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    Electricity tariff likely to increase by Rs1 per unit from next month

    ByJustpaste.in

    ISLAMABAD: Electricity consumers across Pakistan may face higher power bills from next month as electricity distribution companies have approached the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) seeking a quarterly tariff adjustment. According to sources, the proposed adjustment could result in an increase of around Rs1 per unit in electricity prices during the upcoming quarter. The distribution companies have submitted their adjustment request to NEPRA, which will examine the figures and determine the impact on consumers under the applicable quarterly tariff mechanism. Sources said the expected increase is linked to the expiry of the existing quarterly adjustment relief. Under the current arrangement, consumers are receiving a relief of Rs1.99 per unit, which is scheduled to expire at the end of the current month. With the relief ending, electricity tariffs are expected to rise for consumers across the country from next month, subject to NEPRA’s approval of the proposed adjustment. The quarterly tariff adjustment mechanism is used to pass on changes in electricity generation costs and other relevant expenses to consumers. Depending on the regulator’s assessment, the resulting adjustment can either increase or reduce electricity bills. The proposed increase is likely to add to the financial burden on households and businesses already facing elevated electricity costs. Consumers are now awaiting NEPRA’s decision, which will determine the final impact on electricity tariffs in the upcoming quarter. NEPRA is expected to review the distribution companies’ submissions before announcing its decision. The final adjustment may differ from the amount initially sought by the power distribution companies following the regulator’s scrutiny of the data and applicable costs.

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    Zara Noor Abbas grabs attention with slimmer figure

    ByJustpaste.in

    Pakistani actress Zara Noor Abbas has left fans surprised with her noticeably slimmer appearance and a fresh new look. The actress, who is known for her strong performances and distinctive personality, has recently been sharing pictures on social media that highlight a visible transformation in her physique and fashion style. Zara Noor Abbas enjoys a strong following among Pakistani entertainment fans, with more than 6.7 million followers on Instagram. She is married to actor Asad Siddiqui, and the couple welcomed their daughter, Noor Jahan, in 2024. Since becoming a mother, Zara has continued to remain active in the entertainment industry while also frequently sharing glimpses of her personal and professional life with her followers. The actress recently attracted considerable attention for her performance in the drama Dil Dhoondta Hai Phir Wohi. Her appearance in the project also became a topic of discussion after she gained weight for the role. While her transformation was connected to her professional work, it unfortunately exposed her to criticism and body-shaming comments on social media. However, Zara has now surprised her followers with a noticeably different appearance. In recent social media posts, the actress has been seen wearing a variety of Western-style outfits while confidently showing off her slimmer figure. Her latest pictures have sparked considerable discussion among fans, with many noticing the difference in her overall appearance and styling. The actress appears to have embraced a more confident and contemporary fashion aesthetic. Her recent looks include stylish Western outfits that complement her changed physique, while her overall presentation reflects a renewed sense of confidence. Fans have responded to Zara’s transformation with mixed reactions. Many praised her new look and complimented her fashion choices, saying that she appears stylish and confident. Others, however, pointed out that the actress had always looked beautiful and questioned why she felt the need to lose weight in the first place. Her dramatic change in appearance has also led to speculation among some social media users. A few commenters attempted to link her weight loss to Ozempic, a medication that has gained widespread attention because of its association with weight management. However, there is no confirmed information that Zara used Ozempic, and such speculation remains unverified. Despite the discussions surrounding her transformation, Zara has continued to confidently share her latest pictures with her followers. Her recent appearance has once again placed her in the spotlight, with fans closely following her evolving style and fitness journey. Whether discussing her acting, fashion choices, or personal transformation, Zara Noor Abbas continues to attract significant attention online. Her latest weight-loss transformation has generated a wide range of reactions, but the actress appears comfortable with her new look and is embracing her changing style with confidence.

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    PTA fines CM Pak Rs77.8 Million for SIM sales Geo-fencing violation

    ByJustpaste.in

    ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) has imposed a fine of Rs77.8 million on China Mobile Pakistan (CM Pak) after determining that the operator failed to ensure compliance with mandatory geo-fencing rules governing biometric verification system (BVS) devices used for SIM sales. The regulatory action followed a field inspection in which the PTA found that an authorised sales representative linked to CM Pak’s Taxila franchise was selling SIMs from a location in Islamabad that fell outside the approved geographical area of the franchise. According to the PTA’s enforcement order, the inspection was carried out on March 30, 2026. During the inspection, the regulator discovered that a Data Sales Officer (DSO) associated with the Taxila franchise was conducting SIM sales at I-10 Markaz, Islamabad. The location was not within the authorised territorial jurisdiction or designated geo-location of the franchise. The PTA also found that the sales activity had been conducted without the required Door-to-Door/Kiosk approval from the regulator. Geo-fencing requirement The PTA’s regulatory framework requires BVS devices used for SIM issuance to remain within a prescribed distance of the approved sales location. Under the mandatory geo-fencing mechanism, such devices must operate within 100 metres of the designated geo-location of an authorised sales channel. The purpose of the requirement is to ensure that biometric devices are not moved to unauthorised locations for SIM issuance. The mechanism is also designed to strengthen oversight of SIM sales, prevent misuse of biometric verification equipment and improve the traceability of subscriber registrations. The regulator made it clear that SIM sales outside an approved geo-location are not permitted unless prior approval has been obtained from the PTA. CM Pak challenges regulatory action CM Pak contested the proposed enforcement proceedings, maintaining that the incident was an isolated operational lapse involving an individual DSO rather than evidence of a broader failure in the company’s compliance system. The operator argued that the SIMs concerned had been issued only after the required biometric verification process had been successfully completed. It further stated that the transactions were properly recorded and remained traceable through the prescribed systems. CM Pak also maintained that there had been no issuance of fake or anonymous SIMs, no bypass of biometric verification and no failure in the verification process conducted through the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA). The company told the regulator that it had taken disciplinary and corrective measures after being informed of the violation. These measures included issuing a show-cause notice and warning letter to the concerned franchise and terminating the services of the DSO involved in the incident. CM Pak also said it had circulated compliance instructions across its network and strengthened internal monitoring mechanisms to prevent similar incidents in the future. PTA rejects defence The PTA, however, did not accept the company’s argument that successful biometric verification should be treated as sufficient compliance. The authority ruled that biometric verification and geo-fencing constitute separate regulatory requirements. While biometric verification is intended to establish the identity of a subscriber, geo-fencing controls where the SIM sale and verification process can legally take place. According to the regulator, compliance with one requirement does not eliminate the obligation to comply with the other. The PTA observed that allowing BVS devices to operate beyond their authorised locations could weaken the regulatory controls established for SIM issuance, regardless of whether the subscriber’s biometric verification was successfully completed. The regulator also rejected CM Pak’s position that responsibility for the incident could primarily be attributed to the franchise or individual sales officer. Under the applicable Subscribers Antecedents Verification Regulations and licence conditions, the PTA maintained that the licensed operator carries direct responsibility for ensuring that its authorised sales network complies with regulatory requirements. Corrective action not enough to erase violation The authority further noted that steps taken by an operator after a violation has been detected can potentially serve as mitigating factors but cannot remove the violation itself. The PTA stressed that geo-fencing is a substantive regulatory safeguard rather than a procedural requirement that can be overlooked if other verification mechanisms are functioning properly. It said allowing subsequent corrective measures to effectively neutralise an established breach could undermine the purpose of mandatory compliance requirements and weaken regulatory oversight of SIM issuance. After reviewing the show-cause notice, CM Pak’s written responses, compliance report and submissions made during the hearing, the PTA concluded that the operator had failed to maintain adequate supervision and regulatory control over its authorised sales channel. Rs77.8m penalty imposed Based on its findings, the PTA held CM Pak liable under Section 23 of the Pakistan Telecommunication (Re-organization) Act, 1996. The authority subsequently imposed a penalty of Rs77.8 million (Rs77,800,000) on the company and directed it to deposit the amount within 10 days of receiving the enforcement order. The PTA warned that failure to pay the penalty within the specified period could result in further proceedings or action under the applicable law.

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    Nick Jonas reveals daughter Malti’s unusual ‘Camp Rock’ order

    ByJustpaste.in

    Nick Jonas has shared a heartwarming update about his daughter Malti’s introduction to the “Camp Rock” franchise. He opened up about the moment during the premiere of the highly anticipated “Camp Rock 3.” Speaking with E! News on Monday, August 10, the 33-year-old revealed that he and wife Priyanka Chopra decided to show their four-year-old the third film first. Nick joked that this unconventional approach actually works in her favour. He explained that Malti has not seen the first two instalments yet, but called that part of the charm. According to him, she’ll essentially be discovering the franchise backwards. Nick predicted that Malti will likely move on to “Camp Rock 2: The Final Jam” next. He suggested this reverse-order approach might actually become how many newcomers discover the franchise going forward. He added that plenty of families will probably start with the newest film before circling back to the originals. Nick said Malti loved it, and he expects young viewers worldwide will feel the same way. “Camp Rock 3” marks a major reunion for the Jonas Brothers, with Nick, Joe and Kevin returning as Connect 3 members Nate, Shane and Jason Gray. Demi Lovato is also making her comeback as Mitchie Torres, eight years after the original film helped launch her Disney career. Maria Canals-Barrera returns as well, reprising her role as Mitchie’s mother and camp director. Lovato has described her return as deeply nostalgic, saying the character holds a special place in her heart. The film’s plot follows Connect 3 after their opening act unexpectedly drops out ahead of a reunion tour. That forces the band to return to Camp Rock in search of fresh new talent. The new cast is led by Liamani Segura and Malachi Barton, joined by Lumi Pollack, Sherry Cola and Hudson Stone. Together, they bring a fresh generation of characters into the long-running franchise. “Camp Rock 3” is set to premiere on Disney Channel on August 13. It will become available for streaming on Disney+ the following day, giving fans multiple ways to catch the long-awaited sequel.

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    Akshay Kumar goes full villain, says ‘Haiwaan’ role has no grey shades

    ByJustpaste.in

    Akshay Kumar is stepping into unfamiliar territory with his upcoming thriller “Haiwaan” taking on a fully negative character for the first time. The role marks a clear departure from his usual on-screen image. The actor recently opened up about his first look and the nature of his character in the film. He made clear there is nothing sympathetic or conflicted about the role he is playing. Kumar explained that his character matches the film’s title exactly, with absolutely no shades of grey involved. He described the role as being completely and unapologetically evil from start to finish. He admitted that taking on such a character felt like an entirely new experience for him. Kumar said he had always wanted to play a psychopath on screen, something he had not attempted in his career so far. He also pointed out that his recent projects have spanned a wide range of genres. From comedy and horror to action and drama, Kumar said he has been consciously exploring different creative directions. Director Priyadarshan also spoke about how Kumar’s distinctive look for the film came together. He revealed that the idea for the beanie actually originated on the sets of a completely different project. Priyadarshan explained that he spotted Kumar casually wearing the beanie during the shoot of “Bhooth Bangla” and instantly loved the look. That casual moment ended up shaping the actor’s final appearance for “Haiwaan.” The director also shared that he had not expected Kumar to accept the role when he first narrated the story. He assumed the actor might turn it down, given how different it was from his usual choices. To his surprise, Kumar showed genuine interest right away. The film also features Saif Ali Khan, Saiyami Kher and Shriya Pilgaonkar in key roles alongside Kumar. Together, the cast brings a mix of star power to what’s shaping up to be a darker, more intense project. “Haiwaan” is currently scheduled for a theatrical release on September 11. With Kumar stepping into unfamiliar villain territory, the film is already generating curiosity ahead of its release.

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    Julie Andrews confirms exit from Princess Diaries 3

    ByJustpaste.in

    Julie Andrews has confirmed that she will not return as Queen Clarisse Renaldi in The Princess Diaries 3, ending hopes that the beloved royal figure would share the screen with Anne Hathaway’s Mia Thermopolis. Andrews, 90, explained in a recent interview that she considers herself largely retired from on-screen acting. Instead, the Oscar-winning star now focuses on writing books, podcasts and voice work. She said the creative team had approached her repeatedly during the past year about appearing in the sequel, but she ultimately decided against it. The decision marks a change for a franchise built around Andrews’ portrayal of Clarisse, Mia’s grandmother and Genovia’s former queen. Andrews appeared alongside Hathaway in both The Princess Diaries, released in 2001, and The Princess Diaries 2: Royal Engagement in 2004. Andrews indicated that the third film can continue without her. Her comments reflect the passage of more than two decades since the original movies and her decision to focus on other creative work. The news comes as anticipation for the long-awaited return to Genovia continues to build among audiences who grew up with the films. Hathaway remains attached to the third installment, which is being directed by Adele Lim. The project remains in development, with filmmakers shaping a story that moves Mia into a new stage of life. Lim has said the team wants to honor the affection audiences have for the original films while giving the sequel its own direction. Andrews’ absence has already prompted an emotional response from fans. For many viewers, her performance as Clarisse was central to the charm of the series, making the prospect of returning to Genovia without her bittersweet. Others have supported Andrews’ decision to step away from on-screen acting. Although Clarisse will not return in Andrews’ performance, her legacy remains deeply woven into The Princess Diaries. As the third film moves forward, Hathaway and the creative team face the challenge of bringing audiences back to Genovia while honoring the actress who helped make the kingdom unforgettable. https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-news/why-julie-andrews-wont-return-princess-diaries-3-1236670387/

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    Role Model jokes about his ‘war’ with an oblivious Harry Styles

    ByJustpaste.in

    Role Model has addressed longstanding jokes online about a supposed rivalry with former One Direction star Harry Styles. He opened up about the friendly banter during a recent podcast appearance. The 29-year-old, who recently confirmed his relationship with actress Dakota Johnson, sat down for a conversation on the “And the Writer Is” podcast. The topic of Styles came up almost immediately. When asked directly whether Styles has ever confronted him about their supposed feud, Role Model laughed nervously before answering. He said, as far as he knows, there is genuinely no beef between them. He then recalled an actual meeting he had had with the Grammy-winning singer, describing the encounter warmly. According to Role Model, Styles came across as lovely and completely unaware of internet culture surrounding him. He joked that Styles’ total disconnect from social media gives him free rein to joke about their fictional rivalry. Role Model said he could rant for an entire year about their so-called war, and Styles would remain blissfully unaware. The playful comments quickly caught fans off guard online, with many reacting to the unexpected mention of Styles. One user online expressed pure surprise at the unlikely crossover between the two artists. Role Model has been generating buzz recently after confirming his relationship with Dakota Johnson. The actress made a surprise vocal appearance on his track “Love I You,” from his new album “Chuck Timely & The Hourglass.” That surprise feature effectively served as their public relationship reveal, drawing significant attention from fans and media alike. The pairing has since become one of the more talked-about celebrity romances of the summer. Meanwhile, Harry Styles has been making headlines of his own, linked to rumours of a budding romance with actress Zoe Kravitz. Neither he nor Kravitz has addressed the speculation directly so far. With both artists currently in the spotlight for their personal lives, Role Model’s lighthearted comments about Styles have added an unexpected but fun crossover moment for fans of both stars.

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    Beijing battles torrential rain as flood threat gr…

    ByJustpaste.in

    BEIJING: Beijing was thrown into weather-alert mode on Wednesday as torrential rain linked to Typhoon Dolphin disrupted transport, closed tourist attractions and forced authorities to evacuate people from areas vulnerable to flooding and landslides. The Chinese capital suspended 250 bus routes and ordered trains on 10 subway lines to operate at reduced speeds as heavy rain turned several roads into virtual rivers. Authorities also halted sightseeing boat services and temporarily closed tourist and camping sites, according to state media. The downpour was part of a wider weather system generated by the remnants of Dolphin, the strongest typhoon to hit China this year. Although the storm weakened after making landfall, its vast moisture system continued moving inland, bringing intense rainfall to northern and central parts of the country. Beijing’s Changping district recorded 90.7 millimetres of rain in just one hour after 9am on Wednesday, highlighting the intensity of the storm. Floodwaters left vehicles stranded and disrupted traffic on major roads. Authorities moved residents from mountainous villages, low-lying communities and other locations considered vulnerable to flooding and geological disasters. More than 5,000 elderly people were also evacuated from care facilities as officials stepped up emergency preparations. Construction work across thousands of sites was suspended, while reservoirs were releasing water in advance to create additional capacity for incoming rainfall. The National Meteorological Center renewed an orange rainstorm alert, warning that heavy rain would continue across a broad area of China through Thursday morning. The latest weather emergency has revived concerns over the growing impact of extreme rainfall and flooding in China. Scientists have increasingly linked more intense weather events to climate change, while the 2026 El Niño pattern is also contributing to warmer conditions and stronger tropical systems. For Beijing residents, the immediate priority remains staying away from flooded roads, rivers and mountainous areas as authorities monitor rainfall and prepare for further disruption.

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    Sonu Nigam explains why he will not discuss NEET protests publicly

    ByJustpaste.in

    Sonu Nigam has addressed his decision to stay silent on the NEET protests, after a video of his reaction went viral online. The clip had sparked mixed reactions among fans and critics alike. Back in July, a video circulated showing Nigam being asked about the ongoing student protests during a media interaction. He appeared visibly uncomfortable, responding briefly before stepping away from the question entirely. The moment triggered widespread discussion on social media, with some users questioning why he chose not to comment. Nigam has now clarified his reasoning in a new interview with Bombay Times. He explained that every discussion has its own appropriate time and setting. According to Nigam, he has followed one clear rule throughout his career, staying focused strictly on the purpose of whatever event he’s attending. He said that after three decades of working in Mumbai, he’s learned to always stick to the agenda of a given occasion. Nigam added that he avoids letting conversations drift toward unrelated topics during press interactions. At the time of the viral video, Nigam was attending an event honouring the late singer Pankaj Udhas. He felt discussing an unrelated political issue there would have been inappropriate given the occasion’s purpose. He said bringing up politics during a tribute dedicated to his mentor felt disrespectful to him personally. For Nigam, staying on-topic was not avoidance, but a matter of basic professional etiquette. Nigam also revealed a personal commitment he’s made regarding public commentary. He said he promised his father he would never comment on issues he doesn’t fully understand or have proper knowledge of. He clarified that this does not mean he avoids speaking up altogether. Nigam pointed to past instances where he’s taken clear public stances, including issues like loudspeaker regulations at religious sites and royalty rights for performing artists. He said he has taken plenty of stands throughout his career and has played a role in pushing for real systemic changes. Nigam maintained that silence on one particular issue doesn’t reflect indifference, but rather a conscious choice about when and where to speak. Reactions to his explanation have remained divided, with some praising his restraint and others still critical of his initial response.

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    Iran says US military weaker as Hormuz crisis deep…

    ByJustpaste.in

    TEHRAN: Iran has intensified its rhetoric against the United States as attacks on commercial shipping and stalled peace efforts deepen uncertainty over the future of the war, with Tehran warning that the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz will remain closed unless Washington accepts its conditions. Mohammad Reza Naqdi, an adviser to the commander of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, said in an interview with PBS that the US military had proved “weaker than what we perceived” during the five-month conflict. Naqdi said Iran had gained valuable battlefield experience during the war and claimed Tehran would continue to emerge victorious. “The longer this war lasts, the more experience we gain,” he said, arguing that Iranian forces had learned how to confront the US military through direct experience. His comments came as maritime traffic through the Strait of Hormuz dropped sharply. Shipping data showed only eight vessels were tracked through the waterway on Tuesday, below a 10-day average of about 12 and the lowest daily figure since August 5. Before the conflict, the strait typically handled around 130 to 140 vessels a day. The slowdown has heightened fears over global energy supplies because Hormuz is a crucial route for oil and liquefied natural gas shipments. The International Maritime Organization has previously warned of serious risks to vessels and seafarers operating in the area. Shipping attacks raise fresh alarm Tensions also spread to other maritime chokepoints. Four crew members were reportedly killed in a suspected Houthi attack on a cargo vessel in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, while two Yemeni rescuers were also killed, according to reports cited in the source material. The US military separately said an MH-60 helicopter fired two Hellfire missiles at a Panama-flagged cargo ship after the vessel allegedly ignored warnings linked to a blockade of Iranian ports. Maritime sources said the incident occurred off Pakistan in the Gulf of Oman. The attacks have added to concerns that the conflict could disrupt shipping routes connecting the Gulf with the Red Sea and beyond. Iran sets conditions for reopening Hormuz Iranian security official Mohsen Rezaei said the Strait of Hormuz would not reopen unless Washington agreed to Tehran’s demands, including the release of frozen Iranian assets and an end to conflicts across the region. Iran’s parliament is also preparing legislation that would restrict military and commercial vessels from countries Tehran considers hostile from entering the Gulf without Iranian authorisation. The proposed law is intended to strengthen Iran’s control over the strategically important waterway. US President Donald Trump, meanwhile, has continued to combine threats with suggestions that negotiations could eventually produce a settlement. He has claimed the United States has control over the Strait and warned Iran against further escalation. Oil markets have already reacted to the uncertainty. Brent crude rose 1.4 per cent to $88.91 a barrel, while US crude gained 1.3pc to $83.20. Pakistan seeks diplomatic space Amid the worsening security situation, Pakistan has continued diplomatic engagement with Tehran. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi visited Iran and met President Masoud Pezeshkian, with both sides stressing the importance of strengthening bilateral political, economic, trade, cultural and security ties. Pezeshkian praised Pakistan’s commitment to closer relations and said Tehran was ready to expand cooperation with Islamabad. Naqvi said his visit was aimed at following up on understandings reached between the two countries and accelerating implementation of existing agreements. With military rhetoric rising, shipping routes under pressure and negotiations at an apparent impasse, the Strait of Hormuz remains at the centre of a crisis whose consequences could extend far beyond the Middle East.