National

  Skardu: Rescue teams have recovered the bodies of eight climbers who went missing after a massive avalanche struck Broad Peak, one of the world’s highest mountains, in northern Pakistan. The tragic incident has shocked the international mountaineering community and prompted an extensive search-and-rescue operation in the Karakoram mountain range. According to officials, four additional bodies were located during the latest phase of the rescue mission, bringing the total number of recovered victims to eight. Earlier in the day, rescue teams had already found four bodies in the avalanche-hit area. Of the four bodies recovered most recently, three have been airlifted by helicopter to Skardu for identification and further legal formalities. Rescue authorities are continuing efforts to locate the remaining two missing climbers, despite extremely challenging weather conditions, difficult terrain, and the constant risk of further avalanches. The search operation remains active on Broad Peak, with rescue personnel working around the clock to find the missing mountaineers. Helicopters, local rescue teams, and experienced high-altitude climbers are taking part in the mission, while authorities continue to monitor weather conditions that could affect ongoing operations. Provincial Minister for Tourism Nek Nam Karim said the government is making every possible effort to locate the remaining climbers. He stated that the Tourism Department is providing full logistical support to rescue teams, including transportation, coordination, and essential equipment required for high-altitude search operations. The group of missing climbers represents several countries, highlighting the international nature of mountaineering expeditions in Pakistan. The team includes climbers from the United States, China, Nepal, Oman, and Pakistani mountaineer Sohail Sakhi, who remains among those unaccounted for. Authorities are maintaining close contact with the embassies of the affected countries and are keeping the families of the climbers informed about developments in the rescue operation. Broad Peak, located in Pakistan’s Gilgit-Baltistan region, is the 12th-highest mountain in the world, standing at ,8047 metres (26,401 feet)above sea level. It lies within the Karakoram mountain range, close to K2, and is regarded as one of the world’s most demanding climbing destinations. Every year, experienced mountaineers from across the globe travel to Pakistan in an attempt to summit the towering peak. However, climbing Broad Peak is extremely hazardous. Mountaineers face unpredictable weather, heavy snowfall, strong winds, crevasses, and the constant threat of avalanches. Even highly skilled climbers can find themselves in life-threatening situations due to rapidly changing mountain conditions. The latest tragedy serves as a painful reminder of the dangers associated with high-altitude mountaineering. Rescue officials have acknowledged that operations at such elevations are exceptionally difficult because of thin air, freezing temperatures, and limited access to the affected areas. As the search for the remaining missing climbers continues, hopes remain that rescue teams may still locate them. At the same time, condolences continue to pour in for the victims and their families. The incident has once again highlighted both the breathtaking beauty and the unforgiving dangers of Pakistan’s towering Karakoram mountains, where adventure and risk often go hand in hand.

  Lahore: Pakistan’s cultural capital has earned international recognition after being ranked among the world’s safest major cities in the 2026 Numbeo Crime and Safety Index. The latest report shows that Lahore recorded one of the lowest crime index scores among several globally recognized metropolitan areas, reflecting continued improvements in public safety and law enforcement. According to the 2026 rankings, Lahore outperformed a number of major international cities in terms of safety. The city ranked ahead of Karachi, New Delhi, Paris, London, Washington, New York, and Mexico City, highlighting its growing reputation as a comparatively secure urban centre. The results suggest that residents and visitors perceive Lahore as offering a safer environment than many other large cities included in the global survey. The report also indicates measurable progress over the past year. Lahore’s crime index declined from 36.8 in mid-2025 to 36.2 in mid-2026, while its safety index improved from 63.2 to 63.8during the same period. A lower crime index reflects reduced concerns about criminal activity, while a higher safety index indicates increased public confidence in personal security and the overall law-and-order situation. The improvement in these indicators demonstrates a positive trend for the city, suggesting that ongoing efforts to enhance public safety have produced encouraging results. Although no major city is completely free of crime, Lahore’s steady progress has strengthened its position among the safer urban centres included in the international rankings. Deputy Inspector General (Operations) Muhammad Faisal Kamran welcomed the report, saying the improved ranking reflects the Lahore Police’s continued commitment to maintaining peace and protecting citizens. According to the senior police official, the department has implemented a range of security measures designed to reduce crime, improve emergency response, and strengthen law enforcement across the provincial capital. He noted that increased police patrols, intelligence-based operations, the use of surveillance technology, and closer coordination between law enforcement agencies have all contributed to improving the city’s security environment. Authorities have also focused on enhancing community policing initiatives, encouraging greater cooperation between residents and police to help prevent criminal activities. Officials believe that these efforts have not only improved public confidence but have also made Lahore a more attractive destination for business, tourism, and investment. A safer urban environment is considered an important factor in promoting economic growth, encouraging commercial activity, and improving the overall quality of life for residents. The Numbeo Crime and Safety Index is widely referenced for comparing perceptions of crime and safety across cities around the world. The rankings are based on user-contributed data and reflect public perceptions of crime levels, personal safety during the day and at night, concerns about violent and property crimes, and confidence in local law enforcement. While authorities welcomed the latest ranking, they emphasized that efforts to improve security will continue. Police officials said they remain committed to further reducing crime through modern policing strategies, technological innovation, and stronger public engagement. Lahore’s improved standing in the 2026 Numbeo Crime and Safety Index represents a significant achievement for the city. The latest figures highlight continued progress in public safety and reinforce Lahore’s growing reputation as one of the safer major cities in the world, while authorities pledge to build on these gains in the years ahead.

Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Ishaq Dar, has welcomed the decision by the Lloyd’s Market Association’s Joint War Committee to remove Pakistan from its list of regions classified as high-risk for war insurance. The announcement marks a significant development for the country’s maritime and trade sectors and is being viewed as a positive sign of increasing international confidence in Pakistan’s security and economic environment. Sharing his reaction on the social media platform X, Ishaq Dar described the decision as an important milestone that reflects the international community’s growing trust in Pakistan. He said the move demonstrates recognition of the country’s improving security situation and its continued efforts to strengthen economic stability and regional connectivity. The removal of Pakistan from the war risk insurance list is expected to provide several economic benefits. Ships entering Pakistani ports will no longer face the additional insurance premiums that are typically imposed on vessels operating in areas considered vulnerable to conflict or instability. As a result, shipping companies are likely to experience lower operational costs, making maritime trade with Pakistan more cost-effective and attractive. According to Ishaq Dar, reduced insurance expenses are expected to lower overall shipping costs, which will benefit both importers and exporters. Businesses engaged in international trade may see reduced transportation expenses, helping Pakistani products become more competitive in global markets while also decreasing the cost of imported goods. These developments could contribute to increased trade activity and support the country’s broader economic growth. The Deputy Prime Minister emphasized that the decision is not only an economic achievement but also a reflection of Pakistan’s improving international image. He noted that the country’s efforts to maintain stability, enhance security, and build stronger relations with international partners have helped restore confidence among global institutions and businesses. Ishaq Dar also expressed appreciation to the Lloyd’s Market Association for its constructive engagement throughout the review process. He acknowledged the organization’s professional approach and thanked its Joint War Committee for carefully assessing the situation before making its decision. He said the outcome reflects a balanced evaluation based on changing ground realities and demonstrates confidence in Pakistan’s progress. Industry experts believe that the removal of Pakistan from the war risk list could encourage greater commercial shipping activity at the country’s ports, including Karachi, Port Qasim, and Gwadar. Lower insurance costs may also attract more international shipping lines and investors, strengthening Pakistan’s position as an important regional trade hub. The development is expected to complement the government’s ongoing efforts to improve trade, attract foreign investment, and boost economic recovery. Reduced logistics costs could benefit multiple sectors of the economy, including manufacturing, agriculture, and exports, while creating a more favorable environment for business and investment. Overall, the decision by the Lloyd’s Market Association’s Joint War Committee is being regarded as a major positive step for Pakistan. It not only reduces financial burdens on international shipping but also sends a strong message that the country’s security and business environment are gaining international recognition. Government officials hope this milestone will further enhance investor confidence, promote trade, and contribute to long-term economic development.