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    Justin Greaves’ unbeaten fifty lifts West Indies to 239-5 against Pakistan

    ByJustpaste.in

    PORT OF SPAIN: Justin Greaves produced a composed unbeaten half-century to guide the West Indies to 239-5 at stumps on the opening day of the second Test against Pakistan, putting the hosts in a strong position after rain and fading light curtailed play. Greaves remained unbeaten on 64, while experienced all-rounder Roston Chase was solid on 36 not out, with the pair steering the Caribbean side through the closing stages after Pakistan struck at regular intervals. Earlier, Brandon King laid the foundation for the innings with an impressive 46, helping the West Indies recover from early setbacks before narrowly missing out on a well-deserved half-century. Pakistan’s bowlers worked hard on a surface that offered occasional assistance but struggled to build sustained pressure as partnerships frustrated the visitors throughout the day. Fast bowler Mohammad Ali emerged as Pakistan’s most successful bowler, claiming two wickets with disciplined line and length. Ubaid Shah, Ali Usman, and veteran spinner Sajid Khan picked up one wicket each, ensuring Pakistan stayed in the contest despite West Indies’ steady progress. The opening day’s play was interrupted by rain and poor light, limiting action to just 74 overs instead of a full day’s schedule. The frequent stoppages disrupted the rhythm of both teams and prevented Pakistan from fully capitalising whenever they gained momentum. With five wickets still in hand, the West Indies will look to extend their first-innings total beyond 350 when play resumes on Tuesday. Greaves and Chase will be aiming to convert their unbeaten partnership into a match-defining stand. Pakistan, meanwhile, will target an early breakthrough on the second morning to expose the lower order and prevent the hosts from taking complete control of the contest. The second day’s opening session is expected to play a crucial role in shaping the direction of the Test, with both teams aware that a strong first-innings performance could prove decisive in the battle for series momentum.

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    Mir Raza’s mysterious death exposes crores d…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Investigators have uncovered new evidence in the mysterious death of Karachi resident Mir Raza Ali, whose body was found in Gulistan-e-Jauhar, as police continue to investigate whether he was murdered or died by suicide. According to investigation sources, CCTV footage obtained by police shows Mir Raza leaving his shop near Bahadurabad at around 3:30am on July 29 after taking a security guard’s pistol from a drawer. He then drove to his home, where he left behind his car, smartwatch, house keys, and Rs39,000 before booking an online taxi. Police said Mir Raza departed his home at 4:08am and headed toward Gulistan-e-Jauhar alone. CCTV footage also captured him walking by himself in the area. His mobile phone was switched off at around 4:22am near Johar Mor Hilltop, and he was dropped off in Block 2 of Gulistan-e-Jauhar at approximately 4:28am. Authorities are still trying to determine whether Mir Raza was killed or took his own life. Investigation sources said Mir Raza was involved in the digital currency business in addition to his other commercial ventures. He had reportedly managed investments for several people and regularly paid profits to investors. However, officials said his digital currency business began suffering losses in December 2025, with financial difficulties worsening significantly in April 2026. To cover the losses, he allegedly started borrowing money and eventually accumulated debts estimated between Rs50 million and Rs80 million. Sources further claimed that an overseas friend invested Rs7.5 million in his business but did not receive the promised returns. Police have also recorded the statement of Mir Raza’s fiancée. According to investigators, the two remained in contact until around 11:30pm on July 28. She attempted to contact him again at around 3:00am, making more than 40 calls and sending numerous messages within 20 minutes, but received no response. Investigators also revealed that Mir Raza had deleted all of his social media accounts before leaving home. He reportedly transferred Rs250,000 to his father’s bank account and carried the shop security guard’s .30-bore pistol with him. While police recovered the pistol holster from the scene, the firearm itself has not yet been found. Another CCTV recording from the area where Mir Raza’s body was discovered has provided a new lead. The footage shows a motorcycle arriving at the deserted location at 3:36am on July 29 and remaining there for approximately 22 seconds before leaving. Based on preliminary evidence, investigators suspect the body may have been dumped at the site during the early hours of July 29. They believe those involved may also have discarded the pistol holster at the scene, which could become a crucial piece of evidence. Police have expanded their investigation, using CCTV footage and other forensic evidence to identify and arrest those responsible while examining every possible angle of the case. Investigation sources also disclosed that Mir Raza had thrown away his mobile phone along University Road. The device was later found by three labourers working in the area. Police tracked down the workers and recovered the phone as part of the ongoing investigation.

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    Calgary housing complex fire sends 6 to hospital, …

    ByJustpaste.in

    CALGARY: A devastating apartment fire in southeast Calgary left six people hospitalized on Sunday after flames rapidly spread through a residential housing complex, triggering a major emergency response and forcing firefighters to battle multiple blazes across the city. Emergency crews rushed to the scene in the 400 block of MacLeod Trail S.E. at approximately 12:25 p.m. following reports of a fire inside the apartment building. According to the Calgary Fire Department, the blaze originated in a single residential suite before quickly spreading, causing significant damage throughout the complex. Firefighters worked to contain the flames and prevent the fire from extending to nearby structures while rescue teams assisted residents trapped inside the building. Alberta Health Services Emergency Medical Services confirmed that six people were transported to hospital with varying degrees of injuries. Among the victims, one person remains in critical condition, while two others sustained serious injuries. Three additional patients were reported to be in stable condition after receiving treatment at the scene before being taken to hospital for further medical care. Officials have not disclosed the identities of the injured or provided details about the circumstances that led to their injuries. Investigators are now working to determine what sparked the fire. Authorities said the cause remains unknown, and a formal investigation has been launched to establish how the blaze began and whether any safety concerns contributed to the incident. The apartment fire was one of several emergencies handled by Calgary firefighters on Sunday, stretching emergency resources across different parts of the city. Earlier in the day, crews responded to another fire in the northwest community of Kensington, where two detached garages and a power pole were damaged. Firefighters also tackled a large blaze at the Shepard Landfill and Eco Centre in southeast Calgary, highlighting an unusually busy day for emergency services. Officials have not yet released information on the number of residents displaced by the apartment fire or the full extent of structural damage to the building. Authorities are expected to continue examining the scene over the coming days as investigators gather evidence and assess the cause of the blaze. The incident serves as another reminder of the dangers posed by rapidly spreading residential fires and the critical role of emergency responders, whose swift action helped evacuate residents and prevent what could have been an even greater tragedy.

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    Iran holds fresh talks with Pakistan and Saudi Ara…

    ByJustpaste.in

    ISLAMABAD: Iran has intensified its diplomatic engagement with key regional partners by holding another round of high-level discussions with Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, as efforts continue to ease tensions and prevent a wider conflict in the Middle East. According to Iranian state media, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi spoke by telephone on Monday with Pakistan’s Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir and Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan. The conversations marked the second round of talks between the leaders within 24 hours, reflecting the urgency of ongoing diplomatic initiatives aimed at preserving regional peace and stability. During the discussions, the leaders exchanged views on the latest political and diplomatic developments and stressed the importance of strengthening regional cooperation to resolve tensions through dialogue rather than confrontation. They agreed that political engagement remains the most effective path toward ensuring lasting security across West Asia. The renewed diplomatic outreach comes shortly after US President Donald Trump announced that Washington had suspended planned military strikes against Iran and would resume negotiations with Tehran. While Trump claimed that regional countries had helped establish the framework for renewed talks, Iran rejected suggestions that it had requested a pause in hostilities. Nevertheless, Tehran has continued consultations with influential regional capitals to support diplomatic efforts. The upcoming negotiations between the United States and Iran are expected to focus on Tehran’s nuclear program and the future of the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most strategically important maritime trade routes. The waterway remains under heavy international attention due to its critical role in global oil and liquefied natural gas shipments. Iran has maintained that any military action by the United States, Israel, or any regional country supporting such operations would receive a firm and proportionate response. The warning follows months of heightened confrontation that began after military operations launched by the United States and Israel earlier this year, citing concerns over Iran’s missile capabilities, nuclear ambitions, and support for allied armed groups. The prolonged conflict has disrupted shipping across the Gulf and Red Sea, pushed global energy prices higher, and increased fears of broader regional instability. Although Washington has repeatedly signaled the possibility of military escalation, diplomatic channels remain active as regional powers work to prevent the crisis from expanding further. With fresh talks now on the horizon, Iran’s latest engagement with Pakistan and Saudi Arabia underscores the growing role of regional diplomacy in seeking a peaceful resolution to one of the Middle East’s most challenging security crises.

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    Hungary shuts only nuclear plant amid drought

    ByJustpaste.in

    BUDAPEST: Hungary has taken the unprecedented step of shutting down its only nuclear power plant after severe drought pushed the Danube River to critically low levels, threatening the facility’s ability to safely cool its reactors and raising fears of an energy crisis during an intense summer heatwave. The closure of the Paks Nuclear Power Plant marks the first complete shutdown in the facility’s 44-year history. The plant, which typically supplies between one-third and 40 percent of Hungary’s electricity, has been forced offline as water levels in the Danube continue to fall amid one of Central Europe’s worst droughts in recent decades. Prime Minister Peter Magyar warned that the country now faces its “most critical five days,” with temperatures expected to climb to around 40 degrees Celsius just as electricity demand peaks. In a video message shared on social media, Magyar said the shutdown would place enormous pressure on Hungary’s electricity grid, public services and essential infrastructure. “Tomorrow, the Paks power plant will not be generating, while the hottest days are still ahead,” he said, urging citizens and businesses to reduce electricity consumption during evening peak hours between 5 p.m. and 10 p.m. The 2-gigawatt facility operates four Russian-built reactors that rely on water from the Danube for cooling. With river levels dropping to record lows, authorities determined that continuing operations could compromise reactor safety. Officials have also warned that the plant could remain offline for several weeks if weather conditions fail to improve. The drought has affected more than just power generation. Falling water levels have disrupted river transport, slowed tourism and prompted water-use restrictions in over 100 cities and villages, including areas surrounding Budapest. To maintain electricity supplies, Hungary has begun importing emergency power from neighboring countries while considering additional measures to stabilize the grid. The government is also weighing mandatory electricity restrictions for large industrial consumers if conditions worsen. Officials estimate the crisis could cost the country between 100 billion and 200 billion forints (approximately $315 million to $630 million) because of soaring electricity import prices. Climate experts say the situation highlights the growing vulnerability of Europe’s energy infrastructure to extreme weather events linked to climate change. Nuclear power plants across the continent depend on rivers and lakes for cooling, making prolonged droughts an increasingly serious operational challenge. For now, authorities remain focused on conserving electricity and closely monitoring the Danube’s water levels. With scorching temperatures forecast to continue, Hungary faces a difficult balancing act between ensuring public safety, maintaining energy security and managing one of the country’s most severe climate-related emergencies in decades.

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    Sharmila Faruqui alleges AJK poll rigging

    ByJustpaste.in

    Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leader Sharmila Faruqui has alleged that her party believes in the power of the vote, while the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) relies on other means to secure political success. Speaking during a television programme on Monday, Faruqui claimed that an atmosphere of fear and intimidation was created in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), giving the impression that the election mandate had already been secured. She argued that announcements of development initiatives, including Green Bus projects, before polling day amounted to pre-poll rigging. According to her, even if the PML-N succeeds in forming a government in AJK with the current mandate, it will struggle to effectively serve the people. Faruqui also questioned the handling of polling in constituencies where the PPP traditionally enjoys strong public support. She alleged that polling staff arrived late in several such areas, raising concerns about the transparency of the electoral process. Referring to the killing of a PPP worker, she claimed that the incident was initially described as resulting from either a push or a heart attack, despite the party maintaining that the worker had been deliberately targeted. The PPP leader further said the AJK elections should not be viewed through the political lens of Lahore or Karachi, as the region has its own unique issues and priorities. She maintained that the people of Azad Kashmir have a longstanding bond with the PPP and asserted that no other political party enjoys the same level of public support in the region. The PML-N has not publicly responded to Faruqui’s allegations. Meanwhile, results from the second phase of the AJK elections continue to emerge, with the PML-N maintaining a clear lead according to unofficial results.

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    Millions left in the dark as Cuba’s power grid c…

    ByJustpaste.in

    HAVANA: Millions of Cubans were left without electricity after the country’s national power grid collapsed late Sunday, triggering another nationwide blackout and deepening an energy crisis that has already strained daily life across the Caribbean island. The state-owned power operator, Union Eléctrica de Cuba, confirmed the grid failure in brief statements posted on social media but did not immediately disclose the cause of the latest outage or provide a timeline for restoring electricity. The blackout affected much of the island, home to nearly 10 million people, and comes after three nationwide power failures in July, raising fresh concerns about the reliability of Cuba’s ageing electricity infrastructure. Residents in Havana and other major cities reported streets falling into darkness as homes, businesses and public services were left without power. The repeated outages have disrupted transportation, communications and essential services, adding to the hardships already faced by many Cubans. Energy experts say the country’s power system has come under increasing pressure as fuel supplies continue to shrink. Cuba has struggled to secure sufficient oil imports following tighter US sanctions and a reduction in support from traditional suppliers. The situation worsened after the United States imposed an oil blockade under President Donald Trump following Washington’s recognition of political changes in Venezuela earlier this year. Venezuela had long been Cuba’s primary source of crude oil, while fuel shipments from Mexico have also declined amid growing US pressure. With limited access to imported fuel, many of Cuba’s ageing thermal power plants have been forced to operate below capacity, making the national grid increasingly vulnerable to large-scale failures. In response to the worsening crisis, Havana has cautiously begun opening parts of its tightly controlled energy sector. The government recently approved its first foreign-backed fuel import venture and authorized nearly 200 Cuban businesses to participate in wholesale fuel distribution in an effort to improve fuel availability. Despite those reforms, analysts warn that restoring stability to Cuba’s electricity system will require significant investment in modern infrastructure and a more reliable supply of fuel. Authorities have not yet announced when power will be fully restored, while emergency teams continue working to stabilize the grid. The latest nationwide blackout underscores the growing challenges facing Cuba’s energy sector as economic pressures, ageing infrastructure and fuel shortages continue to test the resilience of the country’s electricity network. With blackouts becoming increasingly frequent, many residents fear the crisis could worsen unless long-term solutions are found.

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    Heart of Nepal mourns Nirmal Purja after Pakistan …

    ByJustpaste.in

    Nepal: Deep sorrow swept through Nepal as family, friends, teachers, and students gathered at Nirmal Purja’s former school to honor the legendary mountaineer, whose life was tragically cut short in a deadly avalanche on Pakistan’s Broad Peak. At Small Heaven School in Chitwan, candles were lit and flowers placed before a portrait of the celebrated British-Nepali climber, creating an emotional tribute to a man whose remarkable achievements inspired millions around the world. The ceremony took place as rescue teams recovered the 43-year-old’s body following the avalanche that claimed the lives of ten climbers last Thursday. Those who knew Purja long before he became an international mountaineering icon remembered him as a determined and fearless child with extraordinary ambition. Former classmate Dhiraj Bahadur Panta recalled the anxious days when Purja was reported missing, saying friends and admirers across the world had prayed for his safe return. He described the loss as heartbreaking, adding that fate had taken away a man admired by countless people. Teachers also reflected on Purja’s early years, describing him as disciplined, honest, and courageous. Shailendra Baral, who supervised him in the school hostel, said Purja displayed exceptional confidence even as a young student and always stood out for his determination to achieve something meaningful in life. Purja went on to become one of the greatest mountaineers of his generation. In 2019, he rewrote climbing history by scaling the world’s 14 highest peaks in just over six months, smashing a record that had stood for years. His extraordinary accomplishment was later featured in a Netflix documentary, inspiring aspiring climbers and bringing global recognition to Nepal’s mountaineering community. He further cemented his legacy in 2021 by joining the all-Nepali team that completed the first-ever winter ascent of K2, one of the world’s most dangerous mountains. A year later, he returned to his hometown for the screening of his documentary, proudly telling local residents that he hoped his journey would encourage young people to dream beyond their circumstances. Students attending the memorial said Purja’s story had become an enduring source of inspiration within the school. They remembered him not only as a national hero but also as someone who brought immense pride to Nepal through his courage, determination, and unwavering spirit. As tributes continue to pour in from around the world, Nirmal Purja is being remembered not only for conquering the planet’s highest peaks but also for inspiring generations to believe that no dream is beyond reach.

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    Cotton prices rise further across Pakistan

    ByJustpaste.in

      Cotton prices have continued their upward movement in Pakistan, with rates increasing by Rs500 per maund as the market remains firm amid changing supply and demand conditions. According to Ehsan-ul-Haq, chairman of the Exchange Ginners Forum (EGF), the price of cotton in Punjab has risen to Rs19,300 per maund, while rates in Sindh have reached Rs18,400 per maund. The latest increase highlights the continued volatility in the domestic cotton market, where prices have been fluctuating in response to market activity and the availability of quality cotton. Ginners and traders are closely monitoring the situation as changes in supply and buying interest continue to influence prices across major cotton-producing regions. Punjab and Sindh remain key cotton-producing areas in the country, and movements in prices in these provinces often have a direct impact on the wider textile and agricultural sectors. The textile industry, one of Pakistan’s major economic sectors, relies heavily on a steady supply of locally produced cotton to meet the demand for yarn and other textile products. Ehsan-ul-Haq said the market could experience further fluctuations in the coming days. He noted that cotton prices may remain sensitive to changes in supply, demand and overall trading activity. Market participants are now watching developments closely to assess whether the recent rise will continue or whether prices will stabilise after the latest increase. Any significant change in cotton availability or buying trends could lead to further movement in rates, adding to uncertainty for growers, ginners, traders and textile manufacturers. The latest price increase comes at a time when stakeholders across the cotton supply chain are keeping a close eye on market conditions. Further developments in domestic trading activity are expected to determine the direction of cotton prices in the near term.

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    Five-wicket star Mohammad Abbas dropped for key Test

    ByJustpaste.in

    PORT OF SPAIN: Pakistan’s team selection for the second Test against the West Indies has triggered widespread debate after experienced fast bowler Mohammad Abbas was left out of the playing XI despite delivering a match-winning five-wicket haul in the previous Test. The unexpected decision has raised eyebrows among cricket experts and fans, with many describing it as one of the most unusual selection calls in Pakistan’s recent Test history. Abbas was Pakistan’s standout performer in the opening Test at Tarouba, finishing with eight wickets across the match, including a brilliant five-wicket haul in one innings. Despite his efforts, Pakistan suffered a 90-run defeat, largely due to a disappointing batting display. However, instead of retaining their leading bowler, the team management opted to hand Ubaid Shah his Test debut for the series-deciding second match. Pakistan captain Babar Azam defended the move, saying the decision was based on pitch conditions and part of four changes made to the playing XI. According to Babar, the management believed the conditions in Port of Spain required a different bowling combination, and Abbas was rested with those factors in mind. The decision has nevertheless sparked criticism, particularly because bowlers who claim five wickets in an innings are rarely omitted from the very next Test. Cricket statisticians pointed out that this is believed to be the first time since 1980 that a Pakistan bowler has been dropped immediately after taking a five-wicket haul in a Test innings. The last comparable case dates back to Pakistan’s 1979-80 tour of India, when Ehteshamuddin was left out after claiming five wickets in an innings to make room for the returning Imran Khan. The debate intensified after Ubaid Shah endured a difficult start to his Test career. On the opening day of the second Test, the young pacer conceded 56 runs in just nine overs, making him Pakistan’s most expensive bowler of the day despite picking up a wicket. His costly spell has prompted fresh questions over whether the management made the right call by overlooking Abbas, whose experience and consistency have long been valued in red-ball cricket. With the series on the line, Pakistan’s selection strategy is now under intense scrutiny. Whether the bold gamble pays off could have a significant impact on the outcome of the Test and may shape discussions over team selection in the months ahead.