ecc approves hike
| |

ECC approves hike in petrol, diesel dealers’ mar…

ISLAMABAD: The Economic Coordination Committee (ECC) has approved an increase in the dealers’ margin on petrol and diesel by Rs1.34 per litre.

According to sources, the dealers’ margin on both petrol and diesel has been raised from Rs8.64 to Rs9.98 per litre.

Vice Chairman of the All Pakistan Petrol Pumps Owners Association Nauman Butt thanked the prime minister and petroleum minister for approving the increase.

The association said the government had fulfilled its long-standing demand by increasing the dealers’ margin by Rs1.34 per litre.

Meanwhile, the government collected more petroleum levy revenue than both its target and the International Monetary Fund’s (IMF) estimate during the last fiscal year.

According to Finance Ministry sources, petroleum levy collections exceeded Rs1.56 trillion during the previous fiscal year. More than Rs50 billion was also collected under the Climate Support Levy.

Petroleum levy collections were around Rs100 billion higher than the government’s target and Rs21 billion above the IMF’s estimate.

At present, a petroleum levy of Rs80 per litre is being charged on petrol. High-Speed Diesel carries a levy of Rs77.28 per litre.

In addition, a separate Climate Support Levy of Rs5 per litre is being imposed on both petrol and diesel.

Similar Posts

  • | |

    PPP resents Punjab’s development says Uzma Bukha…

      Lahore: Punjab Information Minister Uzma Bukhari has said that the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) is fully aware of why the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) harbors resentment toward Punjab, adding that the province’s rapid development has become difficult for its political opponents to accept. Responding to recent statements made by PPP spokespersons in Lahore, Bukhari said that the Punjab government is utilizing public funds for the welfare and development of the people of Punjab, which, according to her, is the real source of the PPP’s criticism. She remarked that the “Nawabs of Larkana” are unable to digest the fact that Punjab’s resources are being spent on improving the lives of its citizens. The Punjab information minister also addressed PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, urging him to refrain from promoting what she described as politics of hatred and division. She said that as the chairman of a major political party, Bilawal should be mindful of the responsibilities associated with his position and avoid making statements that could deepen political polarization. Bukhari questioned why PPP representatives from Sindh rarely highlight the performance of their own provincial government. Instead of criticizing Punjab, she suggested, they should focus on informing the public about the achievements and governance record of the Sindh administration, which has remained under PPP leadership for several years. Highlighting the performance of the Punjab government, Bukhari said that Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has ensured that development projects and public resources are distributed across the province without discrimination. According to her, the government has extended development initiatives from Attock in northern Punjab to Rahim Yar Khan in the south, and from Rawalpindi to Vehari, ensuring that all regions benefit equally from provincial resources. She stated that the current administration is committed to improving public services, infrastructure, and the overall quality of life for people across Punjab. Bukhari added that those who are envious of Punjab’s progress and prosperity would continue to criticize, but such criticism would not hinder the government’s commitment to development.   Referring to the PPP’s political standing in Punjab, Bukhari claimed that the party currently ranks fourth in terms of public support in the province. She said this was not the fault of the PML-N but rather a reflection of the people’s confidence in the performance of the provincial government. According to her, Punjab’s residents continue to express satisfaction with the governance and development initiatives undertaken by the PML-N administration. In her remarks, Bukhari also referred to Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab, saying that when he visited Lahore to learn from the city’s governance and development model, the Punjab government welcomed him openly. She added that the same level of development, progress, and prosperity witnessed in Punjab should also be achieved in Sindh for the benefit of its people. The minister concluded by reaffirming that the Punjab government remains focused on serving the public through transparent governance and equitable development. She maintained that political criticism would not distract the administration from its objective of ensuring sustained progress and improving living standards throughout the province.

  • | | |

    Pakistan set to begin $2.5bn ML-1 Railway upgrade …

    LAHORE: Pakistan Railways is moving ahead with preparations for the first phase of the $2.5 billion Main Line-1 (ML-1) project, with civil works expected to begin in January 2027 under the government’s accelerated implementation plan. The first phase will focus on the 480-kilometre Karachi-Rohri railway corridor, where new tracks will be constructed alongside safety fencing to prevent unauthorised access. The project is expected to take around two-and-a-half to three years to complete. Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi said the department was making every effort to meet the January deadline set by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. He noted that consultations with contractors and consultants, international tendering, bidding, shortlisting and contract awards could take four to five months, but the government was determined to keep the project on schedule. Pakistan Railways has scheduled an online market engagement session for September 8 with local and international contractors, consultants and other stakeholders. The discussions will focus on project readiness, procurement, technical requirements, contract packages, qualification criteria, risk allocation and construction while railway operations continue. The Karachi-Rohri section has been prioritised because it carries a major share of the country’s railway traffic and includes stretches affected by deteriorating infrastructure and frequent accidents. Once upgraded, the corridor is expected to allow trains to operate at speeds of up to 160 kilometres per hour. The project will include track reconstruction, selected realignments, bridges, culverts, stations, freight facilities and other infrastructure along the Keamari-Landhi-Hyderabad, Hyderabad-Nawabshah and Nawabshah-Rohri sections. Upgrades to signalling, telecommunications and Walton Academy are also part of the broader plan. The Asian Development Bank is expected to finance the project, while Pakistan is also exploring co-financing from the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, World Bank, Islamic Development Bank and other partners. A meeting at Pakistan Railways headquarters reviewed preparations for the Karachi-Rohri upgrade, with Railway Board Chairman Syed Mazhar Ali Shah directing officials to complete the project review by October 30, 2026. Weekly monitoring of progress was also ordered. Officials said international expertise and market feedback would be incorporated into the project to improve its efficiency, sustainability and technical viability. Authorities also pledged to maintain transparency, competitiveness and merit throughout the procurement and implementation process. The government sees ML-1 as a key step towards modernising Pakistan’s railway network, improving passenger services, increasing freight efficiency and strengthening connectivity between major population centres and industrial areas.

  • |

    Delhi court gives Tahir Hussain life sentence

    A court in New Delhi on Friday sentenced former Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader Tahir Hussain to life imprisonment for the murder of Intelligence Bureau (IB) officer Ankit Sharma during the 2020 Delhi riots. The verdict was delivered by Additional Sessions Judge Parveen Singh after the court found Hussain guilty in the high-profile murder case linked to the communal violence that erupted in northeast Delhi in February 2020. The court also awarded life imprisonment to four other convicts found guilty in the same case. All five were held responsible for the killing of Ankit Sharma, whose death became one of the most widely discussed incidents of the riots. According to the prosecution, Sharma was attacked and killed during the violence that broke out in northeast Delhi, where clashes between rival groups resulted in widespread destruction, loss of life and damage to public and private property. The 2020 Delhi riots lasted several days and claimed dozens of lives while leaving hundreds of people injured. The violence triggered multiple criminal investigations, with police registering several cases against individuals accused of involvement in killings, arson and rioting. Tahir Hussain was elected as a municipal councillor from northeast Delhi on an Aam Aadmi Party ticket in 2017. He was considered a prominent local political figure before the riots. Following his arrest in connection with multiple cases related to the 2020 violence, the Aam Aadmi Party suspended him from the party. Since then, Hussain has remained at the centre of several legal proceedings arising from the riots. Friday’s judgment marks a significant development in one of the most prominent cases linked to the 2020 Delhi violence. The court concluded that Hussain and the four co-convicts were responsible for the murder of IB officer Ankit Sharma and imposed life imprisonment as punishment. The ruling is expected to remain one of the most significant judicial decisions connected to the 2020 Delhi riots, which continue to have legal and political implications in India.

  • Thai Election Commission Certifies 396 Constituency Seats, Paving Way for Parliamentary Formation

    BANGKOK — Thailand’s Election Commission (EC) on Wednesday officially certified election results for 396 out of 400 constituency seats, following reports from election inspectors confirming that the polls were conducted honestly and fairly, according to MCOT News Agency. Ombudsman Gives Election Commission Seven Days to Explain Barcode Controversy The certification represents a significant milestone in […]

  • |

    Pakistani celebrities who faced backlash for criticizing fellow stars

    Public figures are often judged not only for their professional achievements but also for how they speak about others. In Pakistan’s entertainment industry, several well-known personalities have sparked backlash after making controversial comments about fellow celebrities. While many of them built strong reputations through years of successful work, repeated public criticism and high-profile disputes have affected how sections of the audience view them. Veteran actor Firdous Jamal is one such example. Widely respected for memorable performances in television dramas, he found himself at the center of controversy after making remarks about actress Mahira Khan’s age and suitability for leading roles. His comments drew widespread criticism from both fans and members of the entertainment industry. In the years that followed, he continued making critical statements about several actors and industry veterans, further fueling debate. Personal family matters that became public also contributed to the negative attention surrounding him. Acclaimed writer Khalil-ur-Rehman Qamar has also remained a frequent topic of discussion due to his outspoken views. Known for penning some of Pakistan’s biggest television hits, he has often generated headlines for controversial interviews and public disagreements. His criticism of fellow celebrities, debates over social issues, and several personal controversies have divided public opinion, with supporters praising his honesty while critics accuse him of unnecessary hostility. Television host Nadia Khan, once celebrated as one of Pakistan’s pioneering morning show presenters, has faced criticism in recent years for her role as a drama reviewer. Her reviews, impersonations, and candid remarks about actors and television serials have often gone viral. While many viewers appreciate her straightforward opinions, others believe her comments sometimes cross the line and unfairly target fellow artists. Actor and producer Fahad Mustafa also came under public scrutiny after responding to comments made by senior actress Atiqa Odho regarding casting choices. His remarks during the exchange were widely criticized on social media, with many users describing them as disrespectful and ageist. The controversy prompted significant online debate and placed the star under intense public attention. Veteran actress, director, and filmmaker Sangeeta has similarly attracted criticism over her public statements. Some of her comments about fellow celebrities and revelations about past industry relationships were viewed as unnecessary by many fans. More recently, her remarks regarding actress Naeema Butt also generated discussion on social media, leading to mixed reactions from audiences. Television anchor Iqrar Ul Hassan, known for investigative journalism, has also seen his public image become increasingly polarizing. While he earned widespread recognition through his reporting career, his involvement in political matters, public disputes, and controversies surrounding his personal life have led to divided opinions among viewers. Viral incidents and outspoken statements have continued to keep him in the headlines. Media personality Dr. Omer Adil, once admired for hosting cultural and entertainment programs, has built a strong online presence through podcasts and YouTube discussions. However, his frequent criticism of celebrities and commentary on entertainment industry figures have changed how some longtime followers perceive him. Although he continues to attract viewers with his opinions, his style has also invited criticism from those who believe his remarks have become overly confrontational. These controversies highlight how public statements can significantly influence a celebrity’s reputation. In today’s digital era, where interviews and social media clips spread rapidly, even a single comment can shape public perception and spark widespread debate across the entertainment industry.

  • |

    Demi Lovato returns as Mitchie Torres in Camp Rock 3

    Demi Lovato is officially returning to one of her most beloved Disney roles, bringing back Mitchie Torres for the highly anticipated Camp Rock 3. The singer and actress will reprise the character nearly two decades after the original Camp Rock introduced her to audiences around the world. The news has generated excitement among longtime Disney fans, many of whom had been hoping to see Lovato return for the third instalment of the popular musical franchise. Lovato’s comeback also marks a major reunion with the Jonas Brothers, who will once again portray their iconic characters from the franchise. Joe Jonas is returning as Shane Gray, while Nick Jonas will reprise his role as Nate Gray and Kevin Jonas will once again play Jason Gray. Maria Canals-Barrera is also set to return as Connie, Mitchie’s mother and the director of Camp Rock. The upcoming film will see Lovato take on another important role behind the scenes as well. In addition to appearing on screen, she is serving as an executive producer alongside the Jonas Brothers, making her involvement in the project even more significant. The original Camp Rock premiered in 2008 and quickly became one of Disney Channel’s most popular original movies. Lovato’s performance as aspiring singer Mitchie Torres helped establish her as a major Disney star, while the film’s music and performances became a memorable part of the channel’s pop culture history. Following the announcement of her return, Lovato shared her excitement with fans on social media. She posted about Mitchie’s comeback and used the hashtag “#thisisme,” referencing one of the franchise’s most recognisable songs. Camp Rock 3 will also introduce a new generation of characters and performers. The story focuses on Connect 3 as the band prepares for a reunion tour. However, their plans are disrupted when their scheduled opening act drops out. Faced with the unexpected situation, the group heads back to Camp Rock in search of new talent who could potentially join them on their tour. The new cast includes Liamani Segura and Malachi Barton in leading roles, along with Lumi Pollack, Sherry Cola and Hudson Stone. Their addition is expected to bring a fresh energy to the franchise while allowing the returning stars to reconnect with the world that made them famous. For fans, the return of Lovato and the Jonas Brothers represents a major throwback to the early days of Disney Channel’s musical era. With the original stars returning alongside a younger cast, the film aims to combine nostalgia with a new storyline for today’s audience. Camp Rock 3 is scheduled to premiere on Disney Channel on August 13. Fans will then be able to watch the movie on Disney+ from August 14, giving viewers multiple ways to experience the long-awaited reunion.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *