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KP universities to soon have permanent VCs: Meena Khan

By
Zaka Ullah
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0
Meena Khan
PESHAWAR, Feb 23 (APP):Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Provincial Minister for Higher Education, Meena Khan Afridi, has said that universities across the province will soon have permanent vice-chancellors.
He stated all necessary processes are in their final stages adding the matter will be resolved within a month.
In a statement to media, the minister also revealed that a comprehensive financial plan has been developed to address the financial crisis in universities. With its implementation, financial difficulties will be resolved by the next fiscal year.
Speaking on other matters, the provincial minister noted that any reshuffling in the cabinet would be decided by the leadership.
He further added that the Minister for Health is performing well, and positive steps are being taken in the healthcare sector.
Meena Khan Afridi reiterated his commitment to resolving the leadership and financial challenges faced by the universities in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Governor criticizes renaming of Arbab Niaz Stadium

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Zaka Ullah
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0
PESHAWAR, Feb 23 (APP):Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), Faisal Karim Kundi on Sunday strongly criticized the provincial government for renaming the Arbab Niaz Cricket Stadium.
In his statement, Governor Kundi called the name change of the stadium “extremely inappropriate.
He accused the Chief Minister of being on a mission to “erase the province’s identity.” He stated that naming the stadium after the mastermind of the May 9 incident strengthens anti-state elements.
Governor Kundi assured that the people of Peshawar stand united against the renaming of the stadium.
He also criticized the previous ruling party, saying that despite being in power for nine years, it failed to renovate and restore the Arbab Niaz Stadium.
“On one side, we have an incompetent government, while on the other, the federal government and PCB have transformed stadiums in Lahore and Karachi within weeks,” he remarked.

PHA expands Halal verification framework to ensure global compliance: DG

By
Zaka Ullah
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0
ISLAMABAD, Feb 23 (APP):Director General of the Pakistan Halal Authority (PHA), Akhtar A. Bughio, on Sunday said that authority was committed to strengthening its halal certification framework to align with global standards.
Talking to a PTV news, he said that the role of PHA in ensuring that all consumables, including cosmetics and processed goods, are free from non-halal ingredients through a rigorous verification process.
He said that PHA was dedicated to his role to identify halal products and certify and mark those products so that consumers have complete assurance regarding their purchases.
Answering a question, he said that Muslim-majority countries assume locally available products are halal, but the global market requires proper certification to verify authenticity. Where, Non-Muslim countries have significantly contributed to the halal market and have captured a major share. Pakistan, despite entering the sector later, is now actively working to streamline certification processes to align with global practices, he added.
He further said that modern food processing methods raise questions about the traceability and source of ingredients.
The PHA ensures that no haram substances are present in certified products through a rigorous verification system. The authority integrates technology with religious principles to maintain credibility, he added.
He also highlighted the issue of self-claimed halal products, noting that some entities falsely label products as halal. To counter this, PHA has established a facilitation center where consumers can verify product certification.
Answering a question regarding international collaboration, he said that Pakistan has initiated agreements with global halal certification bodies, including those in the United States and Russia. Recently, an MoU was signed with Turkey during President Recep Tayyip Erdogan’s visit to Pakistan, strengthening bilateral cooperation in the halal sector.
He further stated that authority plans to launch a halal certification mobile application within the next six months. The app will allow consumers to scan QR codes on products to instantly verify their halal status, including certification details and production origin.
He added that PHA is actively engaging with local and international halal bodies and has partnered with 17 organizations, including universities and technology institutes, to enhance research and training in halal certification.
He expressed pride in the organization’s structured recruitment and training processes, ensuring that young professionals are well-equipped to contribute to the sector.
The director general was committed to adopt international best practices to strengthen its halal certification framework, ensuring transparency and credibility in the global halal market.

President RCCI, champions industrialization, tax reform at APCPC Faisalabad

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Zaka Ullah
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0
ISLAMABAD, Feb 23 (APP):President Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (RCCI)  Usman Shaukat, addressing the 3rd All Pakistan Chambers Presidents Conference (APCPC)  at the Faisalabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FCCI), emphasized industrialization as the cornerstone for Pakistan’s economic uplift.
He highlighted the need for a robust industrial policy to drive growth, create employment opportunities, and enhance exports,said a press release issued here .
In his address during the conference’s first session, Usman Shaukat urged the  government  to adopt a collaborative approach in policy-making.
He stressed that taxation policies should be rationalized and developed through meaningful consultations with key stakeholders, including chambers of commerce and industry leaders across the country.

Sharjeel vows to accelerate development work by local bodies

By
Zaka Ullah
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0
HYDERABAD, Feb 23 (APP):Senior Provincial Minister for Information, Transport, and Mass Transit Sharjeel Inam Memon reiterated his unwavering commitment to undertaking comprehensive development initiatives in his area, ensuring that his people receive optimal support and assistance.
Heading over a meeting with chairmen and vice-chairmen of local government bodies at the committee room of Rawal House, TandoJam, the provincial minister Sharjeel Inaam Memon emphasized the imperative of transparently utilizing funds allocated by the Sindh Government for public welfare projects.
Deputy Commissioner Hyderabad Zain-ul Aabdeen Memon, Divisional Director Information Irshad Ali Chandio, District officer Marvi Soomro, and local government chairmen and vice-chairmen of Taluka Tando Jam attended the meeting.
Sharjeel Inaam Memon directed the chairmen to optimize the utilization of funds received from the Sindh Government, cautioning that strict action would be taken against any chairman, if found misappropriating these funds.
The Information Minister  underscored that the Sindh Chief Minister has issued clear instructions to ensure that local government funds are utilized exclusively for public works, effectively addressing the problems faced by the people.
The provincial minister Sharjeel Inaam Memon reaffirmed his determination to establish his constituency as a model constituency, underscoring the importance of serving the people to further bolster their trust.
He instructed the chairmen to resign if they were unwilling to work, paving the way for dedicated and honest individuals to assume responsibility.
Concluding the meeting, Minister Sharjeel Inaam Memon directed Deputy Commissioner Hyderabad to convene a meeting with the concerned chairmen to address the aforementioned issues and provide necessary assistance.

IFA conducts special training for salt manufacturers

By
Zaka Ullah
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0
ISLAMABAD, Feb 23 (APP):The Islamabad Food Authority (IFA) in collaboration with Nutrition International, has launched a series of training sessions aimed at salt manufacturers in the Federal Capital.
The initiative focuses on promoting the production of iodized salt, ensuring better health outcomes for citizens.
In this regard, a specialized training session was held at the Islamabad Food Authority office, attended by salt factory owners from the region.
The session was led by Deputy Director of IFA, Dr. Tahira Siddique, who emphasized the importance of iodized salt in daily diets.
During the training, experts highlighted the critical role of iodine in human health. Iodine is essential for brain development and helps prevent diseases like goiter. The session also covered key aspects of salt production, including quality standards, packaging, and hygiene practices.
Dr. Tahira Siddique stated that the primary goal of these sessions is to ensure the availability of high-quality salt for consumers. She noted that salt is a fundamental ingredient in all meals, making its quality a public health priority.
The training is part of a broader effort by the Islamabad Food Authority to improve food safety standards in the city. By educating manufacturers, the authority aims to reduce health risks associated with low-quality salt and promote better nutrition.
The session concluded with a call to action for manufacturers to adopt best practices in salt production. The Islamabad Food Authority plans to continue these training programs, targeting other sectors of the food industry in the coming months.
This initiative reflects the authority’s commitment to safeguarding public health and ensuring access to safe, nutritious food for all residents of Islamabad.

Sindh University conducts entrance test for admissions to MPhil , PhD programs

By
Zaka Ullah
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HYDERABAD, Feb 23 (APP):A total of 838 candidates participated in the entry test for admissions to various MPhil and PhD programs for the academic year 2025.
The entry test was conducted for 32 PhD and 37 MPhil programs.
Examination centers were set up at the Institute of Computer Science, Commerce, Physics, Business Administration, Faculty of Engineering & Technology and Pharmacy for the entry test.
The test commenced at 10:10 AM and lasted for one and a half hours, concluding at 11:40 AM, SU spokesperson
Excellent arrangements were made during the entry test for admissions to various MPhil and PhD programs, spokesperson
The Vice-Chancellor Professor Dr. Khalil-ur-Rehman Khoumbhati visited the examination centers at the Institute of Mathematics & Computer Science, Commerce and Physics.
Dr Khoumbhati expressed satisfaction over the arrangements made for smooth conduct of the test.

Melody market set to become modern, model market: Bakhtawari

By
Zaka Ullah
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0
ISLAMABAD, Feb 23 (APP):Secretary General of UBG (FPCCI), Zafar Bakhtawari, stated that Melody Market in Islamabad is set to become a modern and model market, which will not only boost business activities but also positively impact the city’s economy.
The development of Melody Market and the provision of modern facilities will be greatly supported by the business community of Islamabad and the market’s traders,said a press release issued here.
He expressed these views during a visit to the market on the invitation of Melody Market President, Azhar Iqbal.
Zafar Bakhtawari further said that Islamabad and Baku, the capital of Azerbaijan, are sister cities, and considering this relationship, the Azerbaijani government is playing a significant role in the upgradation of Melody Market.
The uplift work of the market is ongoing with Azerbaijan’s support. However, it is also the responsibility of traders to improve the internal infrastructure of their shops and modernize the shopping culture to provide better facilities for customers and increase foot traffic in the market.
He mentioned that the development work of Melody Market is expected to be completed by April 2025, and a grand inauguration ceremony will be held in this regard.
He also expressed special gratitude to CDA Chairman, Muhammad Ali Randhawa, whose keen interest and efforts have accelerated the completion of development work, equipping an important market in the city with modern facilities.
On this occasion, Melody Market President, Azhar Iqbal, stated that they are fully cooperating with CDA to develop Melody Market along modern lines.
He welcomed the initiatives taken with Azerbaijan’s support for the improvement of the market and expressed gratitude to the CDA Chairman for his dedication to completing this project as soon as possible.
Azhar Iqbal also demanded that the Food Mall in Melody Market be upgraded, reorganized, and provided with more modern facilities.
He emphasized the need for designated parking areas and improvements in water supply, sewerage, and other basic infrastructure to provide maximum convenience for shoppers and traders.
On this occasion, ICCI Executive Committee members Rohail Anwar Butt, Malik Mohsin Khalid, Khalid Chaudhry, Babar Chaudhry, Nisar Mirza, Melody Market General Secretary Jamil Qureshi, and other distinguished personalities were also present.
They appreciated the market’s upgradation process and expressed hope for its timely completion.

Islamabad Police seize over 7,000 Kites, 6,000 Spools of string in crackdown

By
Zaka Ullah
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0
ISLAMABAD, Feb 23 (APP):Islamabad Capital Police have intensified their crackdown on kite sellers and flyers, with the Industrial Area Police Station seizing over 7,000 kites and 6,000 spools of chemical-laced string in a major operation on Sunday.
A public relations officer told APP that officials arrested a suspect, Muaz Ahmed, and confiscated the illegal materials during the raid.
“Kite selling is a punishable offence, and strict action is being taken against those violating the law,” said SSP Operations Muhammad Shoaib Khan.
He said the legal action against kite sellers and flyers will continue to ensure public safety. SSP Shoaib reiterated the commitment to curbing this dangerous activity.

Minister inaugurated largest cricket ground in district Chiniot

By
Zaka Ullah
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0
CHINIOT, Feb 23 (APP):Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh has inaugurated the largest cricket ground, while the charming tunes of the military band made the ceremony enchanting.
The largest cricket ground in the district was also inaugurated on the occasion of the Chiniot festival.
Federal Minister Qaiser Ahmed Sheikh inaugurated it by playing ball.
Deputy Commissioner Safiullah Gondal and other dignitaries were present on the occasion.
The Federal Minister appreciated the cooperation of ADCG Talha Saeed and the citizens in preparing the ground and termed it a valuable gift for the youth.
Speaking on the occasion, the minister said that I have been playing cricket for the school since 1961 in the ninth grade and I love cricket very much.
The ground of Islamia College Chiniot is also a gift from the Sheikh community to the people of Chiniot.
The cricket ground of Islamia College has been prepared with the cooperation of philanthropists.
The citizens have been provided with a very good ground for sports. The people have enjoyed a lot on the occasion of Jashn Chiniot by the Punjab government and the citizens have enjoyed themselves for three days and have participated in these open spaces, which has brought out new talent.
Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz is organizing Jashn Baharan across the province. On this occasion, the Federal Minister announced a grant of one million rupees for the Islamia College Ground and said that he will also provide more funds for it.

Three injured as van plunges into canal

By
Zaka Ullah
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0
LODHRAN, Feb 23 (APP):A commuters van plunged into a canal near here on Sunday, leaving three people injured.
According to Rescue officials, a commuters van was heading towards Kahror Pacca
from Lodhran when it plunged into a canal due to over speeding near Shah Da Dera
Kahror Pacca road. Fortunately, there was no water in the canal.
As a result, three people sustained minor injuries.
On information, Rescue teams rushed to the spot and started rescue operation.
The Rescue team provided first aid to the injured on the spot.

Over 1,700 students awarded degrees at HU convocation

By
Zaka Ullah
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0
KARACHI, Feb 23 (APP):The Hamdard University (HU) awarded degrees and certificates to 1,718 students and scholars at its 27th Convocation that was held at its main Madinat al-Hikmah campus here.
Of the over 1,700 awardees, seven scholars were given PhDs and 130 MS, ME, and MPhil degrees.
 The ceremony was presided over by HU’s Chancellor Madam Sadia Rashid and former federal minister and senator Javed Jabbar was the chief guest.
In recognition of their excellent performance in various courses of studies, gold medals were conferred on about 40 students.
The best teacher award was conferred on Prof Dr Syed Mohammad Mubin and that of best researcher on Hafiz Imran Nawaz.
In his welcome address, Vice Chancellor Syed Shabib-ul-Hasan pointed out that during this convocation more graduates are being awarded degrees than ever before.
The reason obviously lies in the growth in number of students who are being admitted to HU each year.
In 2024 alone, the university admitted over 3,200 students, which shows the university’s growing popularity among students as well as their parents. The student population has now risen to 10,000.
Prof Dr Shabib-ul-Hasan said his university is offering more than 100 programmes that are being run by seven faculties as per the guidelines provided by the Higher Education Commission (HEC) and other professional and regulatory bodies.
He said that in 2024 the faculty members of the university produced 294 research papers that were published in peer-reviewed journals recognised by the HEC.
In the last five years the total number of such papers has topped 1,000.
The Faculty of Engineering, Sciences and Technology has set up a dedicated Artificial Intelligence Laboratory which is equipped with the latest technology, he said.
In the last financial year, the university provided concessions/scholarships worth Rs159 million among hundreds of meritorious students.
The 1,700 students that are passing out now will join the 36,000 alumni of the university, who are already working in various capacities both nationally and internationally.
Chancellor Sadia Rashid said that after graduating from the university the new alumni would not just face challenges but opportunities as well.
“Please keep in mind that you should never fail to grasp the opportunities and at the same time meet the challenges with confidence,” she remarked.
She urged the graduating students to renew their commitment towards serving the nation as per the vision of Shaheed Hakim Mohammed Said, the founder of HU.
Former federal minister, Javed Jabbar recalled with fondness his association with Hakim Said.
He said on various occasions the founder chancellor of HU visited parts of interior Sindh on his invitation.
Praising the performance of HU in the field of research, the retired senator said that unlike most universities that retreat into their shells, Hamdard’s research projects have a lot of relevance for the wider world.
He was of the opinion that HU’s graduates and alumni should count themselves as extremely fortunate because they have received higher education, that too at an institution like Hamdard. “Just imagine how lucky you are; you have received higher education in a country in which dozens of millions of children never go to school,” he said.
He urged the graduates to forge ahead in life with confidence.
 The proceedings were conducted by Registrar Kaleem A. Ghias. Advocate Anwar Ahmed presented the vote of thanks.

Social media influence makes wedding events expensive

By
Zaka Ullah
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0
3d render of social media icon collection
ISLAMABAD, Feb 23 (APP):In wake of high influence of social and digital media, a significant change in wedding traditions had been observed in the country.
Due to increasing such influence, wedding culture had undergone a significant transformation in recent years with addition of many new trends.
Now this simple celebration had evolved into a lavish, week-long extravaganza, complete with multiple events and excessive spending.
The rise of new, elaborate traditions such as “Bride-to-Be” parties, Mehndi nights, and Dholki celebrations had
 contributed to the shift mainly due to having such trends in tv dramas and showbiz personalities in social media.
These events, often characterized by lavish food, decorations, and entertainment, have become an integral part of Pakistani wedding culture.
According to wedding planners and industry experts, the average cost of a wedding in Pakistan has skyrocketed, with some families spending upwards of Rs five million on a single event.
Imtiaz Niazi a wedding planner said the wedding industry in Pakistan has become a multi-billion-rupee market as families willingly spend exorbitant amounts of money to make their wedding celebrations unforgettable not for just family members but for getting popularity and likes in social media apps like Facebook, Instagram and tiktok.
However, not everyone is pleased with the shift towards excess.
Still many families feel that emphasis on materialism and extravagance has overshadowed the true meaning of marriage.
“The focus should be on the union of two people, not on how much money we can spend on decorations and food,he stated,
 Marriage Bureau head Mrs Khan said these excessive traditions have led to unnecessary expenses, with some families spending millions on a single event adding that this has created a culture of competition, where families feel pressured to outdo one another in terms of extravagance and opulence.
 She said the emphasis on elaborate events, such as “Bride-to-Be” parties, Mehndi nights, and Dholki celebrations has shifted the focus away from the true essence of marriage.
 She said, “It’s time for us to reassess our priorities and return to the simplicity and elegance of our traditional wedding celebrations.”.

Colorful celebrations of  3rd Makhi Festival continue at Chotiari Dam

By
Zaka Ullah
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0
SANGHAR, Feb 23 (APP):The two-day 3rd Makhi Festival is in full swing at Baqaar Lake, located at the renowned cultural and tourist site, Chotiari Dam, Sindh.
The event was jointly organized by the Sindh Department of Culture, the Department of Sports and Youth Development, and the Social Protection Department. The festival was inaugurated by the Chief Minister’s Special Assistant for Social Protection, Sarfaraz Rajar.
The festival features a range of vibrant activities, including camel dances, Malakhra, speech competitions for students, poetry sessions (Mushaira), Sughar Katcheri, and boating, offering visitors a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of Sindh.
Speaking exclusively to APP, Sarfaraz Rajar emphasized the significance of organizing such festivals in remote areas, highlighting their role in promoting tourism and preserving cultural heritage. He explained that the festival is named after Makhi, a historically significant region known for its association with the Hur Resistance Movement against British colonial rule.
Chotiari Dam spans a total area of 45,000 acres. Acknowledging its tourism potential, the Sindh government has constructed a modern rest house equipped with essential facilities to accommodate visitors. Rajar invited people from across the country to explore the area’s natural beauty and historical importance.
He further stated that Chotiari Dam could be developed into a popular tourist destination similar to Keenjhar Lake.
He urged the Department of Culture to play a proactive role in preserving and maintaining such sites, emphasizing that neglecting these valuable locations would be a disservice. Additionally, Rajar requested Provincial Minister for Cilture and Tourism Syed Zulfiqar Ali Shah to focus on the region’s development and extend an invitation to both local and international tourists to visit and experience the area’s scenic beauty and cultural legacy.

Commuters plea for more blue line buses to ease travel woes

By
Zaka Ullah
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0
ISLAMABAD, Feb 23 (APP):Commuters residing near the Islamabad Expressway Wednesday demanded an increase in the number of Blue Line buses, citing chronic overcrowding that was disrupting their daily routines.
According to them, the Blue Line bus service has become a vital part of the city’s public transportation system but the current fleet is insufficient to meet the growing demand.
For years, the Blue Line Bus service has been a vital lifeline for thousands of Islamabad residents, offering affordable transportation to various parts of the city.
However, as Islamabad’s population continued to grow at a rapid pace, the demand for Blue Line Buses significantly surpassed the available supply, creating a pressing need for expansion.
A commuter Ayesha Khan said, “We often have to wait for over 30 minutes to get a Blue Line bus, and even then, we’re packed like sardines.”.
She lamented that even if they are lucky enough to get a seat on the bus, it’s always jam-packed and overcrowded, causing unbearable suffocation.”
We urge the relevant authority to increase the number of buses and routes to provide better connectivity to all residents, she stated.
Another commuter Shabana shared her experience of trying to get a seat on the Blue Bus saying, despite waiting for a long time, every bus that arrived was jam-packed, forcing her to abandon her efforts and take a cab instead.”                                                                  She said that the Blue Line bus service is a great initiative but we urge the authority concerned to increase the number of buses and routes to provide better connectivity to all residents.
She praised the Blue Line service as an outstanding initiative for the middle class, who cannot afford private transportation.
However, she expressed concern that despite its benefits, commuters are forced to wait for an extended period only to board a jam-packed bus, highlighting the need for improvements to the service.

Health experts advise parents to monitor children’s mobile screen time to ensure healthy balance in their lives

By
Zaka Ullah
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0
ISLAMABAD, Feb 23 (APP):The excessive use of mobile phones among children has become a pressing concern for parents, educators, and health experts.
With the widespread availability of smartphones and tablets, kids were spending increasing amounts of time glued to their screens, sparking fears about the impact on their physical and mental health.
According to this APP Scribe, many parents reported that their children were spending hours each day playing games, watching videos, and chatting with friends on their mobile devices adding that this excessive screen time was leading to a range of problems, including sleep deprivation, eye strain, and decreased attention span, they complained.
A mother of 10-year-old Sabrena expressed her deep concern about her child’s phone addiction saying, “I have noticed a significant change in my child’s behaviour since they started using a smartphone and they are constantly glued to the screen, and it’s affecting their mood, their grades, and their overall health”.
She said that children have become inseparable from their devices adding that they can’t seem to put it down, even during meals or family time.
“She feels like I have lost control over my child’s phone use which is affecting my child’s grades and they are not focusing on their schoolwork like they should be, they are constantly on it, and I don’t know how to limit their screen time, she stated.
Health experts warned that excessive mobile phone use could have serious long-term consequences for children, including increased risk of obesity, decreased physical activity, and impaired cognitive development.
A paediatrician Saira Jabeen said “Children need a balanced diet of physical activity, social interaction, and mental stimulation to develop properly adding that excessive mobile phone use can disrupt this balance and have serious consequences for their health and wellbeing.
She advised limiting screen time to 1-2 hours daily can ensure a healthy balance adding that encourages kids to engage in outdoor games and sports to promote physical activity and teamwork.
She recommended monitoring children’s mobile phone use to set responsible boundaries and limits, while also encouraging social interaction to foster essential communication skills and emotional intelligence.

ITP issues route plan for Champions Trophy matches

By
NNPS Desk
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0

ISLAMABAD, Feb 23 (APP): Islamabad Traffic Police (ITP) has issued a traffic route plan for the Champions Trophy matches being held at Rawalpindi Stadium, on Sunday.

A public relations officer told APP that due to the movement of foreign teams, traffic routes will be enforced at different times today. The routes will be in place from 12 PM to 2 PM, 4 PM to 6 PM, and 9 PM to 11 PM on Srinagar Highway, Club Road, and Express Highway.

He said that traffic congestion is expected on Srinagar Highway and Expressway during the designated hours.

He said that citizens traveling during the route restrictions should use alternate underpasses and service roads connected to main highways.

He said that ITP personnel will be deployed at various locations to guide commuters.

He said that for assistance and inquiries during travel, citizens can contact the ITP helpline at 1915.

He said that ITP’s social media platforms will provide real-time updates regarding traffic routes.

Encroachments removed from Lahai Bazaar in Sialkot

By
Zaka Ullah
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0
SIALKOT, Feb 23 (APP):Anti-encroachment squad under the supervision of Additional Deputy Commissioner (Revenue) Muhammad Iqbal conducted an operation in Lahai Bazaar, removing permanent and temporary encroachments.
Muhammad Iqbal said that according to the vision of Chief Minister Punjab, a zero tolerance policy was being adopted on encroachments and no leniency would be shown in this regard, says a handout issued here on Sunday.
He instructed the shopkeepers to keep their goods confined to their shops, otherwise the
goods would be confiscated, and arrests would be made, besides getting cases registered
against the violators.
Anti-encroachment special teams of the Municipal Corporation and the Traffic Police were
fully active while the markets were being continuously monitored, so that encroachments
could not be established again, he added.

Call for supporting anti-smoking drive

By
Zaka Ullah
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0
BAHAWALPUR, Feb 23 (APP):Speakers at the seminar have urged the government and civil society to support the efforts for quitting smoking which was injurious to health.
The seminar was organized by Alternative Research Initiative Organization.
Addressing the seminar, experts- Muhammad Jaffar and Junaid Ali Khan
said that smoking at large level causes increase of carbon monoxide
in environment, effecting passive smokers.
They said that smokers did not put their own lives at risk but also put
the lives of others.
They opined that in European countries including England, Scotland and
others, civil society had been playing an important role in raising awareness
among the masses to quit smoking.
The National Health Services had also been supporting efforts to discourage
smoking in the country, they added.

FEB & GIF extend assistance to over 40% families, covering 649,000 federal government employees

By
Zaka Ullah
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0
ISLAMABAD, Feb 23 (APP):The Federal Employees Benevolent & Group Insurance Funds (FEB & GIF) have achieved a significant milestone by extending assistance to more than 40% of families, who have benefited from its various welfare schemes so far.
According to an official data, the FEB & GIF have also expanded its coverage to over 649,000 Federal Government Employees, who are now being covered under its comprehensive welfare schemes.
This significant achievement underscores the government’s commitment to ensuring the welfare and well-being of its employees. The FEB & GIF have been instrumental in providing financial assistance and support to employees facing various challenges, including medical emergencies, education expenses, and other financial difficulties.
The welfare schemes offered by the FEB & GIF include monthly benevolent grants, marriage grants, burial charges, farewell grants, and educational stipends, among others.
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