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ISLAMABAD: Heavy rain lashed Islamabad and Rawalpindi, while several parts of Lahore also received showers, providing relief from hot and humid weather. The rainfall lowered temperatures in many areas, although it also caused traffic disruptions and water accumulation on some roads. The downpour began in the morning and continued intermittently in the twin cities. Residents experienced cooler weather after several days of warm and humid conditions. In Lahore, rain was reported from different localities, bringing pleasant weather to the provincial capital. According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), a weak monsoon system is currently affecting parts of the country. The weather department said the monsoon winds are interacting with a westerly weather system, which is influencing the northern regions and increasing the chances of rainfall. The PMD has forecast that Islamabad, Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir are likely to receive rain at isolated places during the day. Some areas may experience moderate to heavy showers accompanied by gusty winds. The weather department has advised the public to remain cautious during periods of heavy rainfall, particularly in low-lying areas where water may accumulate. Motorists have also been urged to drive carefully on slippery roads and avoid unnecessary travel during intense downpours. Authorities are monitoring the weather situation and have asked relevant departments to stay prepared for any emergencies caused by heavy rain. Citizens have also been encouraged to follow official weather advisories and take precautionary measures where needed.

Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan chief Hafiz Naeemur Rehman has announced that his party will hold simultaneous sit-ins across all four provinces on August 16, as part of its campaign against what he described as injustice and oppressive policies. Speaking about the planned demonstrations, Naeemur Rehman said a sit-in would be held outside the Punjab Chief Minister’s House in Lahore. In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Sindh and Balochistan, party workers will stage protests outside the respective Governor Houses. The Jamaat-e-Islami chief said the demonstrations would be held at the same time across the country. He called on the rulers to stop what he termed oppression and injustice, saying the government must pay attention to the concerns of the people. Naeemur Rehman said his party would continue raising its voice on issues affecting citizens. He maintained that the government should take practical steps to address public grievances instead of ignoring them. The announcement comes as Jamaat-e-Islami continues its political activities and prepares to mobilise workers in different parts of the country. The party is expected to organise demonstrations in provincial capitals and other major areas as part of its campaign. The JI chief also welcomed the recent defence agreement signed by Pakistan, Türkiye and Saudi Arabia. He described the agreement as a positive development and said stronger cooperation among the three countries could contribute to regional security and closer ties.

Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) lawmaker Sher Afzal Marwat has expressed support for the creation of new provinces in the country. Speaking to the media in Multan, Marwat said smaller administrative units were necessary for a fairer distribution of resources. He argued that the existing administrative structure should be reviewed to ensure that people in different regions receive their due share of development resources. According to Marwat, creating additional provinces could also bring governance closer to local communities. He said people living in smaller administrative units would have greater opportunities to participate in decision-making and manage their own affairs. The lawmaker stressed that local representation was important for effective governance. He maintained that smaller provinces could help authorities understand and address the specific needs of different regions. Marwat also called for support for the movement seeking the creation of smaller administrative provinces. He said the proposal should be considered as part of efforts to improve governance and ensure a more balanced distribution of resources. The debate over creating new provinces has remained a longstanding political and administrative issue in Pakistan. Supporters argue that smaller provinces could improve administration, strengthen local representation and reduce regional disparities. Opponents, however, have raised concerns about the political, constitutional and financial implications of creating new administrative units.