In a formal statement, the spokesperson of the Iranian embassy in Islamabad unequivocally denounced the recent terrorist attack in Balochistan, expressing profound condemnation for the tragic loss of innocent lives and injuries sustained during the incident. The spokesperson conveyed Iran’s solidarity with the people of Pakistan in this hour of grief, extending heartfelt condolences to both the government and citizens. Emphasizing empathy for the affected families grappling with the loss of their loved ones, the spokesperson underscored Iran’s sincere sympathy. As a tangible expression of their condemnation, the Iranian embassy took to social media platform X, sharing a poignant image…
Author: Saifullah
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In a groundbreaking move, prisoners across Punjab exercised their fundamental right to vote in the upcoming General Election 2024. Orchestrated under the vigilant supervision of Inspector General (IG) Jails, a total of 1,500 inmates from 43 prisons in Punjab actively participated in the electoral process through the facilitation of postal ballots. The meticulous execution of the voting procedure was entrusted to prison superintendents, who meticulously ensured transparency and integrity throughout the process, all while being monitored by surveillance cameras. Following completion, the sealed postal ballot papers were promptly dispatched to the relevant authorities. Mian Farooq Nazir, a representative of the…
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) predicts the continuation of a cold spell in the northern regions of the country over the next 24 hours. Most parts of Pakistan are expected to experience cold and dry weather, with particularly frigid conditions in the upper areas. Rain, wind-thunderstorms, and snowfall are forecasted in isolated areas of northeast Balochistan and Gilgit Baltistan. Cold winds are expected to sweep through upper Punjab during the evening and night, while shallow fog may persist in isolated areas of Punjab in the morning. The synoptic situation indicates continental air prevailing over most parts, with a shallow westerly…
In preparation for the general election on February 8, the Punjab Home Department has deployed the army in Kasur and Sheikhupura to guarantee a peaceful conduct of the electoral process. Pakistan Army troops, leaving their garrisons in various cities, will perform security duties in different parts of Punjab, reaching districts like Mandi Bahauddin, Chakwal, and Sargodha by tomorrow. The home department emphasizes that maintaining law and order during the election is the top priority, with all districts in constant communication with the army. Election arrangements are closely monitored, and CCTV cameras are being installed at sensitive polling stations. The army’s…
The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has strengthened its communication channels by appointing two spokespersons, as per a recent notification. Nighat Siddiqui, serving as Additional Deputy General Gender Election Commission, and Hamid Raza Khan, appointed as Director Media Coordination and Outreach, will take on the role of spokespersons for the Election Commission. Read More: Gas Tariff Hike Adds to Citizens’ Economic Burden in Islamabad This move is aimed at enhancing transparency and facilitating effective communication within the department.
The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) has increased gas tariffs by Rs 435 per MMBTU, addressing a Rs 98 billion shortfall, exacerbating the financial strain on citizens already grappling with inflation. Effective from January 1 to June 30, this marks the second increase in gas prices for the current financial year 2023-24. Sui Northern gas tariff surged to Rs 1,673.82 per MMBTU from Rs 1,238.68, and Sui Southern’s tariff rose to Rs 1,466.40 per MMBTU from Rs 1,350.68. OGRA’s recommended average increase of 23.16% aims to alleviate circular debt, currently at Rs 1,250 billion, per the IMF’s urging for…
Provincial Election Commissioner Punjab, Ijaz Anwar Chauhan, assured full readiness of the Election Commission during a news conference in Lahore. He stated that election materials for polling staff will be distributed tomorrow, with complete arrangements and issued SOPs for officials on police duty. Control rooms have been set up across Punjab, totaling 51,000 polling stations. An emphasis on adherence to SOPs was stressed, ensuring a secure environment at polling stations, with special security arrangements and the involvement of the Pakistan Army in Punjab. Clear instructions were issued to the Punjab government and federal institutions to follow Election Commission guidelines under…
In response to the upcoming elections scheduled for February 8, the Ministry of Health in Islamabad has issued a notification placing all government hospitals on high alert from February 7 to February 9. This proactive measure aims to ensure the readiness and response capability of healthcare facilities in the capital city during the crucial period surrounding the electoral process. The notification directs hospitals to maintain heightened vigilance, aligning with the Election Commission of Pakistan’s deadline for the conclusion of election campaigning, set for tonight at midnight.
Army Chief General Syed Asim Munir, addressing troops along the Line of Control in the Sarian sector near Muzaffarabad, reiterated Pakistan’s strong stance against any aggression or violation of territorial sovereignty. He emphasized the Pakistan Army’s readiness to respond effectively to threats across the spectrum and condemned India’s state-sponsored terrorism, extending to targeting individual Pakistani citizens. General Munir highlighted the increasing global condemnation of India’s actions, exposing its disregard for international law. The Army Chief, briefed on the Line of Control situation, praised troops for their operational readiness and effective responses to Indian ceasefire violations. Earlier, alongside Caretaker Prime Minister…
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has urged Pakistan to raise gas tariffs, with sources revealing a proposed increase of up to 41 percent by mid-February. The IMF reportedly rejected additional subsidies on power tariffs beyond budget allocations. Approximately Rs 1000 billion is earmarked for the petroleum sector, Rs 250 billion for power, Rs 600 billion for OGDCL, and Rs 150 billion for PPL. Pakistan had submitted a proposal to the IMF regarding electricity tariffs for the export sector, aiming to reduce the tariff from 14 cents to 9 cents. Pending approval from the international lender, the plan is poised for…
