سندھ

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    Polling begins in PS-30 Khairpur by-election

    ByJustpaste.in

    Polling has begun for the by-election in Sindh Assembly constituency PS-30 Khairpur, where Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) candidate Barrister Asfandyar Khan Khuhro is facing seven independent candidates. According to election officials, 254,980 voters are eligible to cast their ballots in the constituency. Authorities have established 164 polling stations across the constituency to facilitate voters and ensure a smooth electoral process. Security remains a major focus during the by-election. Officials have designated 64 polling stations as highly sensitive and 68 as sensitive due to security concerns. Around 2,500 police personnel have been deployed across the constituency to maintain law and order and protect voters, polling staff and election material. The election is taking place following the death of PPP lawmaker **Naeem Khuhro**, which left the PS-30 seat vacant. The PPP has fielded Barrister Asfandyar Khan Khuhro to retain the constituency, while seven independent candidates are also contesting the election. Voters will choose the next representative for the Sindh Assembly as polling continues under heightened security arrangements across Khairpur.

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    Goods transporters postpone nationwide strike for …

    ByJustpaste.in

    The goods transporters strike has been postponed for 40 days after the government and representatives of the transport industry made progress in resolving several key demands. All Pakistan Goods Transport Ittehad President Malik Shehbaz Awan announced the decision on Sunday, saying the strike was being deferred in the “broader national interest”. He said some demands had already been addressed, while issues requiring cabinet approval would be considered within 15 to 20 days. A major concern for transporters is the government’s daily adjustment of petrol and diesel prices. The association has called for fuel prices to be revised on a fortnightly or monthly basis instead. Transporters also received assurances that overloading would be controlled according to legal axle-load limits. Discussions will continue on withholding tax and other industry-related issues. Awan said the Sindh government had agreed to shift truck operations to a new truck stand within a year. He also claimed that six of the association’s eight demands concerning Punjab had been accepted. Sindh Governor Nihal Hashmi and Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan welcomed the development and stressed continued dialogue. The 40-day postponement gives both sides an opportunity to resolve the remaining disputes and avoid further disruption to Pakistan’s goods transportation network.

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    Karachi murder case: husband and wife arrested in …

    ByJustpaste.in

    Police have arrested a husband and wife in Punjab’s Layyah district in connection with a Karachi murder case involving the killing and burning of a man’s body. According to police, the Keamari Investigation Police arrested the alleged main suspects during an operation in Layyah. The case relates to the murder of Faizan alias Faizi in the Mochko area of Karachi in April. Police said the victim was allegedly killed and his body was set on fire. The remains were completely burned and were later identified as those of Faizan. A case had initially been registered against unidentified suspects at the Mochko police station. A special investigation team was formed to investigate the incident. Using technical investigation methods, police had previously arrested two suspects identified as Akram, the victim’s father-in-law, and his son, Ataullah. Police said the alleged main suspects, identified as security institution employee Joon Abbas and his wife, Samreen, had fled and remained in hiding following the incident. The investigation team reportedly traced the couple through technical means and arrested them in Layyah. Further investigation is currently underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the murder and the alleged burning of the body.

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    Karachi oil spill: NRL pipeline bursts in DHA phas…

    ByJustpaste.in

    A crude oil pipeline operated by National Refinery Limited (NRL) burst in Karachi’s DHA Phase VI, triggering an emergency containment and repair operation, authorities said. The leak occurred around 10:30pm on Saturday on Khayaban-e-Sehar, Street 13. The pipeline carries crude oil from Keamari to Korangi and reportedly runs through a road median. The incident caused crude oil to spill onto the road, prompting authorities to restrict access to the affected area. NRL’s response team arrived around midnight and began containment and cleanup operations using specialised spill kits. More than 20 drums of leaked oil had been collected, while excavation work was launched to identify the exact point of the damaged pipeline and stop the leak completely. The Sindh Environmental Protection Agency (Sepa) directed authorities to safely remove contaminated soil, sand and sludge and dispose of the material according to environmental regulations. Fresh sand will reportedly be placed after remedial work is completed. Officials urged residents to stay away from the affected location and avoid smoking or using open flames near the spilled oil. They also warned residents against attempting cleanup themselves or washing oil into nearby drains. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely.

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    15-year-old boy killed in mazda truck accident in …

    ByJustpaste.in

    A 15-year-old boy was killed after a Mazda truck collided with his motorcycle near Chamra Chowrangi in Karachi’s Korangi area on Wednesday. According to Express News, the teenage motorcyclist died at the scene following the collision. His body was shifted to Jinnah Hospital for the completion of legal and medical procedures. Rescue officials identified the deceased as 15-year-old Sagar, son of Rajab. Police said the teenager was riding the motorcycle himself when the accident occurred. Korangi Industrial Area SHO Hukam Dad said the incident took place after the motorcycle was struck by a Mazda truck. Police arrested the truck driver shortly after the accident and took the vehicle into custody. Authorities have launched a further investigation to determine the circumstances that led to the fatal collision. The teenager was a resident of Korangi, according to police. After the completion of the necessary legal procedures, his body was handed over to his family. The incident has once again raised concerns about road safety in Karachi, particularly involving heavy vehicles and young motorcyclists. Traffic accidents involving trucks and motorcycles can have devastating consequences because of the significant difference in size and weight between the vehicles. Police are continuing to investigate the case, while further details regarding the circumstances of the collision may emerge as the investigation progresses. The authorities are expected to examine the accident scene and other available evidence as part of the investigation. The arrest of the truck driver means the police can also record his statement and establish the events immediately before the collision. For Sagar’s family, the incident has resulted in the tragic loss of a teenager at a very young age. The case remains under investigation, and police will determine further legal action based on the findings.

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    Saeed Ghani says ethnic voting trend Is fading in …

    ByJustpaste.in

    Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leader Saeed Ghani has said that the trend of securing votes in Karachi primarily on the basis of ethnicity is gradually losing its influence. Addressing a PPP public gathering in Union Council 8 of Korangi, Ghani said voters were increasingly making political choices based on a party’s performance, ideology and vision rather than ethnic identity. He claimed that the PPP government had carried out extensive development work in District Central and Korangi, arguing that these projects had strengthened the party’s connection with residents and addressed long-standing civic needs. Ghani said Karachi’s political landscape was changing as people became more focused on issues that directly affected their daily lives. According to him, voters now paid greater attention to development, public services and the performance of political representatives when deciding which party to support. The PPP leader maintained that political parties could no longer rely solely on traditional ethnic or linguistic loyalties to win elections. He said improved performance and engagement with local communities would play a more important role in shaping voters’ decisions in the future. Ghani also highlighted the importance of development initiatives in strengthening public confidence, saying continued work in areas such as infrastructure and civic facilities could help political parties earn lasting support from Karachi’s residents.

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    Karachi crime remains high in July

    ByJustpaste.in

    The Citizens-Police Liaison Committee (CPLC) has released its latest crime statistics for Karachi, showing a significant number of killings, extortion cases, mobile-phone thefts and vehicle-related crimes during July. According to the CPLC data, 40 people lost their lives in different incidents across the city during the month. The figures also showed that extortion remained a concern, with 18 cases of bhata khori reported in July. Street crime continued to affect residents, particularly through mobile-phone and motorcycle theft. The CPLC recorded 1,846 mobile phones stolen across Karachi during the month, highlighting the continued risk faced by citizens while travelling or moving through public places. Vehicle-related offences also remained a major challenge. Criminals stole 110 vehicles in July, while 12 cars were snatched from citizens. The figures indicate that vehicle owners continued to face the threat of both theft and armed or forced snatching. Motorcycles accounted for the largest share of vehicle-related crime. The CPLC recorded 2,648 motorcycle thefts during July, while criminals snatched 492 motorcycles from citizens. The latest figures reflect the scale of crime reported across Karachi during the month, with motorcycles, mobile phones and vehicles remaining frequent targets. The data also highlights continued concerns over public safety, particularly in relation to street crime and property offences. The CPLC regularly compiles crime data from across the city to provide an overview of reported criminal activity. The July figures are likely to keep the focus on law-and-order conditions in Karachi and the need for stronger measures to protect citizens and their property.

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    Why are thousands protesting Sindh’s major civil…

    ByJustpaste.in

    HYDERABAD: A civil service examination meant to open the door to prestigious government jobs in Sindh has instead triggered months of protests, legal battles and allegations of irregularities, with unsuccessful candidates demanding that the entire process be scrapped and conducted again. The controversy centres on the Combined Competitive Examination 2024 (CCE-24) conducted by the Sindh Public Service Commission (SPSC). More than 4,300 candidates appeared in the written examination, which consisted of 10 papers. Yet when the results were announced on May 6, only 70 candidates were declared successful. The examination is particularly important because successful candidates can be appointed to Grade 16 and 17 positions, including assistant commissioners, assistant directors and section officers. For many candidates, the unusually low pass rate immediately raised questions. Why did the results trigger protests? The protesters’ concerns intensified when detailed marks certificates were uploaded following the announcement. Candidates noticed what they described as apparent inconsistencies in the marks sheets. One example involved Criminology, an optional subject carrying 100 marks in a single paper, which appeared in some detailed certificates as two papers carrying 200 marks. Candidates said a similar issue was visible in Environmental Science. Farman Ali, one of the campaign leaders, said candidates initially believed the discrepancy could simply be a technical mistake. However, after finding similar problems in other subjects, they began demanding an explanation from the commission. The SPSC, meanwhile, has maintained that the examination was conducted according to the applicable rules. Its spokesperson, Hifzullah Kaka, declined to comment on the disputed issues while the matter remained before the courts. Protests spread across Sindh Following the results, social media quickly filled with allegations that the examination process had been manipulated to benefit selected candidates. The Sindh Students Action Committee subsequently organised protests, while candidates began a sit-in outside the SPSC headquarters on Hyderabad’s Thandi Sarak. A larger rally was held on May 13, drawing students from different parts of Sindh. The following day, MQM-P lawmaker Maaz Mahboob submitted a resolution in the Sindh Assembly, expressing concern over alleged irregularities, merit violations and a lack of transparency. Protesters later launched the Movement for Restoration of Meritocracy, demanding broader reforms in public recruitment. The campaign has since spread beyond Hyderabad, with protests reported in Nawabshah, Ghotki, Qambar, Umerkot, Islamkot and Gambat. How did the controversy reach the courts? The dispute soon moved into the courtroom. The Sindh High Court suspended the CCE-24 results and directed the SPSC to produce the complete examination record. The court also halted further appointments and proceedings based on the disputed results. The SPSC challenged the Sindh High Court’s interim orders before the newly established Federal Constitutional Court, arguing that the examination had been conducted fairly, transparently and under the Sindh Public Service Commission Act, 2022, and Recruitment Management Regulations, 2023. On July 16, the federal court suspended the Sindh High Court’s interim orders concerning the inquiry, interviews and rechecking of failed candidates. The development allowed the SPSC to proceed with interviews of the 70 successful candidates. Protesters refuse to back down Despite the legal developments, unsuccessful candidates say their concerns remain unresolved. They are demanding that CCE-24 be cancelled and a fresh examination conducted. They are also calling for the resignation of SPSC Chairman Muhammad Rizwan and commission members, along with an independent judicial inquiry into SPSC examinations and recruitments for Grade 16 and 17 posts over the past five years. At the heart of the dispute is a question that extends beyond one examination: can young candidates trust the system responsible for deciding who gets a government career? For thousands of applicants who spent years preparing for the competitive examination, the answer remains uncertain. As the court proceedings continue, protesters remain camped outside the SPSC headquarters, insisting that their campaign will continue until they receive what they consider a transparent and credible resolution.

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    Sindh announces new school timings

    ByJustpaste.in

    The Sindh School Education and Literacy Department has issued a revised schedule for government schools across the province, outlining new operating hours for primary, elementary, secondary, and higher secondary institutions. According to an official notification, the updated timings will remain in effect from August until October 31, after which a separate winter schedule will be implemented from November 1 to March 31. Under the summer schedule, single-shift primary schools will operate from 8:00 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. from Monday to Thursday, while on Fridays, classes will end earlier, with schools remaining open from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. For secondary and higher secondary schools, the first shift will run from 7:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. until October 31. The department has also announced revised winter timings. From November 1 to March 31, single-shift primary schools will function from 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., while the first shift for secondary and higher secondary schools will be held from 8:00 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. Schools operating in double shifts will also follow updated schedules. Until October 31, the  second shift will run from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday. During the winter months, from November 1 to March 31, the second shift will begin at 12:45 p.m. and continue until 5:45 p.m. On Fridays, second-shift schools will operate from 10:45 a.m. to 2:15 p.m. The revised timings aim to ensure a uniform academic schedule for government schools across Sindh while accommodating seasonal changes in daylight and weather conditions.

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    Karachi seals 200 shops in Saddar over fire safety…

    ByJustpaste.in

    The Karachi administration has sealed 200 shops in Saddar for violating fire safety regulations, as authorities intensify efforts to enforce safety standards across commercial areas. The action was taken after inspections revealed that several businesses were operating without complying with mandatory fire safety requirements. The action was taken after inspections revealed that several businesses were operating without complying with mandatory fire safety requirements. According to officials, Deputy Commissioner South Javed Nabi Khoso submitted a report to Karachi Commissioner Syed Hassan Naqvi detailing enforcement measures taken against businesses found in violation of fire safety laws across the district. The report stated that the sealed shops are primarily located on the ground floor of Bilal Centre and Koh Noor Centre in Saddar. Authorities found that these commercial units failed to meet prescribed fire safety standards and were operating in conditions considered unsafe for customers and employees. The crackdown forms part of a broader campaign to improve compliance with fire prevention regulations in Karachi’s busy commercial districts. Officials have emphasized that ensuring public safety remains a top priority, particularly in crowded shopping centers where inadequate emergency measures can increase the risk of serious incidents. Following the inspection drive, Commissioner Karachi Syed Hassan Naqvi directed all deputy commissioners in the city to strictly enforce fire safety regulations and take action against businesses that fail to comply with legal requirements. The directive aims to improve safety standards in markets, shopping centers, and commercial buildings throughout Karachi. Fire safety regulations typically require commercial establishments to maintain functioning fire extinguishers, emergency exits, alarm systems, and other protective measures designed to reduce the risk of fire-related accidents. Authorities have warned that businesses found violating these requirements may face sealing, fines, or additional legal action until the necessary safety measures are implemented. The latest enforcement drive reflects growing efforts by the city administration to strengthen public safety following concerns over fire hazards in commercial areas. Shop owners whose businesses have been sealed will be required to address the identified deficiencies and meet the prescribed safety standards before they can resume operations. Officials have indicated that inspections will continue across Karachi to ensure compliance with fire safety laws, with similar action expected against other businesses that fail to meet the required standards. The administration has urged commercial property owners and traders to fully implement fire safety measures to avoid penalties and help create a safer environment for workers and the public.