فیچرڈ

Heavy monsoon rains continue to cause widespread devastation across Pakistan, with Punjab and Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) suffering significant casualties and damage. According to disaster management authorities, at least 43 people have lost their lives and 177 others have been injured due to rain-related incidents, while officials have warned that more heavy rainfall and possible flooding are expected in the coming days. In Punjab, the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) reported 21 deaths and 154 injuries linked to the ongoing monsoon season. Lahore has been among the worst-hit cities, receiving approximately 343 millimeters of rainfall over the past 48 hours. The intense downpour flooded roads, underpasses, and low-lying neighborhoods, causing severe traffic disruptions and exposing weaknesses in the city’s drainage infrastructure. Emergency drainage operations were launched across the provincial capital to remove accumulated rainwater. Most fatalities in Punjab resulted from roof and building collapses, which claimed 15 lives. Additional deaths were caused by lightning strikes, electrocution, and drowning. Authorities also reported damage to dozens of homes, highlighting the vulnerability of aging structures during extreme weather conditions. A tragic incident occurred in Lahore when a 19-year-old motorcyclist was critically injured after being electrocuted while riding through flooded streets in the Chungi Amar Sidhu area. The victim was immediately shifted to Lahore General Hospital for emergency treatment. Heavy rainfall also forced the closure of several underpasses and roads in DHA and other parts of the city due to waterlogging, while traffic was diverted through alternative routes. In addition, rain damaged an 11kV electricity line, causing temporary power outages in affected areas. The city also witnessed the formation of multiple sinkholes after continuous rainfall weakened road surfaces. Traffic authorities sealed off the affected locations, redirected vehicles, and coordinated with municipal departments to begin urgent repair work. Earlier, two teenage brothers lost their lives when their motorcycle skidded on a rain-soaked road near Lahore while traveling toward Kasur. Officials attributed the accident to slippery road conditions and urged motorists, particularly motorcyclists, to reduce speed, wear helmets, and avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rainfall. Meanwhile, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa recorded 22 deaths and 23 injuries in rain-related incidents. The victims included men, women, and several children. The province also suffered damage to 37 houses, with eight completely destroyed and the remaining partially damaged. The affected districts include Peshawar, Mardan, Nowshera, Abbottabad, Mansehra, Bajaur, Swabi, and several others. The K-P PDMA stated that rescue teams, district administrations, and emergency services are working together to provide relief and assistance to affected families. Although river water levels currently remain within normal limits, authorities have placed all districts on high alert due to forecasts of continued heavy rainfall. The Pakistan Meteorological Department has warned that another spell of widespread rain is expected across Punjab, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and Kashmir over the next 24 hours. Officials fear urban flooding, flash floods in local streams, and landslides in hilly regions such as Murree and Galiyat. Residents have been advised to avoid unnecessary travel, stay away from damaged buildings and flood-prone areas, and follow official safety advisories to minimize further loss of life and property.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar has urged the international community to build on recent diplomatic progress in the Gulf region, emphasizing that the opportunity to achieve lasting peace should not be wasted. Speaking at the 33rd ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) Ministerial Meeting in Manila, Dar stressed the importance of continued dialogue, diplomacy, and constructive engagement to maintain regional stability. Dar, who arrived in the Philippines with a high-level delegation, is attending the ARF Plenary Meeting and holding bilateral discussions with foreign ministers on the sidelines of the forum. During his address, he noted that recent developments in the Gulf have had far-reaching consequences for countries across the region, making it essential for all stakeholders to work together to prevent further instability. The foreign minister highlighted Pakistan’s role in promoting peace by facilitating diplomatic efforts that contributed to a ceasefire in the Gulf. He referred to the Islamabad Talks, held after a gap of 47 years, followed by the signing of the Islamabad Memorandum of Understanding in Bürgenstock. According to Dar, these initiatives reflected Pakistan’s commitment to peaceful conflict resolution and regional stability. He expressed gratitude to the United States, Iran, Gulf nations, and other international partners for placing their trust in Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts. Describing the recent progress as the result of patient negotiations and dialogue, Dar warned that these achievements must be safeguarded through continued engagement rather than allowing tensions to resurface. Dar reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to supporting every initiative aimed at restoring peace and security in the region. He urged all parties to exercise restraint, fulfill their commitments, and prioritize diplomatic solutions over confrontation. He also expressed hope that ongoing negotiations would help restore normal shipping operations through the Strait of Hormuz, a vital international trade route. At the beginning of his speech, Dar thanked the Philippines for hosting the ministerial meeting and reaffirmed Pakistan’s support for dialogue, mutual respect, and peaceful coexistence. He described the ASEAN Regional Forum as a key platform for regional security cooperation and welcomed the adoption of the Manila Plan of Action (2026–2036), pledging Pakistan’s support for its successful implementation. Addressing South Asian affairs, Dar reiterated Pakistan’s position that the unresolved Jammu and Kashmir dispute remains a major source of regional instability. He called for a peaceful resolution based on the United Nations Charter, relevant UN Security Council resolutions, and the wishes of the Kashmiri people. He also voiced concerns over India’s decision to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty, describing the move as a unilateral action that could threaten Pakistan’s water security and the livelihoods of millions of its citizens. Dar urged the international community to support international law and encourage peaceful solutions to regional disputes. Speaking on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, Dar described the situation as deeply concerning and called for immediate international action to prevent further suffering. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s longstanding support for the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state based on the pre-1967 borders, with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital. Concluding his address, Dar highlighted Pakistan’s sacrifices in the global fight against terrorism, noting that the country has lost more than 80,000 lives and suffered significant economic losses. He reaffirmed Pakistan’s determination to continue working with the international community to promote peace, stability, and security both regionally and globally.

A district and sessions judge and his security guard were killed after unidentified gunmen opened fire on their vehicle on the national highway in Balochistan’s Mastung district on Thursday. The attack also left an additional sessions judge and another passenger seriously injured, according to local authorities. Deputy Commissioner Bahram Saleem said District and Sessions Judge Abdul Hakeem Kakar was travelling from Quetta to Mastung when armed assailants ambushed his vehicle. The attackers opened fire, killing Judge Kakar and his security guard on the spot. Additional Sessions Judge Tariq Lashari and another individual sustained critical injuries and were immediately shifted to a nearby hospital, where they continue to receive medical treatment. Following the incident, security forces and law enforcement agencies sealed off the area and launched a large-scale search operation. Checkpoints were established along key routes in an effort to track down and arrest those responsible for the attack. The incident drew strong condemnation from Pakistan’s political leadership. President Asif Ali Zardari expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and offered prayers for the recovery of the injured. He stated that anti-state elements backed by foreign interests would never succeed in destabilizing Pakistan and reaffirmed the country’s commitment to eliminating terrorism. He stressed that terrorist groups and those supporting them could not weaken Pakistan’s institutions or its determination to maintain peace. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also condemned the attack, calling it another attempt by anti-state forces to undermine national stability. He reiterated the government’s resolve to eliminate terrorism in all its forms and ensure that those responsible are brought to justice. Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti described the attack as a direct assault on the state and its institutions. He vowed that both the attackers and those facilitating them would face strict legal action. According to the chief minister, the sacrifice of those protecting the law would not be forgotten, and the government would intensify operations against terrorist networks across the province. He further emphasized that there would be no safe haven for militants in Balochistan and that the state’s authority would be upheld at all costs. Special Assistant to the Chief Minister for Information and Political Affairs, Shahid Rind, also denounced the attack, calling the killing of a judge and his security guard a deeply tragic incident. He said targeting members of the judiciary and legal community was part of a broader attempt to weaken the rule of law but insisted such efforts would fail. He added that the provincial government had directed authorities to provide the best possible medical care to the injured while extending full support to the victims’ families. Balochistan Home Minister Mir Ziaullah Langove expressed grief over the attack and ordered an immediate investigation. He directed the Inspector General of Police and the provincial commissioner to submit a detailed report and ensure the swift arrest of those responsible. He reaffirmed that protecting citizens and state institutions remains the government’s highest priority. The Balochistan Bar Council strongly condemned the attack, describing it as an assault on the judiciary, the legal profession, and the rule of law. In protest, the council announced a two-day boycott of court proceedings and declared three days of mourning. Lawyers across the province will wear black armbands while appearing before courts. The council also demanded enhanced security for judges, lawyers, and court staff, reaffirming the legal community’s commitment to defending justice and standing united against terrorism.

By: Hur Hussaini   Lahore: Punjab Minister for Minorities Affairs, Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora, visited the Head Office of the Rural Community Development Programme (RCDP), where he was warmly received by Muhammad Murtaza, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of RCDP and Vice Chairman of the Pakistan Microfinance Network. During the visit, the Minister held a comprehensive meeting with representatives of the microfinance sector to discuss strategies for promoting financial inclusion, with particular focus on the economic empowerment of religious minorities, women, and other marginalized communities. Addressing the meeting, Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora emphasized that financial inclusion is a powerful instrument for reducing inequality, empowering vulnerable segments of society, and creating equal opportunities for sustainable economic growth. He stated that under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, the Government of Punjab is committed to ensuring inclusive development and equal economic opportunities for every citizen without discrimination. The Minister underscored the importance of expanding access to affordable and inclusive financial services for religious minorities, women, and low-income households, enabling them to become financially independent and active contributors to the province’s socio-economic development. Participants also discussed the role of microfinance institutions in advancing human rights and strengthening financial resilience among underserved communities. Both sides agreed to enhance collaboration to make microfinance initiatives more effective and accessible across Punjab. Representatives of the Pakistan Microfinance Network reaffirmed their commitment to expanding comprehensive financial services through the Network’s platform, while the Rural Community Development Programme (RCDP) pledged its continued support for initiatives aimed at promoting the financial independence and economic well-being of minorities and women. The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to strengthening partnerships and undertaking joint initiatives to promote financial inclusion, social protection, and sustainable economic opportunities for vulnerable and marginalized communities throughout Punjab.

  Lahore: A newly issued recruitment advertisement by PECTAA and shared by the Punjab education minister on his social media handles, has sparked strong reactions and disappointment among thousands of job applicants across Punjab. Candidates have expressed their concerns over the decision to announce vacancies that, according to them, had already been advertised previously and for which the recruitment process had already begun. Applicants stated that the same positions were announced in July last year, following which thousands of candidates from different districts of Punjab completed the application procedure and appeared in the recruitment test conducted by PECTAA at Punjab University, Lahore. Many candidates invested significant time, effort, and money in preparing for the examination and completing all required formalities. However, despite the successful completion of the written test, the recruitment process was discontinued without any clear explanation. Candidates who had participated in the earlier process have been waiting for further updates and hoped that the authorities would complete the recruitment procedure based on the test results already obtained. Instead, PECTAA has recently issued a new advertisement for the same vacancies, requiring candidates to submit fresh applications and pay a new processing fee of Rs. 3,000 for each post. The decision has caused frustration among job seekers, who argue that they should not be forced to repeat the entire process or pay additional charges when they have already fulfilled the required criteria. Several candidates have criticised the move, describing it as an unnecessary financial burden on unemployed youth who are already facing difficult economic conditions. They claim that demanding another application fee from thousands of applicants creates additional hardship and raises questions about the transparency and fairness of the recruitment procedure. Responding to the concerns, PECTAA spokesperson Noorul Huda told Minute Mirror that the department decided to initiate another round of tests and interviews after failing to find suitable candidates for the advertised positions. When informed that applicants had already appeared in the written test and those who qualified had also been called for interviews, the spokesperson said that both the written test and the interview are necessary to determine a candidate’s suitability for recruitment. He also defended the decision to charge a fresh application fee for the new recruitment process. However, candidates maintained that the recruitment process itself imposes an additional financial burden, as PECTAA conducts both its written tests and interviews in Lahore. Applicants from across Punjab have to travel to the provincial capital for each stage of the recruitment process, resulting in considerable transportation and accommodation expenses. The affected candidates have strongly appealed to PECTAA officials to reconsider the decision and acknowledge the applications submitted during the previous recruitment drive. They have demanded that the authorities complete the pending recruitment process using the test results of candidates who already appeared in the examination. According to the protesting applicants, restarting the entire process not only wastes the efforts of thousands of candidates but also creates uncertainty about the future of those who have already invested months preparing for the opportunity. They believe that conducting another recruitment cycle for the same positions is unfair unless there is a valid reason and proper justification from the concerned department. Candidates have also requested the Punjab Government and senior officials to intervene in the matter and investigate the issue. They urged the authorities to provide relief by accepting the previous applications, avoiding unnecessary fee collection, and ensuring that the recruitment process is conducted in a transparent and merit-based manner. The applicants said that unemployed youth across Punjab are looking toward government institutions for fair opportunities and expect recruitment systems to protect their time, effort, and financial investments. They called for immediate action from relevant authorities so that the recruitment process can move forward without causing further inconvenience to candidates.  

  The Punjab University administration has intensified its efforts to address the issue of stray dogs on campus while ensuring compliance with legal directives and prioritizing the safety of students, faculty, staff, and visitors. According to university officials, the administration has been actively pursuing a comprehensive strategy to manage the stray dog population in collaboration with the Metropolitan Corporation Lahore (MCL). The initiative follows the directives of the Honorable Lahore High Court, which has prohibited the culling of stray dogs and instead instructed the relevant civic authorities to adopt humane measures for controlling their population. In line with the court’s orders, Punjab University has been coordinating closely with MCL to implement a systematic and lawful approach to the issue. University officials stated that several operations have already been carried out on different parts of the campus, during which MCL teams captured stray dogs and took them into custody as part of the approved animal control mechanism. The administration has also shared details of these operations to highlight the progress made so far. Officials emphasized that the campaign is not a one-time activity but an ongoing effort aimed at ensuring long-term results. The latest operation has already commenced and will continue in the coming days to further reduce the presence of stray dogs across the university premises. The administration believes that sustained operations, coupled with close coordination between the university and civic authorities, will help create a safer and more secure environment for everyone on campus. The stray dog issue has remained a concern for students and employees, with many expressing worries about safety while moving between academic departments, hostels, and other university facilities. Responding to these concerns, the university administration reiterated its commitment to resolving the matter through legal and humane means rather than adopting measures that violate court directives. University officials also urged members of the campus community to cooperate with the ongoing operations and avoid interfering with the work of MCL teams. They stressed that public cooperation is essential for the success of the campaign and encouraged anyone noticing areas with a high concentration of stray dogs to report them to the relevant university offices so that timely action can be taken. The administration further clarified that all measures being implemented are fully aligned with the directions issued by the Honorable Lahore High Court. Since culling has been prohibited, the focus remains on capturing, relocating, and managing stray dogs through the mechanisms prescribed by the competent authorities. Officials expressed optimism that the continued operations will gradually improve the situation and significantly minimize the risks associated with stray dogs on campus. They reaffirmed that the university will maintain close coordination with MCL until satisfactory and sustainable results are achieved. Punjab University has assured students, faculty members, and staff that their safety and well-being remain among the institution’s highest priorities. The administration stated that it will continue monitoring the situation, reviewing progress regularly, and taking all necessary steps within the legal framework to ensure a safe, secure, and conducive academic environment for the entire university community.

  Lahore: A deeply unfortunate, alarming, and unacceptable incident occurred today at Punjab University when the young daughter of a university professor was attacked by stray dogs roaming freely on the university campus. The brutal attack left the child with approximately fifteen deep bite wounds on different parts of her body, requiring immediate medical attention. The tragic incident has caused immense shock, grief, and concern among the victim’s family as well as the entire university community. The Academic Staff Association (ASA) and the Joint Action Committee stated that they have repeatedly raised concerns over the growing stray dog population on the campus through both written communications and verbal representations over the past several months. According to the associations, they had consistently warned the university administration that the increasing number of stray dogs posed a serious threat to the lives and safety of students, faculty members, university employees, and their families. Despite numerous complaints and repeated demands for action, the administration allegedly failed to address the issue with the seriousness it deserved, displaying what the associations described as criminal negligence, indifference, and a lack of responsibility. They maintained that today’s tragic incident is a direct consequence of this continued inaction. The Academic Staff Association and the Joint Action Committee expressed profound disappointment over what they described as the misplaced priorities of the current university administration. Instead of focusing on resolving the institution’s fundamental issues, ensuring campus security, and protecting the welfare of the university community, the administration has allegedly remained preoccupied with retaliatory actions, harassment of faculty and employees, and unnecessary administrative conflicts. The associations argued that when an administration neglects its basic legal and administrative responsibilities, such unfortunate incidents become inevitable, and responsibility for the consequences rests with the concerned authorities. Strongly condemning the incident, the Academic Staff Association (ASA) and the Joint Action Committee have put forward the following demands: An immediate, transparent, and impartial inquiry should be conducted to determine responsibility for the incident and hold those accountable. The injured child and her family should be provided with every possible medical, administrative, and financial assistance. A comprehensive, effective, and permanent operation should be launched on an emergency basis to make the entire Punjab University campus safe from stray dogs. A clear, practical, and sustainable campus safety policy should be developed and implemented to ensure the protection of students, faculty members, employees, and their families. The Academic Staff Association and the Joint Action Committee further warned that if the university administration fails to take immediate and effective measures to permanently resolve the stray dog issue, and if any similar incident occurs in the future, they will reserve the right to pursue all available legal remedies against those responsible. These measures may include the registration of a First Information Report (FIR) and other legal proceedings against the relevant authorities for negligence. The associations urged the university administration to set aside personal preferences, retaliatory attitudes, and unnecessary disputes, and instead devote its full attention to addressing the university’s core challenges. They stressed that ensuring campus security and safeguarding the lives and property of students, faculty members, employees, and their families must remain the administration’s highest priority. The statement concluded by emphasizing that the protection of human life is the foremost responsibility of any institution, and any further negligence in fulfilling this duty would be entirely unacceptable.

Gold prices in Pakistan witnessed a significant decline on Thursday, providing relief to buyers as rates fell in line with the downward trend in the international bullion market. According to the All Pakistan Sarafa Gems and Jewellers Association, the price of one tola of gold decreased by Rs. 1,800, bringing the new rate down to Rs. 432,036 per tola. The price of 10 grams of gold also recorded a decline of Rs. 1,543, settling at Rs. 370,401 across the local market. The drop in domestic gold prices follows a decline in international bullion rates. In the global market, the price of gold fell by $18 per ounce, reaching $4,096 per ounce. Gold prices in Pakistan are influenced by fluctuations in international markets as well as movements in the exchange rate. Market analysts say changes in global demand, investor sentiment, and economic developments continue to impact bullion prices on a daily basis. Traders expect gold prices to remain sensitive to international market trends in the coming days, with further fluctuations possible depending on global economic data and investor activity.