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Pakistan

Atta ul Haq Qasmi to Mentor Young Writers Post-Nishan-e-Imtiaz Honor

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Lahore, August 24, 2025, 03:25 PM PKT – Renowned satirist and columnist Atta ul Haq Qasmi has launched a mentorship program for young Pakistani writers. This initiative follows his esteemed receipt of the Nishan-e-Imtiaz, Pakistan’s highest civilian honor. Unveiling the Mentorship Program The mentorship program was announced at a literary gathering hosted by the Punjab Arts Council. It aims to foster talent in the following three primary areas: Journalism and media writing Poetry and creative expression Playwriting and dramatic arts Qasmi, whose illustrious career in literature and media spans five decades, shared with APP, “I want to pass on the art of satire and storytelling.” Achievements and Recognition On August 16, 2025, Qasmi was awarded the Nishan-e-Imtiaz alongside Mustansar Hussain Tarar. Qasmi’s significant contributions include authoring 20 books and writing numerous columns for major Pakistani newspapers. As the former Chairman of PTV, he made a noteworthy impact on Pakistan’s media landscape. The award ceremony was graced by intellectuals like Rehman Faris and Habib Akram, who celebrated his remarkable achievements. Program Details and Future Vision The mentorship initiative will provide specialized workshops and scholarships, concentrating on Urdu literature and humor writing. Organizers intend to enroll 100 students by 2026. Additionally, there are plans to digitize Qasmi’s extensive archives for public access, creating a valuable resource for future generations of Pakistani writers. Poet Aghar Nadeem Sahar observed, “His legacy will inspire generations.” The program stands as a vital investment in the future of Pakistan’s literary scene. Stay updated at nenagency.

Pakistan

ICT Police Intensify Bani Gala Crackdown, Arrest Two Suspects

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Islamabad, August 24, 2025, 03:13 PM PKT – The Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) Police have intensified their crackdown on criminal activities in Bani Gala. On August 24, 2025, they arrested two suspects during a thorough search operation. This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to curb illegal activities and enhance public safety in the capital’s rural regions. Intensive Search Operation in Bani Gala A police spokesperson reported that the operation was led by the Rural Superintendent of Police, with assistance from the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) and female officers. Their efforts aim to continue reducing crime in Bani Gala, building on previous initiatives. Comprehensive Inspections Undertaken During the operation, teams carried out detailed inspections, which included: Screening of 85 individuals Inspection of 70 households Examination of 45 shops Seizure of three unlicensed firearms Confiscation of one undocumented vehicle Leadership’s Dedication to Crime Reduction “Our goal is to eliminate crime and secure Bani Gala,” stated the SP Rural to the Associated Press of Pakistan (APP). This operation follows directives from DIG Syed Ali Raza for district-wide initiatives across Islamabad. The arrested suspects are being investigated for potential links to local criminal networks. Future Plans and Community Engagement The ICT Police plan to extend these operations to other areas within the capital territory. Future strategies will focus on enhanced biometric verification processes and stronger community cooperation. DIG Raza encouraged citizens to report suspicious activities via the Pukar-15 helpline. Active community engagement is crucial for maintaining security in Islamabad’s residential sectors. Stay updated at nenagency.

Pakistan

Tirich Mir Summit Sparks Adventure Tourism Boom in Chitral

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Chitral, August 24, 2025, 02:52 PM PKT – Pakistani mountaineers have successfully reached the summit of Tirich Mir, the highest peak in the Hindu Kush, standing at 7,708 meters. This remarkable achievement is leading to a surge in adventure tourism in Chitral, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Esteemed climbers Sirbaz Khan and Abid Baig from Gilgit-Baltistan led this successful ascent on August 24, 2025. Their accomplishment greatly elevates Chitral’s status as a prominent mountaineering hub, marking a significant milestone for its burgeoning adventure tourism sector. Growing International Interest The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Culture and Tourism Authority (KPCTA) has reported receiving over 200 inquiries from climbers around the world following this high-profile success. This influx of interest is solidifying Chitral’s emerging reputation as a top destination for mountaineers. During a press conference, KPCTA Director Umar Khan stated, “This historic climb, backed by Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, underscores Chitral’s vast potential.” 75th Anniversary of Tirich Mir The expedition took place during the “Year of Tirich Mir,” celebrating 75 years since its first ascent in 1950. This significant anniversary has attracted considerable attention both locally and internationally. Local climbers Akmal Naveed and Shamsul Qamar became the first from Chitral to scale Tirich Mir, marking an important achievement for the local mountaineering community. Over 60 trekkers have reached the base camp, supported by 100 local porters, providing a notable boost to the local economy. Provincial Government Support The provincial government has waived climbing royalty fees for 2025–26 to attract global climbers to the region. Officials are planning future expeditions to peaks such as Noshaq in coming seasons. Sirbaz Khan commented, “Chitral’s peaks have the potential to rival the Himalayas for adventure tourism.” These efforts aim to create jobs and foster sustainable tourism growth in the region. The government’s support underscores a strong commitment to establishing adventure tourism as a key economic driver in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Stay updated at NEN Agency.

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 strengthen community ties and push development initiatives. The focus was on advancing infrastructure, security, and sustainable growth. Engagement with Turbat Leaders During his visit, Field Marshal Munir spoke with community leaders in Turbat. Discussions highlighted development and security concerns in Balochistan. Local leaders showed strong support for infrastructure projects promising regional advancement. Munir received a warm welcome from the Corps Commander of Balochistan and senior military officers. The main aim is to foster cooperation between the military and local communities to drive long-term development. ISPR Highlights Key Priorities The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) released details on Munir’s visit. He reviewed ongoing security efforts against ‘Fitna-ul-Hindustan’ and commended the Pakistan Army’s role in maintaining Balochistan’s stability. Munir stressed the significance of community-driven development for the future of the region, asserting, “Balochistan’s future lies in collective action and good governance.” Infrastructure Focus: Education and Healthcare In Turbat, the army chief evaluated various development projects. Key initiatives include: Improving education infrastructure Enhancing healthcare facilities Implementing community development programs Economic Impact and Regional Stability Munir reiterated the Pakistan Army’s commitment to promoting sustainable growth in Balochistan. The initiatives aim to improve residents’ quality of life, create economic opportunities, and ultimately strengthen 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 an important weather alert, warning of heavy rains and potential flooding across Pakistan from August 23 to 30, 2025. These disturbances are forecasted to bring widespread rainfall nationwide. Rain Advisory for Islamabad and Northern Regions From August 23 to 25, Islamabad, Kashmir, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Punjab will encounter torrential rains accompanied by strong winds. Urban flooding is expected in low-lying areas. Hilly regions face heightened risks of landslides. The NDMA advises residents to stay vigilant 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 an increased flood threat. Authorities have pinpointed key areas needing urgent attention: Rawalpindi Attock Sialkot Dera Ghazi Khan (southern Punjab) Residents should closely monitor local weather updates and prepare for possible evacuation if conditions worsen. Monitoring Indus River and Major Waterways The Indus River is projected to reach critical levels of 500,000 cusecs at major locations. Key monitoring points include Taunsa, Guddu, and Kalabagh barrage systems. Rivers Ravi and Chenab are also at risk, posing threats to nearby communities. Both federal and provincial authorities are observing river levels and will issue evacuation orders if necessary. Weather Alert for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgit Baltistan High risks of flash floods and landslides are anticipated in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Gilgit Baltistan from August 23 to 27 due to intense rainfall. The public is urged to remain cautious and avoid unnecessary travel until conditions improve. 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 is 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. The visit demonstrates a renewed dedication to diplomatic cooperation. It aligns 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 will engage 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 The bilateral talks focus on 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 This visit follows numerous achievements in Pakistan Bangladesh relations. Both countries have adopted visa-free travel for diplomatic personnel, facilitating easier governmental exchanges. They have also established direct sea trade routes to enhance economic connectivity. Recent high-level military and trade discussions have paved the way for this engagement. These developments highlight the commitment of both nations to improve regional cooperation and economic partnership, marking a significant step in normalizing relations.

Pakistan

MWMC Cancels Daewoo Contract Over Poor Sanitation Performance

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The Multan Waste Management Company (MWMC) has terminated its contract with Daewoo, a key participant in the Suthra Punjab Program. This decision was prompted by Daewoo’s inability to meet sanitation performance standards in the region. Commissioner’s Report Triggers Contract Termination Commissioner Multan Division, Rana Aamir Karim Khan, authored a critical report that influenced this decision. The report outlined major deficiencies in Daewoo’s sanitation services throughout the division. Key problems included inadequate service delivery and the failure to maintain cleanliness standards. Consequently, MWMC took swift action to guarantee high-quality sanitation services for residents. Currently, MWMC directly manages all sanitation operations, ensuring immediate accountability for service quality in the Multan Division. MWMC Assumes Operational Control MWMC will manage the Suthra Punjab Program until a new contractor is selected via standard government procurement processes. This state-led management model ensures uninterrupted sanitation services. The company underscores that direct oversight is essential for upholding quality and accountability within the Multan Division. Commitment to Transparent Procurement Officials stress that future procurement will follow transparent selection criteria, preventing issues with new contractors. Ensuring Employment Security MWMC has assured job security for all supervisory staff and sanitary workers during the transition. The company is dedicated to making sure salary payments are timely and uninterrupted. 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 vital 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) conducted a decisive operation against an illegal oil production facility near Dera Muhammad Ramzan in Sialkot on August 22, 2025. The action resulted in the disposal of 600 liters of substandard oil. PFA officials discovered the facility lacked a valid production license and essential supply records, breaching several food safety regulations and failing to meet Punjab’s standards. Oil Safety Requirements Not Met Laboratory tests showed the seized oil did not meet safety standards for human consumption. The oil was missing the mandated methanol dye, a crucial marker for edible oil in Pakistan. Inspectors deemed the entire batch unfit for public consumption, highlighting significant 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 initiated legal proceedings against the operators for these violations. This action is part of the PFA’s broader campaign across the province to combat illegal food production units. The authority remains dedicated to safeguarding public health throughout Punjab and enforcing national food safety standards.

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