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Karachi experienced light to moderate rainfall accompanied by high winds on Saturday evening, marking the second consecutive day of rain in the current monsoon spell. Rain was reported in multiple areas across the metropolis, including Scheme 33, Gulshan-i-Maymar, and adjoining areas, while a light drizzle fell in Hassan Square. Heavy rain was reported in Gulistan-i-Jauhar, and video footage showed commuters travelling through 4K Chowrangi in Surjani Town amid heavy rainfall. Light rainfall was also reported in Saddar, multiple blocks of Clifton, and the Defence Housing Authority. Earlier today, the provincial chief secretary directed provincial and district authorities to activate the Provincial Disaster Management Authority and district control rooms immediately, while ordering the submission of 24-hour situation reports every morning throughout the monsoon season for continuous monitoring. Chairing a meeting on monsoon preparedness, the chief secretary stressed that contingency plans must include the identification of relief camp sites, availability of rescue boats, dewatering pumps, water bowsers, and emergency mechanisms for food and drinking water, as well as adequate stocks of medicines for health and livestock departments. He instructed municipal authorities to remove bottlenecks, complete the cleaning of storm-water drains, and ensure uninterrupted drainage arrangements ahead of heavy rains. The meeting was informed that, according to the Pakistan Meteorological Department, moderate to isolated heavy rainfall was expected until July 27 in several districts, including Tharparkar, Umerkot, Mirpurkhas, Badin, Sanghar, Tando Muhammad Khan, Tando Allahyar, Hyderabad, Matiari, Jamshoro, and Shaheed Benazirabad. Light to moderate rainfall was also forecast for districts including Ghotki, Kashmore, Jacobabad, Shikarpur, Sukkur, Kambar Shahdadkot, Larkana, Khairpur, Naushahro Feroze, and Thatta, while Karachi was likely to experience mostly cloudy weather with chances of light rain and drizzle. Yesterday, the metropolis received this season’s first spell of rain after multiple localities reported light to moderate showers. Earlier this week, on the directives of Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, the PDMA placed district administrations across Sindh on high alert and directed all relevant departments to take precautionary and emergency response measures as strong monsoon currents from the Arabian Sea continue to affect the province. The CM directed all deputy commissioners, district administrations, municipal authorities, irrigation officials, health services, rescue agencies, and local government institutions to remain fully vigilant, ensure the preparedness of emergency response teams, maintain drainage systems, and take all necessary steps to protect lives and property. The rain has brought relief to residents after a prolonged dry spell, but authorities remain on high alert to address any potential flooding or rain-related emergencies. The public has been advised to stay updated with weather forecasts and follow official directives to ensure their safety during the monsoon season.

Lahore experienced heavy monsoon rains on Saturday, with three people losing their lives and eight others injured in roof collapse incidents across the city. According to the Water and Sanitation Agency, the highest rainfall was recorded in Sagian at 143 millimetres, followed by Farrukhabad at 141 millimetres, Paniwala Talab at 129 millimetres, Airfield at 106 millimetres, and Lakshmi Chowk at 94 millimetres. The heavy downpour caused waterlogging in low-lying areas, including Davis Road, Shadman, Shah Jamal, and near the Governor’s House, disrupting traffic flow. WASA authorities reported that water had been drained from most low-lying areas, including Lawrence Road, Chowk Nakhuda, Waris Road, Zuhra Road, Naha Road, Karim Hala Ravi Road, Haji Camp, and GPO Chowk. Rescue officials confirmed that in Garhi Shahu Railway Colony, a roof collapse resulted in the deaths of Moin, his wife Noria, and their daughter Fatima, while their other daughter was injured. On Badian Road, a roof collapse injured Aslam, Ahsan, and Mumtaz. In Fibrozpur Road’s Shadab Colony, near Milad Chowk, four people were injured in another roof collapse and were shifted to a hospital for treatment. Lahore Electric Supply Company officials reported that 37 feeders were temporarily affected by the rain but have since been restored. The rain has brought relief to residents after a prolonged dry spell, but authorities remain on high alert to address any potential flooding or rain-related emergencies. The Pakistan Meteorological Department has forecast more rain in the coming days, urging citizens to stay updated with weather forecasts and follow official directives to ensure their safety during the monsoon season. The heavy rain has also impacted daily life, with many roads submerged and traffic at a standstill in several areas. The district administration has been working to clear waterlogged roads and ensure the smooth flow of traffic. Emergency services have been put on high alert to respond to any rain-related incidents. The government has advised citizens to avoid unnecessary travel and to take precautions to protect themselves and their property. The rain, while welcome after a dry spell, has also highlighted the need for improved drainage systems and better urban planning to cope with the annual monsoon season. The authorities have urged citizens to report any waterlogging or emergency situations to the relevant authorities for prompt action. The situation remains under control, but the government continues to monitor the weather conditions and is prepared to respond to any challenges that may arise. The public is advised to remain cautious and follow official guidelines to ensure their safety during the monsoon season. The recent spell of rain serves as a reminder of the importance of preparedness and the need for continued investment in infrastructure to mitigate the impacts of extreme weather events.

West Indies won the toss and elected to bat first against Pakistan in the opening Test of the two-match series at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Tarouba, Trinidad. The hosts decided to take advantage of a pitch that appeared conducive to batting early on, with captain Kraigg Brathwaite expressing confidence that his spinners would play a crucial role later in the match. The first session was interrupted by rain, with West Indies reaching 23-1 after losing opener Brandon King, who was dismissed by Pakistan’s Mohammad Abbas. Pakistan captain Babar Azam stated he would have preferred to bat first as well, but his team now focused on making early inroads with the new ball. Pakistan made one change to their playing XI, with left-arm spinner Ali Usman making his Test debut. The match also marked Babar Azam’s 100th first-class appearance, a significant milestone. The Brian Lara Cricket Academy is hosting its first-ever Test match, becoming the 13th Test venue in the Caribbean. West Indies will look to capitalize on their decision to bat first and post a competitive total, while Pakistan’s bowlers, including debutant Usman, will aim to exploit the conditions and restrict the hosts. The match promises to be an exciting contest, with both teams eager to start the series positively. The weather is expected to play a role, with forecasts predicting further interruptions, but both sides hope for a full game. The series is crucial for both teams in the context of the World Test Championship, and the first Test at the new venue is a historic occasion for Caribbean cricket. Pakistan will look to overcome the absence of injured batsman Abdullah Fazal, while West Indies aim to capitalize on home advantage. The match is expected to be closely contested, with both teams having the potential to emerge victorious. As the game progresses, the performance of the spinners and the batsmen’s ability to adapt will be key factors. The first Test is poised to be a memorable encounter at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy, marking a new chapter in Caribbean cricket history. Fans worldwide are eagerly watching as the two teams battle for supremacy in the Caribbean.

The federal government has announced that current petroleum product prices will remain unchanged until July 27. According to sources from the Petroleum Division, petrol will continue to be sold at Rs335.18 per litre, while high-speed diesel will remain at Rs383.46 per litre. The price of kerosene oil has also been maintained at Rs301.14 per litre. This decision comes after the government introduced a daily fuel price revision mechanism on July 18 to reflect fluctuations in the international market. Since then, prices have seen multiple adjustments. On July 18, petrol became more expensive by Rs5.44 per litre and diesel by Rs31.05 per litre. Due to the closure of international markets, prices were revised on July 21, with petrol decreasing by Rs0.35 per litre while diesel increased by Rs5.71 per litre. Subsequent revisions saw petrol and diesel prices rise by Rs4.93 and Rs7.15 per litre on July 22, followed by further increases of Rs6.39 and Rs7.83 per litre on July 23. On July 24, petrol was hiked by Rs4.40 and diesel by Rs3.62 per litre. The latest decision to freeze prices until July 27 provides temporary relief to consumers after a series of increases driven by volatility in global oil markets. The daily price revision mechanism, introduced amid rising geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, aims to ensure timely adjustments to international market trends. However, the frequent changes have drawn criticism from dealers and consumers alike. The government has assured that it is monitoring the situation closely and will continue to make adjustments as needed to balance the impact on the economy and the public. The current freeze offers a brief respite before the next scheduled revision, with consumers hoping for stability in the coming days.

The arrival of a fleet of green electric buses in Muzaffarabad, promised by Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz leaders, has sparked a political and legal debate just days before the first phase of the 2026 Azad Jammu and Kashmir general elections. The AJK Election Commission has warned that no new development schemes, financial packages, or government resources can be introduced or used during the election period in violation of the code of conduct. The controversy follows recent election rallies addressed by former prime minister Nawaz Sharif and Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, during which they unveiled a series of development initiatives for AJK, including the provision of 10 green electric buses each for Muzaffarabad and Mirpur, along with several other public welfare projects. Shortly after the announcements, the first fleet of ten electric buses reached Muzaffarabad, drawing attention from political observers and raising questions about whether the move is compatible with election regulations. The AJK Election Commission has emphasized that the code of conduct prohibits the announcement or initiation of new development schemes during the election period to ensure a level playing field for all political parties. The PML-N’s unveiling of development projects and the subsequent arrival of the buses have been criticized by opposition parties, who argue that the move constitutes a violation of the code and an attempt to influence voters. The election commission has not yet issued a formal ruling on the matter, but the controversy has added to the pre-election tensions in the region. The first phase of the AJK general elections is scheduled for July 27 in Mirpur Division, with a comprehensive three-tier security strategy in place, involving police, Civil Armed Forces, and the Pakistan Army to ensure a peaceful and orderly polling process. As the election date approaches, the debate over the electric buses highlights the broader challenges of maintaining electoral integrity and ensuring that all parties adhere to the rules. The election commission’s warning serves as a reminder that the use of state resources for political purposes during elections is strictly prohibited, and any violations could lead to legal consequences. The coming days will determine whether the PML-N’s initiatives are deemed compliant with the code of conduct or whether they will face further scrutiny and potential action from the election authorities. The controversy underscores the importance of upholding democratic norms and ensuring that elections are conducted fairly and transparently, without undue influence from incumbents or ruling parties. The people of AJK will head to the polls with the hope of a free and fair election that reflects their will and aspirations.