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LHC reserves verdict on petition against disruption of internet services

By
Ali Ali
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0
LAHORE, Aug 16 (APP):The Lahore High Court (LHC) on Friday reserved its verdict on a petition filed against the disruption of internet service across the country.
The single bench, comprising Justice Shakil Ahmed, heard the petition filed by Advocate Nadeem Sarwar.
During the proceedings, the court summoned a federal law officer and ordered him to seek instructions from the relevant quarters until 12 pm, while adjourning the hearing for a short while.
Later, as the proceedings resumed, the law officer requested time to submit a detailed response to the petition, stating the need to consult with the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority regarding the slow internet speed.
However, the court noted that this was a public interest petition and that appropriate orders would be issued, besides questioning the level of seriousness of the law officer.
Subsequently, the court reserved its verdict on the petition.
The petitioner submitted that disruption in internet service and slow speed were severely affecting individuals associated with IT. He also submitted that those conducting online businesses were facing significant difficulties. He pleaded with the court to direct the concerned authorities to end the disruption in internet service.

NHA Chairman launches tree planting campaign

By
Ali Ali
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0
ISLAMABAD, Aug 16 (APP):Chairman of the National Highway Authority (NHA) Muhammad Sheheryar Sultan Friday inaugurated a Tree Planting Campaign on the NHA road network by planting a sapling on the Thalian Airport carriageway.
According to an NHA spokesman, the campaign aimed to plant over 46,000 saplings and wild plants along the Islamabad-Peshawar Motorway (M-1) this year.
The Chairman said that planting trees was a form of Sadaqah Jariyah (ongoing charity). He noted that Pakistan was among the countries most affected by climate change and reiterated the NHA’s commitment to increasing greenery, reducing temperatures and mitigating the impacts of climate change through this national initiative.
The tree planting campaign will be carried out in three phases; in the first phase, 23,000 saplings, including olive trees, local fruit-bearing and shade trees and forest plants, from the NHA Gate to the Thallian Interchange on the Islamabad-Peshawar Motorway (M-1) would be planted.
In the second phase, two 23,000 saplings around the road network near the Burhan and Brahma Bahtar Interchanges would be planted. The third phase will focus on making the section of the motorway from the Islamabad Toll Plaza to Brahma Bahtar environmentally friendly, green, and aesthetically pleasing. This year, the country has set a target to plant over 100 million trees.

PM hails Punjab government’s historic relief for electricity consumers

By
Najam ul Hassan
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0

ISLAMABAD, Aug 16 (APP): Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on Friday welcomed the historic package for the electricity consumers announced by Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif under the leadership of PML-N President and former Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif.

“The decision to reduce electricity rates by Rs 14 per unit for consumers who use up to 500 units per month is a notable example of a people-centric initiative by Nawaz Sharif and the Punjab Chief Minister,” the prime minister said in a statement issued by the PM Office.

He said under the guidance of Nawaz Sharif, public relief had remained the government’s top priority since day one of assuming his office.

Recently, he said the federal government had announced relief for the electricity consumers using up to 200 units per month by cutting the size of its annual development budget by Rs 50 billion.

He highlighted that under the leadership of Nawaz Sharif, the government was taking steps to make the lives of the people easier.

After economic stabilization, the country is heading in the right direction, he said adding that public relief and reduction in inflation were the top priorities of the government.

He assured that the government was working for the long-term solution of reduction in electricity prices and all possible efforts were being made in this regard.

SBP enhances clean lending limit for SME’s to Rs10 million

By
Ali Ali
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KARACHI, Aug 16 (APP):The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP), in order to facilitate Small and Medium-sized Enterprise (SME) sector’s access to finance, on Friday, increased clean lending limit for SMEs to Rs10 million.
The banking regulator has made an amendment in Prudential Regulations for SME Financing and SME Regulation SME R-4 regarding Limit on Clean Facility been updated accordingly to enhance the clean lending limit for an SME borrower from Rs5 million to Rs10 million.
SBP’s SME, Housing and Sustainable Finance Department issued a circular in the regard advising heads of all banks and DFIs stringent compliance of the regulatory measures taken in light of National SME Policy 2021.
“Banks & DFIs can take clean exposure (facilities extended based on cashflows of an SME secured solely against personal guarantees) of up to Rs 10 million on an SME borrower,” the circular read and further clarified, “the clean exposure limit shall not include the clean consumer financing limits like Credit Card and Personal Loans, allowed to a sponsor of the said SME under Prudential Regulations for Consumer Financing”.
The central bank had already revised the definition of SMEs amending the respective regulations- Regulation SE R-1 and Regulation ME R-1. As per revised definition an enterprise having Annual Sales Turnover up to Rs150 million to be categorized as ‘Small Enterprise’ while enterprise with AST above Rs150 million to Rs800 million will fall in the category of ‘Medium Enterprise’.
The central bank advised Banks and DFIs to ensure circulation of the mentioned amendment among all their offices and branches for meticulous compliance in letter and spirit while non-compliance of Prudential Regulations will lead to punitive action under the relevant provisions of BCO, 1962.

TAL joint venture announces discovery of gas condensate in Kohat District

By
Ali Ali
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ISLAMABAD, Aug 16 (APP):The TAL Joint Venture, comprising MOL Pakistan Oil & Gas Co. B.V. (Operator), Oil & Gas Development Company Limited (OGDCL), Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL), Pakistan Oilfields Limited (POL), and Government Holdings Private Limited (GHPL), has discovered of gas condensate from the Lockhart Formation in the Razgir-1 exploratory well, located in district Kohat, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
The well was spudded on January 9, 2024, and has been successfully drilled to a depth of 3,773.98 meters True Vertical Depth (TVD), according to a news release.
Based on the interpretation of wireline log data, the Lockhart Formation (Exploratory Target) was tested successfully (post-acid stimulation) at a rate of approximately 17.9 million Standard Cubic Feet per Day (MMSCFD) of gas and 153 Barrels per Day (BPD) of condensate, with a choke size of 40/64 inches and a Wellhead Flowing Pressure (WHFP) of 2,017 Pounds per Square Inch (Psi).
This discovery mitigates risks associated with further exploration in the TAL Block, presenting new growth opportunities.
This find is expected to enhance the country’s energy security by utilizing indigenous resources and contribute to the hydrocarbon reserves base of MOL, its Joint Venture partners, and the nation.

PTI found hatching conspiracy against national institutions on May 9: Senator

By
Ali Ali
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0
ISLAMABAD, Aug 16 (APP):PML-N Senator Irfan ul Haque Siddiqui on Friday said that PTI leaders have found hatching conspiracy against the national institutions on May 9.
PTI should bear the cost of attempting to create rift among the national institutions and vandalism on May 9, he said while talking to a private television channel.
Following the organized plan made by the founder, the last regime of PTI had sent prominent leaders of PML-N, to
jail on false cases, he said. The PTI must face action for sabotaging peace and creating hurdles for sensitive institutions, he added.
In reply to a question about the role of PTI in national politics, he said the PTI members who joined the assembly should come forward for resolving the political issues. Commenting on the accountability process in the armed institutions, he said that Pakistan Armed forces have best accountability system for their officers. He suggested that judiciary should evolve the similar mechanism to strengthen the judicial system.

Pakistan Shaheens vs Bangladesh ‘A’ four-day match ends in a draw

By
Ali Ali
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0
ISLAMABAD, Aug 16 (APP):The first four-day match between Bangladesh ‘A’ and hosts Pakistan Shaheens ended in a draw at the Islamabad Club on Friday.
The match, which was largely affected by rain, saw 39.2 overs bowled on the fourth day, as play resumed at 2pm PKT today. The third day’s play on Thursday was completely washed out due to rain.
Earlier, Pakistan Shaheens declared their first innings at the overnight score of 367 for four with a lead of 245 runs.
In their second innings, Bangladesh ‘A’ managed to score 153 for five when play was stopped due to bad light and ultimately resulting in a draw. For Shaheens, fast bowlers Mir Hamza and Mohammad Ali bagged two wickets apiece, while Mohammad Rameez Jnr grabbed one wicket.
For the visiting team, Nayeem Hasan was the top run-getter, scoring 55 off 69 balls, laced with 11 fours. Opening batter Zakir Hasan scored a 45-ball 33, which included three fours and a six.
Both sides will now feature in the second four-day game from August 20, which is scheduled at the same venue. The toss will take place at 09.30am, with the first ball to be bowled at 10.00am.
Scores in brief:
Match drawn
Bangladesh ‘A’ 122 all out, 44.3 overs (Mahmudul Hasan Joy 65; Naseem Shah 3-24, Mir Hamza 3-33, Mohammad Rameez Jnr 2-41) and 153-5, 39.2 overs (Nayeem Hasan 55, Zakir Hasan 33; Mir Hamza 2-13, Mohammad Ali 2-34)
Pakistan Shaheens 367-4, dec 90 overs (Umar Amin 177, Saud Shakeel 76, Mohammad Huraira 39, Saad Khan 31 not out, Kamran Ghulam 20 not out; Hasan Murad 2-49)
Player of the match – Umar Amin (Pakistan Shaheens)
Second four-day match at Islamabad Club from 20-23 August

Governor KP lauds efforts of ICRC, suggest to improve health, education sectors

By
Ali Ali
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0
PESHAWAR, Aug 16 (APP):Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Faisal Karim Kundi on Friday lauded the efforts of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and suggested to improve health and education sectors.
He said this during a meeting with Nicolas Lambert, Head of Delegation of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), at the Governor House. Edith Joseph, the ICRC Sub-Delegation Head for Peshawar, was also present during the meeting.
During the discussion, the ICRC delegation briefed the Governor on the services provided by the organization.
A detailed report was presented, outlining the ICRC’s initiatives in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, especially in the merged  districts.
The report highlighted improvements in the capacity of hospitals and the provision of essential medicines in districts such as Khyber, Kurram, and Bajaur. The ICRC emphasized its commitment to supporting families affected by disasters in Pakistan.
The delegation also shared their ongoing efforts to address emergency situations and natural disasters in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa through partnerships.
The ICRC has previously provided substantial relief to earthquake and flood victims in 2010 and 2022.
The Governor Kundi acknowledged the valuable contribution of the ICRC in the province’s relief activities, particularly during natural disasters.
Faisal Karim Kundi suggested that the ICRC focus on enhancing health and education services in the merged districts.
He noted the significant impact of environmental changes and terrorism on Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, emphasizing the need for better health and education systems in the province’s rural southern districts.
The Governor assured the ICRC of full support from the Governor House, encouraging collaborative efforts to improve health and education in these underserved areas.
Meanwhile, representatives of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI) also called on Governor Faisal Karim Kundi at the Governor House.
The delegation included female presidents from Rawalpindi, Attock, and Hazara Women Chambers, as well as presidents and officials from the Mardan, Charsadda, Haripur, and Mohmand Chambers.
During the meeting, the women business leaders expressed their concerns about the lack of government support for women’s chambers in the province.
The delegation also requested the establishment of an agricultural university in the northern districts from the federal government.
The delegation highlighted various issues affecting industrial development in the province, including inadequate electricity, roads, and other essential infrastructure.
They proposed the creation of an incubation center in Rawalpindi for training women entrepreneurs and advocated for a community center for skilled women.
Additionally, the business community suggested establishing stronger linkages between universities and industry. They emphasized the importance of national industrial development for economic stability.
Governor Faisal Karim Kundi acknowledged the need to focus on the development of precious gems and minerals in the province.
He noted that individuals involved in agriculture and business are key to alleviating Pakistan’s economic crisis.
The Governor revealed that the federal government is preparing a five-year plan for business development and encouraged the business sector to contribute their proposals.
He emphasized his commitment to empowering women and youth, mentioning ongoing collaborations with institutions like NAVTTC for various initiatives.
Governor Kundi also discussed opportunities for Pakistani businesses in Tajikistan and the proximity of Dushanbe via the Wakhan Corridor, though he noted the challenges posed by inadequate road infrastructure.
He stressed the need for overall infrastructure improvement to boost national industry and commerce.

Rain-wind/thundershower likely at various parts of country: PMD

By
NNPS Desk
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0

ISLAMABAD, Aug 16 (APP): Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast rain-wind/thundershower in Sindh, Punjab, Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pothohar region, Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan and Islamabad.

Heavyfalls may also occur in Sindh, central/south Punjab and eastern Balochistan during the period.

During the last 24 hours, rain-wind/thundershower with isolated heavyfalls occurred in Punjab, Islamabad, Pothohar Region, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Kashmir, upper/lower Sindh, Gilgit-Baltistan and northeastern Balochistan.
As per synoptic situation, monsoon currents from Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal were penetrating southern and central parts of the country. A westerly wave was also affecting western/upper parts.

Torrential rains may generate flash flooding in local nullahs/streams/Hill torrents of Dera Ghazi Khan, Kalat, Khuzdar, Barkhan, Lasbella, Sibbi, Kohlu, Harnai, Naseerabad, Jaffarabad, Zhob, Bolan, Dadu, Murree, Galliyat, Mansehra, Kohistan, Chitral, Gilgit-Baltistan, Dir, Swat, Shangla, Nowshera, Swabi, Islamabad/Rawalpindi, Northeast Punjab and Kashmir from till August 17.

Heavy downpour may cause urban flooding in low lying areas of lower Sindh, Islamabad/Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Lahore, Sheikhupura, Kasur, Sialkot, Sargodha, Faisalabad, Nowshera and Peshawar during the period. Landslides may cause roads closure at the vulnerable hilly areas of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Murree, Galliyat, Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan during the wet period.

The rainfall recorded during the last 24 hours was Punjab: Bhakkar 78mm, Khanewal 72, Layyah 64, Rahim Yar Khan 56, Multan (Airport 49, City 34), Toba Tek Singh 46, Sahiwal 37, Dera Ghazi Khan 35, Chakwal 26, Faisalabad 25, Hafizabad 21, Bahawalpur (Airport 13, City 10), Jhelum 13, Joharabad 07, Okara 04, Bahawalnagar, Khanpur, Kot Addu, Mangla 03, Islamabad (Zero point, Golra 02, Saidpur, Bokra 01), Rawalpindi (Chaklala 01), Murree 01, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa: Dera Ismail Khan (City 61, Airport 47), Malam Jabba 15, Bannu 10, Saidu Sharif 04, Kakul, Parachinar 02, Bacha Khan Airport, Lower Dir 01, Balochistan: Sibbi 13, Khuzdar 06, Bar Khan 03, Zhob 02, Gilgit Baltistan: Astore 03, Skardu, Bagrote 02, Sindh: Larkana 10, Karachi 02, Kashmir: Muzaffarabad and Rawalakot 01mm.

The highest maximum temperatures recorded were Nokkundi 47 C and Dalbandin 45 C.

Ayaz Sadiq condoles demise of Syed Zafar Hashmi’s sister

By
Ali Ali
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0
ISLAMABAD, Aug 16 (APP):Speaker of the National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq Friday expressed his condolences on the passing away of senior journalist Syed Zafar Hashmi’s sister.
In a message to Syed Zafar Hashmi, the Speaker conveyed his deep sorrow and sympathy over the loss. He expressed solidarity with Syed Zafar Hashmi and his family during this difficult time.
The Speaker prayed to the Almighty to grant the departed soul eternal peace and to provide the bereaved family with the strength to bear this loss with fortitude.
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