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Pakistan

Green Pakistan Initiative Expands Afforestation in Swat to Combat Floods

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Swat, August 24, 2025, 02:37 PM PKT – The Green Pakistan Initiative is expanding its afforestation efforts in Swat, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, with over 50,000 native saplings planted. This federal program aims to enhance flood defenses in this climate-vulnerable area. Targeting Flood-Prone Areas This initiative is part of the Upscaling Green Pakistan Program, a national effort to restore ecosystems and mitigate climate change, particularly in flood-prone regions. Local farmers and communities are actively transforming barren lands into green spaces to prevent natural disasters. The Ministry of Climate Change highlights previous achievements, including planting 713 million saplings in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Swat’s Barikot and Buner districts are leading these initiatives. Community Engagement and Environmental Recovery Farmer Samad Khan, who has planted 10,000 trees, told APP that these trees protect fields from floods and improve soil health. The Green Pakistan Initiative focuses on native species for their environmental benefits: Chir pine and Deodar enhance soil stabilization. Native trees slow floodwaters effectively. Selected plants are adaptable to climate changes. These efforts are essential as the region recovers from severe floods of 2022. Agroforestry Boosting Agricultural Productivity The program also promotes agroforestry, enhancing biodiversity and boosting crop yields by 20–30%. This method aligns with conservation and agricultural productivity goals. Provincial authorities plan to plant 41 million saplings this monsoon. Real-time monitoring technologies are employed to ensure the program’s success. Federal Climate Resilience Strategy Federal Minister for Climate Change, Sherry Rehman, emphasizes trees as vital defenses against climate disasters. The Green Pakistan Initiative is a key part of Pakistan’s national climate policy, working at the federal and provincial levels to tackle environmental challenges. Stay updated at nenagency.

Military, Pakistan, Srcurity

Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir Strengthens Community Ties in Turbat for Development Push

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Islamabad, August 23, 2025, 12:02 PM PKT – Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff, visited Turbat, Balochistan, to enhance community ties and advance development projects. The focus was on infrastructure, security, and sustainable growth. Engagement with Turbat Leaders On his visit, Field Marshal Munir engaged with community leaders in Turbat. Discussions centered on development and security in Balochistan. Local leaders expressed robust support for infrastructure projects promising regional progress. Munir was warmly welcomed by the Corps Commander of Balochistan and senior military officers. The primary goal is fostering cooperation between the military and local communities to encourage long-term development. ISPR Highlights Development and Security Priorities The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) released a report on Munir’s visit. He assessed ongoing security efforts against ‘Fitna-ul-Hindustan’ and praised the Pakistan Army’s role in maintaining stability in Balochistan. Munir emphasized the importance of community-driven development for the region’s future. During meetings, he stated, “Balochistan’s future lies in collective action and good governance.” Infrastructure Focus: Education and Healthcare In Turbat, the army chief reviewed various development projects, with key initiatives including: Improving education infrastructure Enhancing healthcare facilities Implementing community development programs Economic Impact and Stability Munir reiterated the Pakistan Army’s commitment to fostering sustainable growth in Balochistan. These initiatives aim to enhance residents’ quality of life and create economic opportunities, ultimately strengthening regional stability. For more updates on Pakistan national affairs, visit nenagency.com.

Pakistan

NDMA Warns of Heavy Rains and Flood Risk Starting Saturday

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The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued a crucial weather alert, warning of heavy rains and potential flooding across Pakistan from August 23 to 30, 2025. These weather disturbances are predicted to bring widespread downpours nationwide. Heavy Rain Advisory for Islamabad and Northern Regions From August 23 to 25, Islamabad, Kashmir, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Punjab will experience torrential rains with strong winds. Urban flooding is anticipated in low-lying regions. Hilly areas face a significantly heightened risk of landslides. The NDMA advises residents to stay alert and take necessary precautions. Traveling to northern areas during this period is strongly discouraged. Flood Risks in Punjab Province In northeastern Punjab, several districts face increased flood risks. Authorities have identified key areas needing immediate attention: Rawalpindi Attock Sialkot Dera Ghazi Khan (southern Punjab) Residents should monitor local weather updates closely and prepare to evacuate if conditions deteriorate. Monitoring the Indus River and Major Waterways The Indus River is expected to reach critical levels of 500,000 cusecs at key locations. Monitoring sites include Taunsa, Guddu, and Kalabagh barrage systems. Rivers Ravi and Chenab are also at risk, threatening nearby communities. Both federal and provincial authorities are closely observing river levels and will issue evacuation orders as necessary. Weather Alert for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgit Baltistan High risks of flash floods and landslides are anticipated from August 23 to 27 in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgit Baltistan due to intense rainfall. The public should remain vigilant and avoid unnecessary travel until the situation improves. Stay informed with the latest weather alerts and safety information at nenagency.com.

Pakistan

DPM Dar Departs for Historic Two-Day Visit to Bangladesh

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Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar departed for Bangladesh on August 23, 2025. This visit marks a historic milestone in Pakistan Bangladesh relations, being the first trip by a Pakistani foreign minister to Dhaka in 13 years. Renewed Diplomatic Commitment The Bangladeshi government invited Dar to strengthen bilateral ties between the two South Asian nations. This visit demonstrates a renewed commitment to diplomatic cooperation, aligning with Pakistan’s foreign policy goals of enhancing regional relations and forming robust partnerships across South Asia. Key Meetings in Dhaka During his visit to Dhaka, the Deputy Prime Minister is set to participate in crucial meetings with top Bangladeshi leaders. His agenda includes discussions with Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus and Foreign Affairs Adviser Md. Touhid Hossain. Bilateral Talks Agenda Bilateral talks between the Pakistani and Bangladeshi officials will target several critical areas: Strengthening Pakistan Bangladesh relations through new institutional frameworks Expanding trade and economic cooperation Addressing regional security issues of mutual concern Building on recent diplomatic breakthroughs and agreements Ongoing Diplomatic Progress The visit follows numerous recent achievements in Pakistan Bangladesh relations. Both countries have adopted visa-free travel for diplomatic personnel, facilitating simpler governmental exchanges. They have also established direct sea trade routes, which enhance economic connectivity. High-level military and trade discussions have paved the way for this ministerial engagement. These developments underscore the commitment of both countries to improve regional cooperation and economic partnership, marking a significant step in normalizing relations between the neighbors.

Pakistan

MWMC Cancels Daewoo Contract Over Poor Sanitation Performance

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The Multan Waste Management Company (MWMC) has ended its contract with Daewoo, a vital partner in the Suthra Punjab Program. This move follows Daewoo’s failure to meet expected sanitation performance standards in the region. Report From Commissioner Spurs Action Commissioner Multan Division, Rana Aamir Karim Khan, produced a critical report that led to this decision. It detailed significant issues in Daewoo’s sanitation services throughout the division. These issues included poor service delivery and failure to uphold cleanliness standards. In response, MWMC acted promptly to ensure high-quality sanitation services for residents. Currently, MWMC oversees all sanitation operations directly, ensuring immediate accountability for service quality in the Multan Division. MWMC Takes Charge of Operations MWMC will manage the Suthra Punjab Program until a new contractor is appointed through standard government procurement processes. This state-led management ensures continuous sanitation services. The company highlights that direct oversight is crucial for maintaining quality and accountability within the Multan Division. Maintaining Transparent Procurement Processes Officials emphasize that future procurement will adhere to transparent selection criteria to avoid issues with new contractors. Guaranteeing Employment Security MWMC has pledged job security for all supervisory staff and sanitary workers during the transition. The company is committed to ensuring timely salary payments without interruption. No staff layoffs during the transition Timely salary payments Job security for all sanitary workers Protection of supervisory staff positions The government’s direct involvement ensures continuous service and employee welfare. This strategy is crucial for maintaining stability in Multan’s waste management during this transition.

Pakistan

Illegal Oil Unit Sealed in Sialkot by Punjab Food Authority

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The Punjab Food Authority (PFA) took decisive action against an illegal oil production facility near Dera Muhammad Ramzan in Sialkot on August 22, 2025. This enforcement led to the disposal of 600 liters of substandard oil. PFA officials uncovered the facility’s lack of a valid production license and essential supply records. Several food safety regulations were breached, with the facility failing to meet Punjab’s standards. Oil Safety Requirements Not Met Laboratory tests indicated the confiscated oil did not comply with safety standards for human consumption. The absence of the mandated methanol dye, a crucial marker for edible oil in Pakistan, was noted. Inspectors declared the entire batch unfit for public use, highlighting serious potential health risks. Identified Violations Operating without a valid production license Missing methanol dye in edible oil Lack of proper supply records or documentation Non-compliance with national food safety protocols Legal Action Underway The PFA has begun legal proceedings against the operators for these breaches. This action is part of the PFA’s wider campaign across the province to address illegal food production units. The authority remains committed to protecting public health throughout Punjab and upholding national food safety standards.

Pakistan

ECP Announces By-Elections in Three Faisalabad Constituencies on Oct 5

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Islamabad, August 21, 2025 – The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has officially scheduled October 5, 2025, for the by-elections in three significant constituencies of Faisalabad: National Assembly seats NA-96, NA-104, and Provincial Assembly seat PP-98. These by-elections are necessary due to vacancies created by a ruling from the Anti-Terrorism Court in Faisalabad. The ECP has provided a comprehensive schedule to manage these elections efficiently. Detailed Election Schedule The ECP has outlined a detailed timetable for the by-elections. The process will commence with returning officers issuing public notices on August 26. Nomination papers are to be filed from August 28 to August 30, followed by the publication of a provisional list of candidates on August 30. Scrutiny and Appeals Process Nomination scrutiny will conclude by September 3, ensuring candidates meet Pakistan’s electoral regulations. Rejected candidates can file appeals until September 8, with an appellate tribunal resolving these by September 12. The final list of candidates will be announced on September 13. Candidates wishing to withdraw must do so by September 15, with election symbols being allocated and campaigns officially starting on September 16. Appointment of Election Officers The ECP has appointed Faisalabad Deputy Commissioner Capt (retd) Nadeem Nasir as the District Returning Officer to oversee all by-election procedures. Specific returning officers have been designated for each constituency: Rauf Ahmed for NA-96 Dilawar Khan for NA-104 Muhammad Sarwar for PP-98 These officers are responsible for managing electoral operations, ensuring compliance with ECP guidelines and federal electoral regulations.

Pakistan

PM Shehbaz Sharif Condoles Death of Saudi Prince’s Mother

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Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has extended heartfelt condolences following the passing of the mother of Saudi Prince Fahd bin Muqrin bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. This act from Islamabad highlights the robust diplomatic ties between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia. Official Condolences to the Saudi Royal Family On August 22, 2025, Prime Minister Sharif expressed sympathies to Prince Fahd bin Muqrin and the Saudi royal family. He emphasized Pakistan’s solidarity with the Kingdom in this challenging time. The Prime Minister’s statement underlined the deep brotherhood shared between the nations, a cornerstone of Pakistani foreign policy across various administrations. Strengthening Diplomatic Relations This condolence gesture underscores the personal nature of Pakistan-Saudi relations at the top government level. Offering condolences is a traditional diplomatic protocol between these nations. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif prayed for the departed soul’s peace and comfort for the grieving family during this difficult period. Reaffirming the Pakistan-Saudi Partnership The condolence message signifies the enduring Pakistan-Saudi partnership. This relationship is critical in Pakistan’s international engagements. Strengthening ties with Saudi Arabia remains a priority in Pakistan’s foreign policy. The bilateral relationship is vital to the national government’s diplomatic strategy in the region.

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