punjab university towniii
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Punjab University Town-III project faces fresh scr…

LAHORE: A Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) lawmaker has submitted an adjournment motion in the Punjab Assembly, calling for a comprehensive investigation into alleged financial and administrative irregularities surrounding the Punjab University Town-III housing scheme.

According to the motion submitted by MPA Raja Shaukat Aziz, the housing project was allegedly launched in 2017 by a Punjab University professor without fulfilling the required legal and regulatory formalities. It further claims that the professor entered into a development agreement with his own brother, who was appointed as the project’s developer despite the alleged absence of due legal procedures.

The motion alleges that payments amounting to Rs2.70 billion were made to the developer. However, despite the release of funds, no significant development work was carried out at the project site, and plot holders have yet to receive possession of their plots.

The document states that nearly 900 affected families have been waiting for justice for the past nine years, claiming they have suffered financial losses and uncertainty due to the stalled housing scheme. It further alleges that, despite repeated complaints, no effective legal action has been taken against those purportedly responsible.

Seeking legislative intervention, Raja Shaukat Aziz has urged the Punjab Assembly to establish a special committee to investigate the Town-III project, determine responsibility for the alleged irregularities, and ensure appropriate legal action against those found accountable.

The Punjab University Town-III housing scheme has previously remained under public and academic scrutiny over allegations of administrative and financial mismanagement. The latest move is expected to renew debate over accountability and transparency in public housing projects.

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    Lahore: In a significant move to provide residential facilities to the journalist community, the Government of Punjab has decided to relocate Journalists’ Colony Phase-II from Katar Band Road to J Block of the Charbagh Scheme. The project will be developed in accordance with the previously approved master plan. A high-level meeting was held at the Ravi Urban Development Authority (RUDA), jointly chaired by RUDA Chief Executive Officer Imran Amin and Secretary Information Punjab Tahir Raza Hamdani. The meeting reviewed the relocation of Journalists’ Colony Phase-II, the progress made so far, and the future roadmap to ensure the timely completion of the project. The meeting was attended by Lahore Press Club President Arshad Ansari, General Secretary Afzal Talib, Punjab Journalists Housing Foundation (PJHF) Deputy Managing Director Adnan Rashid, Assistant Director (Administration) Asad Hussain, RUDA Director Public Relations Colonel Abid Latif, and other senior officials. It was decided that, in order to expedite the project, the Punjab Journalists Housing Foundation would immediately provide RUDA with the list of eligible journalists for Phase-II plots. Upon receipt of the list, RUDA will issue formal allotment/intimation letters to the eligible applicants so that the remaining stages of the project can proceed without delay. The meeting further decided that the Charbagh Scheme (J Block) project will be implemented under the previously approved master plan. Advance payments and installment schedules will remain unchanged and will be collected in accordance with the original agreement. Development charges will be collected directly by RUDA, while all the rules and regulations applicable to Journalists’ Colony Phase-II will continue to apply to the eligible allottees. Speaking on the occasion, Secretary Information Punjab Tahir Raza Hamdani thanked RUDA CEO Imran Amin and appreciated his efforts in line with the vision of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif to provide housing facilities to journalists. He expressed confidence that RUDA would complete the development work, hand over possession of the plots, and finalize all remaining stages of the project within the stipulated timeframe, enabling journalists to construct their homes. Lahore Press Club President Arshad Ansari thanked Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif, Provincial Minister for Information Azma Bukhari, Secretary Information Tahir Raza Hamdani, and RUDA CEO Imran Amin for their commitment to fulfilling the government’s promise to the journalist community. He said that the relocation of Journalists’ Colony Phase-II to the prime location of Charbagh reflects the Punjab Government’s dedication to the welfare of journalists. He added that the entire journalist community appreciates this initiative and congratulated all eligible journalists included in Phase-II.

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    Petrol Price hits Rs320.73 after fresh hike

    The federal government on Tuesday announced a fresh increase in the prices of petrol and high-speed diesel (HSD), continuing its new policy of daily fuel price adjustments. According to a notification issued by the Ministry of Petroleum, the price of petrol has been increased by Rs4.93 per litre. The new price has been fixed at Rs320.73 per litre. The price of high-speed diesel has also been raised by Rs7.15 per litre. Consumers will now pay Rs367.21 per litre for HSD. The revised prices will come into effect from July 22. The increase follows the government’s recent decision to introduce a daily petroleum pricing mechanism. Previously, fuel prices were reviewed every two weeks. Under the new system, prices are revised every day based on changes in the international oil market. Officials said the daily pricing formula uses the average international oil prices recorded over the previous seven days. The policy is intended to ensure that fluctuations in global crude oil prices are reflected more quickly in domestic fuel rates. The government had also revised fuel prices a day earlier. At that time, the price of high-speed diesel was increased, while petrol received a slight reduction for only one day. The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) will continue updating petroleum prices on a daily basis. The authority says the new system will improve transparency and allow consumers to see immediate changes linked to global oil prices. Officials said international crude oil prices have become highly volatile due to renewed tensions in the Middle East. Fresh conflict in the region has increased fears of disruptions to global energy supplies and pushed oil prices higher. Concerns over possible supply disruptions through key international shipping routes have also added pressure on global oil markets. Pakistan, which imports a large portion of its petroleum requirements, remains vulnerable to these fluctuations. Earlier, international oil prices had declined after hopes of easing regional tensions. However, the latest developments reversed that trend, forcing another increase in domestic fuel prices. High-speed diesel is mainly used by heavy transport vehicles, agricultural machinery and industries. Any increase in its price usually raises transportation costs and farming expenses, which can contribute to higher prices of essential goods. Petrol is the primary fuel for motorcycles, cars and other private vehicles. Officials said petrol consumption has also increased after restrictions were imposed on the use of indigenous gas in Punjab, leading more consumers to rely on petrol-powered transport.

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    PPP resents Punjab’s development says Uzma Bukha…

      Lahore: Punjab Information Minister Uzma Bukhari has said that the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) is fully aware of why the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) harbors resentment toward Punjab, adding that the province’s rapid development has become difficult for its political opponents to accept. Responding to recent statements made by PPP spokespersons in Lahore, Bukhari said that the Punjab government is utilizing public funds for the welfare and development of the people of Punjab, which, according to her, is the real source of the PPP’s criticism. She remarked that the “Nawabs of Larkana” are unable to digest the fact that Punjab’s resources are being spent on improving the lives of its citizens. The Punjab information minister also addressed PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, urging him to refrain from promoting what she described as politics of hatred and division. She said that as the chairman of a major political party, Bilawal should be mindful of the responsibilities associated with his position and avoid making statements that could deepen political polarization. Bukhari questioned why PPP representatives from Sindh rarely highlight the performance of their own provincial government. Instead of criticizing Punjab, she suggested, they should focus on informing the public about the achievements and governance record of the Sindh administration, which has remained under PPP leadership for several years. Highlighting the performance of the Punjab government, Bukhari said that Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has ensured that development projects and public resources are distributed across the province without discrimination. According to her, the government has extended development initiatives from Attock in northern Punjab to Rahim Yar Khan in the south, and from Rawalpindi to Vehari, ensuring that all regions benefit equally from provincial resources. She stated that the current administration is committed to improving public services, infrastructure, and the overall quality of life for people across Punjab. Bukhari added that those who are envious of Punjab’s progress and prosperity would continue to criticize, but such criticism would not hinder the government’s commitment to development.   Referring to the PPP’s political standing in Punjab, Bukhari claimed that the party currently ranks fourth in terms of public support in the province. She said this was not the fault of the PML-N but rather a reflection of the people’s confidence in the performance of the provincial government. According to her, Punjab’s residents continue to express satisfaction with the governance and development initiatives undertaken by the PML-N administration. In her remarks, Bukhari also referred to Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab, saying that when he visited Lahore to learn from the city’s governance and development model, the Punjab government welcomed him openly. She added that the same level of development, progress, and prosperity witnessed in Punjab should also be achieved in Sindh for the benefit of its people. The minister concluded by reaffirming that the Punjab government remains focused on serving the public through transparent governance and equitable development. She maintained that political criticism would not distract the administration from its objective of ensuring sustained progress and improving living standards throughout the province.

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    Pakistan welcomes Kuwait’s ratification of defen…

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    Ajinkya Rahane announces retirement from all forms of cricket

    Veteran Indian batter Ajinkya Rahane has announced his retirement from international cricket and all forms of the game, bringing an end to a distinguished career that spanned more than a decade at the highest level. The 38-year-old confirmed the decision through an emotional video message shared on social media, saying the time had come to step away from the sport that had shaped his life since childhood. Rahane represented India in all three formats between 2011 and 2023, establishing himself as one of the country’s most dependable batters. During his international career, he played 85 Test matches, 90 One-Day Internationals and 20 T20 Internationals. His final appearance for India came in a Test match against the West Indies in July 2023. The right-handed batter enjoyed considerable success in Test cricket, scoring 5,077 runs at an average of 38.46, including 12 centuries and 26 half-centuries. In the ODI format, he amassed 2,962 runs with three centuries and 24 fifties, while contributing 375 runs in T20 Internationals. Although Rahane’s batting achievements earned widespread recognition, he will be remembered most for his outstanding leadership during India’s historic Test series victory in Australia in 2020-21. The series began in disastrous fashion for India, who were dismissed for just 36 runs in Adelaide, their lowest Test total. Following the opening defeat, regular captain Virat Kohli returned home on paternity leave, leaving Rahane to take charge of a team plagued by injuries and missing several senior players. Under Rahane’s calm and composed captaincy, India staged one of the greatest comebacks in Test cricket history. He led the side to a memorable victory in Melbourne to level the series, followed by a hard-fought draw in Sydney despite several players battling injuries. The tour concluded with a remarkable win at Brisbane’s Gabba, where India successfully chased 328 on the final day to secure a famous 2-1 series triumph and end Australia’s long unbeaten run at the venue. Rahane captained India in six Test matches overall, winning four and drawing the remaining two, finishing his captaincy stint unbeaten. Speaking about his decision to retire, Rahane said timing had always been an important aspect of both his batting and his career, and he believed this was the right moment to say goodbye to professional cricket. “I’ve always relied on timing in my batting, and I’ve always understood its importance. Today, I feel the timing is right for me to move on and announce my retirement from international cricket and all formats,” he said. Reflecting on his journey, Rahane expressed gratitude for fulfilling his dream of representing India and said wearing the national cap had always been his greatest motivation. He added that he always believed in putting the team ahead of personal milestones and playing the game with honesty and commitment. The veteran batter also revealed that while his playing career has come to an end, he hopes to remain connected to cricket by mentoring and guiding young players. He said he looks forward to sharing the lessons and values the sport has taught him and giving back to the game that has given him so much. Rahane concluded his farewell by thanking the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI), the Mumbai Cricket Association, his teammates, coaches, family and fans for their unwavering support throughout his career. His final competitive appearance came for Kolkata Knight Riders in the Indian Premier League, and his retirement leaves the franchise with the task of appointing a new captain ahead of the upcoming season.

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    Punjab Governor and Chinese consul General inaugur…

    Punjab Governor Sardar Saleem Haider Khan, accompanied by Chinese Consul General Sun Yan, visited the village of Ratwal in Attock district to inaugurate a newly established dispensary built with the support of the Chinese government. The inauguration ceremony marked another milestone in the long-standing friendship and development cooperation between Pakistan and China, particularly in the healthcare sector. The event was attended by local government officials, community leaders, residents, and representatives from both Pakistan and China. The newly inaugurated dispensary is expected to provide essential primary healthcare services to the people of Ratwal and surrounding villages, where access to medical facilities has traditionally been limited. Speaking at the inauguration ceremony, Governor Sardar Saleem Haider Khan said that the establishment of the dispensary would significantly improve access to basic healthcare for local residents. He noted that the project reflects the shared commitment of Pakistan and China to improving the well-being of communities through practical development initiatives. The governor emphasized that many rural communities face challenges in accessing quality medical care due to the shortage of healthcare facilities and long travel distances to major hospitals. He expressed confidence that the new dispensary would help address these challenges by offering timely medical treatment, basic health services, and preventive care closer to people’s homes. Sardar Saleem Haider Khan also highlighted the historic relationship between Pakistan and China, describing it as a friendship with unique significance and a remarkable history. He stated that the partnership between the two countries has continued to grow stronger over the decades through cooperation in infrastructure, education, healthcare, trade, and economic development. He added that China has consistently supported Pakistan during times of need and has played an important role in the country’s development through various collaborative projects. According to the governor, initiatives such as the Ratwal dispensary demonstrate that the friendship between the two nations extends beyond economic cooperation and directly benefits ordinary citizens by improving their quality of life. Chinese Consul General Sun Yan also addressed the gathering and reaffirmed China’s commitment to strengthening its relationship with Pakistan. She described the friendship between the two countries as everlasting and famously remarked that it is “higher than the Himalayas,” a phrase often used to symbolize the extraordinary bond shared by Pakistan and China. The Consul General further stated that China considers Pakistan its second home, reflecting the deep mutual trust and respect that characterize bilateral relations. She emphasized that China values its partnership with Pakistan and will continue to support projects that contribute to the country’s social and economic development. Sun Yan noted that healthcare cooperation is an important component of the broader partnership between the two nations. She expressed hope that the newly inaugurated dispensary would improve healthcare services for local residents and strengthen people-to-people ties by demonstrating the practical benefits of bilateral cooperation. Residents of Ratwal welcomed the opening of the dispensary, expressing optimism that the facility would reduce the burden of traveling long distances for routine medical treatment. The project is expected to provide essential healthcare services, including primary medical consultations, basic medicines, and preventive healthcare support, thereby improving the overall health and well-being of the surrounding communities. The inauguration of the China-assisted dispensary in Ratwal highlights the continued cooperation between Pakistan and China in promoting public welfare. It also reflects the shared commitment of both countries to investing in community development and strengthening their enduring partnership through projects that deliver tangible benefits to the people.

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