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Gold Prices Tumble in Pakistan, Dropping Nearly Rs. 10,000 from Record High

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Gold prices in Pakistan have seen a significant decline, falling by nearly Rs. 10,000 per tola from their record highs. According to data released by the All Pakistan Gems and Jewellers Association, the price of 24-karat gold has decreased to Rs. 232,000 per tola, down from its recent peak of Rs. 241,000.

This sharp drop comes amid fluctuations in international bullion markets, where gold prices have also been under pressure due to a stronger US dollar and expectations of higher interest rates by the Federal Reserve. Local markets often mirror global trends, and this recent correction reflects a broader movement away from precious metals as safe-haven assets.

Analysts believe that the decline may offer a buying opportunity for investors and consumers, especially those preparing for weddings or major purchases. However, they caution that prices remain volatile and are influenced by multiple factors, including currency fluctuations, global demand, and geopolitical events.

In Pakistan, the price of 22-karat gold also dropped proportionately, making it more accessible for middle-income buyers. Gold dealers have reported increased foot traffic in markets as customers rush to take advantage of the lower rates.

Despite the current dip, experts suggest that long-term trends still favor gold as a hedge against inflation and currency depreciation, particularly in developing economies like Pakistan.

Gold market Pakistan, bullion rates, jewellery prices

Traffic Fines to Be Delivered via WhatsApp Under New E-Challan System

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In a move to enhance digital governance and streamline traffic management, the Punjab government has launched a new initiative to send e-challan notifications directly to violators through WhatsApp. This step is part of the Safe City Project aimed at improving road safety and enforcing traffic rules more efficiently.

Under the new system, traffic violations captured by surveillance cameras will automatically generate challans. These fines will now be sent not only to the registered postal address of the vehicle owner but also to their WhatsApp number linked to the vehicle registration database. The Lahore Safe City Authority (LSCA) is leading this smart enforcement model, leveraging AI and big data to minimize manual intervention.

Officials believe this method will improve compliance, reduce paper use, and ensure violators are quickly informed. Citizens will also be able to receive location, time, and image details of the violation through WhatsApp, making the process more transparent.

Authorities have encouraged citizens to update their mobile numbers with the Excise and Taxation Department to ensure they receive real-time updates. Moreover, payments can be made online or via mobile apps, removing the hassle of visiting physical offices.

With this step, Punjab is becoming a model for other provinces to follow in terms of smart traffic management.

Digital traffic enforcement, Punjab Safe City, WhatsApp challans

NADRA App’s ‘Cancel Identity Due to Death’ Feature Sparks Confusion

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The National Database and Registration Authority’s (NADRA) mobile app has raised eyebrows with a peculiar design flaw: the option for deceased individuals to cancel their own identity cards.

Within the app’s “Cancel Identity Due to Death” feature, users are offered two choices — one for relatives of the deceased and another oddly labeled “Myself.” If the latter is selected, the applicant is directed to complete a facial recognition “liveness check,” a process meant to confirm the user is alive and matches NADRA’s records.

This means, in theory, a deceased individual would need to log in, start the process, and pass a liveness test — an obvious contradiction that has left many baffled.

When contacted, a NADRA spokesperson clarified that the service is meant only for relatives of the deceased. However, the spokesperson did not explain why the “Myself” option exists or why it requires a liveness check, raising further questions about oversight in app design.

This incident highlights recurring issues in Pakistan’s government apps, where usability flaws and poor design choices often undermine otherwise essential citizen services. NADRA has yet to confirm whether this is a technical glitch, mislabeling error, or deeper design flaw.

Half of Punjab’s Ginning Factories Shut Down Amid Industry Crisis

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Around 50% of ginning factories in Punjab have become non-operational due to ongoing challenges in the cotton industry. Factors such as reduced cotton supply, high input costs, and unfavorable market conditions have led to widespread closures, raising serious concerns about the future of the textile supply chain.

Industry stakeholders warn that continued factory shutdowns could impact cotton farmers, textile mills, and overall employment in the region. They urge the government to intervene with support measures and policy reforms to revive ginning operations and stabilize the cotton economy before the crisis deepens further.

Half of Punjab’s ginning factories have ceased operations due to low cotton supply and rising costs. The closures threaten the textile sector and rural livelihoods. Industry leaders are calling for urgent government action to rescue the struggling cotton-processing segment and ensure stability in the broader supply chain.

Punjab ginning crisis, cotton industry shutdown, textile supply impact

CDA Issues Safety Advisory Amid Heavy Monsoon Rains in Islamabad and Rawalpindi

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The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has issued a safety advisory for residents of Islamabad and Rawalpindi as heavy monsoon rains continue to lash the twin cities. The advisory urges the public to avoid unnecessary travel, stay away from low-lying areas, and report any emergencies to the relevant authorities.

CDA teams have been mobilized to clear clogged drains, manage water accumulation, and respond to urban flooding risks. Citizens are also advised to secure outdoor belongings and remain indoors during intense downpours. The authority emphasized its preparedness to deal with the situation and requested public cooperation during the ongoing weather spell.

CDA has issued a safety advisory for Islamabad and Rawalpindi residents as heavy monsoon rains hit the region. Citizens are urged to avoid low-lying areas, limit travel, and stay alert. Emergency teams are active, and the CDA seeks public cooperation to manage potential flooding and ensure safety.

CDA advisory, monsoon rains Islamabad, Rawalpindi weather alert

Honda CG 150 Now Available on Easy Installments Starting at Rs. 18,779/Month

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Motorcycle enthusiasts can now own the popular Honda CG 150 through an affordable installment plan starting from just Rs. 18,779 per month. The offer allows customers to ride away without paying the full price upfront, making it easier for a wider audience to access quality and reliable transportation.

The plan is designed to ease the financial burden on buyers while maintaining the durability and performance standards the Honda CG 150 is known for. With flexible payment options and low monthly costs, this installment offer is gaining traction among urban commuters and working professionals.

The Honda CG 150 is now available on installments starting at Rs. 18,779 per month, offering an affordable path to ownership. The plan targets budget-conscious buyers with flexible payments while delivering Honda’s trusted quality and performance. It’s an appealing option for commuters seeking reliable transportation.

Honda CG 150 installment, affordable bike plan, monthly bike payments

Capital Smart Motors Unveils GEELY Riddara & FORTHING Friday EVs at Top Shopping Venue

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Capital Smart Motors has launched an exclusive display of the cutting-edge electric vehicles GEELY Riddara and FORTHING Friday at one of the city’s most popular shopping destinations. This showcase is part of the company’s mission to bring the electric vehicle revolution directly to the public, making green mobility more accessible and exciting.

Shoppers and auto enthusiasts can explore the sleek design, advanced features, and sustainable technology of these EVs up close. Capital Smart Motors aims to educate the public on the benefits of electric driving, while also promoting eco-friendly transportation as the future of urban mobility.

Capital Smart Motors is showcasing GEELY Riddara and FORTHING Friday electric vehicles at a major shopping hub, aiming to spark public interest in EVs. The display promotes eco-friendly driving and offers an up-close look at innovation in mobility, aligning with Pakistan’s transition toward sustainable transportation.

Capital Smart Motors, electric vehicles Pakistan, GEELY Riddara FORTHING Friday

Rawalpindi’s Major Road Project Faces New Delays Amid Construction Hurdles

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A key road infrastructure project in Rawalpindi has encountered further delays due to administrative bottlenecks and construction challenges. Originally expected to ease traffic congestion and improve urban connectivity, the project’s completion has now been pushed back once again, frustrating residents and daily commuters.

Officials cite issues such as land acquisition disputes, funding gaps, and coordination problems among contractors as primary reasons for the setback. While authorities claim efforts are underway to resolve these problems, no revised timeline has been officially confirmed. The continued delay is raising concerns about project management and public inconvenience in the city.

A major road project in Rawalpindi is facing additional delays due to land, funding, and contractor coordination issues. The prolonged timeline has sparked public frustration, with no clear date for completion. Officials are working to address the setbacks but have yet to provide a firm schedule.

Rawalpindi road delay, infrastructure project, urban development issues

Fitch Predicts Gain for Pakistani Banks as Economic Conditions Improve

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Fitch Ratings has flagged that Pakistan’s banking sector stands to benefit from improving economic conditions, buoyed by a sovereign rating upgrade to “B‑/Stable” in April 2025. The outlook comes amid signs of macroeconomic stabilization, including reduced inflation, lower policy rates, and better external balances.

These developments are expected to support growth in private-sector lending and overall bank performance. Banks have shown resilience, with non-performing loan ratios declining, while improved credit demand and borrower repayment capacity further bode well for the sector’s future.

Fitch sees bright prospects for Pakistan’s banks as economic recovery takes hold. Following a sovereign rating upgrade, lower inflation and policy rates are expected to boost credit demand and banking performance. Non-performing loans are falling, and private-sector lending is poised for growth, signaling a strengthening financial landscape.

Pakistan banking sector, economic recovery, private‑sector lending

Local Holiday Declared in Punjab District for Administrative Reasons

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Authorities in Punjab have announced a local public holiday in one of its districts, citing administrative and public interest reasons. The decision was made to facilitate smooth arrangements for a scheduled local event or government activity, although specific details regarding the occasion were not immediately disclosed.

All government offices, educational institutions, and public departments in the district will remain closed for the day. Essential services will continue to operate as usual. The announcement has been welcomed by local residents and officials, who see it as a necessary step to ensure proper coordination and crowd management during the day’s activities.

A local holiday has been declared in a Punjab district to support administrative arrangements for an upcoming event. All public offices and schools will remain closed, while essential services continue. The move aims to ensure smooth operations and public convenience during the day.

Punjab local holiday, district closure, administrative announcement