2026

Pakistan

Severe Storms Kill 7, Injure 33 in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa

PESHAWAR — Severe storms in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa have resulted in at least seven fatalities and injuries to 33 more individuals, according to the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA). The last 24 hours were marked by heavy rain, strong winds, and lightning affecting various districts. Widespread Impact on Districts The storms wreaked extensive damage and disruption across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Multiple districts faced significant challenges, prompting a substantial response from local authorities. Infrastructure and homes have suffered damage, leading to urgent calls for immediate assistance. Ongoing Rescue and Relief Efforts Authorities are diligently continuing rescue and relief operations. Their efforts target assessing damages and providing essential support to those affected. Teams work to ensure the rapid delivery of medical aid and supplies. PDMA Safety Advisories The PDMA has issued safety advisories urging citizens to exercise caution. Residents are advised to promptly report emergencies to local authorities, as adverse weather conditions are expected to continue. Officials recommend staying informed through official channels.

Pakistan

CM Balochistan Stresses Blood Donation on World Blood Donor Day

BALOCHISTAN — Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti highlighted the crucial role of voluntary blood donation in promoting humanity, sacrifice, and social responsibility. His remarks were part of the World Blood Donor Day celebrations. Importance of Regular Blood Donations CM Bugti emphasized the critical importance of regular blood donations for saving lives. He called this practice a noble act that greatly benefits those in urgent medical need. The Chief Minister urged citizens to contribute consistently to this life-saving mission. Encouraging a Culture of Donation Aiming to inspire action, the Chief Minister seeks to foster a culture of donation throughout the region. This initiative is essential to maintain adequate blood supplies for emergencies and routine medical procedures across Balochistan.

Business

Green Pakistan Programme Plants 2.3 Billion Saplings

Massive Afforestation Effort In the fiscal year 2025-26, Pakistan successfully planted, regenerated, or distributed about 2.3 billion saplings through the Green Pakistan Programme. This initiative marks one of the country’s largest efforts to boost afforestation. The programme aims to combat climate change by restoring ecosystems and enhancing environmental sustainability. Commitment to Climate Change Pakistan’s large-scale afforestation programme highlights its commitment to tackling the urgent challenges of climate change. As part of a broader strategy, it seeks to expand the nation’s green cover and support biodiversity. Positive Environmental Impact The afforestation initiative is anticipated to greatly improve air quality and lower greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, it will create new wildlife habitats across various regions, contributing significantly to ecosystem restoration.

Business

Ministers Finance Their Own Utility Bills: Azam Nazeer

ISLAMABAD — Senator Azam Nazeer Tarar, the Federal Minister for Law and Justice, announced on Sunday that federal ministers are required to pay their own utility bills. This declaration counters allegations that the government covers these expenses. Ministers’ Personal Expenses Addressing the National Assembly, Tarar emphasized that ministers are responsible for financing their electricity, gas, and other utilities. This reflects a transparency initiative aimed at clarifying government officials’ expenses. Reduction in Fuel Allocations Tarar highlighted a significant reduction in fuel allocations as part of the federal austerity measures. Previously, ministers were entitled to 400 litres of petrol, now reduced to 200 litres, he explained. This step illustrates the government’s commitment to economic prudence. Limited Benefits for Ministers No additional benefits are extended to ministers beyond the adjusted fuel allowances. Tarar urged assembly members to discuss any concerns about these allowances in the appropriate settings, promoting transparency within parliament.

Pakistan

Governor Praises Red Crescent’s Free Medical Services

PESHAWAR — Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Faisal Karim Kundi praised the Pakistan Red Crescent Society (PRCS) on Sunday for providing free healthcare services in remote regions. He emphasized the organization’s dedication to assisting those in need. Role of PRCS in Remote Healthcare Governor Kundi highlighted the crucial role that the PRCS plays in delivering healthcare to underserved communities. He noted that their efforts are essential in tackling healthcare challenges in these areas. Importance of Collaborative Efforts The governor emphasized the need for cooperative efforts to tackle issues faced by people in distant regions. He stressed the importance of joint initiatives to improve both access to and quality of healthcare services.

Sports

Rescue 1122 Intensifies Search for Woman in Chenab River

CHINIOT — Rescue 1122 has intensified its search for a 22-year-old woman who is believed to have jumped into the Chenab River near the old bridge on Sargodha Road. The thorough search operation began on Sunday morning following the report of the incident. Emergency Alert and Response Rescue officials received an emergency call reporting the woman’s entry into the river under unclear circumstances. In response, they promptly deployed water rescue teams to begin a coordinated effort. Search and Rescue Operations The operation involves comprehensive line and boat searches at multiple locations along the river. Despite exhaustive efforts, Rescue 1122 has not yet located the missing woman. Identity and Ongoing Search The missing woman has been identified as Iram Bibi, daughter of Mirza, and a resident of Chak No. 44, Lalian. Specialized water rescue experts alongside rescue boats remain active in the search efforts.

World

Nina Khan Mashriqi Honored with Leadership Excellence Award

LONDON — Nina Khan Mashriqi, a British-born Pakistani businesswoman and social activist, has been honored with the prestigious International Women’s Leadership Excellence Award. This esteemed accolade was presented at the British Asians Who Power 100 Awards 2026. Her Global Contributions This award recognizes Mashriqi’s significant contributions to advancing women’s rights, humanitarian services, and community development on a global level. Her impact extends beyond the UK, showcasing her commitment to international social welfare. Championing Women’s Empowerment As a prominent figure, Mashriqi advocates for women’s empowerment worldwide. Her initiatives have been celebrated for significantly impacting social welfare across diverse communities. Leading Social Change The recognition underscores Mashriqi’s dedication to social causes. She is seen as a trailblazer, initiating positive changes and inspiring others both domestically and internationally.

World

IDI and KAC Partner for Arbitration in Civil, Commercial Disputes

The International Dispute Resolution Institute (IDI) has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with China’s Karamay Arbitration Commission (KAC). This agreement aims to address civil and commercial disputes using legally binding arbitration methods. Karamay Arbitration Commission Overview Located in Karamay, Xinjiang, the Karamay Arbitration Commission (KAC) focuses on resolving disputes through arbitration. It strives to enhance legal compliance and improve the efficiency of dispute resolution processes. Importance of the Partnership The collaboration with IDI highlights both parties’ commitment to establishing effective dispute resolution mechanisms. The partnership seeks to streamline arbitration processes for businesses and individuals engaged in cross-border commercial activities. Advancing International Legal Cooperation The MoU signing represents a significant step toward enhancing international legal cooperation in arbitration. It establishes IDI and KAC as key players in the global arena of legal dispute resolution.

Pakistan

MoU Enhances Healthcare for NCCIA Officers and Families

LAHORE — The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) Punjab has partnered with the National Hospital & Medical Centre through a memorandum of understanding (MoU). This agreement is set to enhance healthcare access for NCCIA officers, employees, and their families, significantly improving the services available to them. Commitment to Comprehensive Healthcare The newly established MoU focuses on delivering comprehensive healthcare services. It ensures that personnel and their families receive high-quality medical care. This initiative underscores both institutions’ commitment to enhancing welfare services for law enforcement staff. Significant Benefits for NCCIA Members An official spokesperson from the NCCIA highlighted the MoU’s crucial role in providing continuous healthcare support. This partnership is expected to greatly enhance the well-being of NCCIA members. By improving health services, it aims to increase their efficiency and effectiveness in combating cyber crimes.

Pakistan

IESCO Announces Scheduled Power Outages for Maintenance

ISLAMABAD — The Islamabad Electric Supply Company (IESCO) has announced scheduled power outages on Monday for maintenance work. This will impact several areas in its region. Power Outages in Islamabad and Rawalpindi Circles The IESCO spokesperson stated that the Pir Sohawa feeder in the Islamabad Circle will face outages from 7:00 am to 11:00 am. Concurrently, in the Rawalpindi Cantt Circle, the Rehmatabad-I, Takbeer-I, Chaklala, and Kot Jabbi feeders will also be without power. Additionally, the Rawalpindi City Circle will experience power cuts during the same timeframe. The specific affected areas include: Sector-IV APHS PAF Dhok Chaudrian Peshawar Road Millatabad Cheering Cross NRC Cobe Line Askari-XI Outages in Chakwal and GSO Circles In Chakwal Circle, the Jamalwal and Mengan feeders will experience power suspension from 7:00 am to 12:00 noon. Meanwhile, maintenance in the GSO Circle will affect several 132-kV transmission lines, resulting in outages from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm. The impacted lines include: New Wah-POF Chakwal-Bhagwal-Talagang Kahuta City-Palandri IESCO management apologizes for the inconvenience and assures that power may be restored earlier if maintenance concludes ahead of schedule.

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