025
Home Blog Page 8493

British High Commission at forefront of floods response in Chitral

By
Waseem Iqbal
-
0
ISLAMABAD, Aug 06 (APP):The British High Commission has been amongst the earliest organisations to provide relief interventions, following devastating floods in Chitral.
Between 29 July and August 3, Chitral suffered severe damages from torrential rains, flash floods and glacial lake outburst floods. 14 drinking water supply schemes, 15 jeep-able bridges, 55 irrigation channels, 9 link roads, 3 schools building, protection walls (4,000 feet), and 20 local shops have been fully/partially damaged, a news release said.
The British High Commission used their existing presence in Chitral to respond to immediate needs through their partners, Concern Worldwide and the Agha Khan Foundation. They are supporting emergency relief and restoration of infrastructure and livelihoods.
So far, the UK has funded essential items like kitchen sets, hygiene kits, water storage containers and more for around 300 families. Partners continue to work on immediate restoration of damaged drinking water systems, the restoration of essential irrigation channels, and debris removal to re-enable access and livelihoods, UK support is expected to benefit over 20,000 people in Chitral. The UK are also considering on longer-term recovery plans for affected areas, in close coordination with government counterparts and humanitarian partners.
Chargé d’Affaires of the British High Commission, Andrew Dalgleish said: “The recent floods in Chitral are devastating. Lives and livelihoods have been destroyed. The UK is here to support Pakistan. These floods are a stark reminder that there is much more to be done to improve Pakistan’s climate resilience.”
Floods have already led to 141 deaths, 266 injuries and damage to over 1,000 houses in Pakistan this year. Climate change is a priority for the UK Government. During the devastating floods of 2022, the UK helped over 2.3 million people, dedicating a total of £39 million in UK aid. The British public mobilised, and raised £41.5m as part of the Disasters Emergency Committee appeal. Support included emergency cash assistance, shelter kits, nutritional support, learning kits and infrastructure repair.
The UK’s focus is on improving Pakistan’s climate resilience long-term, rather than purely responding to disasters. The UK has already helped 1.5 million people improve their resilience to extreme climate events, and aims to support a further 3 million people in the next 4-5 years.

Ufone 4G announces first-in-industry health insurance program for franchise owners and their families

By
Waseem Iqbal
-
0
ISLAMABAD, Aug 06 (APP):Pakistani telecom company, Ufone 4G has announced the launch of an industry-first Franchise Health Insurance Program for top-performing franchise owners and their families.
The initiative exemplifies Ufone 4G’s steadfast commitment to the well-being of the hardworking individuals who drive its nationwide franchise network said a news release.
Chief Retail Sales Officer, Ufone 4G, Nauman Fakhar, and Ahmer Shoaib Deputy Executive Director, Adamjee Insurance signed the agreement.
Ufone 4G’s “Franchise Health Insurance Program” is designed to support the company’s franchisees through health and financial care during turbulent times.
 By offering this extensive health coverage, Ufone 4G ensures continuous engagement and loyalty from its franchise network, thereby enhancing business stability, resiliency, and growth.
The program covers both Outpatient Department (OPD) and Inpatient Department (IPD) services for registered family members, with no need for claim reimbursement except in the event of death.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, Chief Retail Sales Officer, Ufone 4G, Nauman Fakhar said, “Ufone 4G is a people-centric brand, and we are wholly committed to the wellbeing of our extended family – our franchisees, who are at the forefront of customer facilitation. This program is an industry-first initiative that offers comprehensive health insurance coverage to the families of our top-performing franchise owners. It not only underscores our commitment to their health and financial security but also strengthens our organizational culture and fosters growth. Our franchises are the cornerstone of our customer-facing operations, and our growth is mutually dependent.
The company will continue to explore opportunities to further strengthen its franchise network.”
Ahmer Shoaib Deputy Executive Director, Adamjee Insurance said, “We are thrilled to partner with Ufone 4G on this pioneering initiative that sets the right precedent for the business sector. We are grateful to Ufone 4G for trusting our brand for this crucial program, which signifies to our shared vision of providing holistic support to the stakeholders who drive our businesses forward.”
The “Franchise Health Insurance Program” exemplifies Ufone 4G’s dedication to its stakeholders, and showcases its commitment to enabling franchisees that deliver exceptional service to customers. The initiative sets a new industry standard for franchise support and loyalty programs in line with Ufone 4G’s mission to uplift its customer facilitation system.

Chairman WAPDA, World Bank team review construction progress on Tarbela 5th Extension Project

By
Waseem Iqbal
-
0
ISLAMABAD, Aug 6 (APP):Chairman WAPDA, Engr Lt Gen Sajjad Ghani (Retd) accompanied by a World Bank team headed by Advisor Masood Ahmed and Task Team Leader Gautum Gunjan on Tuesday visited Tarbela 5th Extension Hydropower Project and reviewed construction progress on key components.
After detailed visit of the various sites, the Chairman also presided over a progress review meeting at the Project Office, said a press release.
The Project Management briefed the Chairman and the World Bank team about the progress achieved so far on seven key sites of the Project, which included intake, tunnel, penstock and outlet, power house, tail race culvert, tail race canal and switchyard.
Resource deployment, timelines and implementation plan  for completion of the Project were also discussed during the meeting. It was briefed that electricity generation from the Project is likely to commence in 2025-26.
Addressing the meeting, the Chairman emphasized upon timely completion of the Project to cope with the increasing demand of energy in the country through green, clean and most affordable electricity. He urged the Consultants and the Contractors to maximize their efforts so that the Project could be completed by 2025-26.
Member (Power) WAPDA, GM Tarbela Dam Project, PD Tarbela 5th Extension Hydopower Project and representatives of the Consultants and the Contractors were also present on the occasion.
WAPDA is constructing Tarbela 5th Extension Hydropower Project on Tunnel No. 5 of Tarbela Dam. World Bank and Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank are providing financial assistance for the Project to the tune of US$ 390 million and US$ 300 million respectively.
 Cumulative generation capacity of the Project stands at 1530 MW with three generating units of 510 MW each. The Project will provide 1.347 billion units of environment-friendly and low-cost hydel electricity to the National Grid every year. With completion of Tarbela 5th Extension, installed capacity at Tarbela Dam will increase from 4888 MW to 6418 MW.

PFA destroys 300 rotten eggs, 90 litres adulterated milk

By
Waseem Iqbal
-
0
adulterated milk
LODHRAN, Aug 06 (APP):Punjab Food Authority (PFA) raided at various places and destroyed 300 rotten eggs, 90 liters adulterated milk and 11 kilogramme prohibited ingredients and imposed heavy fines over hygiene rules violations.
The PFA teams were conducting raids under the supervision of Director Operations South Asif Iqbal operations to eliminate adulteration in various districts.
According to the details, Rs 45,000 fine was imposed to two ice factories at 17 Kasi Budhla Road and Hasanabad Gate No. 2 in Multan for the presence of insects and particles in the ice blocks, presence of fungal water pipes, Rs 20,000 fine to milk processing unit at Chungi No.
 7 for non-reporting of raw material, lack of medical certificates of food handlers, Rs.10,000 fine was imposed on a drink corner on Suraj Kund Road for the presence of expired snacks.
Similarly, a super store at Ada Qasim Bagh in Khanewal was fined Rs 20,000 for selling expired food items.  In addition, Rs 25,000 fine imposed to bakery in Machhiwal for using rotten eggs in food preparation.
A fine of Rs 10,000 was imposed for adulteration of soda water in the preparation of drinks in Mailsi road.
Further, fine of Rs 12,000 imposed on two paneer units in Kadirpur Chamnan Kahrur Pakka for not following the instructions, not keeping the food covered, not labeling the products.
Rs 15,000 fine was imposed to salt unit in Bangla Gogira Okara for lack of labeling on top of packaging, dirt in crushing area, lack of cleanliness, and Rs 30,000 to milk collection center in Ada Pisil Haveli Lakha road Dipalpur for reducing fat in milk.
Additionally, four milk shops in Pakpattan were fined Rs 19,000 for selling adulterated milk.

BISP to collaborate with BE&OE for its beneficiaries’ abroad employment

By
Waseem Iqbal
-
0
BISP
ISLAMABAD, Aug 06 (APP):Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) will engage with the Bureau of Emigration and Overseas Employment (BE&OE) to facilitate its beneficiaries’ abroad employment.
In this regard, the Chairperson of the BISP, Senator Rubina Khalid held a meeting with the Director General of the BE&OE, Muhammad Tayyab on Tuesday.
The meeting focused on a collaborative initiative to provide overseas employment opportunities to BISP beneficiaries or their family members through quality skill training.
Senator Rubina Khalid emphasized the importance of launching a poverty graduation program that equips BISP beneficiaries with the skills needed to secure livelihoods.
 “We aim to identify demand-driven trades to ensure our beneficiaries can access employment opportunities abroad,” she stated. Highlighting the critical role of quality training, she mentioned that BISP trainees would receive comprehensive training, including fundamental English, basic manners, hygiene fundamentals and work ethics.
Muhammad Tayyab expressed the Bureau’s commitment to supporting BISP in this initiative. “As a regulatory body, the Bureau of Emigration and Overseas Employment will assist the BISP team in identifying trades such as home care workers, hospitality staff, receptionists, nurses, and more.”
“We will facilitate the training process through internationally recognized training institutes in Pakistan and ensure these individuals are placed in countries with high demand for these skills,” he said.
To expedite the collaboration, Senator Rubina Khalid directed BISP officials to organize another meeting with officials from the Bureau of Emigration and Overseas Employment and the National Vocational and Technical Training Commission (NAVTTC) for further discussion, data sharing, and finalizing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).
This alliance marks a pivotal step in providing sustainable employment opportunities for BISP beneficiaries, enabling them to build better futures for themselves and their families.

Commissioner Dera for timely completion of development projects

By
Kamran Muraad
-
0
DERA ISMAIL KHAN, Aug 06 (APP):Commissioner Dera Ismail Khan Syed Abdul Jabbar Shah on Tuesday directed the authorities concerned to utilize all available resources for timely completion of development schemes across the division by ensuring quality of work.
He issued these directions while presiding over a meeting held at his office to review the progress over development projects which was attended by Deputy Commissioner Dera Ms Sarah Rehman and Additional Deputy Commissioner Syed Gulfam Abbas besides officers of different departments including C&W, Dera Development Authority (DDA), Planning and Development, Local Government, Education, Monitoring and Evaluation, Public Health Engineering and other.
During the meeting, a detailed briefing on ADP and other ongoing development schemes was given by the departments concerned. It was told that work was underway on 273 ADP schemes in the division. The construction of flyovers in Dera Ismail Khan will be started soon.
Similarly, various schemes of Public Health Engineering were also underway related to clean drinking water, drainage and treatment plants.
The work over different schemes regarding construction of new schools and upgradation of some other schools’ buildings was also in progress.
The commissioner instructed the departments concerned to share the details of all ongoing schemes and the progress over those schemes with his office so that the timely completion of development schemes could be ensured.
 He said all the necessary steps would be taken to remove the hurdles and to resolve issues in the way of development.
Moreover, he directed the deputy commissioner to personally visit the sites of development schemes and review the progress. Especially, he said, all the obstacles should be removed in the way of drainage projects. Similarly, he said, the construction work in the central jail should also be inspected.
On this occasion, the commissioner also appealed to the citizens to minimize the use of plastic bags and also avoid throwing them into the drains as these were the main source of blockage of drainage.

First-ever blind cricket training camp in Aghanistan commences

By
NNPS Desk
-
0

ISLAMABAD, Aug 06 (APP): The first-ever blind cricket training camp in Afghanistan began in Jalalabad on Tuesday.

The initiative to hold the camp for Afghan blind cricketers was taken by Syed Sultan Shah, the chairman of the Pakistan Blind Cricket Council (PBCC) and President of the World Blind Cricket Council (WBCC), said a press release issued here.

Besides providing essential training kits and cricket gear, the PBCC has fully funded the camp, including boarding, lodging, and travel expenses of the players.

“We’re also proud to have sent two legendary international cricketers and coaches of Pakistan – Masood Jan and Sanaullah Khan to coach and mentor the aspiring Afghan blind cricketers,” Sultan Shah said.

The 11-day training camp will conclude on August 16.

This marks another milestone for the PBCC, following the successful development of blind cricket teams in Bangladesh and Nepal in 2006 and 2008. Both nations have since excelled on the global stage, participating in multiple Blind Cricket World Cups.

“The PBCC remains committed to nurturing talent and expanding the reach of blind cricket throughout the region,” Shah added.

NDMA Advisory: Urban Inundation expected in parts of Punjab

By
NNPS Desk
-
0
NDMA

ISLAMABAD, Aug 06 (APP): The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA)’s National Emergencies Operation Center anticipated that monsoon currents are continuously penetrating from Arabian Sea to eastern and southern parts of the country, whereas a westerly wave is likely to approach Tuesday evening that caused risks for urban inundation in various parts of the Punjab.

According to the news release, rain-windstorm and thundershower is expected in Murree, Galliyat, Rawalpindi, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Mandi Bahauddin, Sialkot, Narowal, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Hafizabad, Lahore, Okara, Kasur, Sahiwal, Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar, Khanpur, Dera Ghazi Khan, Muzaffargarh, Kot Addu, Rajanpur and Rahim Yar Khan. Heavyfalls may also occur in Murree, Galliyat, Rawalpindi, Attock, Chakwal, Mandi Bahaudin, Jhelum, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Sialkot, Narowal, Lahore and Hafizabad during night hours.

Low-Lying areas of Northeastern Punjab are expected to face urban inundation during the rainfall spell.

The public is advised to stay informed by keeping track of weather updates and alerts.NDMA has launched the Pak NDMA Disaster Alert application, available on Google Play Store and iOS App Store, to provide timely alerts, advisories, and guidelines to the public. Ensure roofs and windows are properly sealed to prevent water leakage. Clear gutters and drainage systems to avoid water accumulation. Secure any loose items outside that could be blown away or damaged by strong winds and heavy rain. Do not attempt to walk, swim, or drive through flooded waters. Use alternative routes to avoid areas prone to flooding. Be aware of open manholes and submerged obstacles. Unplug electrical appliances during heavy rains to avoid short circuits. Do not touch electrical equipment with wet hands.

NDMA has issued instructions to all relevant departments to take necessary precautions to mitigate the possible effects of flooding and extreme weather.

Salik for collective efforts to foster unity, tolerance

By
NNPS Desk
-
0

By Rehan Khan

ISLAMABAD, Aug 06 (APP): Minister for Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, Chaudhry Salik Hussain on Tuesday urged the nation to come together in unity, putting aside differences, to drive the country’s development and secure a brighter future for the next generation.

Addressing the Paigham-e-Hajj Conference here, he highlighted the nation’s divisions along sectarian and provincial lines and urged the people to put aside hatred and respect differing opinions to achieve the goal of peace and progress.

Salik shared his experience of overseeing the Hajj operation and acknowledged initial challenges. However, through dedication and a commitment to positive intentions, he ultimately achieved success, he added.

The minister expressed gratitude to Saudi Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dr. Tawfiq bin Fawzan Al-Rabiah specially and other stakeholders for their cooperation in making the Hajj operation successful.

The conference, organized by the Pakistan Ulema Council, was attended by notable figures, including Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Faisal Karim Kundi, Saudi Ambassador Nawaf bin Said Al-Malki, representatives from private Hajj organizations and Ulema.

Another 16 arrested over overpricing

By
Kamran Muraad
-
0
LAHORE, Aug 06 (APP):The district administration of Lahore has intensified its crackdown against overpricing and arrested 16 individuals with heavy fines imposed here in the city on Tuesday.
According to a spokesman for the Deputy Commissioner office, a total of 2,596 locations were inspected, and 38 violations were witnessed while fines amounting to Rs. 1.1 million were imposed for 211 violations.
On the instructions of DC Lahore Rafia Haider, assistant commissioners conducted surprise field visits.
Deputy Commissioner Lahore Rafia Haider stated that a comprehensive strategy is being implemented to control overpricing, with administrative officers working diligently to ensure the sale of essential items at government rates. There is no compromise on overpricing, and heavy fines are being imposed on shopkeepers who repeatedly violate the rules, she added.
1...8,4928,4938,494...31,029Page 8,493 of 31,029

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