CITYKarachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab has launched an Urban Forest project along Shahrah-i-Bhutto, with a target of planting 100,000 saplings in phases. He said 10,000 trees had already been planted along the EBM Causeway.
NATIONALA Rawalpindi resident has accused PML-N lawmaker Zia Ullah Shah of illegally occupying his one-kanal property in Syedpur Scheme. Shah has denied the allegation and called it fabricated.
Arts & CultureJICA chief Shinozaki Yusuke visited Taxila Museum on Tuesday to review efforts to preserve the archaeological heritage of the ancient Gandhara civilisation. Officials briefed him on conservation work, museum management and the protection of rare artefacts.
CITYSacrificial animal prices in Peshawar have risen by 20 to 25 per cent ahead of Eidul Azha, according to a market survey. Traders cite the Pak-Afghan border closure and rising transport and fodder costs for the increase.
NATIONALFamilies in North Waziristan’s Datta Khel tehsil are leaving their homes amid fears of a security operation, residents say. Road closures, shuttered markets and shortages of essentials have added to hardship for displaced families.
NATIONALTraders at Lahore’s Shahpur Kanjran cattle market have alleged that fees for animal entry, fodder and space allocation are being collected above official rates. Market authorities say action will be taken if overcharging is proven.
NATIONALBritish-Pakistani businessman and humanitarian Raja Suleman Raza has been awarded the Sitara-e-Imtiaz by President Asif Zardari. The honour recognises his social contributions, humanitarian work and efforts to promote Pakistan’s image abroad.
NATIONALThe Balochistan Goods Truck Owners Association has suspended mineral transport across the province, citing attacks, insecurity and extortion. The group says food and general goods transport will continue.
EnvironmentPunjab has ordered industrial estates and zones to establish green buffer belts to reduce pollution and improve public health. The move is part of a wider anti-pollution drive that also targets plastic waste and vehicular emissions.
NATIONALThe Lahore High Court has issued notices to the Punjab government on a petition challenging three months of summer vacations in schools. The petitioner says the extended closure will harm students’ education and has asked the court to limit holidays to six to eight weeks.
BusinessPakistan’s foreign direct investment fell 31pc to $1.409bn in July-April, with April inflows dropping to $54m. China remained the largest investor, while telecom saw heavy disinvestment.
NATIONALPakistan is among the countries that could benefit from a new 30-day US licence allowing selected energy-importing nations to access Russian oil. Diplomatic sources said technical and refining constraints may limit Islamabad’s ability to fully use the concession.
