فیچرڈ

ISLAMABAD: Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, has said that military operations alone cannot permanently resolve Pakistan’s security challenges, stressing that lasting peace requires a collective national effort. Addressing a media briefing, the military spokesperson said that while the armed forces continue to conduct effective operations against terrorism, sustainable stability depends on the active role of all state institutions and society. He emphasized that the fight against terrorism is a national responsibility that extends beyond the battlefield. The DG ISPR noted that security forces remain committed to eliminating terrorist threats and protecting the country’s sovereignty. However, he underlined that enduring peace can only be achieved through coordinated governance, public support, and a comprehensive national strategy alongside security operations. His remarks highlighted the importance of unity and a whole-of-nation approach in addressing Pakistan’s security challenges, reaffirming that military successes must be complemented by political, administrative, and societal efforts to ensure long-term stability. Moreover, Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry has said Pakistan must become a “hard state” where the Constitution and law are applied equally to everyone, stressing that strong governance is essential to defeating terrorism and ensuring lasting peace. He rejected claims that the security situation in Balochistan is worsening, calling them part of a deliberate campaign to create a false perception about the province. Addressing a detailed press conference on Friday, the military spokesperson said Pakistan’s security forces continue to make significant gains against terrorism through sustained intelligence-based operations across the country. Lt Gen Chaudhry said a total of 40,348 intelligence-based operations (IBOs) have been carried out so far this year by the armed forces, police, intelligence agencies and civil armed forces. More than 31,000 of these operations were conducted in Balochistan, reflecting the state’s continued focus on restoring peace in the province. He said Pakistan recorded 3,145 terrorism-related incidents during 2026. Of these, 1,971 incidents occurred in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, 1,148 in Balochistan and 26 in other parts of the country. The ISPR chief said security forces killed 2,084 confirmed terrorists during operations this year, describing it as the highest average in the country’s history. On average, around 10 terrorists have been eliminated every day, while nearly 200 intelligence-based operations are conducted daily. Highlighting the sacrifices made in the fight against terrorism, Lt Gen Chaudhry said 819 Pakistanis lost their lives in terrorism-related incidents this year. The victims included 303 military personnel, 194 members of police and civil armed forces, and 322 civilians. He also revealed that 28 suicide attacks had taken place across the country during the year. According to him, most of these attacks involved Afghan nationals or individuals linked to groups operating from Afghan territory. The military spokesperson said the rise in terrorist attacks should not be viewed as a sign of weakness. Instead, he argued that militant groups have intensified attacks because of increasing pressure from proactive security operations and repeated battlefield setbacks. Lt Gen Chaudhry also accused the Afghan Taliban administration of allowing terrorist groups to operate from Afghan soil, claiming cross-border support remains a major factor behind terrorism inside Pakistan. Explaining his vision of a “hard state,” he said it does not mean military rule. Rather, it refers to a country where institutions function according to the Constitution, laws are enforced fairly, and no individual or group stands above the law. Referring to Article 5 of Pakistan’s Constitution, he said loyalty to the state and obedience to the Constitution are fundamental duties of every citizen. He added that discussions about rights must also include recognition of civic responsibilities. Speaking specifically about Balochistan, Lt Gen Chaudhry said the province’s real challenge lies with certain elites and tribal leaders who seek to preserve the existing power structure. He alleged that some influential groups oppose educational and economic progress because they fear losing their traditional influence. He further claimed that some individuals benefit from illegal activities, including smuggling and other criminal networks, and promote unrest whenever the state strengthens law enforcement or cracks down on such activities. The military spokesperson reiterated that Pakistan would not negotiate with terrorist groups or those using violence for political purposes. Instead, he said the armed forces would continue engaging directly with the people of Balochistan, whom he described as the province’s true stakeholders. Lt Gen Chaudhry also alleged that hostile foreign powers are attempting to exploit Balochistan’s strategic location and natural resources by supporting anti-state elements in collaboration with local actors opposed to reforms and development. Discussing the issue of missing persons, he said the Commission of Inquiry on Enforced Disappearances has received 10,901 complaints since its establishment. Of these, 9,372 cases have been resolved, with 4,896 individuals returning home, around 1,030 found in prisons, 308 confirmed dead, and nearly 2,400 complaints determined to be incorrectly reported. He added that 2,933 complaints originated from Balochistan, of which 2,767 have already been resolved.

Pakistan and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) have reaffirmed their commitment to expanding cooperation in food security, climate resilience, sustainable agriculture, and livestock development. The renewed partnership aims to address the growing challenges posed by climate change while supporting Pakistan’s long-term agricultural and economic development. The commitment was made during a meeting held in Islamabad between Federal Minister for National Food Security and Research Rana Tanveer Hussain and a delegation from the FAO led by Deputy Regional Representative for Asia and the Pacific, Robert Simpson. The discussions focused on strengthening existing partnerships and accelerating the implementation of projects designed to improve agricultural productivity and food systems across the country. During the meeting, Rana Tanveer Hussain emphasized that Pakistan remains one of the countries most vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, despite contributing only a minimal share to global greenhouse gas emissions. He stressed that unpredictable weather patterns, floods, droughts, and rising temperatures continue to threaten agricultural production, food availability, and the livelihoods of millions of farmers. The minister called for enhanced technical assistance from the FAO and urged the timely implementation of ongoing development initiatives. He highlighted the importance of adopting modern farming practices, improving water management, and strengthening institutional capacity to help Pakistan build a more resilient agricultural sector. Rana Tanveer Hussain also outlined the government’s key priorities for the agriculture sector. These include improving food safety standards, strengthening Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS) systems to boost agricultural exports, expanding livestock development programs, and increasing livestock exports to international markets. He further stressed the need to reduce Pakistan’s dependence on imported wheat and edible oil by increasing domestic agricultural production and promoting sustainable farming practices. The FAO delegation reaffirmed its continued support for Pakistan’s agricultural development agenda. Robert Simpson assured the minister that the organization would continue working closely with the government to mobilize financial resources from international financial institutions and development partners. The funding is expected to support climate adaptation projects, food security initiatives, and sustainable agricultural development across the country. The meeting reflects the shared commitment of Pakistan and the FAO to building a resilient and sustainable food system capable of addressing future challenges. By strengthening cooperation and investing in climate-smart agriculture, both sides aim to improve food security, enhance rural livelihoods, and promote sustainable economic growth for the benefit of future generations.

The spillway gates of Rawal Dam will be opened on Saturday at 6:00 a.m. after the reservoir’s water level reached 1,748.30 feet, prompting authorities to release excess water as a precautionary measure. According to the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), the controlled release of water is expected to increase the flow in Korang Nullah. Officials have urged residents living along the nullah to remain alert and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety. The NDMA advised the public to avoid crossing Korang Nullah or using temporary bridges if the water level rises following the opening of the spillway gates. Authorities warned that stronger water currents could pose serious risks to commuters and nearby communities. Local administration and emergency response teams have been placed on alert to monitor the situation and respond promptly to any emergencies. Residents in low-lying areas have been encouraged to stay informed through official weather and disaster management updates. The opening of spillway gates is a routine safety measure carried out to regulate reservoir levels and reduce pressure on the dam during periods of increased rainfall or rising inflows. Timely water releases help maintain the structural safety of the dam while minimizing the risk of flooding downstream. Authorities have emphasized the importance of following official advisories and avoiding unnecessary travel near Korang Nullah until water levels stabilize. Motorists and pedestrians are advised to exercise caution, particularly in areas where temporary crossings may become unsafe due to the increased flow. The NDMA continues to monitor water levels and weather conditions closely in coordination with local authorities. Any further changes in the situation will be communicated through official channels. Residents are encouraged to remain vigilant, cooperate with emergency officials, and report any signs of flooding or hazardous conditions. By following safety guidelines and avoiding high-risk areas, the public can help reduce the risk of accidents during the controlled release of water from Rawal Dam.

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a nationwide flood alert, warning that rising river levels and continued monsoon rainfall could lead to flooding in several parts of Pakistan through Sunday. The authority has urged citizens to remain vigilant and avoid unnecessary travel to flood-prone areas. According to the NDMA, the Indus River is currently experiencing moderate flooding at Guddu, while low flood conditions persist at Kalabagh, Chashma, and Sukkur. The Chenab River is also expected to witness moderate to high water flows at Marala, with low to moderate flows forecast at Khanki and Qadirabad. The authority further stated that the Jhelum, Ravi, and Kabul rivers, along with their tributaries, are expected to experience low to moderate flows. However, water levels in streams and tributaries connected to the Jhelum, Chenab, and Ravi rivers are likely to increase significantly due to ongoing rainfall. Hill torrents in Dera Ghazi Khan and Rajanpur are also expected to experience heavy water flows, raising the risk of flash flooding. Similar conditions are forecast for rain-fed streams and nullahs in central and southern districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and northern Balochistan. The NDMA warned that districts including Mohmand, Bajaur, Buner, Mardan, Kurram, South Waziristan, Shangla, and Peshawar in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa could experience flooding in streams and nullahs. In northern Balochistan, the Nari, Bolan, Kangri, and Lehri rivers are also at risk of flash flooding. Urban flooding is expected in several Punjab districts, including Rawalpindi, Jhelum, Gujranwala, Sargodha, Mandi Bahauddin, Sialkot, Gujrat, Narowal, Lahore, Okara, Sahiwal, and Faisalabad. Similar conditions may affect Sindh districts such as Sukkur, Hyderabad, Shaheed Benazirabad, Thatta, Badin, Sanghar, Khairpur, Mirpurkhas, Umerkot, Tando Muhammad Khan, Tando Allahyar, Tharparkar, and Nawabshah. Cities including Peshawar, Nowshera, Charsadda, and Mardan may also experience urban flooding. The NDMA has advised the public to avoid crossing flooded roads, rivers, and streams, particularly in mountainous areas where landslides, debris flows, and flash floods are more likely during the monsoon season. Travelers are encouraged to carry emergency supplies, including drinking water, dry food, a flashlight, a first-aid kit, a power bank, and emergency contact numbers. Citizens have also been urged to stay informed through the official Pak NDMA Disaster Alert mobile application and follow instructions issued by local authorities to ensure their safety during the ongoing monsoon season.

A 30-year-old man was successfully rescued after falling into a 120-foot-deep well in Gujar Khan, Rawalpindi district, following a swift emergency response by Rescue 1122. The incident occurred in the Miana Phambal area of Gujar Khan, where the man, identified as Waqas, accidentally fell into a deep brick-lined well. Authorities were alerted immediately, prompting Rescue 1122 teams to rush to the scene and launch a carefully planned rescue operation. According to rescue officials, the well was approximately 120 feet deep and constructed with brick walls, making the rescue operation particularly challenging. Despite the difficult conditions, trained rescuers safely reached the trapped man using specialized rescue equipment and techniques. After reaching Waqas, rescue personnel secured him with safety gear and carefully lifted him out of the well. The operation was completed successfully, ensuring that the victim was brought to safety without further injury. Following the rescue, emergency medical personnel provided Waqas with first aid at the scene before assessing his condition. Officials said the timely response and professional handling of the incident played a crucial role in saving his life. Rescue 1122 officials praised the efforts of the emergency responders, whose quick action and expertise helped prevent a potentially fatal outcome. The incident also highlighted the importance of rapid emergency response services in handling high-risk rescue situations. Authorities have not yet disclosed how the man fell into the well, and the circumstances surrounding the incident remain under review. Local officials have urged residents to exercise caution around uncovered or deep wells, particularly in rural areas where such structures may pose serious safety hazards. The successful rescue once again demonstrates the preparedness and efficiency of Rescue 1122 teams in responding to emergencies across Punjab. Their prompt action ensured that another life was saved through coordinated planning, technical expertise, and dedication. Residents have appreciated the efforts of the rescue personnel and emphasized the need for greater awareness about safety measures around wells and other hazardous locations to help prevent similar accidents in the future.

The federal government has announced a slight reduction in the prices of petrol and high-speed diesel, issuing a fresh notification through the Ministry of Energy (Petroleum Division). The revised fuel prices will come into effect from August 1, 2026, and will remain applicable until August 3, 2026. According to the official notification, the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) determined the new petroleum product prices under the pricing mechanism approved by the federal government. The latest revision provides modest relief to consumers amid fluctuating international oil prices. Under the new rates, the price of petrol has been reduced by 12 paisa per litre, bringing the new price to Rs. 336.03 per litre. Previously, petrol was being sold at Rs. 336.15 per litre. Similarly, the price of high-speed diesel (HSD) has been cut by 66 paisa per litre. The revised price has been set at Rs. 392.38 per litre, compared with the previous rate of Rs. 393.04 per litre. Although the reductions are relatively small, they reflect the government’s periodic review of petroleum prices based on recommendations from OGRA and prevailing market conditions. Fuel prices in Pakistan are reviewed regularly, taking into account changes in international crude oil prices, exchange rate fluctuations, and applicable taxes and levies. Petrol is widely used by private vehicles, motorcycles, and small transport operators, while high-speed diesel is the primary fuel for heavy transport, agriculture, and industrial machinery. Any change in fuel prices can have a direct impact on transportation costs, inflation, and the prices of essential goods. The Ministry of Energy stated that the revised prices have been implemented in accordance with the government’s petroleum pricing policy. Consumers across the country will pay the new rates at fuel stations from August 1. The latest price adjustment comes as authorities continue to monitor global energy markets and domestic economic conditions. Future revisions will depend on international oil price trends, currency movements, and recommendations made by OGRA under the government’s approved pricing mechanism.