Pattaya Advances Plan for Three-Line Monorail Project

By: Hur Hussaini   Lahore: Punjab Minister for Minorities Affairs, Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora, visited the Head Office of the Rural Community Development Programme (RCDP), where he was warmly received by Muhammad Murtaza, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of RCDP and Vice Chairman of the Pakistan Microfinance Network. During the visit, the Minister held a comprehensive meeting with representatives of the microfinance sector to discuss strategies for promoting financial inclusion, with particular focus on the economic empowerment of religious minorities, women, and other marginalized communities. Addressing the meeting, Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora emphasized that financial inclusion is a powerful instrument for reducing inequality, empowering vulnerable segments of society, and creating equal opportunities for sustainable economic growth. He stated that under the leadership of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, the Government of Punjab is committed to ensuring inclusive development and equal economic opportunities for every citizen without discrimination. The Minister underscored the importance of expanding access to affordable and inclusive financial services for religious minorities, women, and low-income households, enabling them to become financially independent and active contributors to the province’s socio-economic development. Participants also discussed the role of microfinance institutions in advancing human rights and strengthening financial resilience among underserved communities. Both sides agreed to enhance collaboration to make microfinance initiatives more effective and accessible across Punjab. Representatives of the Pakistan Microfinance Network reaffirmed their commitment to expanding comprehensive financial services through the Network’s platform, while the Rural Community Development Programme (RCDP) pledged its continued support for initiatives aimed at promoting the financial independence and economic well-being of minorities and women. The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to strengthening partnerships and undertaking joint initiatives to promote financial inclusion, social protection, and sustainable economic opportunities for vulnerable and marginalized communities throughout Punjab.

ISLAMABAD: The federal government has accelerated plans to transfer a 30 percent stake in the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC) to the National Logistics Corporation (NLC), establishing two high-level committees to complete the financial, commercial, and legal framework for the transaction. According to a briefing presented by the Ministry of Maritime Affairs to the Economic Coordination Committee (ECC), the committees will determine key aspects of the deal, including the share price, payment schedule, dividend distribution, utilisation of sale proceeds, and the transfer of management control. The first committee, headed by the Prime Minister’s Adviser on Privatisation, includes senior officials from the Finance, Law and Justice, and Maritime Affairs ministries, along with the Chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan (SECP) and the Director General of NLC. Its mandate is to finalise the financial and commercial structure of the agreement, including the valuation of shares, payment mechanism, dividend arrangements, and the injection of funds into PNSC. The second committee, led by the Secretary of the Law and Justice Division, will oversee the legal documentation required for the transaction. Its responsibilities include preparing the Share Purchase Agreement, Shareholders’ Agreement, and the legal framework governing the transfer of management control. The ECC endorsed the proposal and emphasised the importance of increasing private sector participation in future maritime initiatives to improve efficiency, strengthen governance, and unlock the sector’s economic potential. To ensure smooth implementation, the Ministry of Maritime Affairs has also proposed an Implementation Committee chaired by the Prime Minister’s Adviser on Privatisation and co-chaired by the Minister for Maritime Affairs. The committee will develop a roadmap and supervise the execution of the transaction. The government had previously granted in-principle approval for NLC to acquire a 30 percent stake in PNSC, along with management control and consolidation rights, subject to all applicable legal requirements. PNSC, a state-owned enterprise listed on the Pakistan Stock Exchange, remains majority-owned by the federal government, which holds 87.56 percent of its shares. Public investors own 10.87 percent, while the PNSC Employees Empowerment Trust holds the remaining 1.57 percent. The national shipping company currently operates a fleet of 14 vessels, including three recently added ships. Despite fluctuations in earnings, PNSC has maintained strong profitability, posting net profits of Rs30 billion in FY2022-23, Rs19.4 billion in FY2023-24, and Rs20.4 billion in FY2024-25. Established under the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation Ordinance, 1979, the organisation has undergone legislative reforms in recent years, with amendments introduced in 2023 and 2024 to align its governance framework with the State-Owned Enterprises Act, 2023. These changes are intended to improve transparency, accountability, and operational performance as the government advances its broader state-owned enterprise reform agenda.

The federal government has announced a slight reduction in the prices of petrol and high-speed diesel, issuing a fresh notification through the Ministry of Energy (Petroleum Division). The revised fuel prices will come into effect from August 1, 2026, and will remain applicable until August 3, 2026. According to the official notification, the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) determined the new petroleum product prices under the pricing mechanism approved by the federal government. The latest revision provides modest relief to consumers amid fluctuating international oil prices. Under the new rates, the price of petrol has been reduced by 12 paisa per litre, bringing the new price to Rs. 336.03 per litre. Previously, petrol was being sold at Rs. 336.15 per litre. Similarly, the price of high-speed diesel (HSD) has been cut by 66 paisa per litre. The revised price has been set at Rs. 392.38 per litre, compared with the previous rate of Rs. 393.04 per litre. Although the reductions are relatively small, they reflect the government’s periodic review of petroleum prices based on recommendations from OGRA and prevailing market conditions. Fuel prices in Pakistan are reviewed regularly, taking into account changes in international crude oil prices, exchange rate fluctuations, and applicable taxes and levies. Petrol is widely used by private vehicles, motorcycles, and small transport operators, while high-speed diesel is the primary fuel for heavy transport, agriculture, and industrial machinery. Any change in fuel prices can have a direct impact on transportation costs, inflation, and the prices of essential goods. The Ministry of Energy stated that the revised prices have been implemented in accordance with the government’s petroleum pricing policy. Consumers across the country will pay the new rates at fuel stations from August 1. The latest price adjustment comes as authorities continue to monitor global energy markets and domestic economic conditions. Future revisions will depend on international oil price trends, currency movements, and recommendations made by OGRA under the government’s approved pricing mechanism.

Dera Ghazi Khan: A large number of people from all walks of life attended the Qul ceremony of legendary qawwal Ustad Noor Muhammad Nizami, held in Taunsa Sharif. The renowned qawwal, who passed away on 6 August 2026 after battling lung complications since 5 July, was 86. Prayers were offered for the departed soul, and admirers paid tribute to his lifelong contributions to Qawwali and Sufi music. Born in 1940, Ustad Noor Muhammad was the torchbearer of a glorious seven-generation Qawwal legacy, rooted in the soil of Taunsa. His seventh forefather, Mian Ahmad, was brought from Mahaar Sharif to Taunsa by Khawajah Shah Sulaiman Taunsavi of the Chishti Order. For seven generations, his family has devoted their art to the shrine of Taunsa, offering soul-stirring Qawwali in service of the divine. Ustad Noor Muhammad began his musical journey at the tender age of seven, singing at shrine Mahmoodia Taunsa in the presence of Khawajah Nizamudin Taunsvi. His musical education was nurtured by his uncle, Ghulam Sarwar, who guided him in the classical traditions. He was a master of the Kaafi Thaath and Raag Darbari, and his renditions of Ghazal, Kaafi, and Qawwali captivated audiences for decades. From 1970 to 1974, he lent his voice to Radio Pakistan Multan, enriching the airwaves with his timeless artistry. He shared deep bonds with the members of the Sham Chaurasi and Patiala clans, who held him in the highest esteem as a friend and fellow maestro. Ustad Noor Muhammad Nizami leaves behind a grieving family—three sons, Mazhar Ali, Azhar Ali, and Imran Haider, who courageously carry forward his legacy, along with five daughters and a host of grandchildren. His voice may have fallen silent, but his spirit lives on in every note his sons sing and in the hearts of all who were blessed to hear him.

  Lahore: Pakistan’s cultural capital has earned international recognition after being ranked among the world’s safest major cities in the 2026 Numbeo Crime and Safety Index. The latest report shows that Lahore recorded one of the lowest crime index scores among several globally recognized metropolitan areas, reflecting continued improvements in public safety and law enforcement. According to the 2026 rankings, Lahore outperformed a number of major international cities in terms of safety. The city ranked ahead of Karachi, New Delhi, Paris, London, Washington, New York, and Mexico City, highlighting its growing reputation as a comparatively secure urban centre. The results suggest that residents and visitors perceive Lahore as offering a safer environment than many other large cities included in the global survey. The report also indicates measurable progress over the past year. Lahore’s crime index declined from 36.8 in mid-2025 to 36.2 in mid-2026, while its safety index improved from 63.2 to 63.8during the same period. A lower crime index reflects reduced concerns about criminal activity, while a higher safety index indicates increased public confidence in personal security and the overall law-and-order situation. The improvement in these indicators demonstrates a positive trend for the city, suggesting that ongoing efforts to enhance public safety have produced encouraging results. Although no major city is completely free of crime, Lahore’s steady progress has strengthened its position among the safer urban centres included in the international rankings. Deputy Inspector General (Operations) Muhammad Faisal Kamran welcomed the report, saying the improved ranking reflects the Lahore Police’s continued commitment to maintaining peace and protecting citizens. According to the senior police official, the department has implemented a range of security measures designed to reduce crime, improve emergency response, and strengthen law enforcement across the provincial capital. He noted that increased police patrols, intelligence-based operations, the use of surveillance technology, and closer coordination between law enforcement agencies have all contributed to improving the city’s security environment. Authorities have also focused on enhancing community policing initiatives, encouraging greater cooperation between residents and police to help prevent criminal activities. Officials believe that these efforts have not only improved public confidence but have also made Lahore a more attractive destination for business, tourism, and investment. A safer urban environment is considered an important factor in promoting economic growth, encouraging commercial activity, and improving the overall quality of life for residents. The Numbeo Crime and Safety Index is widely referenced for comparing perceptions of crime and safety across cities around the world. The rankings are based on user-contributed data and reflect public perceptions of crime levels, personal safety during the day and at night, concerns about violent and property crimes, and confidence in local law enforcement. While authorities welcomed the latest ranking, they emphasized that efforts to improve security will continue. Police officials said they remain committed to further reducing crime through modern policing strategies, technological innovation, and stronger public engagement. Lahore’s improved standing in the 2026 Numbeo Crime and Safety Index represents a significant achievement for the city. The latest figures highlight continued progress in public safety and reinforce Lahore’s growing reputation as one of the safer major cities in the world, while authorities pledge to build on these gains in the years ahead.