• Which plane seat is safest?

    Many people choose to travel by air because it is fast comfortable and one of the safest ways to get from one place to another.  However when an airplane accident happens many passengers wonder. Is there a seat that offers a better chance of survival? The good news is that air travel remains far safer than traveling by road or rail. Although plane crashes often receive worldwide attention because they are rare and serious the number of deaths from aviation accidents is much lower than from road accidents. According to global aviation safety data flying has one of the lowest accident and death rates of any form of transportation. Is there a safest seat? There is no seat that can guarantee survival in every accident.  Aviation experts say the outcome depends on many factors including the type of crash the speed of the aircraft and where the impact occurs. However studies of past accidents suggest that some seats may provide a slightly better chance of survival in certain situations. What research shows A review of airplane crashes over 35 years found that middle seats in the rear section of the aircraft had the lowest death rate, around 28%.  By comparison seats in the middle section of the plane had a higher death rate. Another study by Popular Mechanics which examined crashes between 1971 and 2005 found that passengers sitting in the back of the plane were up to 40% more likely to survive than those sitting closer to the front. Why the back may be safer Aviation experts explain that the front of the aircraft often absorbs the first impact during some types of crashes.  Because of this passengers seated in the rear may have a better chance of surviving in certain accidents. The back of the aircraft is also closer to the rear emergency exits which may help passengers leave the plane more quickly if an evacuation is needed. But every crash is different Experts also warn that there is no “perfect” seat. Some crashes affect the rear of the aircraft first while others damage the front or middle section. In accidents involving mountains the ocean or explosions survival may depend more on the nature of the crash than on where a passenger is sitting. For example if a plane crashes into a mountain or falls into the sea the chances of survival are often very low regardless of seat location. Emergency exit seats can help Passengers sitting near emergency exits may be able to leave the aircraft faster after a crash provided the exits remain usable.  Quick evacuation is often an important factor in survival. What Aviation Authorities Say The US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) says no part of an airplane is officially considered safer than another. Survival depends on many factors, including the type of accident the force of the impact fire and how quickly passengers can evacuate. Research suggests that seats near the back of the aircraft especially the middle seats in the rear section may offer a slightly better chance of survival in some crashes. However no seat can guarantee safety. The most important thing passengers can do is wear their seat belt listen to the safety briefing and follow the cabin crew’s instructions.  These simple steps can make a big difference in an emergency.

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    Tight security marks peaceful Chehlum procession

    The main Chehlum procession concluded peacefully in Karachi on Tuesday after passing through its designated route under comprehensive security arrangements. Thousands of mourners participated in the annual religious procession to mark Chehlum, also known as Arbaeen, which commemorates the 40th day of mourning for the martyrdom of Imam Husain (AS), the grandson of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Law enforcement agencies implemented an extensive security plan to ensure the procession was held without any untoward incident. The event concluded successfully after participants reached the designated endpoint. Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah expressed satisfaction over the peaceful conclusion of the procession. He praised the Sindh Police, Pakistan Rangers, and other security agencies for their coordinated efforts to maintain law and order throughout the day. The chief minister also appreciated the cooperation extended by procession organisers, religious scholars, volunteers, and participants. He said their collective efforts helped ensure the religious event remained peaceful and well-organised. Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar also commended the police for their professional performance. He said the successful completion of Chehlum processions reflected effective planning and strong coordination among all institutions responsible for security. A comprehensive security strategy had been put in place ahead of the event. More than 11,000 police officers and personnel were deployed across Karachi to protect Chehlum processions, religious gatherings, and imambargahs. Security officials remained on high alert throughout the day. Additional police personnel were stationed along the procession route and at sensitive locations across the city. Rangers and other law enforcement agencies also assisted in maintaining security. Authorities carried out continuous patrolling, snap checking, and picketing in different areas. Officers were instructed to remain present in their respective jurisdictions and ensure strict monitoring of important public places, government buildings, private installations, and religious sites. To facilitate security arrangements, several major roads along the procession route remained closed. Traffic police introduced a detailed diversion plan to reduce inconvenience for commuters. Motorists were advised to use alternate routes through Lasbela Chowk, Nishtar Road, Kashmir Road, Shahrah-i-Quaideen, Martin Road, Bahadur Yar Jang Road, Soldier Bazaar, and other connecting roads. Traffic police personnel remained deployed across the city to guide commuters and manage the flow of vehicles.

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    Karachi flour price fixed at Rs. 130 per kilogram

    The Commissioner of Karachi has taken notice of a sharp increase in flour prices in the city. A meeting was held between the Commissioner of Karachi and the Flour Mills Association where it was agreed to ensure the supply of wheat at lower prices and without interruption. Following the meeting, flour mills reduced the ex-mill price of No. 2.5 flour by Rs. 3 per kilogram fixing it at Rs. 130 per kilogram. Flour mills across the city will sell No. 2.5 flour at an ex-mill price of Rs. 130 per kilogram from today. The price of wheat has also fallen to Rs. 121 per kilogram resulting in a reduction in flour prices. It is worth mentioning that the Flour Mills Association had previously increased flour prices arbitrarily. The price of No. 2.5 flour had been raised to Rs. 133 per kilogram while fine flour was priced at Rs. 149 per kilogram. During the past three months, the price of No. 2.5 flour increased by Rs. 24 per kilogram while the price of fine flour rose by Rs. 31 per kilogram. The price of mill-ground flour (chakki atta) has also increased by Rs. 20 to Rs. 25 per kilogram over the past three months. Wheat is currently being supplied to chakki owners at Rs. 130 per kilogram. However, if wheat prices rise further, there is a possibility that flour prices could increase again.

  • High sugar intake in early life may raise dementia risk

    A new study has found that children who consume high amounts of sugar at an early age may face a higher risk of developing dementia later in life. The study suggests that pregnant women who avoid sweets, chocolates and other sugary foods may help reduce their child’s risk of developing the disease by up to 20 percent. The research published in the medical journal Neurology also found that consuming very small amounts of sugar during early life may provide protection against dementia. The study’s lead author, Professor Jiazheng Zheng said the findings suggest that limiting sugar intake during the early stages of life could have long-term benefits for brain health. He further said the findings highlight the potential importance of early-life nutrition in reducing the risk of dementia decades later. Researchers from the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology compared the health of 64,737 people who were born before and after sugar rationing was introduced in Britain during World War II. The participants were divided into groups based on the timing of sugar rationing: those who experienced limited access to sugar before birth and during their first year of life, those who experienced it before birth and until the age of two and those who were not exposed to sugar rationing. When the participants reached an average age of 55, the research team began analyzing their medical records to determine which individuals were diagnosed with dementia during the following 15 years. Among the 15,256 people who had limited access to sugar before birth and during their first two years of life, only 2 percent were later diagnosed with dementia. Although researchers say the findings do not conclusively prove that eating less sugar directly prevents dementia, experts believe the results are consistent with growing evidence that sugar can affect brain function. Experts also say that the brain is highly sensitive to fluctuations in blood sugar levels. Other research has found that people with high blood sugar levels may face up to a 69 percent higher risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

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    K-pop label CEO arrested in $21m fraud case

    SEOUL: The head of South Korea’s entertainment agency One Hundred Label has been arrested over allegations of large-scale financial fraud, adding to the growing controversies surrounding the K-pop industry. Cha Gawon, chairman of Piac Group and the representative of One Hundred Label, was taken into custody after a Seoul court approved an arrest warrant. The court cited concerns that evidence in the case could be destroyed if the suspect remained free during the investigation. According to investigators, Cha is accused of securing advance payments worth 24.2 billion Korean won (about $16.9 million) from an entertainment technology company for a business project involving the intellectual property rights of artists managed by the agency. Authorities allege the promised project was never carried out. Prosecutors further claim that Cha entered into the agreement despite knowing that an existing contract with another company would prevent the deal from moving forward. Investigators believe the alleged actions resulted in financial losses estimated at nearly 30 billion Korean won, or around $21 million. The case is being investigated under South Korea’s law covering major economic crimes. Following the arrest, Cha was transferred to a police detention facility in Seoul while the investigation continues. Authorities have also accused Cha of collecting billions of won through property lease arrangements that were allegedly never completed. Officials say these transactions are also part of the wider fraud investigation. Police reportedly sought Cha’s arrest more than once, but earlier requests required additional investigation. After examining bank records and contractual documents, investigators submitted another request, which was later approved by the court. The legal troubles have intensified uncertainty surrounding One Hundred Label. Several well-known artists have already ended their association with the agency following disputes over contract terms and financial settlements. Actor and singer Lee Seung-gi previously terminated his exclusive contract with the company, citing contractual violations. K-pop group The Boyz also launched legal proceedings against the agency over alleged unpaid earnings, delayed staff payments, and breach of contract. Most members successfully suspended their exclusive contracts through a court order, while member New remained with the company. SHINee member Taemin had also parted ways with the agency’s subsidiary, Big Planet Made, before the latest developments.

  • Night or Morning when to charge your phone?

    Many smartphone users wonder whether it is better to charge their phone overnight or wait until the morning. Some people plug in their phone before going to bed while others prefer charging it after they wake up.  According to technology experts both methods are generally safe but one may be better for your battery’s long term health. Modern smartphones are designed with smart charging technology that helps protect the battery. Once the battery reaches 100%, the phone automatically reduces or stops charging to prevent overcharging. This means leaving your phone plugged in overnight is usually not dangerous and it is very unlikely to cause the battery to explode or become damaged under normal conditions. However experts say that keeping the phone connected to the charger for many hours is not always the best habit. Even after the battery is full a small amount of voltage can remain which may slowly add stress to the battery over time. If this happens every night for months or years it could slightly reduce the battery’s overall lifespan. For this reason many experts recommend charging your phone in the morning whenever possible.  You can unplug it as soon as it reaches the charge level you need helping reduce unnecessary stress on the battery. Battery experts also suggest keeping your phone’s battery between 20% and 80% most of the time.  Staying within this range reduces chemical wear inside the battery and can help it last longer. If overnight charging is your only option there is no need to worry.  Most modern Android phones and iPhones include features such as Adaptive Charging or Optimized Battery Charging. These features learn your daily routine and slow down charging overnight reaching 100% only shortly before you usually unplug the phone. This helps reduce long term battery wear. Heat is another important factor that affects battery life. Using your phone for heavy gaming video editing or other demanding tasks while it is charging can cause it to become very hot. High temperatures can shorten the battery’s lifespan more quickly than charging overnight. Experts also recommend using the original charger or a trusted high quality replacement. Cheap or low quality chargers and cables may not provide stable power and could affect battery performance. It is also a good idea to avoid charging your phone under a pillow blanket or in any place where heat cannot escape easily. Another useful tip is to avoid letting the battery drop to 0% on a regular basis. Instead try to charge it when it falls to around 20%, and if possible unplug it when it reaches about 80%. In the end overnight charging is much safer than it used to be because of modern battery technology. However if you want your phone’s battery to stay healthy for as long as possible charging when needed using adaptive charging features avoiding excessive heat and keeping the battery between 20% and 80% are the best habits to follow.

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    Zayn Malik posts after Gigi-Cooper wedding speculation

    Singer Zayn Malik has shared a new message on social media following renewed speculation surrounding his former partner, Gigi Hadid, and her relationship with Hollywood actor Bradley Cooper. The former One Direction star returned to Instagram after several weeks of silence to celebrate the 11th anniversary of his fan community, known as the “Zquad.” Alongside a selfie, Zayn thanked his supporters for their loyalty and wrote, “Love you all!” His post marked his first social media update since mid-July. Although the singer did not mention Hadid or Cooper, the timing of the post drew attention as reports continue to circulate about the couple’s relationship. Marriage rumours surrounding Gigi Hadid and Bradley Cooper gained momentum after the pair were photographed together in Paris wearing rings on their left hands. The images quickly fuelled speculation on social media that the couple may have secretly tied the knot. The latest appearance was also their first public outing since attending the wedding celebrations of Taylor Swift and NFL star Travis Kelce last month. Hadid and Cooper have reportedly been in a relationship since 2023, but neither has publicly addressed the ongoing marriage rumours. Before dating Cooper, Gigi Hadid was in a long-term relationship with Zayn Malik. The former couple dated for nearly six years and welcomed their daughter, Khai, in September 2020. Their relationship ended following reports of family tensions involving Hadid’s mother, Yolanda Hadid. Despite their separation, Zayn and Gigi have continued to co-parent their daughter.

  • Morning vs Evening walk, Which is better for health?

    Medical experts say that walking in the morning or evening is equally beneficial for weight loss, improving heart health and getting better sleep. However, the real key to good health is maintaining a regular walking routine. According to health experts, 30 to 45 minutes of brisk walking every day can play an effective role in improving heart health, losing weight, strengthening muscles and reducing mental stress. However, choosing to walk in the morning or evening depends on an individual’s routine, health condition and personal preference. Benefits of Morning walks Morning walks provide the body with natural sunlight which helps regulate the body’s internal clock, improve sleep at night and support the production of vitamin D. In addition, walking in the morning promotes the release of hormones associated with happiness which can improve mood, increase concentration and help maintain energy throughout the day. Experts say that people who exercise in the morning are also more likely to maintain their exercise routine consistently. Evening walks also have several benefits Experts say that after a full day, an increase in body temperature makes the muscles and joints more flexible. As a result, walking briskly and for longer periods may feel easier. According to experts, an evening walk can also help reduce mental stress, relieve fatigue and provide mental relaxation after a busy day. Regarding weight loss, experts say that walking in both the morning and evening can be effective provided that a healthy diet is maintained and a calorie deficit is created. Some people consider walking before breakfast better because the body may use stored fat for energy during this time. However, in the long term, weight loss depends on overall diet and physical activity. Morning and evening walks are also equally beneficial for heart health. Regular walking improves blood circulation and helps control blood pressure and cholesterol levels. It may also reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, obesity and other lifestyle-related diseases. Walking and sleep When it comes to sleep, morning walks can help improve the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle while light or moderate-intensity evening walks can reduce stress and support better sleep. However, intense exercise shortly before bedtime may cause difficulty sleeping for some people. Experts say the World Health Organization (WHO) recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week. Whether you walk in the morning or evening, maintaining consistency is the real key to a healthy lifestyle.

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    US waives $20,000 visa bond for Pakistanis

    Pakistan has been excluded from the United States’ newly permanent visa bond programme, meaning Pakistani applicants will not be required to deposit a refundable financial guarantee of up to $20,000 when applying for certain US visitor visas. The United States has officially made its 2025 Visa Bond Pilot Program a permanent policy. Under the programme, nationals of selected countries applying for business or tourist visas must provide a refundable financial bond ranging from $10,000 to $20,000 as part of the visa application process. According to international reports, the revised policy increases the maximum refundable bond amount from $15,000 to $20,000 for eligible applicants from countries included in the programme. The list reportedly includes around 50 countries, including Bangladesh, Nepal, and several African nations. Pakistan is not included in the list of countries subject to the visa bond requirement. Afghanistan, India, and Iran are also excluded from the programme. As a result, Pakistani citizens applying for US visitor visas will continue to follow the standard visa application process without the additional refundable financial guarantee required under the permanent visa bond policy.

  • PML-N accuses Gujrat police of political victimisation after rally FIR

    GUJRAT: A political row has erupted in Gujrat days after Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) celebrated its victories in the Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) Legislative Assembly elections, with the party accusing the district police of registering what it described as a politically motivated first information report (FIR) against its local leadership. The controversy began after a victory rally organised in the NA-63 constituency, where supporters celebrated PML-N’s electoral success in AJK. During the procession, some participants allegedly resorted to aerial firing. Following the incident, Gujrat Police registered an FIR against around 10 nominated suspects and nearly 30 unidentified persons. Police have also arrested around 10 individuals in connection with the case. Among those named in the FIR is PML-N Gujrat District Coordinator Chaudhry Ali Warraich. The case includes serious offences under Sections 324, 148, 149 and 109 of the Pakistan Penal Code, in addition to other charges related to the incident. Addressing an emergency press conference, Ali Warraich strongly rejected the allegations and accused the police of acting beyond their legal authority. He alleged that the FIR was registered without a proper inquiry and claimed that officials from City Police Station initiated legal proceedings despite the alleged incident occurring within the jurisdiction of Sadar Police Station. “This action was taken overnight without any transparent investigation. We will challenge this FIR through all available legal forums,” Warraich said. He maintained that only the individual found responsible for aerial firing should face legal consequences, adding that innocent participants should not be implicated. “If any person committed the firing, that individual should be punished according to law, but the rest should not be made scapegoats,” he said, demanding that responsibility be fixed on those directly involved. PML-N District President Nawabzada Tahir-ul-Mulk also condemned the FIR, describing it as political victimisation. “We have always opposed violence and lawlessness in Gujrat. Ironically, today our own workers are being implicated in what appears to be a politically motivated case,” he said. AJK MLA Chaudhry Zeeshan Younas, who recently won the LA-38 Jammu-V seat on the PML-N ticket, expressed solidarity with those booked in the case. “Most of those nominated are our supporters and voters. We will not leave them alone and will provide them every possible legal and political support,” he said. Warraich further alleged that Punjab ministers Chaudhry Salik Hussain and Chaudhry Shafay Hussain exerted pressure on the district administration to register the FIR at the request of PML-Q leader Chaudhry Hussain Elahi. However, no official response was immediately available from the ministers or the PML-Q regarding the allegations. According to PML-N leaders, the FIR is being viewed by many local political observers as a reaction to the party’s electoral gains in AJK, particularly in Gujrat, a district long regarded as a political stronghold of the Pakistan Muslim League-Quaid (PML-Q), which currently has representation in both the federal and Punjab governments. Meanwhile, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has reportedly taken notice of the incident and sought a report from the Inspector General of Police, Punjab. Despite repeated attempts by journalists to obtain the police version, Gujrat Police declined to comment on the matter. No official statement explaining the basis of the FIR or the arrests had been issued till the filing of this report.