Business

ISLAMABAD — The Islamabad Electric Supply Company (IESCO) has announced a scheduled power suspension program for Saturday. This initiative is necessary for essential maintenance and ongoing development work in various regions. Power Suspension Details According to an IESCO spokesperson, there will be an electricity supply disruption in the Islamabad Circle. This will specifically affect the Ghouri Garden feeder. The planned outage will occur between 7:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. on Saturday. Purpose of Scheduled Outages IESCO emphasized the necessity of these scheduled outages. They aim to upgrade the power infrastructure and enhance reliability. Consumers are encouraged to prepare for this temporary inconvenience.

ISLAMABAD — On Friday, the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) saw a significant decline, with the benchmark KSE-100 Index dropping by 2,475.46 points. This 1.36 percent decrease led to the index closing at 178,922.76 points, down from the previous day’s 181,398.22 points. Bearish Trend Observed Throughout the trading session, a notable bearish trend was observed. Traders reported substantial trading volume, with 1.050 billion shares changing hands in the ready market. This high activity level underscored the prevailing market dynamics. Impact on Investor Sentiment The decline highlights ongoing market uncertainty impacting investor sentiment. The drop indicates increased caution among investors facing ongoing economic challenges. Critical Role of PSX Performance The performance of the PSX is crucial for market stability and investor confidence. Its influence on the broader economic environment underscores the need for continuous monitoring.

ISLAMABAD — The Pakistani rupee gained 1 paisa against the US dollar, closing at Rs278.25 in interbank trading on Friday. This slight increase contrasts with the previous day’s rate of Rs278.26. Forex Market Dynamics The Forex Association of Pakistan recorded the buying and selling rates for the dollar in the open market, although specific figures were not provided in their report. Ongoing Currency Fluctuations This minor appreciation of the rupee occurs amid ongoing fluctuations in the currency market. These changes are indicative of subtle adjustments within the broader financial landscape.

ISLAMABAD — On Friday, Khurram Schehzad, Adviser to the Federal Minister for Finance, announced the unveiling of a growth-oriented federal budget for the upcoming fiscal year. This budget is designed to balance relief measures with economic growth while maintaining fiscal responsibility. Transition in Fiscal Policy Schehzad highlighted a significant shift in fiscal policy, transitioning from burdening to broadening with the objective of widening the economic base. This shift demonstrates the government’s commitment to maintaining economic stability and addressing the diverse needs of various sectors. Relief Measures and Economic Stimulus The adviser emphasized that the budget includes substantial relief measures aimed at supporting citizens. These initiatives are essential for stimulating economic activity and effectively invigorating the national economy.

RAWALPINDI — The Rawalpindi Waste Management Company (RWMC) has implemented a comprehensive cleanliness plan for Muharram-ul-Haram. This initiative aims to maintain Rawalpindi’s cleanliness and hygiene, following directives from Chief Executive Officer Rana Sajid Safdar. Focus on Muharram Processions Operational staff have been strategically deployed to ensure regular inspections. Their primary focus is on the routes of Muharram processions, Imambargahs, and other important venues. The goal is to keep these areas waste-free and hygienic throughout the religious observance. Commitment to Environmental Cleanliness RWMC’s plan demonstrates a strong commitment to public health and environmental cleanliness. Maintaining this focus is crucial, particularly during major religious events that draw large crowds to the city.

PESHAWAR — The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government is set to significantly increase its budget for the procurement of medicines in public health facilities. Details of the Budget Increase In the fiscal year 2026–27, there will be a 20.2% rise in budget allocation, bringing the total to PKR 14.3 billion. This marks an increase from the previous year’s PKR 11.9 billion, as revealed in budget documents released on Friday. Improving Medical Supplies The increased budget aims to enhance the supply of medical resources throughout the province’s healthcare system. This adjustment illustrates the government’s commitment to bolstering health services. Part of a Broader Strategy This decision is part of a larger strategy to develop healthcare infrastructure. It supports public health initiatives and addresses the growing medical needs of the province’s citizens.

ABBOTTABAD — The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has unveiled a Rs 2.170 trillion budget for the fiscal year 2026-27. The budget allocates substantial funds to development, education, healthcare, social welfare, and law and order. Stakeholders in the Hazara Division, however, have shown mixed reactions, primarily focusing on regional development concerns. Regional Development Concerns The budget aims to foster growth across the province, yet some residents and officials in Hazara feel their region’s needs are overlooked. They expressed dissatisfaction over the perceived imbalance in fund distribution. Residents believe this may inadequately support local infrastructure and welfare projects. Government’s Response Government representatives claim that the budget is intended to promote equitable development throughout Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. They have acknowledged feedback from Hazara residents and pledged to consider their regional demands in future planning. This mixed reaction underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing provincial and regional development goals.

PESHAWAR — The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has committed Rs8.4 billion to the Education Sector Endowment Fund (ESEF) and the Free Textbooks Programme for the 2026-27 fiscal year. This allocation underscores the province’s commitment to accessible and equitable education. 2026-27 Budget Announcement The funding was disclosed in the 2026-27 budget. It highlights the government’s focus on educational programs aimed at removing obstacles to quality education for students across the region. Key Educational Initiatives The ESEF and the Free Textbooks Programme are central to this initiative. These programs are crucial for supplying educational resources at no cost and providing financial aid to students in need. Impact on Educational Outcomes Officials express optimism that these investments will substantially enhance educational outcomes. The availability of free educational materials and financial grants is anticipated to benefit a greater number of students.

KARACHI — Port Qasim is experiencing a surge in shipping activity. Currently, container vessels Albert-P and Nile Dutch Lion have docked at Container Terminals 1 and 2. In addition, Aquavita Trust and Dayra Anita carrying 101,759 tonnes of coal arrived at the outer anchorage within the last 42 hours. Recent Departures and Arrivals In the past 24 hours, nine ships have been active at Port Qasim Authority (PQA) berths. The Nile Dutch Lion and Kouros Diamond departed on Friday morning. Meanwhile, Rhine, Metro Mistral, and Meghna Venus are scheduled to set sail by the afternoon. Cargo Volume and Shipments Port Qasim managed a cargo volume of 197,148 tonnes over the past 24 hours. This includes 170,819 tonnes of imported goods and 26,329 tonnes of export cargo. Containerized cargo accounted for 5,966 containers, with 5,172 TEUs for imports and 1,815 TEUs for exports. Upcoming Shipping Activity Currently, 11 ships are at the port’s outer anchorage. On Friday, Obe Grande, Aquavita Trust, and MSC Tia V are scheduled to berth at Pakistan International Bulk Terminal, Hutchison Ports Qasim, and Qasim International Container Terminal, respectively. Additionally, two container ships, MSC Maxico V and Safeen Power, are expected at Port Qasim on Saturday.

KARACHI — The National Bank of Pakistan (NBP) has released its latest currency exchange rates for Friday. These rates cover the buying and selling of major international currencies, providing crucial data for traders and consumers. Major International Currencies The United States Dollar (USD) is available at a selling rate of 280.04 PKR and a buying rate of 277.04 PKR. The British Pound (GBP) posts a selling rate of 369.26 PKR and a buying rate of 364.90 PKR. The Euro (EUR) trades at 320.42 PKR for selling and 316.64 PKR for buying. Asian Currencies Within the Asian market, the Japanese Yen (JPY) registers a selling rate of 1.7355 PKR and a buying rate of 1.7151 PKR. Gulf Region Currencies The United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED) holds a selling rate of 74.61 PKR and a buying rate of 73.74 PKR. The Saudi Riyal (SAR) is available at a selling rate of 76.26 PKR and a buying rate of 75.36 PKR.