senate pushes rs617m
|

Senate pushes Rs617m gas project for 42 Ghotki villages

ByJustpaste.in

Islamabad: After years of waiting, 42 villages located near the Badar Gas Field in District Ghotki are finally moving towards receiving natural gas as the Senate Petroleum Sub Committee pushed authorities to act on a long delayed promise linked to the Prime Minister’s Directive of 15 September 2003 and Supreme Court directions.

The Sub Committee, convened by Senator Jam Saifullah Khan, expressed concern over the continued delay in providing gas facilities to villages located within five kilometres of gas producing fields. The Committee directed relevant departments and companies to ensure that previous commitments are converted into practical work without further delay.

The meeting was attended by Senators Manzoor Ahmed Kakar and Haji Hidayatullah Khan along with senior officials from the Petroleum Division, Finance Division, Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority, Sui Southern Gas Company Limited, Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited, Oil and Gas Development Company Limited, Pakistan Petroleum Limited, Mari Energies and other stakeholders.

During the meeting, the Sub Committee decided to give top priority to the gasification project for the remaining 42 villages near Badar Gas Field, District Ghotki. The estimated cost of the project is Rs617 million.

The Special Secretary Petroleum Division, Finance Division officials and Chairman OGRA assured the Committee that Rs200 million would initially be released from the allocated Rs1 billion funds to start the project immediately.

Managing Director Sui Southern Gas Company Limited informed the Committee that the company would provide its share of funding and begin technical planning, engineering work and procurement activities. It was decided that project activities would begin within ten days after the release of initial funds.

The Committee was informed that remaining funds required for completing the project would be arranged without interruption. The Petroleum Division and Finance Division assured the Committee that financial issues would not become a reason for further delay.

The Sub Committee also reviewed the wider issue of gas supply to villages located within five kilometres of gas producing fields across Pakistan. Officials informed the Committee that new policy guidelines are being prepared to implement the Prime Minister’s Directive and Supreme Court instructions regarding gasification of eligible villages.

The Petroleum Division was directed to present a complete implementation plan in the next meeting. The plan will include details about funding arrangements, responsibilities of different organizations, district wise schedules and clear completion timelines for all remaining eligible villages across the country.

Similar Posts

  • Pakistan sees major progress in Iran-US ceasefire talks

    ByJustpaste.in

    ISLAMABAD: Significant progress has reportedly been made in Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts to facilitate a ceasefire between Iran and the United States. Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on behalf of Field Marshal and Chief of Defence Forces Syed Asim Munir briefed the US Ambassador to Pakistan on important developments in the Iran-US ceasefire process. According to sources, a high-level meeting between Field Marshal Asim Munir and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi following the latter’s recent visit to Iran has raised expectations of a major breakthrough. Officials described the meeting as highly significant saying that the atmosphere during the meeting was pleasant and positive. Sources said that the tone of the meeting and the discussions suggested that “good news is likely coming soon.” US Ambassador briefed on key developments A video of Mohsin Naqvi’s meeting with the US Ambassador showed a cordial atmosphere between the two. According to sources, the interior minister briefed the ambassador on behalf of Field Marshal Asim Munir about significant developments aimed at reducing tensions between Iran and the United States and advancing negotiations. Sources said the US Ambassador also showed keen interest in the developments and appeared optimistic during the meeting. Pakistan’s key role in mediation It may be recalled that US President Donald Trump had earlier requested Field Marshal General Syed Asim Munir to play an important role in facilitating a ceasefire between Iran and the United States. Following this, Pakistan’s military and civilian leadership accelerated diplomatic contacts including the recent visit to Tehran by Field Marshal Asim Munir and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi. According to analysts, Pakistan’s geographical proximity to Iran and its strategic partnership with the United States give it a unique position to help reduce tensions in the region and facilitate communication between the two sides. Final approval of both sides required Sources while confirming much of the progress clarified that final approval from both Iran and the United States is still pending. According to one source, since the progress remains conditional on the consent of both sides, it would not be appropriate at this stage to disclose all details or key points of the meetings between Pakistani and Iranian officials. So far, no official announcement has been made regarding an Iran-US ceasefire. However, amid the optimistic diplomatic environment and recent contacts, expectations are growing that a major announcement regarding a ceasefire could be made soon if final approval is secured. Islamabad has reiterated its commitment to peace in the region saying that Pakistan will continue to play a constructive role in reducing tensions and promoting regional peace.

  • | | |

    KP chief minister Sohail Afridi vows to improve pr…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi has pledged to improve the province’s situation, stating that the current challenges are the result of “closed-door decisions.” Speaking during a visit to the venue of an upcoming political rally in Peshawar, the chief minister assured party workers that his government is committed to restoring stability and addressing the province’s pressing issues. During his address, Afridi said that August 5 marks an important date in the country’s political history, as it represents the third anniversary of the arrest of his party’s founding chairman. He described the upcoming gathering as a political rally where the party would outline its future strategy and communicate its plans to supporters. The chief minister also referred to the political developments of April 9, 2022, claiming that the removal of the elected government on that date led to worsening conditions across the country. He argued that subsequent political decisions had contributed to the challenges currently being faced by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Highlighting his administration’s priorities, Afridi said that despite the difficult circumstances, his government is determined to improve governance, strengthen institutions, and address the issues affecting the province. He expressed confidence that his team would demonstrate tangible progress through practical measures rather than political rhetoric. According to the chief minister, the upcoming public gathering will not only commemorate the third anniversary of the party founder’s arrest but will also serve as a platform to announce the party’s next political course of action. Party workers have been actively preparing for the event, and leaders expect a large turnout of supporters. Afridi emphasized that his government remains focused on serving the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa despite ongoing political challenges. He reiterated that improving public services, maintaining stability, and addressing citizens’ concerns remain among the administration’s key objectives. The remarks come at a time when Pakistan continues to experience an active political environment, with major parties organizing rallies and public meetings to mobilize supporters and present their policy agendas. Political observers believe that such gatherings are likely to shape future political discourse and influence upcoming developments in the country’s political landscape. As preparations for the rally continue, attention remains focused on the announcements expected from the provincial leadership. Supporters anticipate that the event will outline the party’s future strategy, while political analysts will closely watch how the statements and proposed plans may affect the broader political situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Pakistan.

  • | |

    Internet restored in Muzaffarabad after 53 days

    ByJustpaste.in

    Broadband internet services have been restored in Muzaffarabad after a 53-day suspension, bringing relief to residents, businesses, journalists and students who had struggled with limited digital connectivity since early June. The restoration took effect late Wednesday night, allowing broadband users to regain access to online services. However, mobile internet connectivity remained unstable in several areas, with users continuing to report intermittent disruptions. The prolonged shutdown had significantly affected communication, online banking, digital businesses, educational activities and media coverage, particularly during the ongoing election season in Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK). Journalists and political workers had repeatedly raised concerns over the lack of internet access, saying it hindered the flow of information and election-related reporting. The restoration comes just days before the second phase of the AJK Legislative Assembly elections, scheduled for August 2, when more than 1.24 million voters are expected to cast their ballots in 21 constituencies. The polls will include nine constituencies in Muzaffarabad Division and 12 seats reserved for Jammu and Kashmir refugees residing in Pakistan. Election authorities have completed polling arrangements and announced enhanced security measures to ensure peaceful, transparent and orderly elections. A total of 351 candidates are contesting the second phase, with several high-profile political leaders participating in closely watched races. Political campaigning has intensified across Muzaffarabad, Neelum Valley and Jhelum Valley as major parties make their final push to secure voter support before polling day.

  • | |

    PTI leaders back JI sit-in, seek release of politi…

    ByJustpaste.in

    Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leaders detained at Kot Lakhpat Jail have expressed support for Jamaat-e-Islami’s ongoing sit-in. A letter from the imprisoned PTI leaders was read out during the Jamaat-e-Islami protest. The letter was signed by senior PTI leaders Shah Mahmood Qureshi, Sarfraz Cheema, Dr Yasmin Rashid, Ijaz Chaudhry and Mahmood-ur-Rasheed. In their letter, the detained leaders appealed to the public to participate in the Jamaat-e-Islami sit-in. They urged citizens to support the protest and raise their voices on political and public issues. The support from the imprisoned PTI leaders comes as Jamaat-e-Islami continues its protest and demands action on issues highlighted by the party. The letter was presented to participants at the sit-in, conveying the PTI leaders’ position despite their detention at Kot Lakhpat Jail. Meanwhile, Jamaat-e-Islami Lahore has called for the release of all political prisoners. The party has also specifically demanded the release of PTI founder Imran Khan. Jamaat-e-Islami Lahore maintained that political prisoners should be released and called for political issues to be addressed through democratic and legal means.

  • |

    SBP to maintain focus on price stability, reforms and sustainable economic growth

    ByJustpaste.in

    KARACHI: State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) Governor Jameel Ahmad has said the central bank will continue to prioritise price stability, structural reforms and the creation of a business-friendly economic environment aimed at boosting productivity, exports and employment. Addressing a flag-hoisting ceremony held at the SBP headquarters in Karachi to mark Pakistan’s 79th Independence Day, Governor Ahmad said the country had made notable progress towards macroeconomic stability over the past year. He attributed the improvement to disciplined fiscal and monetary policies, better economic management and continued efforts to strengthen financial and economic institutions. Inflation remains within medium-term range Speaking about the inflation outlook, the SBP governor said average inflation during fiscal year 2025-26 stood at 7.1 percent. He said the central bank believed that the prevailing monetary policy stance was appropriate for keeping inflation within its medium-term target range of 5 to 7 percent. According to Ahmad, the current policy framework also provides sufficient space for economic activity to continue, while supporting investment and employment generation. The governor said maintaining price stability would remain a central objective of the SBP as Pakistan seeks to move from short-term stabilisation towards sustained economic expansion. Growth expected to strengthen Ahmad said Pakistan’s economy recorded growth of 3.7 percent in FY26, reflecting the impact of improved macroeconomic conditions and greater fiscal and monetary discipline. Looking ahead, he projected economic growth in the range of 3.5 to 4.5 percent during FY27. He described the outlook as encouraging, saying the economy was gradually moving towards a more sustainable growth path after going through a difficult period of economic stabilisation. The governor stressed that maintaining policy discipline would be important to ensure that the gains achieved in recent years translate into durable economic development. Remittances strengthen external position The SBP chief also highlighted improvements in Pakistan’s external sector, particularly the performance of workers’ remittances. He said overseas Pakistanis had demonstrated confidence in the country by sending record amounts of money home, with remittances surpassing $41 billion during FY26. The inflow is expected to increase further, with remittances projected to reach around $44 billion in FY27, according to the governor. Ahmad said stronger remittance inflows, combined with a relatively low current account deficit, had helped improve Pakistan’s foreign exchange position. The country’s foreign exchange reserves reached $18.4 billion by the end of FY26, while the SBP expects reserves to rise above $21 billion during FY27. He said strengthening the external position would help improve economic resilience and provide greater capacity to withstand external shocks. SBP pushes digital transformation The governor also outlined measures taken by the central bank to modernise Pakistan’s financial infrastructure and expand the use of digital payment channels. He pointed to the successful launch of PRISM+, saying the upgraded payment and settlement infrastructure had brought Pakistan’s large-value payment system closer to international standards. The system has improved the speed, security and efficiency of large-value payments and settlements, he said. Ahmad added that SBP initiatives aimed at encouraging digital payments had resulted in a substantial increase in the use of electronic channels. Retail digital transactions increased from approximately 10 billion to 12 billion over the past year, reflecting growing adoption of technology across the financial system. According to the governor, the shift towards digital payments is more than a technological development. It is also contributing to greater documentation, transparency and efficiency within the economy. Self-reliance and institutions vital for progress Governor Ahmad said Pakistan’s long-term economic success would depend not only on financial and monetary policies but also on stronger institutions, economic self-reliance, respect for the rule of law and national unity. He emphasised that the country’s journey towards sustainable development required continued commitment and collective efforts from institutions, businesses and citizens. While acknowledging the progress achieved during the past year, he cautioned that Pakistan continued to face economic challenges that required sustained attention, policy consistency and determination. He said the objective should now be to convert the gains from economic stabilisation into a durable foundation for investment, productivity, exports and employment. The governor reaffirmed that the SBP would continue playing its role in supporting monetary and financial stability while contributing to broader efforts aimed at improving the welfare of the Pakistani people.

  • | |

    Supreme Court to honour Justice Musarrat Hilali

    ByJustpaste.in

    The Supreme Court of Pakistan has decided to hold a full court reference on August 7 to honour the judicial services of Justice Musarrat Hilali ahead of her retirement from the country’s apex court. An official notification has been issued announcing the ceremony, which will pay tribute to Justice Hilali’s contributions to Pakistan’s judiciary and recognise her years of service on the bench. The full court reference will be attended by Chief Justice of Pakistan Justice Yahya Afridi, all judges of the Supreme Court, the Attorney General for Pakistan, representatives of the Pakistan Bar Council, office-bearers of the Supreme Court Bar Association, and members of the legal fraternity. The event is a longstanding judicial tradition held to acknowledge the professional achievements and public service of retiring judges. During the reference, senior judges, law officers and representatives of the legal community are expected to deliver speeches highlighting Justice Hilali’s legal career, commitment to the rule of law and contributions to the administration of justice. Justice Musarrat Hilali has served in several key judicial positions during her career and has been recognised for her role in strengthening Pakistan’s judicial system. The reference will mark the formal conclusion of her tenure at the Supreme Court while providing an opportunity for colleagues and members of the legal profession to express their appreciation for her dedication and service. The ceremony will take place at the Supreme Court of Pakistan on August 7, where members of the bench and bar will gather to bid farewell to the retiring judge and acknowledge her lasting contribution to the country’s judiciary.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *