تازہ ترین

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    Karachi water crisis: Munem Zafar Khan says citize…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Jamaat-e-Islami Karachi chief Munem Zafar Khan has expressed concern over the worsening civic problems in Karachi, saying that residents of the city are struggling even for basic necessities such as clean water. Addressing a press conference in Karachi, Munem Zafar Khan criticized the provincial government over issues related to water supply, electricity, infrastructure, and public services. He said that the city continues to face serious challenges despite repeated promises of improvement. The Jamaat-e-Islami leader claimed that shortly after the first drops of rain fell in Karachi, around 200 power feeders were affected, causing electricity disruptions in several areas. He questioned the performance of K-Electric, stating that despite receiving significant government support, improvements in power generation and transmission systems had not met public expectations. Munem Zafar Khan also criticized the Sindh government over urban infrastructure issues, claiming that Karachi lacks adequate facilities and that residents are facing difficulties due to shortages of essential services. He raised concerns about drainage problems and safety issues, stating that several people had lost their lives after falling into open gutters. He questioned why proper maintenance and safety measures had not been implemented despite repeated incidents. The JI Karachi chief also criticized the pace of development projects, claiming that funds allocated for drainage cleaning and infrastructure improvements were often utilized shortly before the monsoon season instead of through year-round planning. Discussing the city’s water shortage, he said that a significant portion of Karachi’s coastal population continues to face difficulties accessing water. He also raised concerns about delays in the K-IV water project, saying that the project remains crucial for meeting the city’s growing water needs. Munem Zafar Khan further criticized delays in road and transport projects, including water pipeline work and other development schemes, alleging that political interests and poor management have affected progress. He also mentioned health-related concerns, referring to reports of HIV cases among children and calling for accountability and improvements in healthcare systems. The Sindh government and other relevant authorities have faced repeated criticism from opposition parties over Karachi’s civic challenges, including water shortages, electricity problems, waste management, and infrastructure development. Karachi, Pakistan’s largest city and economic hub, continues to face pressure from rapid population growth and increasing demand for public services. Experts have emphasized the need for long-term planning, better governance, and effective implementation of development projects to address the city’s growing challenges.

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    Security forces foil suicide attack in South Wazir…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Pakistan security forces have foiled a suicide attack on a checkpost in South Waziristan district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, killing four terrorists, including the suicide bomber, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said. According to a statement issued by the military’s media wing, terrorists attempted to attack a security forces checkpost by driving an explosives-filled vehicle toward the installation. However, the attack was stopped due to the quick and effective response of security personnel. The ISPR said that the explosives-laden vehicle was engaged and destroyed before it could reach the checkpost, killing the suicide bomber inside. The failed attack caused no damage to the security installation and no casualties were reported among security forces. Following the initial attack attempt, troops engaged other militants who tried to enter the area. According to the statement, three terrorists were forced into a nearby compound and were later killed during a targeted clearance operation carried out by security forces. The military said a sanitisation operation was also launched in the surrounding area to search for any remaining militants and ensure the security of the region. The ISPR reiterated that counter-terrorism operations under the “Azm-i-Istehkam” initiative will continue with full commitment to eliminate terrorism and prevent attacks against the country. The operation is part of ongoing efforts by security forces and law enforcement agencies to tackle militant threats. The incident comes a day after a terrorist attack on a joint police checkpost in Tank district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa resulted in the deaths of 15 people, including security personnel. Officials said the attack highlighted the continuing security challenges faced by the province. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has witnessed an increase in militant activities over the past year, with security forces conducting frequent operations against armed groups operating in the region. Security officials have stated that intelligence-based operations and targeted actions will continue to counter militant networks and protect civilians and security personnel. The latest operation in South Waziristan reflects the ongoing security efforts aimed at preventing attacks and maintaining stability in areas affected by terrorism.

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    From classroom to gallery: KDSP’s graduation 

    ByJustpaste.in

    Exhibition Redefines Ability Finding confidence in every stitch: Inside KDSP’s graduation where ‘thesis’ means a product, a skill, and a paycheck KARACHI: The room was loud with pride. Eight students stood by tables displaying tote bags, paintings, screen-printed handbags, painted canvases, cushion covers, and pouches stitched with their own names on them. This is KDSP’s idea of a “thesis.” Not a paper. A proof. Proof that years of training can turn into a skill, and a skill can turn into independence. It is easy to group all children under one word — “special.” But at the Karachi Down Syndrome Program, they don’t. Because a child with Down Syndrome learns differently than a child with CP. An autistic student needs a different kind of classroom than any other child. Launched in March 2014, the Karachi Down Syndrome Program (KDSP) is a prominent non-profit organization advocating for the value, acceptance, and inclusion of individuals with Down syndrome. Based in Karachi, KDSP operates as a “one-stop solution” providing comprehensive, highly subsidized developmental services to individuals and their families. But “special” is not a plan. And it is not the same for everyone: We called them “special.” And then we used that word as a reason to keep them on the margins. Out of regular schools. Out of job lists. Out of the story we tell about who gets to be useful. A child with CP faces physical challenges and needs mobility support. An autistic child navigates the world differently and needs structure and sensory understanding. A child with Down Syndrome often learns at a different pace and needs repetition, speech therapy, and patience — but also gives back warmth, honesty, and a remarkable ability to master routine work. Their needs are not the same. So their training cannot be the same either. The moment we start calling everyone by one word, we stop seeing the person. A room where ability is displayed, not debated: Last week I had the opportunity to visit the graduation exhibition of 8 students who completed KDSP’s 3-year Education For Life, EFL Graduation Program.   In a city with hundreds of NGOs, very few truly invest in the development of individuals. KDSP is among those few. Here, funding does not end at a ceremony. It becomes years of therapy. It becomes a classroom. It becomes a young adult learning to count change, write an invoice, and stand behind a table that says “Made by me.” CEO: “We don’t do one-size-fits-all” While explaining the mission and vision of KDSP, CEO Ms. Tabish Shahzad said their entire focus is on developing an inclusive society. “From early childhood development to adolescence and beyond, our goal is to take each child to a place where they are fully independent and can be a useful citizen,” she explained. “Every child with Down Syndrome has challenges — speech or communication, lack of focus, behavioral and mental health issues. For each challenge we have diversified programs and counselling sessions. We don’t do one-size-fits-all,” Tabish added, head held high. Different Needs, Different Names, Same Dignity We cannot call everyone “special” and think the job is done. Ms. Sidra Sajid, Skill Development Facilitator for Education For Life, EFL, explained how that works on the ground. “We have a proper organizational structure to support the ultimate EFL program,” she said. “For every vocation and skill, we have trained vocational teachers. It’s not volunteers coming once a month. It’s daily, structured training.” Supporting them are Managers and Assistant Managers who oversee every faculty: Ms. Umaima Shafqat, Ms. Ayesha Shahid, Ms. Sania Siddiqui, Ms. Mahzeb Fahim, and Ms. Asma Urooj. They put in all their efforts in various skill development programs and maintain keen observation of students’ challenges, how to resolve them, and facilitate them through various programs. Ms. Sidra explained that the KDSP EFL Graduation Program reflects a philosophy with two clear dimensions. First, Life: Basic academics. How to travel. How to manage money. How to carry out everyday chores without depending on anyone. The dignity of doing it yourself. It is obligatory to learn numeracy, computer literacy, cooking, and life skills. Second, Livelihood: Vocational training and skills that actually sell. Baking. Stitching. Screen printing. Block printing. Weaving. Photography. Making clay items. Things that turn into a product, a service, and an income. The room proved both. White tablecloths. Hand-written price tags. Students standing behind their own work, explaining it in their own words. Talking about the graduates, Ms. Sania Siddiqui added with quiet pride: “Most of them are already earning for their families through their craft. Like Unzila, one of our graduates, who has excelled in splatter painting and has completed her internship at Engro Martin Dow and KDSP itself. And Hasan Mansoor, who is a master of quilling craft. His products are already being offered for sale through KDSP’s own sales outlet, Lehr.” Lehr, headed by Ms. Mehak, is KDSP’s retail space where students’ products — from baked goods to crafts like Hasan’s quilling — are sold to the public. It is the final step of the program: moving from classroom to customer. A proud moment for mentors: Ms. Sadia Navaid, Quilling Class mentor, who has been associated with KDSP for several years, stood by Hasan’s table watching visitors admire his work. “I have seen these children struggle with paper strips in their early classes,” she said. “Tiny fingers, no focus, paper tearing. And today, to see them become masters and make such awesome products… it’s been a journey.” She paused, eyes on Hasan as he explained his design to a customer. “This journey has shown me several sides of life, and the blessings of Allah. These children are my pride and my medals of achievement. It was wonderful to see them grow, along with parents who put in their hundred percent to help them reach the summit.” Chef Zainab served freshly baked items. Ms. Samina, their painting guru, watched her students with the same pride. It was indeed a proud moment for all of them. From

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    PML-N can end AJK’s deprivations: Marryium Auran…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Punjab Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb has said that the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) can help address the longstanding deprivations faced by Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK). She made the remarks while addressing a PML-N rally in Rawalpindi. She also urged party workers to actively support PML-N candidates and work for their success. Marryium Aurangzeb said the PML-N had delivered development projects across Punjab. She rejected criticism that the provincial government had focused only on Lahore. She said roads and other infrastructure had been developed in cities across Punjab. She asked critics to visit different parts of the province and assess the development work themselves. The senior minister also challenged the opposition to present similar development projects instead of criticising the government. She referred to the motorway projects built during Nawaz Sharif’s tenure. She also mentioned the metro bus services introduced during Shehbaz Sharif’s tenure. “Do not just complain. Build a motorway like Nawaz Sharif did,” she said. She added that critics should also demonstrate their ability to provide public transport services similar to those introduced under Shehbaz Sharif. Marryium Aurangzeb highlighted development initiatives in Azad Kashmir as well. She said green buses were now operating on the roads of Muzaffarabad. She also praised Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz’s housing programme. She said the provincial government had provided homes to around 200,000 people through the “Apni Chhat, Apna Ghar” initiative during the first 18 months. The senior minister also highlighted the government’s education programmes. She said 100,000 children had received laptops under the provincial government’s laptop scheme. She added that 50,000 students had been awarded Honhaar scholarships. According to Marriyum Aurangzeb, these initiatives were aimed at supporting students and creating better educational opportunities for young people. She said the PML-N had a record of development and public welfare projects. She urged party workers to remain united and campaign actively for the party’s candidates. Marryium Aurangzeb maintained that the PML-N could play an important role in addressing the grievances of the people of AJK and bringing development to the region.

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    Balochistan leaders unite to strengthen peace and …

    ByJustpaste.in

    QUETTA: Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti and Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) provincial chief Senator Maulana Abdul Wasey have reaffirmed their commitment to restoring lasting peace in the province, stressing the importance of unity and collective action to tackle security challenges. During a meeting in Quetta, the two leaders reviewed the overall law and order situation and discussed measures to strengthen peace and stability across Balochistan. Chief Minister Bugti described the establishment of durable peace as the provincial government’s top priority, saying cooperation among political, religious and social leaders was essential to achieving this goal. He emphasised that national unity was crucial in confronting terrorism and anti-state elements, adding that the government was fully committed to protecting the lives and property of citizens while promoting development, prosperity and the rule of law throughout the province. Senator Abdul Wasey highlighted the need for consultation, political consensus and national cohesion, saying Balochistan’s challenges could only be overcome through joint efforts involving all stakeholders. In a separate engagement, Chief Minister Bugti visited the residence of martyred District and Sessions Judge Abdul Hakeem Kakar to offer his condolences to the bereaved family and paid tribute to the judge’s services and sacrifice.

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    G-B flash floods leave widespread destruction

    ByJustpaste.in

    GILGIT: Torrential rains have triggered devastating flash floods, mudslides and landslides across Gilgit-Baltistan, leaving a trail of destruction that has damaged hundreds of homes, swept away bridges and disrupted road links in several districts. According to the latest assessment by the Gilgit-Baltistan Disaster Management Authority (GBDMA), 60 weather-related incidents have been recorded across the region, causing extensive damage to homes, transport infrastructure and livestock. Officials reported that 184 houses were affected, including 49 completely destroyed and 135 partially damaged. The disasters also washed away nine bridges, damaged nearly eight kilometres of roads and claimed the lives of 68 animals. Astore emerged as the worst-hit district in terms of housing damage, where more than 80 homes were partially damaged after flash floods and landslides struck the Lous and Doyan Khichik areas. Diamer also suffered significant losses, with 42 houses damaged, including 16 that were completely destroyed in Thore, Buner Dass, Khanbary, Shahi Mahal and Darel. In Skardu, rising water levels and flash floods destroyed 15 houses and swept away four bridges, the highest number of bridge losses reported in any district. Ghizer witnessed damage to two dozen homes and one bridge due to flash floods, cloudbursts and river erosion, while Ghanche reported damage to 12 houses and the loss of three bridges. Gilgit district also experienced flooding in several valleys, where eight houses were damaged and around 50 livestock perished, accounting for the highest livestock losses in the region. Although Hunza and Nagar escaped major residential damage, road infrastructure in both districts was affected by flooding and erosion. Relief efforts are continuing in the affected areas. Emergency supplies, including tents, food packs, kitchen sets, plastic mats and bedding, have been distributed among displaced families in Diamer and Skardu. Authorities have also dispatched additional relief consignments to flood-hit valleys to support affected communities. Meanwhile, road clearance operations are underway to restore connectivity. Heavy machinery has been deployed to remove landslide debris along the Jaglot-Skardu Road, where restoration work is progressing at multiple locations. Officials said road networks in Ghizer, Hunza, Shiger and Kharmang have been reopened, while emergency teams and equipment remain on high alert as authorities continue monitoring the evolving situation.

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    ECC approves Rs4.188bn PASSCO compensation package

    ByJustpaste.in

    The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) has approved a Rs4.188 billion compensation package for employees of the Pakistan Agricultural Storage and Services Corporation (PASSCO). The decision is part of the government’s plan to wind up PASSCO. The process is also linked to the disposal of the corporation’s wheat stocks. The government has set December 2026 as the deadline for completing the process. The ECC directed that the winding-up process must be independently reviewed. A third party will validate the process to ensure transparency and compliance with the approved plan. The committee also stressed the need to dispose of PASSCO’s wheat stocks as soon as possible. Officials said the early disposal of the stocks would help implement the employee compensation package on time. The Ministry of National Food Security and Research assured the ECC that the process would be completed by December. The government began work on the closure of PASSCO in 2025. The Prime Minister’s Office had directed the finance minister to oversee the process in consultation with the relevant ministry. A meeting chaired by the finance minister later decided that a severance package should be prepared for PASSCO employees. The package was designed along the lines of the voluntary separation scheme approved for employees of the Utility Stores Corporation. PASSCO’s Board of Directors subsequently approved the revised compensation package. The scheme covers regular employees as well as contractual and daily-wage workers. It includes severance compensation and several terminal benefits. These include leave encashment and a farewell grant. The package also provides maintenance support for widows and retired employees through PASSCO’s Benevolent Fund. The ECC had previously approved the winding up of PASSCO. It also approved the creation of a Special Purpose Vehicle called the Wheat Stock Management Company (WSMC) Public Limited. The federal cabinet later ratified the decision. The total cost of the employee package is estimated at Rs4.188 billion. Around Rs3.967 billion has been allocated for severance compensation and terminal benefits for PASSCO employees. Another Rs221 million has been set aside for maintenance grants. The amount will benefit 38 widows and 236 retired employees.

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    Iran claims 200+ US troops killed as Tehran warns …

    ByJustpaste.in

    TEHRAN: Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has claimed that more than 200 US military personnel were killed and many others wounded during Iranian retaliatory attacks amid the latest escalation between Tehran and Washington. The claim, however, has not been independently verified, and no immediate confirmation or denial of the reported US casualties was available from American officials. IRGC spokesman Brigadier General Hossein Mohebbi rejected figures released by Washington, arguing that they did not reflect the full extent of losses suffered by US forces during the conflict. Speaking to Iran’s semi-official Tasnim news agency, Mohebbi said Iranian forces had targeted US military facilities across the region. He claimed that eight American military centers were struck and that around 20 protective shelters at one location were destroyed. The IRGC spokesman challenged Washington to allow journalists access to the affected military sites, saying such visits would reveal the extent of the damage. He accused US authorities of withholding information about casualties and military losses. Iran claims major US aircraft losses Mohebbi also claimed that Iranian attacks during roughly two weeks of fighting destroyed 11 US warplanes and helicopters on the ground. According to the IRGC account, the reported losses included an F-15 fighter jet, a P-8 maritime patrol aircraft, a C-17 transport aircraft and eight aerial refueling planes. Iran also claimed that 17 reconnaissance and operational drones were destroyed, including eight described as brand-new. The claims represent a potentially significant escalation in Tehran’s portrayal of the conflict. Independent confirmation of the reported aircraft losses has not emerged, and the locations of the alleged strikes have not been publicly specified. The statements came as tensions between Iran and the United States remained high, even as diplomatic contacts appeared to be continuing. Reports indicate that Washington and Tehran have exchanged messages through intermediaries, although major differences and deep mistrust remain. IRGC issues warning to Israel Iran also issued a fresh warning to Israel, saying Tel Aviv could face serious consequences if it re-enters the conflict. The IRGC said Iranian forces were closely monitoring the possibility of Israeli involvement and had prepared their strategy accordingly. The latest claims add another layer of uncertainty to an already volatile situation. With casualty figures and battlefield damage disputed by the opposing sides, the coming days could determine whether the confrontation moves toward diplomacy—or another dangerous round of escalation.

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    J-10C jets downed six Indian aircraft: report

    ByJustpaste.in

    Pakistan Air Force’s J-10C fighter jets reportedly engaged Indian aircraft during the May 2025 aerial confrontation without direct support from airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft. The claim was made in a report by Ukrainian defence publication Defense Express. The report cited Chinese state television and comments from Chinese radar specialist Ben De. According to the report, Pakistani J-10C jets used their onboard KLJ-7A radars to detect and engage Indian aircraft. The jets were reportedly able to track targets from a distance of around 200 kilometres. The report claimed that six Indian aircraft were shot down during the confrontation. It included three Rafale fighter jets among the aircraft allegedly destroyed. The report said the Pakistani fighters did not require direct targeting assistance from AEW&C aircraft during the reported engagements. Instead, the J-10Cs reportedly used their own radar systems to identify and track targets. The KLJ-7A is an active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar designed for modern air combat. It can detect and track multiple targets and provide information needed for air-to-air engagements. The report’s claims have drawn attention because AEW&C aircraft are normally used to provide wider-area surveillance and help fighter jets detect threats at longer ranges. The reported use of the J-10C’s onboard radar suggests that the aircraft could conduct long-range engagements with greater independence from airborne surveillance platforms. The May 2025 confrontation involved intense aerial activity between Pakistan and India. Both sides made competing claims about losses and the effectiveness of their military operations. The claim that six Indian aircraft were destroyed, including three Rafales, has not been independently verified. India has also disputed Pakistan’s claims about aircraft losses. The reported account therefore remains a claim attributed to Chinese sources and the Ukrainian defence publication.

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    Berlin Pride turns tragic as car hits crowd, 1 dea…

    ByJustpaste.in

    BERLIN: A celebration that had drawn huge crowds to Berlin for Christopher Street Day ended in tragedy late Saturday when a vehicle drove into people near the event, killing one person and injuring at least 16 others. The incident happened shortly after 10pm local time in the Tiergarten area, near the route of the Pride celebrations. Emergency services rushed to the scene as police launched a major operation and ordered people to leave the area. According to police, the vehicle struck several people before the driver fled the scene. One person died, while 16 others were injured. Several victims were reported to be in serious or life-threatening condition, adding to the shock surrounding an event that had begun peacefully. Authorities quickly called off the remaining Christopher Street Day celebrations and urged visitors to stay away from the affected area. Police and rescue teams remained deployed around Tiergarten as investigators worked to establish exactly what happened and why. The incident also triggered an immediate search for the suspected driver. Police said they had identified a possible suspect but had not initially confirmed an arrest. German authorities were investigating the circumstances and motive behind the vehicle attack. Berlin Mayor Kai Wegner described the incident as an attack on the city’s free and cosmopolitan society, expressing sympathy for the victims and their families. He also praised emergency responders who arrived at the scene shortly after the incident. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz also condemned the incident and pledged that those responsible would face justice. The tragedy cast a dark shadow over one of Berlin’s biggest annual public celebrations. Christopher Street Day is both a major Pride gathering and a public demonstration for LGBTQ+ rights, equality and freedom. What had started as a day of colorful parades, music and crowds waving rainbow flags ended with emergency vehicles filling the streets and the celebration being abruptly abandoned. Police have urged members of the public to avoid the area while the investigation continues and to rely on official information rather than unverified reports circulating online.