Protest erupts in Washington over Netanyahu visit

The Pakistan Meteorological Department has forecast another spell of rain and thunderstorms in upper and central parts of the country from August 17 to 21. The weather system is expected to bring rain with strong winds and occasional heavy showers. The Punjab Provincial Disaster Management Authority said monsoon currents were continuing to move into the upper parts of the country. The Met Office also expects a westerly wave to reach northern areas on August 17, which could further strengthen the weather activity. Punjab is likely to receive rain and thunderstorms at intervals from August 16 to 21. Rawalpindi, Murree, Galyat, Jhelum, Chakwal, Talagang, Attock, Sialkot, Narowal, Mandi Bahauddin, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Hafizabad and Wazirabad are among the areas expected to be affected. Lahore, Kasur, Okara, Sheikhupura, Nankana Sahib, Sargodha, Khushab, Mianwali and Noorpur Thal may also experience showers and thunderstorms during the forecast period. Southern and central districts of Punjab are expected to see rain mainly on August 20 and 21. These areas include Faisalabad, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh, Layyah, Bhakkar, Sahiwal, Pakpattan, Bahawalnagar, Bahawalpur and Dera Ghazi Khan. Authorities have warned that intense rainfall could trigger urban flooding in low-lying parts of Rawalpindi, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Sialkot and Lahore between August 17 and 20. There is also a risk of landslides in vulnerable mountainous areas, particularly Murree and Galyat. Tourists and travellers have been advised to remain alert and avoid unnecessary travel during periods of severe weather. Farmers have been asked to adjust agricultural activities according to the forecast and protect livestock from adverse weather conditions. The PDMA has instructed district administrations to strengthen emergency arrangements and prepare risk-mitigation plans. Officials have been directed to maintain round-the-clock staffing and coordinate closely with relevant departments for a quick response. Authorities have also been told to provide timely information about safety precautions and possible evacuation plans through electronic and social media platforms. Drainage systems are to be inspected, desilted and cleared before heavy rainfall. Heavy machinery is also being positioned at vulnerable locations where blocked drainage or flooding could create emergencies. Motorway Police have been directed to issue regular traffic and road-condition updates and guide motorists during the rainy spell.

QUETTA: Gas supplies to Quetta and several areas of Balochistan were suspended on Thursday after an explosion damaged a major gas pipeline in the Bolan region. Officials said the blast occurred near Gokurt. An 18-inch-diameter pipeline was damaged by an explosive device near its valve assembly. The damaged facility is located around 800 metres from the National Highway. The explosion disrupted gas supplies to Quetta, Kolpur, Mach, Mastung, Kalat, Pishin and Ziarat. Flames reportedly emerged from the damaged pipeline shortly after the blast. The area was secured to prevent further danger and allow authorities to inspect the site. The Sui Southern Gas Company (SSGC) said repair teams would be sent to the location after security clearance is granted. Engineers and technical teams will assess the damage first. Restoration work will begin after the site is declared safe. The company has not yet announced when gas supplies will be fully restored. The suspension has caused concern among residents and businesses in the affected areas. Many households depend on the gas network for cooking and other daily needs. Businesses and commercial establishments may also face difficulties if the disruption continues for an extended period. Security authorities have started investigating the explosion. Officials are also examining the circumstances surrounding the damage to the pipeline. The incident highlights continuing security concerns surrounding energy infrastructure in Balochistan. Gas pipelines in the province have previously been targeted in similar attacks. A similar incident was reported in Balochistan earlier this year. In March, an 18-inch gas pipeline near the Western Bypass in Harnai’s Akhtarabad area was damaged in an explosion. Explosives had reportedly been planted beneath the pipeline. The blast destroyed a significant section of the infrastructure and disrupted gas supplies to several areas. The earlier incident affected parts of Quetta and upper Balochistan. Several localities, including Airport Road, Nawan Kali, Jinnah Town, Hazarganji, Kuchlak, Pishin and Ziarat, experienced disruptions. The March explosion also caused a major fire. Large flames were seen rising from the damaged pipeline, creating panic among people living nearby. Authorities are continuing their investigation into Thursday’s blast. Security officials will also determine the extent of the damage and assess the measures required to protect the pipeline network.