National

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    Islamabad to build two new underpasses

    Pakistan’s Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi chaired a high-level meeting at the Capital Development Authority (CDA) headquarters to review the progress of ongoing development projects and approve new infrastructure initiatives aimed at improving Islamabad’s traffic system and public services. During the meeting, officials briefed the minister on the status of several major development schemes and presented plans for upcoming projects across the federal capital. Participants also reviewed timelines for ongoing construction work and discussed measures to ensure projects are completed without unnecessary delays. To ease traffic congestion and improve the flow of vehicles, Mohsin Naqvi announced the construction of two new underpasses at Kashmir Chowk and Faisal Mosque. He said work on both projects will begin next month and emphasized that the government is committed to expanding the city’s road infrastructure to meet growing transportation demands. The interior minister also expressed dissatisfaction over the absence of a fully operational Emergency 1122 service in Islamabad. He directed the relevant authorities to immediately complete all legal and administrative requirements needed to establish the Capital Emergency Services as a fully functional institution. He further instructed officials to launch work on four new emergency response centers on a priority basis to strengthen rescue and emergency services in the capital. In addition to infrastructure development, the meeting focused on improving the CDA’s financial sustainability. Officials discussed proposals to increase the authority’s permanent revenue, develop a long-term revenue model, and implement practical measures that would help the organization achieve greater financial independence. Naqvi stressed that strengthening the CDA’s financial position is just as important as delivering development projects. He also instructed officials to complete the Expressway Service Road project within the approved deadline, saying timely completion of public infrastructure remains a top government priority.

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    Police chief: Missing weapon may crack Mir Raza my…

    Karachi Police Chief Azad Khan has said that investigations into the death of Mir Raza are continuing from every possible angle, adding that recovering the missing weapon could be crucial in determining what happened. Speaking to the media, Azad Khan said the initial medical report was prepared by a doctor working under the police surgeon. The medico-legal officer (MLO) examined the body and submitted the report to the police surgeon, who kept it for two days before it was released. He questioned why any concerns regarding the report were not addressed immediately. According to the police chief, the police surgeon neither personally examined the body nor conducted the medical examination, and any reservations about the findings should have been communicated to investigators without delay. Azad Khan said police based their early investigation on the preliminary medico-legal report provided by the MLO. He added that confirmation of gunpowder residue on the deceased’s hands was also essential to the investigation. The police chief said the Crime Scene Unit collected evidence from the scene and handed all relevant material over to the medical team. He also questioned why the medical team did not visit the crime scene, noting that in many countries medical experts inspect the scene themselves, particularly in high-profile cases. He said that if Mir Raza’s family requests it, another medical examination can be conducted. Meanwhile, investigators are looking into the disappearance of the weapon believed to be linked to the case. Azad Khan also confirmed that police are searching for a waste collector seen in a video recorded near the scene. He said locating the missing weapon could help investigators resolve key questions surrounding Mir Raza’s death. The investigation remains ongoing, with police continuing to gather evidence and examine all possible leads.

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    Grenade blast kills three in Lakki Marwat

    A family dispute in the Bahram Khel area of Lakki Marwat turned tragic when a hand grenade exploded inside a house, killing three people and injuring three children, police said. According to officials, the explosion occurred during an argument between family members. The powerful blast claimed the lives of a man, his sister-in-law, and his nephew on the spot, while three children suffered injuries of varying severity. Residents rushed to the house after hearing the explosion and alerted rescue teams. Emergency responders reached the scene shortly afterward and shifted the victims to a nearby hospital. Doctors are providing medical treatment to the injured children, while the bodies of the deceased have been handed over for legal formalities. Police cordoned off the area and launched an investigation to determine the circumstances that led to the explosion. Investigators are examining how the hand grenade came to be inside the house and whether it was intentionally used during the dispute or detonated accidentally. Authorities have begun collecting evidence from the scene and recording statements from family members and witnesses. Officials said they will determine responsibility after completing the investigation and forensic examination. No arrests have been reported so far, and police said further details will emerge as the inquiry progresses.

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    Dar, Jordan FM discuss West Bank crisis and Palest…

    Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar held talks with his Jordanian counterpart Ayman Safadi in Amman on Wednesday, where both leaders reviewed the worsening situation in the occupied West Bank and reaffirmed their support for the Palestinian cause. The meeting took place on the sidelines of a ministerial conference focused on developing a coordinated stance on the situation in occupied Jerusalem. During the discussions, the two foreign ministers exchanged views on recent regional developments, with particular attention to escalating tensions in the Palestinian territories. Dar praised Jordan’s longstanding role in protecting the Islamic and Christian holy sites in Jerusalem and acknowledged Amman’s continued support for the Palestinian people. Both sides also expressed satisfaction over the growing momentum in Pakistan-Jordan relations and pledged to further expand cooperation in political, economic, defence, education, cultural and people-to-people exchanges. The two leaders also discussed broader regional issues, including recent developments involving the United States and Iran. They stressed that dialogue and diplomacy remain essential for reducing tensions and maintaining regional peace and stability. Both ministers agreed to continue close coordination at bilateral and multilateral forums, including the United Nations and the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC), to address regional challenges and promote peaceful solutions. During his visit, Dar also met Somalia’s Minister for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Abdisalam Abdi Ali. The two leaders reviewed longstanding bilateral relations and explored opportunities to strengthen cooperation in politics, trade, defence, education and capacity-building. They also reaffirmed their commitment to working closely on issues of mutual interest at international forums. Dar is attending the ministerial meeting in Jordan to join foreign ministers from Arab League member states and several Islamic countries in formulating a unified response to developments in occupied Jerusalem. Pakistan is expected to reiterate its consistent support for the Palestinian people and call for the establishment of an independent and sovereign State of Palestine based on pre-1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.

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    Terrorism case registered after clash at MQM-P hea…

    Karachi police have registered a case under the Anti-Terrorism Act following a violent clash between rival groups at the Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) headquarters in Bahadurabad that left several people injured and spread panic in the surrounding area. According to the First Information Report (FIR), the case has been registered by the state at New Town Police Station under multiple sections of the Pakistan Penal Code, including rioting, attempted murder, causing injuries and unlawful assembly, along with Section 7 of the Anti-Terrorism Act. Police have nominated two suspects, identified as Azhar alias Lumba and Zeeshan Habib, while 20 to 25 unidentified individuals have also been named in the case. Investigators said police received reports on the evening of August 2 that two groups had clashed near Choti Market in Bahadurabad. During the violence, a man identified as Amir sustained a bullet injury to his arm, while two others, Asad and Kashir Ali, were also injured. All three were shifted to Abbasi Shaheed Hospital for treatment. The FIR states that both groups allegedly exchanged gunfire and fired into the air, creating fear among residents and disrupting public order. Authorities also noted that Section 144 was in force at the time, prohibiting the display of weapons and public disorder. Police said the suspects fled the scene before law enforcement personnel arrived. The incident reportedly occurred during a party meeting at MQM-P’s central office. According to police, tensions escalated after the meeting ended, leading to a confrontation between supporters of different party factions. Officials said workers belonging to one faction allegedly assaulted members of the rival group and forced them out of the party headquarters. Heavy gunfire was also reported from inside the premises, causing alarm among nearby residents.

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    VC calls for global support to Kashmir cause at UO…

    The University of Okara (UO) commemorated Kashmir Exploitation Day on Wednesday by organizing a seminar and a solidarity walk to reaffirm unwavering support for the people of Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (OJK) in their struggle for the right to self-determination. The event was organized by the Directorate of Student Affairs and attended by a large number of faculty members, administrative staff, and students. The Vice Chancellor of the University of Okara, Prof. Dr. Sajjad Mubin, presided over the ceremony. Addressing the participants, Prof. Mubin highlighted the decades-long suffering of the Kashmiri people and called upon the international community to play its role in ensuring the implementation of the United Nations resolutions on Kashmir. “Kashmir is the lifeline of Pakistan and an issue that remains central to peace and stability in South Asia. The resilient people of Kashmir have made unprecedented sacrifices for their legitimate right to self-determination, and the global community must not remain a silent spectator to their plight,” he said. The VC also paid tribute to Pakistan’s armed forces for safeguarding the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. “Our armed forces have rendered unparalleled sacrifices to make Pakistan impregnable. Their commitment to national security enables us to stand firmly with our Kashmiri brothers and sisters in their just struggle,” he added. Speaking on the occasion, the Registrar of the University of Okara, Jamil Asim, said that observing Kashmir Exploitation Day serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility to raise awareness about the humanitarian situation in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir. “We stand in complete solidarity with the people of Kashmir and reaffirm our support for their internationally recognized right to determine their own future. Universities have an important role in educating the younger generation about issues of justice, peace, and human rights,” he remarked. The Pro VC, Prof. Dr. Muhammad Wajid, and the DSA, Dr. Shoaib Saleem, also addressed the gathering and emphasized the importance of maintaining national unity and continuing moral, diplomatic, and political support for the Kashmiri people. A one-minute silence was observed to honor the sacrifices of the people of Kashmir and to express solidarity with those who have lost their lives during the prolonged conflict. The seminar concluded with a solidarity walk in which the participants carried placards and banners expressing support for the Kashmiri cause and reaffirming Pakistan’s commitment to the right of self-determination for the people of Kashmir.

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    Roads sealed around Karachi Press Club ahead of PT…

    Several roads surrounding the Karachi Press Club were closed on Wednesday as authorities implemented security measures ahead of a possible protest by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), causing traffic congestion in nearby areas. According to traffic police, the closures have led to increased vehicle movement on surrounding roads as commuters seek alternate routes. Officials said the diversions were introduced to ensure a smooth flow of traffic and minimise disruption during the expected demonstration. Traffic coming from MR Kiani Chowrangi has been redirected towards Thana Gali, while vehicles approaching Fawara Chowk are being diverted to Aiwan-e-Sadr Road and Zainab Market. Authorities have also rerouted traffic from the Coast Guard area towards the lane leading to the Passport Office to ease congestion around the Press Club. Traffic police have advised motorists to follow the designated diversion plans and cooperate with officials on duty to avoid delays. The precautionary measures come amid expectations of a PTI protest in the city, with law enforcement agencies maintaining heightened security in and around the area to ensure public safety and maintain order.

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    Lower Kohistan marks Youm-e-Istehsal Kashmir with …

    LOWER KOHISTAN: The District Youth Office Lower Kohistan, in collaboration with the district administration and the education department, organised a ceremony at Government Model Girls High School (GMGHS), Pattan, on Wednesday to observe Youm-e-Istehsal Kashmir and reaffirm solidarity with the people of Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). The event was attended by district administration officials, education department representatives, teachers, students, youth, and members of the local community. Participants paid tribute to the courage and resilience of the Kashmiri people and reiterated Pakistan’s continued support for their internationally recognised right to self-determination. Students presented speeches highlighting the historical significance of Youm-e-Istehsal Kashmir and staged thought-provoking tableau performances portraying the sacrifices, determination, and ongoing struggle of the people of Kashmir. The performances received appreciation from the audience for effectively conveying the message of peace, resilience, and national solidarity. Director Youth Affairs Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Abbas Khan Afridi said that the youth of the province had an important role in promoting awareness about the Kashmir issue and strengthening the values of unity, peace, and justice. He said the observance of Youm-e-Istehsal Kashmir reflected the nation’s unwavering commitment to standing with the people of Kashmir and supporting their legitimate right to self-determination. He urged young people to remain informed, responsible, and actively engaged in promoting truth, human rights, and national cohesion. The organisers said the event formed part of the Directorate of Youth Affairs Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s continued efforts to engage young people in constructive civic activities while fostering patriotism, national unity, and awareness of issues of national importance.

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    Fawad Blames PML-N, PPP for political deadlock

    Former federal minister Fawad Chaudhry said Pakistan cannot move forward politically or economically as long as the country’s two major ruling parties, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), continue to dominate national politics. Speaking to reporters in Islamabad, Fawad criticized former president Asif Ali Zardari and former prime minister Nawaz Sharif, arguing that their continued influence has prevented the country from making meaningful progress. He said Pakistan would struggle to achieve stability and development unless it moved beyond what he described as the traditional political leadership. Fawad also took aim at Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s economic record. He noted that Shehbaz has presented a total of 17 budgets during his political career, including 12 as chief minister of Punjab and five at the federal level. He questioned what new solutions the prime minister could still offer after overseeing so many budgets. Commenting on constitutional reforms, Fawad said he supports the transfer of administrative powers, adding that decentralization could strengthen governance if implemented effectively. Addressing the broader political situation, he stressed that any genuine national dialogue must include the founder of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), who remains in prison. Fawad said the PTI founder is the country’s most influential political leader and should be engaged in talks as a Pakistani citizen. He added that he shares a long political association with the PTI founder and believes meaningful negotiations cannot succeed without his participation. Former Sindh governor Imran Ismail, who was also present during the media interaction, said he has submitted a request to meet the PTI founder. According to Ismail, he intends to discuss proposals related to the creation of new provinces and seek his opinion on the issue before moving forward with any political discussions.

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    LHC dismisses PTI’s Minar-e-Pakistan rally p…

    The Lahore High Court on Wednesday dismissed a petition filed by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), which sought permission to hold a public rally at Minar-e-Pakistan in Lahore. During the hearing, the court ruled that the petition had become unnecessary because the Deputy Commissioner (DC) had already made a decision on the party’s request for the gathering. The bench observed that the court must act within the framework of the law and cannot intervene once the competent administrative authority has issued its decision. The judges noted that the matter no longer required judicial consideration, as the relevant government official had already exercised the authority assigned under the law. On this basis, the court dismissed PTI’s plea. The ruling marks another legal setback for PTI in its efforts to secure permission for a public meeting at the historic Minar-e-Pakistan venue, where the party has previously held major political gatherings. The decision leaves the administrative authorities’ determination on the proposed rally in place.