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Date Announced for Start of M-6 Sukkur-Hyderabad Project

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The National Highway Authority (NHA) has confirmed the start date for the long-awaited M-6 Sukkur-Hyderabad Motorway project. This 306-kilometer stretch is a critical part of the Karachi-Peshawar Motorway, aiming to enhance connectivity between Sindh’s major cities. The project is expected to boost trade, reduce travel time, and promote regional development once completed.

The M-6 will feature modern safety measures, service areas, and a high-speed design. Authorities have assured timely completion, emphasizing the project’s importance in supporting economic activity and easing traffic congestion on existing routes. Construction is set to begin soon, marking a significant milestone in Pakistan’s infrastructure expansion plans.

The M-6 Motorway project start date announced to enhance connectivity between Sukkur and Hyderabad. The 306-km stretch will reduce travel time and support economic growth. Equipped with modern facilities and safety measures, the project is part of Pakistan’s key infrastructure plan aimed at boosting regional trade and mobility.

M-6 Sukkur-Hyderabad Motorway, Pakistan infrastructure development, NHA motorway project

Islamabad Set to Become Pakistan’s First Fully Cashless City

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Islamabad is on track to become Pakistan’s first fully cashless city as part of the Capital Development Authority’s Smart Islamabad initiative. The plan aims to integrate digital payment systems into key public services and citywide infrastructure, making transactions more transparent and convenient for citizens.

Initial pilot programs are being launched in major areas such as Blue Area, Food Street, and Parking Plaza, where QR-code based payments will be used for property taxes, utility bills, and parking fees. Businesses are being encouraged to adopt digital payment systems and register for electronic transactions to support the transition.

The project also includes expanding online payment platforms, mobile applications, and collaborations with banks to ensure secure and efficient cashless systems across the city. Over time, the initiative will cover all sectors of Islamabad, setting a model for other cities in Pakistan.

This move aligns with the government’s wider agenda to digitize the economy, promote transparency, and enhance citizen convenience while reducing the reliance on physical cash transactions nationwide.

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PCB Denies Rift Between Shaheen Afridi and Captain Salman Ali Agha

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The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has issued a firm denial of circulating rumors alleging a rift between fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi and team captain Salman Ali Agha, as well as claims involving members of the coaching staff. In an official statement, the board stated unequivocally that no incident—training-related or otherwise—has occurred between the individuals in question, dismissing the reports as baseless, fabricated, and defamatory.

PCB described these claims as deliberate misinformation aimed at undermining team unity and tarnishing the reputation of the national squad. It condemned the rumours as a calculated campaign to sow discord and disrupt morale within the dressing room. Asserting its commitment to protecting player dignity and team cohesion, the PCB warned that legal proceedings under defamation and cybercrime laws will be initiated against those responsible for originating or spreading the false narratives.

The board also strongly cautioned the public, media outlets, and digital platforms to avoid engaging with or amplifying unverified and irresponsible content. PCB emphasized that safeguarding the integrity of the national team and the wellbeing of its players remains its top priority.

PCB Shaheen Afridi Salman Agha denial, rift rumors debunked, PCB legal action warning

Pakistan and Australia Move Closer to Major Investment Deal

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Pakistan and Australia are advancing towards finalizing a significant investment agreement focused on energy and mineral sector cooperation. Recent high-level discussions between officials from both countries emphasized joint ventures in mining, energy production, and technology transfer, signaling a new chapter in bilateral economic relations.

Australia has expressed strong interest in partnering with Pakistani companies to explore and develop the country’s vast mineral resources, particularly in untapped regions. The plan includes forming joint ventures that would integrate Australian expertise and advanced mining technologies with Pakistan’s resource potential. Additionally, collaborations between Australian universities and local institutions are being considered to provide professional training and modern extraction techniques to strengthen the sector’s workforce.

Pakistan’s recent policy reforms in mining and energy have played a crucial role in attracting foreign investors. With a favorable current account position and simplified profit repatriation procedures, the country is aiming to create a more business-friendly environment. Both sides see the agreement as a way to boost not only mineral exploration but also long-term energy sustainability.

In parallel, initiatives are underway to enhance bilateral trade relations. Business chambers from both countries are working to promote trade delegations and facilitate partnerships across multiple sectors, ensuring that the deal translates into broader economic benefits.

This potential agreement marks a strategic step for Pakistan in diversifying its energy sources and unlocking its mineral wealth while offering Australia a gateway to new markets and opportunities for technology and expertise exchange.

Pakistan Australia investment deal, energy and mineral cooperation, bilateral economic relations

PCB Opts Against WCL Final Boycott After Emergency BoG Meeting

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The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially decided not to boycott the World Championship of Legends (WCL) final following an emergency virtual meeting of its Board of Governors (BoG). The session, chaired by PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi, was convened after growing calls to withdraw from the final in protest against India Champions for forfeiting matches against Pakistan in both the group stage and semi-final.

During the meeting, the BoG carefully reviewed the situation and emphasized the board’s long-standing stance of keeping politics separate from cricket. After detailed deliberations, the members unanimously agreed that the Pakistan Champions should participate in the WCL final, ensuring the team’s efforts throughout the tournament are honored and maintaining the spirit of the sport.

The BoG also discussed future protocols for private cricket leagues and tournaments. A new guideline was introduced requiring any team or franchise wishing to use “Pakistan” in their name for private competitions to obtain formal approval from the PCB’s Board of Governors. This move is aimed at maintaining the integrity and branding of national representation in cricket.

With the final scheduled later this week, the decision ensures Pakistan’s continued participation in the high-profile tournament while upholding the board’s commitment to fair play and professional conduct.

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FBR Surpasses Rs 748 Billion July 2025 Tax Collection Target

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The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) started fiscal year 2025–26 on a strong note by exceeding its July tax collection goal. Net provisional collections reached Rs 754.4 billion—Rs 6.4 billion above the assigned target—reflecting effective enforcement, digital monitoring, and improved taxpayer compliance.

Gross collection for the month stood at Rs 835.5 billion, while refunds amounted to Rs 81.1 billion. A breakdown of the revenue shows income tax collections at Rs 323.6 billion, slightly below the target but higher compared to last year. Sales tax revenue hit Rs 352.7 billion, surpassing its target and marking an 18% year-on-year increase. Federal Excise Duty brought in Rs 46.2 billion, while customs duty reached Rs 113 billion, exceeding expectations.

Analysts highlight that indirect taxes such as sales tax and customs duty drove the overall growth, while income and excise collections lagged slightly. Despite this strong start, maintaining momentum will be crucial to achieve the ambitious annual target of Rs 14.13 trillion set under the IMF-supported budget framework.

The FBR attributed the positive performance to enhanced enforcement measures, a broader tax base, and the use of digital compliance tools.

FBR July 2025 tax collection, exceeded revenue target, Pakistan fiscal year revenue

Pakistan to Import US Crude Oil for the First Time

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Pakistan’s largest refiner, Cnergyico, has signed a deal to import one million barrels of West Texas Intermediate (WTI) light crude from the United States later this month. The cargo will be shipped from Houston and is expected to arrive in Karachi in the second half of October. This marks the first-ever purchase of US crude by Pakistan. The move follows months of negotiations that began in April, prompted by rising U.S. tariffs on Pakistani exports.

Officials view this as a strategic diversification of oil sources and a diplomatic tool to ease trade tensions. If this initial spot cargo proves commercially viable, Pakistan may import a similar shipment monthly. The country’s existing infrastructure, including Cnergyico’s deep-sea single-point mooring terminal, is well-equipped to handle large tankers.

Cnergyico to bring first-ever US crude oil to Pakistan in October, importing one million barrels of WTI light crude via a Vitol deal, marking historic diversification of supply. The agreement—negotiated after U.S. imposed tariffs—could lead to monthly imports if viable. Analysts view it as a diplomatic move to counter tariff threats and expand energy partnership under a broader US‑Pakistan trade deal. Pakistan aims to leverage the deal to reduce trade imbalance and enhance bilateral cooperation.

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OGRA Cuts LPG Prices for August 2025 to Provide Consumer Relief

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The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) has announced a significant reduction in Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) rates for August 2025. The decision is aimed at offering financial relief to domestic and commercial consumers amid fluctuating international energy market trends and rising living costs.

According to the new notification, the price cut is expected to lower the overall expense for households relying on LPG for cooking and heating, as well as small businesses that use it for commercial purposes. Industry experts believe the reduction will help stabilize the local energy market while benefiting millions of consumers nationwide.

The updated LPG rates have come into effect at the start of August and will remain applicable throughout the month. OGRA emphasized that the price adjustment is part of its routine monthly review based on global market indicators and currency exchange variations.

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Radioactive Wasp Nest Found at Former US Nuclear Weapons Facility

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Authorities have discovered a radioactive wasp nest at a decommissioned US nuclear weapons site, sparking serious environmental and safety concerns. Experts report that the nest was built using contaminated soil and plant material from the area, indicating that radiation has seeped into the surrounding ecosystem. The finding highlights the lingering effects of past nuclear activities and their potential risks to wildlife and human health.

Radiation specialists are now conducting detailed assessments to determine the extent of contamination and the impact on local species. The nest will be carefully removed under strict safety protocols to prevent further radioactive exposure. Environmental agencies are also considering long-term cleanup measures to ensure the site poses no threat to the public or the ecosystem.

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Government Reduces Petrol Price by Rs7.54, Increases High-Speed Diesel by Rs1.48

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In its latest fortnightly review, the government has announced a significant reduction in the price of petrol by Rs7.54 per litre, bringing relief to consumers amid rising living costs. However, the price of high-speed diesel has been increased by Rs1.48 per litre, which is expected to affect transport and logistics sectors as diesel is widely used in heavy vehicles and goods transportation.

Officials stated that the price adjustment is part of routine revisions aligned with international oil market fluctuations and currency exchange rates. The reduction in petrol rates is aimed at easing the financial burden on private motorists and daily commuters, while the diesel hike reflects global pricing pressures. The new prices will be effective from midnight and remain in place for the next 15 days.

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