National

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    Pakistan unveils major construction reforms to boo…

    ByJustpaste.in

    ISLAMABAD: The federal government is preparing a wide-ranging reform package aimed at revitalising Pakistan’s construction industry, improving regulatory oversight and attracting greater investment in modern infrastructure. The proposed measures include the establishment of a Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB), consideration of a specialised Construction Development Bank (CDB), targeted tax reforms and changes to import and export policies. The proposals were discussed during a high-level meeting chaired by Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Establishment Division Senator Ahad Khan Cheema. The meeting brought together senior government officials, representatives of the Construction Association of Pakistan and other stakeholders to examine the sector’s financial, regulatory and operational challenges. Under the proposed framework, the CIDB would promote the development of the construction industry while also regulating contractors, consultants and industry standards. The body would include representatives from both the public and private sectors and would seek to establish more consistent construction standards across the country. Senator Cheema said the government and the Construction Association of Pakistan were in agreement over the need for a dedicated regulatory and development body. The proposed framework will be presented to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif for approval. The government also plans to introduce targeted tax incentives and rationalise import and export policies to encourage the use of modern construction technologies and strengthen local production capacity. In a significant move to improve the quality and durability of public infrastructure, the standard Defect Liability Period for public development projects is expected to increase from one year to three years, with a longer-term plan to extend it to five years. The proposed reforms would also increase accountability for consultants. Unlike contractors, who can face penalties for poor performance, consultants currently have limited direct legal accountability. Under the new framework, consultants could be subjected to regulatory oversight and held financially and legally responsible for design defects and technical errors. The government is also examining the construction industry’s difficulties in obtaining financial and performance guarantees. Senator Cheema directed Minister of State for Finance Bilal Azhar Kayani to consult the State Bank of Pakistan and Pakistan Banks Association on these issues and assess the feasibility of establishing a dedicated Construction Development Bank. The government says the reforms are intended to ensure that public infrastructure projects deliver better value for money, remain durable and meet higher technical standards. Officials believe stronger regulation and accountability could reduce disputes, improve construction quality and bring Pakistan’s industry closer to international standards.

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    TTP-linked suspect arrested in Karachi joint operation, weapons and explosives recovered

    ByJustpaste.in

    KARACHI: Pakistan Rangers (Sindh), in coordination with the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD), have arrested a suspected militant allegedly affiliated with the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) during an intelligence-based operation in Karachi, according to the Rangers spokesperson. The security agencies also recovered weapons and explosives from the suspect, who was allegedly involved in collecting funds for a TTP-linked faction and transferring money to its leadership, the spokesperson said on Sunday. The suspect was identified as Shahzad alias Dunger and was taken into custody during a joint operation conducted in the Jacob Lines area of Jamshed Town. Suspect allegedly joined TTP-linked group in 2025 According to the Rangers, Shahzad became associated with the Mansoor group of the TTP in 2025 after allegedly being influenced by the group’s leader, Mansoor. Investigators believe that the suspect was subsequently assigned the task of generating financial resources for the organisation in Karachi. The Rangers spokesperson said Shahzad allegedly approached individuals in the Manghopir area and persuaded them to make regular monthly payments to the militant group. The collected funds were then allegedly transferred to Waziristan through Easypaisa accounts provided by Din Muhammad, an alleged associate of Mansoor who was based in Tank. During interrogation, Shahzad reportedly told investigators that the money was ultimately transferred to Mansoor and used to support the group’s militant activities. Alleged meetings with militant leader The Rangers said the suspect had travelled to Waziristan several times and held clandestine meetings with Mansoor. According to the investigation, Shahzad allegedly met Mansoor in Birmal in June 2026, where he was instructed to expand and strengthen the group’s network in Karachi. The alleged objectives included carrying out terrorist activities and raising money through extortion, the Rangers said. Following the meeting, Mansoor allegedly arranged for weapons and explosives to be delivered to Shahzad through another unidentified associate. Security officials said the recovered material was allegedly intended for use in planned attacks against sensitive installations and locations in Karachi. Raids launched to trace other suspects The Rangers said further investigations were underway and raids were being conducted at different locations to identify and arrest other members of the suspected network. The operation comes amid continued efforts by law-enforcement and security agencies to disrupt militant financing, recruitment and operational networks in Karachi. Officials have increasingly focused on financial channels used by militant organisations, as investigators seek to prevent funds from reaching groups involved in terrorism. Karachi has witnessed several major security incidents The latest arrest comes against the backdrop of a series of major terrorist and militant attacks in Karachi in recent years. On June 28, security forces foiled an attempted attack on a Pakistan Rangers (Sindh) camp in the city. Three Rangers personnel were killed and four others were injured in the incident. According to the military’s media wing, the assault was carried out by militants described as “Khwarij belonging to Indian proxy, Jamaat-ul-Ahrar”. The attackers reportedly detonated an explosive at the main gate of the Rangers camp before attempting to penetrate the security perimeter. Security personnel resisted the assault, killing three attackers and capturing another militant in an injured condition. The captured suspect was identified as an Afghan national. The incident was described as one of the most serious attacks targeting security personnel in Karachi in recent years. Previous attacks raised security concerns Karachi has experienced several significant security incidents over the past few years, highlighting the continuing challenges faced by law-enforcement agencies in the country’s largest city. In April 2022, a suicide bombing outside Karachi University’s Confucius Institute killed several people, including Chinese nationals. The attack was claimed by the Baloch Liberation Army (BLA). In February 2023, militants launched an assault on the Karachi Police Office, leading to a prolonged security operation before the attackers were neutralised. Another major incident occurred in October 2024, when a bombing near Karachi Airport targeted a convoy and killed several people, including Chinese engineers. The incident further intensified concerns over the security of foreign nationals and critical infrastructure in the city. Against this backdrop, security agencies have continued intelligence-based operations aimed at dismantling militant networks before they can carry out attacks.

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    Munem Zafar accuses govt machinery of mishandling …

    ByJustpaste.in

    KARACHI: Jamaat-e-Islami Karachi Ameer Munem Zafar has accused government authorities of deliberately weakening the investigation into the Mir Raza Ali case, calling for the immediate arrest of those responsible. Speaking at a press conference at the Noor-e-Haq Institute, Zafar said the circumstances surrounding the case had raised serious questions. He pointed out that the incident was initially reported as a suicide, while findings that emerged following the exhumation presented a markedly different picture. Zafar said the government was responsible for ensuring a transparent investigation and bringing the people involved to justice. He alleged that the government machinery was instead being used to undermine the case. Turning to Karachi’s civic problems, the JI leader said a large part of the city was facing a severe water shortage. He accused the Water Corporation of becoming a centre of corruption and criticised the recent increase in water prices. Zafar also expressed concern over the city’s water supply from the Hub Canal, saying the situation had become evident to residents. He further criticised the disruption caused by the Red Line project, saying Karachi’s citizens were being subjected to considerable difficulties in the name of development.

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    Rain, thunderstorms forecast across Pakistan till …

    ByJustpaste.in

    The Pakistan Meteorological Department has forecast another spell of rain and thunderstorms in upper and central parts of the country from August 17 to 21. The weather system is expected to bring rain with strong winds and occasional heavy showers. The Punjab Provincial Disaster Management Authority said monsoon currents were continuing to move into the upper parts of the country. The Met Office also expects a westerly wave to reach northern areas on August 17, which could further strengthen the weather activity. Punjab is likely to receive rain and thunderstorms at intervals from August 16 to 21. Rawalpindi, Murree, Galyat, Jhelum, Chakwal, Talagang, Attock, Sialkot, Narowal, Mandi Bahauddin, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Hafizabad and Wazirabad are among the areas expected to be affected. Lahore, Kasur, Okara, Sheikhupura, Nankana Sahib, Sargodha, Khushab, Mianwali and Noorpur Thal may also experience showers and thunderstorms during the forecast period. Southern and central districts of Punjab are expected to see rain mainly on August 20 and 21. These areas include Faisalabad, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh, Layyah, Bhakkar, Sahiwal, Pakpattan, Bahawalnagar, Bahawalpur and Dera Ghazi Khan. Authorities have warned that intense rainfall could trigger urban flooding in low-lying parts of Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Sialkot and Lahore between August 17 and 20. There is also a risk of landslides in vulnerable mountainous areas, particularly Murree and Galyat. Tourists and travellers have been advised to remain alert and avoid unnecessary travel during periods of severe weather. Farmers have been asked to adjust agricultural activities according to the forecast and protect livestock from adverse weather conditions. The PDMA has instructed district administrations to strengthen emergency arrangements and prepare risk-mitigation plans. Officials have been directed to maintain round-the-clock staffing and coordinate closely with relevant departments for a quick response. Authorities have also been told to provide timely information about safety precautions and possible evacuation plans through electronic and social media platforms. Drainage systems are to be inspected, desilted and cleared before heavy rainfall. Heavy machinery is also being positioned at vulnerable locations where blocked drainage or flooding could create emergencies. Motorway Police have been directed to issue regular traffic and road-condition updates and guide motorists during the rainy spell.

  • Punjab CNF arrests smuggler with cocaine worth Rs43.2 million

    ByJustpaste.in

    The Major operation by the Punjab Counter Narcotics Force (CNF) took place in Rawalpindi in which smuggler Shahidullah Khan is arrested. The accused was allegedly involved in smuggling narcotics to Saudi Arabia; he was apprehended with 108 cocaine capsules in a suspicious vehicle at the Fateh Jang-Tarnol Interchange. The vehicle used for smuggling and the cocaine have been seized. The estimated value of the recovered narcotics is PKR 43.2 million. The scope of operations against drug dealers is being expanded. The Punjab CNF has achieved a major success in protecting the youth by foiling the shipment of a large consignment of narcotics. The net is being tightened around drug dealers and their facilitators. Joint efforts will be undertaken. Punjab CNF is committed to curb the menace of drugs collectively with the help of the society.

  • Lahore improves global traffic ranking, surpasses 149 cities

    ByJustpaste.in

    Lahore has registered a notable improvement in urban travel-time performance, emerging ahead of 149 major global cities, according to the World Traffic Index. The city is currently ranked 149th, reflecting a significant improvement in its relative travel-time position. Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) Lahore, Syed Abdul Raheem Shirazi, attributed the improvement to strengthened traffic management, enhanced enforcement, improved road infrastructure, digital surveillance and growing public compliance with traffic regulations. “The improvement in Lahore’s travel-time performance is the outcome of sustained traffic management measures, evidence-based enforcement, technological integration and greater public awareness of road safety,” the CTO said. He said Lahore Traffic Police has introduced a more structured and technology-driven approach to traffic management, including enhanced patrolling, camera-based monitoring and digital oversight. The development of underpasses and signal-free corridors, rationalization of U-turns and strict action against wrong-way driving have also contributed to improving traffic flow. According to the World Traffic Index, Lahore was ranked 120th in 2024 and 129th in 2025. The city’s current position at 149th represents further improvement in its travel-time performance. The index places several major international cities significantly higher on the ranking, indicating comparatively poorer travel-time conditions. Los Angeles is ranked 3rd, Sharjah 4th, New Delhi 5th, Dhaka 7th, Tehran 14th, Istanbul 20th, Moscow 29th, Bangkok 39th, Toronto 50th, Sydney 57th, Karachi 64th and Melbourne 65th. Other cities included in the ranking are Beijing at 76th, Dubai at 90th, London at 119th, Paris at 142nd and Tokyo at 145th. The report also indicates that Lahore’s travel-time performance is comparatively better than that of Karachi and Islamabad, while cities in Switzerland, Austria, Sweden and Germany feature prominently among those with stronger travel-time performance. CTO Lahore acknowledged that inadequate road infrastructure, insufficient parking facilities and encroachments continue to pose challenges to efficient traffic movement. He said coordinated efforts with relevant civic and administrative departments are being pursued to address these structural issues and further enhance mobility across the city. “No city can achieve sustainable improvement in its traffic system without active cooperation from its citizens,” Syed Abdul Raheem Shirazi said, urging motorists and road users to observe traffic laws, adopt responsible driving practices and cooperate with traffic enforcement personnel. The CTO also appreciated the media’s role in promoting traffic discipline and road-safety awareness, saying that sustained public awareness is essential for achieving long-term improvements in urban mobility. He said the improvement in Lahore’s travel-time performance was an encouraging indicator of the city’s evolving traffic-management framework. Lahore Traffic Police, he added, remains committed to leveraging technology, enforcement, institutional reforms and public engagement to ensure safer, smoother and more efficient mobility for citizens. The detailed World Traffic Index report is available on the Numbeo website.

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    KPITB selected for Global Digital Government award

    ByJustpaste.in

    The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Information Technology Board (KPITB) has been selected for an international award in recognition of its efforts to promote digital governance and technology-driven public services in the province. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Information Minister Shafi Jan announced that KPITB will receive the Digital Government Award during a summit scheduled to take place in Jakarta, Indonesia, from October 5 to 7. According to Shafi Jan, the international recognition reflects KPITB’s growing contribution to digital transformation and the provincial government’s efforts to modernise governance through technology. He said Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has been strengthening its position as a leading example of digital development in Pakistan. The minister described KPITB’s selection for the award as an acknowledgment of the province’s initiatives aimed at improving digital governance, expanding technology-based services and creating a more digitally connected public sector. Shafi Jan also credited Chief Minister Sohail Afridi with giving greater attention to the province’s digital transformation agenda. He said the government remains focused on developing a “Digital Khyber Pakhtunkhwa” by promoting technology, innovation and modern digital solutions across different sectors. He added that international recognition for KPITB would further highlight Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s efforts to use technology to improve governance and enhance public service delivery.

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    Palwasha accuses PML-N of Kashmir election rigging

    ByJustpaste.in

    Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Senator Palwasha Khan has criticised the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) over the recent political developments in Kashmir. Khan said those who had won what she called a “fixed match” in Kashmir should not lecture others about the public mandate. In a statement, the PPP senator alleged that attempts were made to manipulate the electoral process in Kashmir. She claimed that re-polling was conducted repeatedly in some areas. According to Khan, these actions were part of an alleged attempt to influence the election results. She said the PPP had formally raised objections over the process. Khan said her party had submitted complaints to the relevant authorities. She added that the complaints were supported by evidence. The PPP senator also made allegations against PML-N candidates who won seats in Kashmir. She claimed that some successful candidates could not even visit their own constituencies. Khan said the political situation in Kashmir should be judged on the basis of facts on the ground. She rejected what she described as attempts to present the election results as a clear reflection of public opinion. She also turned her criticism towards the political situation in Punjab. Khan said Lahore should not be treated as a reflection of the entire province. “Lahore is not the whole of Punjab,” she said. The PPP leader urged political leaders to move beyond Lahore and assess the situation in other parts of Punjab. She said the realities outside the provincial capital were different. Khan also claimed that people in Punjab were living under fear because of the Criminal Case Department, or CCD. She said the situation had created concern among citizens. The senator criticised the alleged use of the CCD and said the PPP would oppose any move that could increase its role in Kashmir. “We will not allow Kashmir to be handed over to the CCD,” Khan said. Her statement comes amid political tensions over the election process in Azad Jammu and Kashmir. Political parties have continued to exchange allegations over polling, re-polling and the credibility of election results. Khan’s remarks reflect the PPP’s wider criticism of the political situation and alleged electoral irregularities. The party has called for its complaints and evidence to be properly examined by the relevant authorities.

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    Jamaat-e-Islami storms streets over petrol levy

    ByJustpaste.in

    Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) has staged sit-ins in Karachi, Lahore and Peshawar against the petroleum levy, rising fuel prices and inflation. In Karachi, a JI rally led by Karachi chief Munim Zafar reached Fawara Chowk. The party had announced a sit-in outside the Governor House to protest the petroleum levy. JI workers are moving towards the Governor House from the Sindh High Court. Party activists have been raising concerns over the impact of the petroleum levy and rising fuel prices on the public. Following the sit-in at Fawara Chowk, the road leading towards the Press Club and Arts Council remains open for traffic. Police personnel have also been deployed near the Governor House to maintain security and manage the situation. In Lahore, JI workers staged a sit-in at Faisal Chowk on Mall Road, near the Chief Minister’s House. JI Pakistan chief Hafiz Naeemur Rehman also reached the protest site and joined the demonstrators. The protest in Lahore was led by JI Punjab chief Javed Kasuri and other party leaders. The protesters are demanding relief from rising petroleum prices and the petroleum levy. The party has also criticised the increasing burden of inflation on ordinary citizens. JI leaders have called for measures to reduce the financial pressure faced by the public. In Peshawar, JI workers staged a sit-in outside the Governor House. The protest has resulted in the closure of the road up to the Sadar Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly Chowk. JI Deputy Emir Liaquat Baloch is scheduled to address the protesters in Peshawar. Party leaders are expected to highlight their demands regarding petroleum prices, the levy and inflation. The demonstrations are part of JI’s wider campaign against the petroleum levy and rising prices. The party has announced protests in different cities to pressure the government to provide relief to consumers. JI leaders have argued that increases in petroleum prices affect the prices of transport, food and other essential goods. They have demanded that the government reconsider the petroleum levy and take steps to control inflation.

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    Jaranwala tragedy remains a deep wound, says Punja…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Punjab Minister for Minority Affairs Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora has said that the painful memories of August 16 are still fresh. He described the Jaranwala tragedy as a deep wound on the hearts of the affected families and communities. In a statement, Arora said the Punjab government stood with all victims of the tragedy. He said Chief Minister Punjab and the provincial government were committed to protecting the rights of religious minorities. Arora said the Punjab government had adopted an effective strategy to ensure the safety of minority communities. He added that security measures had been strengthened to protect people from violence and discrimination. The provincial minister said the protection of religious minorities was a priority for the government. He claimed that the government had taken steps to ensure that such an incident would not happen again. Arora warned that no individual or group would be allowed to take the law into their own hands. He said violations of the rights of religious minorities would not be tolerated. He stressed that every citizen had the right to live in safety and with dignity. He said the government was responsible for protecting the lives and property of all citizens, regardless of their religious background. The minister also said religious minorities in Punjab were being provided with all possible facilities. He said the government was working to address their concerns and improve their overall security. Arora said the Punjab government would continue taking measures to create a peaceful environment for all communities. He added that protection of minorities was essential for maintaining harmony and stability in the province. The minister’s statement came on August 16, the anniversary of the Jaranwala incident. The episode remains a painful memory for the Christian community and has continued to raise concerns about the protection of religious minorities. Arora said the government was determined to learn from the tragedy and prevent similar incidents in the future. He reiterated that no one would be permitted to violate the law or target minority communities.