Live Updates : Pakistan - 24-04-2025

The News International reports that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced a halt to the construction of new canals in Pakistan, pending consensus within the Council of Common Interests (CCI). This decision was made after a meeting in Islamabad on April 24, 2025, with a delegation from the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), which traditionally represents the interests of Sindh province, often at the downstream end of water distribution systems. The CCI is a constitutional body that resolves disputes between the federation and the provinces.

The move is seen as a potential victory for Sindh and the PPP, demonstrating their influence on federal policy regarding water rights. However, it could be a setback for Punjab, which might benefit from the canals, and create uncertainty for the agricultural sector. The specific canals in question were not identified in the report.

The Express Tribune reports that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced that any new canal projects require the consensus of the Council of Common Interests (CCI), a constitutional body that resolves disputes between the federation and the provinces. Speaking at a press conference alongside Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, Sharif indicated that the agreement is slated for formal endorsement during the CCI meeting scheduled for May 2. This decision is particularly significant given Pakistan's ongoing water scarcity issues and historical inter-provincial disputes over water allocation, especially between Sindh and Punjab.

According to Pakistan Today, the 4th Health, Engineering, and Minerals Show (HEMS) in Lahore witnessed a record number of Chinese firms participating, indicating a significant surge in economic cooperation between China and Pakistan. Over 200 Chinese companies were present, doubling the participation from the previous year. This development is linked to the ongoing China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and Pakistan's efforts to attract foreign investment amid negotiations with the IMF. The deals signed at the event are valued at $435 million, although the nature of these deals (firm commitments vs. MOUs) requires further clarification.

This increased Chinese presence presents both opportunities and challenges for Pakistan. While it can boost the economy and create jobs, concerns remain about over-reliance on Chinese investment, potential debt traps, and the impact on local industries. The Pakistani government views this as a positive development, while opposition parties express concerns about the long-term implications and transparency of these investments.

According to Pakistan Today, Pakistan's Ambassador to China, Khalil Hashmi (current role), presented civil awards to two Chinese leaders in Beijing. The ceremony highlights the deepening relationship between the two countries, particularly in the context of the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a large-scale infrastructure project. These awards can be seen as a gesture of goodwill during a period of economic hardship for Pakistan, reinforcing the government's narrative of a strong alliance with China.

According to Pakistan Today, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar held a phone call with Uzbek Foreign Minister Saidov Bakhtiyor Odilovich to discuss regional connectivity and bilateral relations. Dar briefed Saidov on Pakistan's focus on regional projects, particularly a railway project that could potentially link to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). This call follows a series of high-level diplomatic engagements between Pakistan and Uzbekistan, signaling a growing strategic partnership.

The discussed railway project aims to enhance regional trade by reducing transportation costs and times. Experts suggest this development signifies a strategic alignment between the two nations, driven by shared economic interests and a desire to enhance regional stability. However, successful implementation will require careful planning, financing, and coordination.

According to Pakistan Today, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed to launch a workforce training initiative for 10,000 Pakistani youth under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The agreement, signed by Qaiser Nawab, Chairman of the [...], aims to empower youth and foster cooperation among BRI countries. This initiative is a direct result of increased Chinese investment in Pakistan under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and aligns with the Pakistani government's efforts to address high youth unemployment rates.

The MoU is expected to strengthen the Pakistani government's relationship with China and provide tangible benefits to its citizens. However, opposition parties may criticize the government's reliance on China and question the effectiveness of the training programs. Geopolitical analysts view this as a strategic move by China to deepen its influence in Pakistan and secure its economic interests. Economic development experts emphasize the importance of aligning training programs with the needs of the Pakistani job market for the initiative to be successful.

The News International reports that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's government has decided to halt the construction of new canals in Cholistan pending a consensus in the Council of Common Interests (CCI). This decision comes after an agreement between the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N). The upcoming CCI meeting, scheduled for May 2, 2025, is expected to formally endorse the agreement.

The halt in construction reflects ongoing negotiations within the ruling coalition and highlights the CCI's role in resolving inter-provincial disputes, particularly concerning water resources. This decision has potential implications for the PPP, PML-N, Sindh and Punjab provinces, and farmers in Cholistan, who may have anticipated increased water availability. The CCI is a constitutional body in Pakistan that resolves disputes between the federal government and the provinces.

According to The News International, an explosion in the Kalat district of Balochistan on April 24, 2025, caused at least three deaths and five injuries. Levies officials confirmed the casualties. Balochistan has a history of separatist insurgency, and this blast is likely connected to the ongoing conflict between Baloch nationalist groups and Pakistani security forces. The incident may also be a response to recent security operations in the region or an attempt to destabilize the area, potentially impacting China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects, though Kalat is not directly on the CPEC route.

According to The News International, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari are engaged in critical discussions to resolve the escalating water crisis in Sindh. The province is experiencing acute water shortages, leading to widespread protests and unrest, posing a significant challenge to the PPP-PMLN coalition government. With upcoming elections, the handling of this crisis will significantly impact the political standing of both parties, particularly the PPP, which relies heavily on its support base in Sindh. Failure to address the water scarcity could fuel separatist sentiments and provide an opening for opposition parties like PTI to exploit the situation.

According to Dawn News, China successfully launched the Shenzhou-20 mission on Thursday, sending three astronauts to its Tiangong space station for a six-month mission. The crew, led by veteran astronaut Chen Dong, will conduct experiments, install equipment, and perform maintenance. This launch is part of China's broader space program, which aims to establish a lunar base and reflects President Xi Jinping's vision of a "space dream".

The mission also underscores China's international collaborations, particularly with Pakistan. In February, China and Pakistan agreed to send a Pakistani astronaut to Tiangong, with two candidates currently training in China. This partnership is especially significant given the United States' ban on NASA collaborating with China since 2011, pushing China to develop its own space capabilities and seek partnerships elsewhere.

Dawn News reports that the Punjab Home Department has mandated the use of tracking devices for habitual criminals and individuals listed on the Fourth Schedule of the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA). This decision, announced on Thursday, aims to enhance law and order by monitoring the movements of these individuals around the clock. The department will initially distribute 1,500 tracking devices to the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD), Parole Department, and Crime Control Department.

Noorul Amin Mengal, the Punjab Home Secretary, has directed authorities to import more advanced tracking devices for a second phase, potentially including micro-tracking chips. This initiative follows the July 2023 unveiling of an AI-powered facial recognition system by Punjab police, indicating a growing trend of using technology for law enforcement.

According to The Express Tribune, Chief Minister of Punjab, Maryam Nawaz, has approved a ration card scheme aimed at supporting 1.5 million laborers and daily wage earners in the province. The scheme will provide a monthly stipend of Rs 10,000 to eligible workers, addressing economic hardships faced by low-income populations in Pakistan. This initiative aligns with Maryam Nawaz's stated commitment to social welfare programs.

This scheme is expected to have political implications, potentially boosting the popularity of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) in Punjab. However, opposition parties may criticize the scheme's financial sustainability and implementation. Labour unions are likely to welcome the initiative while advocating for broader labor reforms. The success of the scheme will also depend on coordination between the Punjab provincial government and the federal government.

According to Dawn News, Punjab is currently facing a severe heatwave, with temperatures predicted to hit 45°C by the end of April, particularly affecting South Punjab districts. The Punjab Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) is urging citizens to take precautions, especially for vulnerable groups like children and the elderly. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has instructed relevant institutions to be on high alert, ensuring the supply of clean water and setting up heatwave counters in hospitals.

The PDMA has issued advisories for schools to adjust working hours or declare early summer holidays and has recommended suspending outdoor activities. They are also working to inform the public about heatwave dangers through media and ensuring the availability of necessary medicines to prevent heatstroke. The authority emphasizes avoiding exertion, wearing light-colored clothing, and staying indoors as much as possible.

Pakistan Today reports that JUI-F senators Kamran Murtaza and Hafiz Hamdullah announced on Wednesday that JUI-F will not form a political alliance with PTI 'for now', but may coordinate on specific issues. This decision comes as PTI has been actively seeking alliances following the 2024 general elections, while JUI-F has been critical of the election results, alleging rigging.

The decision weakens PTI's ability to form a strong coalition or opposition bloc, while allowing JUI-F to maintain independence and potentially negotiate concessions from both the government and opposition. Analysts suggest the decision is driven by ideological differences, concerns about PTI's stability, and a desire to maintain JUI-F's political identity.

According to Pakistan Today, the Supreme Court of Pakistan dismissed the Punjab government's petition seeking the physical remand of former Prime Minister Imran Khan. Justice Kakar stated that because one and a half years have passed since Khan's arrest, the request for physical remand is no longer valid. However, the court clarified that the Punjab government retains the option to approach the trial court for remand if deemed necessary.

This ruling occurs amidst ongoing legal battles for Imran Khan, who faces numerous charges since his removal from power. The decision is seen as a setback for the Punjab government's efforts to pursue legal action against Khan, while likely galvanizing support from PTI supporters who view the legal actions as politically motivated.

According to The Express Tribune, a new case of alleged police misconduct has emerged in Pakistan, centering on an additional SHO who was previously found guilty of framing a man in a fake case. This incident is set against a backdrop of ongoing judicial and police reform discussions, fueled by frequent reports of police brutality, corruption, and a lack of accountability. Recent reports of custodial deaths and torture have heightened public scrutiny and demands for systemic change, potentially amplifying the impact of this latest allegation. Allegations of political interference in police operations are common in Pakistan, raising questions about potential influence in this case.

The Express Tribune reports that the K-P government has asked the Peshawar High Court (PHC) to probe a recent instance of alleged custodial torture. This move underscores persistent issues of police brutality within Pakistan and marks another case in a series of investigations into such claims. The government's decision to involve the PHC suggests a possible rift with law enforcement, particularly if there's a perception of police impunity. The PHC's involvement reflects a trend of judicial intervention in response to alleged human rights abuses.

According to The Express Tribune, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) assembly recently addressed the issue of inadequate internet access for students during a debate focused on a Rs55.42 billion supplementary budget. The discussions underscored the challenges posed by the digital divide in the region, particularly its impact on educational opportunities for students. The supplementary budget debate suggests potential disagreements on spending priorities within the province.

The lack of reliable internet connectivity in K-P is seen as hindering students' academic performance and future prospects, potentially exacerbating social inequalities. This situation reflects on the K-P provincial government's ability to provide essential services and tackle the digital divide, potentially leading to criticism from opposition parties and civil society.

According to The Express Tribune, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) government, under Chief Minister Mahmood Khan, is actively working to revive tourism in the province following disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Khan has ordered the immediate reopening of the provincial tourism authority to spearhead these efforts. This initiative aligns with the easing of COVID-19 restrictions nationwide and the federal government's past emphasis on tourism as a key economic driver, although the current federal government's priorities may shift.

The revival of tourism is considered crucial for K-P's economy, potentially boosting the government's image and providing much-needed revenue and foreign exchange amid broader economic challenges in Pakistan. However, potential environmental impacts and the need for sustainable practices are also concerns.

The Express Tribune reports that Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, currently chairman of the PPP, and Akhtar Mengal, leader of BNP-Mengal, have agreed on a joint strategy to address the upcoming budget in Pakistan's National Assembly. This agreement, made within the past week, aims to influence budget allocations and priorities. Both leaders also expressed shared concerns regarding the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the government's response.

The collaboration between PPP and BNP-Mengal is seen as part of a broader effort by opposition parties to unite against the ruling PTI government. This alliance could strengthen their bargaining power during budget negotiations and potentially lead to increased resource allocation for Sindh and Balochistan, the constituencies represented by the PPP and BNP-Mengal, respectively.

According to The Express Tribune, the initial phase of the Hinglaj road construction project in Balochistan, Pakistan, is now complete. Approved with a budget of Rs120 million, this project aims to improve connectivity in the historically neglected province. The road development is likely part of larger infrastructure initiatives, potentially linked to the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), and requires coordination between federal and provincial governments.

The completion of this phase could boost the popularity of the ruling political party by demonstrating progress on development promises. Improved road access is expected to benefit the local population by facilitating trade and access to essential services, and it may also boost religious tourism to the Hinglaj Mata Mandir, an important Hindu pilgrimage site.

According to The Express Tribune, Balochistan has collected Rs2.5 billion in revenue from its mineral sector due to the implementation of computerized weighing scales. This development is part of Balochistan's ongoing efforts to assert greater control over its resources and improve resource management. The increased revenue is expected to provide the Balochistan provincial government with greater financial autonomy, potentially enabling increased investment in development projects and strengthening its negotiating position with the federal government regarding resource revenue sharing.

However, experts caution that the effective and transparent use of these funds is crucial for benefiting the local population and mitigating potential security challenges in the mineral-rich areas, which are often affected by insurgency. Balochistan's mineral wealth, including copper, gold, and chromite, remains largely untapped due to security concerns and infrastructure limitations.

The Express Tribune reports that a parliamentary committee, led by the National Assembly Speaker, convened to discuss the multifaceted issues confronting Balochistan, highlighting the critical link between peace in the region and Pakistan's broader development. Discussions centered on addressing the long-standing insurgency by Baloch separatists, which impacts the stability needed for projects like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), particularly the Gwadar Port. The committee's efforts are part of the government's ongoing initiatives to address Balochistan's grievances through development projects and amnesties, with the success of these efforts carrying significant political implications for the Pakistani government, Baloch separatist groups, and the Baloch population.

According to The Express Tribune, a formal request has been made to the Punjab Inspector General of Police (IGP) to prohibit the online game PUBG. The request stems from worries that the game's violent nature encourages aggressive tendencies in young individuals. This development occurs within a broader context of political and social apprehension in Pakistan concerning the influence of technology, particularly online gaming and social media, on the nation's youth.

This isn't the first instance of PUBG facing potential bans in Pakistan; previous bans were later lifted after appeals from developers who pledged to address concerns. The Punjab government's decision will need to balance the concerns of conservative groups with the potential backlash from the youth and gaming community, while also considering the economic impact on game developers.

According to The Express Tribune, a woman in Pakistan died by suicide with her two daughters because her husband intended to marry them off against their wishes. This tragic event has intensified discussions surrounding the enforcement of child marriage restraint laws and the broader movement advocating for stronger legal protections for women and girls in Pakistan. The incident is likely to be politicized, with parties advocating for women's rights using it to push for stricter legislation, while religious conservative parties may face scrutiny regarding their stance on child marriage.

According to The Express Tribune, an illegal market for plasma sales is flourishing in Lahore, Pakistan. This development follows the reported success of the first COVID-19 patient recovery through trial plasma treatment last month, creating a demand that the formal healthcare system isn't meeting. The situation highlights potential weaknesses in the government's COVID-19 response, particularly regarding healthcare regulation and the availability of legitimate treatment options.

The illegal plasma trade is likely driven by economic hardship, with individuals potentially selling plasma out of desperation. This situation raises concerns about corruption, lack of regulatory oversight, and the exploitation of vulnerable citizens seeking income and healthcare. The government's (led by the PTI) credibility in handling the pandemic and regulating healthcare could be damaged, providing ammunition for opposition parties.

According to The Express Tribune, Faraz died in Karachi this week after losing control of his car while shooting a TikTok video, resulting in a collision with a tree. The accident, attributed to speeding, has reignited discussions regarding traffic law enforcement and the potential regulation of social media platforms like TikTok in Pakistan. The Sindh government, currently led by the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), may face increased pressure to address road safety concerns following the incident.

According to The Express Tribune, Sindh province is grappling with a surge in COVID-19 cases, reporting 2,179 new diagnoses. Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah stated that the province's daily testing capacity has been stretched to its limit of 12,000 tests. This development unfolds against a backdrop of existing political friction between the Sindh government, led by the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), and the federal government.

Furthermore, the rise in cases coincides with upcoming local government elections in Sindh, a key political battleground where the PPP aims to maintain its dominance. The increased infection rate could impact voter turnout and potentially influence the political landscape, adding pressure on the Sindh government to effectively manage the outbreak.

According to The Express Tribune, Pakistani police have arrested an alleged 'hitman' linked to MQM-London, a splinter group of the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM), for purportedly committing over 100 murders. This apprehension is part of a broader crackdown by Pakistani law enforcement targeting suspected members and operatives of MQM-London, a faction operating from London and frequently accused of violence and criminal activity in Karachi. The MQM has fragmented since its founder, Altaf Hussain, left Pakistan, and this arrest could intensify rivalries among the factions vying for political influence in Karachi.

The arrest highlights the persistent security challenges in Karachi, historically plagued by political violence and gang activity. While this may bring some relief to Karachi residents, it also raises concerns about potential retaliatory violence. A successful prosecution could boost the government's credibility, but failure could undermine it. The term 'hitman' implies a pre-determined guilt, which should be proven in court and the claim of involvement in 'over 100 murders' is an allegation made by the police and needs to be substantiated with evidence in a court of law.

According to The Express Tribune, the Sindh Health Department is initiating a program to test staff in public hospitals throughout Sindh, Pakistan, and will restart contact tracing for coronavirus. This decision reflects a renewed focus on managing the COVID-19 pandemic, potentially in response to a recent surge in cases or the emergence of a new variant. The initiative is part of the Sindh provincial government's health policy and aims to reassure the public about the safety and reliability of public hospitals.

The testing program's implementation and effectiveness will be closely watched by the public, healthcare workers, and opposition parties. Success could boost public confidence in the Sindh government, while any perceived failures could lead to criticism. The program's scope, including the specific hospitals involved and the methods of contact tracing employed, remains to be clarified.

According to The Express Tribune, the Supreme Court of Pakistan has ruled in favor of widows' job rights, striking down remarriage clauses as discriminatory. The court's decision is rooted in constitutional guarantees of equality and non-discrimination, reinforcing the judiciary's role as a protector of fundamental rights. This ruling is expected to strengthen the legal rights and economic security of widows, potentially improving their social standing and reducing vulnerability, while also setting a precedent for challenging discriminatory practices based on marital status.

According to The Express Tribune, a Pakistani court has denied a request for the physical remand of Imran Khan, who served as Prime Minister of Pakistan from 2018 to April 2022. The request was made in connection to ongoing legal cases against Khan, who is currently facing numerous charges since his removal from power. A Supreme Court judge raised concerns about the significant delay of one and a half years in submitting the remand request, potentially impacting the case's proceedings.

The rejection is viewed as a temporary win for Khan and his party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), preventing further interrogation. However, the underlying case continues, and the delay questioned by the judge could have future repercussions. This development occurs amid heightened tensions between PTI and the judiciary, with PTI alleging bias, and contributes to the already polarized political landscape in Pakistan.

According to The Express Tribune, Pakistan's stock market is facing increased volatility, with the KSE-100 index plummeting by 1.02% during intra-day trading. This decline is attributed to heightened regional tensions, particularly in light of recent cross-border strikes between Pakistan and Iran. The market's instability is further compounded by the upcoming general elections, which create political uncertainty, and ongoing negotiations with the IMF for continued financial assistance.

Analysts suggest the market's reaction is a combination of these factors, requiring a clear and credible economic plan to restore investor confidence. The current caretaker government's ability to maintain economic stability is being questioned, while the incoming government will face the challenge of stabilizing the market. The military establishment may also face pressure to ensure a smooth transition of power amidst economic uncertainty.

According to Dawn News, a Pakistani astronaut will be part of a future mission to China's Tiangong space station, as confirmed by the China Manned Space Agency (CMSA) on Wednesday. This development follows a bilateral agreement signed between China and Pakistan in late February 2025. The selection process for two Pakistani astronauts has commenced, with one ultimately joining the mission as a payload specialist to conduct scientific experiments for Pakistan.

The announcement coincided with China's confirmation of the Shenzhou-20 mission, launching on Thursday, April 25th, led by veteran astronaut Chen Dong, along with first-time fliers Chen Zhongrui and Wang Jie. The current crew aboard Tiangong is scheduled to return to Earth on April 29th after handover procedures. China has been excluded from the International Space Station since 2011 due to US restrictions, leading them to seek partnerships with countries like Pakistan.

According to Dawn News, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has formed a high-level committee, headed by current Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, to improve government performance across various state institutions and federal ministries. This initiative follows Sharif's return from Turkiye and his condemnation of a recent terrorist attack on a polio vaccination team. The committee is expected to implement a performance-based review system, similar to one already in place at the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR), and will devise both short- and long-term performance plans, submitting a report to the Prime Minister within 30 days.

Prime Minister Sharif, upon returning from his two-day official visit to Turkiye on Wednesday, also expressed concern over news of an earthquake in Turkiye and condemned a terrorist attack on a polio vaccination team in Mastung. He affirmed Pakistan's readiness to assist Turkiye and reiterated the government's commitment to eradicating polio, emphasizing that such attacks will not deter their efforts.

According to Dawn, a new polio case has been confirmed in Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, specifically in the Torghar district. This marks the seventh polio case in the country this year and the second from KP. The confirmation comes as the second nationwide polio vaccination campaign of the year is underway, running from April 21 to 27, with the goal of vaccinating 45.4 million children under the age of five. Another campaign is scheduled from May 26 to June 1, and Torghar district is included in both vaccination drives.

Health officials are urging parents to ensure their children receive repeated doses of the polio vaccine, emphasizing that vaccination is the most effective way to protect against the disease. Pakistan and Afghanistan remain the only countries still reporting polio cases. The ongoing vaccination campaign is considered a critical opportunity to safeguard children against the virus, which can cause paralysis or death.

According to Dawn, a decade after the assassination of social activist Sabeen Mahmud in Karachi, her family has chosen to focus on continuing her work rather than seeking legal recourse. Sabeen Mahmud was killed on April 24, 2015, after hosting a seminar on Balochistan disappearances at her cultural space, T2F. While a military court sentenced five militants to death in 2016 for the murder, the verdict remains unimplemented.

Mahenaz Mahmud, Sabeen's mother, who was also wounded in the attack, explained that she decided to dedicate her time to serving people through mental health initiatives and working with women prisoners, rather than solely pursuing justice for her daughter. Legal appeals filed by the convicted militants are still pending adjudication at the Sindh High Court.

According to Dawn News, the Supreme Court of Pakistan, led by Acting Chief Justice Syed Mansoor Ali Shah, ruled this Wednesday that widows' rights are constitutionally and legally protected entitlements, not acts of state generosity. The ruling came during an appeal against a 2022 Lahore High Court judgement, involving a widow whose employment was terminated after she remarried, based on a policy that the court deemed discriminatory. Justice Shah, who currently serves on the Supreme Court, emphasized that policies making employment contingent on marital status penalize women and reinforce outdated social hierarchies, stressing the importance of equal opportunities and protection for widows.

According to Dawn News, the Punjab government has affirmed that the canal project on the Indus River remains under consideration, despite ongoing controversy and objections from Sindh. Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari stated that Punjab is sovereign in utilizing its resources and Sindh has no right to object to Punjab’s development projects. She clarified that the project would only use excess floodwater to benefit farmers and promote agricultural development. Sindh's chief minister claimed earlier in the week that the project had been halted since July 2024, but Bokhari denies any construction has begun and that consensus-building efforts are underway. Senator Irfan Siddiqui of PML-N stated that the alliance between PML-N and PPP would remain unaffected.

According to Dawn News, Pakistan's national fertilizer supply chain is facing major disruptions due to ongoing protests and road blockades in Sindh, particularly in the Sukkur-Larkana division. These blockades, which have persisted for a week, are stranding thousands of trucks and halting industrial operations, causing alarm among government officials and the business community. The disruption is occurring during the critical Kharif season, which relies on timely access to urea for crops like cotton, sugarcane, and rice.

The Ministry of National Food Security and Research (MNFSR) has communicated its concerns to Asif Hyder Shah, the Sindh Chief Secretary, about the potential impact on national food security if urea and DAP fertilizers are not available. Fertilizer manufacturers, including Fauji Fertiliser and Engro Fertilisers, are experiencing significant strain, with hundreds of trucks laden with fertilizer stranded. M. Abdul Aleem, secretary general of the Overseas Investors Chambers of Commerce Industry (OICCI), notes that over 3,500 vehicles are stranded near Sukkur, affecting export consignments, perishable items, and critical industrial inputs. Khalid Tawab, regional chairman of the United Business Group (UBG), has appealed to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to intervene and resolve the protests.

Dawn News reports that a fatal accident occurred in Karachi’s Gulshan-i-Hadeed where a water tanker struck a van, resulting in the death of an infant and injuries to seven individuals, including six women. The incident, which took place near Aljannat marriage hall, is under investigation by Steel Town SHO Alan Khan Abbasi, who stated that the driver has been arrested and the tanker seized. The injured and the deceased were taken to Jinnah Postgraduate Medical Centre, where two women are in critical condition.

In a separate incident, police in New Karachi arrested a man, Bilal Siraj, and his daughter, Shumaila, for allegedly using the daughter to snatch a motorcycle at gunpoint. Central SSP Zeeshan Shafiq Siddiqi stated that the arrest was made possible with the help of CCTV footage.

According to Dawn News, the World Bank has adjusted its economic growth forecast for Pakistan to 2.7% for the current fiscal year, a slight decrease from its previous projection of 2.8%. While the bank acknowledges signs of economic stabilization, it cites ongoing limitations due to stringent monetary and fiscal policies. The World Bank anticipates growth to improve to 3.1% in FY26 and 3.4% in FY27, but warns of downside risks, including elevated debt levels, policy uncertainties, and exposure to climatic shocks.

The World Bank emphasizes that Pakistan's key challenge is transforming stabilization gains into sustainable economic growth that supports poverty reduction. Najy Benhassine, the World Bank’s Country Director for Pakistan, advocates for high-impact reforms, including an efficient tax system, a market-determined exchange rate, and improvements to the business environment. The bank also highlights the need for structural reforms to leverage private capital and enhance digital infrastructure.

According to Dawn News, agricultural tensions are escalating in Punjab, Pakistan, as farmers, led by Pakistan Kisan Ittehad President Khalid Khokhar, express dissatisfaction with the government's wheat procurement policies and reject its incentive package. Khokhar criticized the government's handling of the agricultural crisis and announced a protest measure to cultivate less wheat next year. In response, Punjab Minister for Agriculture Syed Ashiq Hussain Kirmani and Information Minister Azma Bukhari defended the government's initiatives, highlighting record budget allocations, subsidies, and interest-free agricultural loans through the "Kissan Card," as well as mandating private sector wheat procurement.

According to The Express Tribune, Chief Minister of Punjab, Maryam Nawaz, has approved a ration card scheme aimed at supporting 1.5 million laborers and daily wage earners in the province. The scheme will provide a monthly stipend of Rs 10,000 to eligible workers, addressing economic hardships faced by low-income populations in Pakistan. This initiative aligns with Maryam Nawaz's stated commitment to social welfare programs.

This scheme is expected to have political implications, potentially boosting the popularity of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) in Punjab. However, opposition parties may criticize the scheme's financial sustainability and implementation. Labour unions are likely to welcome the initiative while advocating for broader labor reforms. The success of the scheme will also depend on coordination between the Punjab provincial government and the federal government.