Tue, 21-Oct-2025

132.2million voters registered in Pakistan: ECP

ECP

ISLAMABAD: The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has shared updated data of registered voters in Pakistan and total number of voters has reached 132.2 million in the country.

According to the data issued by ECP, the number of male voters in Pakistan is 71.1 million, the number of female voters is 61.2 million. The ratio of male voters in the country is 53.74 percent and 46.26 percent of female voters.

The total number of voters in Punjab is 75.3 million out of which 41.2 million are male voters and 35.1 million female voters.

In Sindh, total number of voters is 27.7 million in the province, in which the number of male voters is 14.9 million and the number of female voters is 12.7 million.

According to the ECP, the total number of voters in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is 22.2 million out of them 12.2 are male voters and 10.2 are female voters.

In Balochistan, total number of voters is 5.5 in the province, in which the number of male voters is 3.1 million and the number of female voters is 2.4 million.

The number of voters in Islamabad is 1.15 million out of which 605,031 are male and 549,440 are female.

Similarly, the number of voters in Karachi are 9.53 million, in Lahore 7.14 million, Peshawar 2.15 million and Quetta 0.88 million.

[embedpost slug=”ecp-disqualifies-mna-adil-bazai-over-floor-crossing”]

Read more

Balochistan govt to introduce Pink Scooty scheme for women

Balochistan

QUETTA: Chief Minister (CM) of Balochistan Mir Sarfraz Bugti on Wednesday said that a policy regarding the Pink Scooty scheme would be formulated soon to award scooty to working women and students in order to make them empowered. He said the provincial government has initiated multiple measures to empower women as decided to award pink … Read more

School children among 7 killed in Mastung blast

Mastung blast

QUETTA: At least seven people including school children were killed and 15 people were injured in the blast in Mastung district, Balochistan.

According to the police, a bomb blast took place at Girls High School Civil Hospital Chowk in Mastung, injuring 15 people, mostly school children.

The police say that the police mobile was targeted in the blast, but the school van was also hit by the blast, as a result of which three school children and a policeman were killed, and the injured were shifted to DHQ hospital.

Later, three more person injured in the blast died in the hospital while being treated, after which the death toll rose to 7, including five school children, a policeman and a passerby.

Police officials said that the police mobile was completely destroyed in the bomb blast, while other vehicles and rickshaws were also damaged.

Balochistan Government Spokesman Shahid Rind condemned the bomb blast near the school in Mastung and said that the report has been sought from Home Department Balochistan.

The spokesman of the provincial government said  that the district administration, bomb disposal squad and security forces are present at the spot, the nature of the explosion is being determined.

Shahid Rind said that evidence is being collected from the place of the incident while doctors and medical staff have been summoned by imposing an emergency in the hospitals.

The spokesperson of Balochistan Health Department said that in view of the Mastung blast, an emergency has been declared in Civil Hospital, Bolan Medical Complex Hospital and Trauma Center in Quetta.

Acting President Syed Yousuf Raza Gilani and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif strongly condemned a bomb blast at a girls’ high school in Balochistan’s Mastung district, killing children and a policeman.

In their separately issued messages, they expressed grief over the death of children and a policeman and conveyed their condolence to the bereaved families, also praying for strength for them to bear the loss.

Both the acting president and prime minister reiterated the resolve for continuous action against terrorism till its elimination in terrorists .

[embedpost slug=”martyred-army-officer-two-soldiers-laid-to-rest”]

Read more

Five killed, two others injured in Pangur firing incident

Pangur

QUETTA: At least five people were killed and two other were injured firing incident in Pangur district of Balochistan.

Provincial Government spokesman Shahid Rind confirmed the incident and said that local people were shot dead who assigned on security duty of dam in Paroom tehsil of ​​Panjgur.

According to the spokesman of the provincial government, five people were killed and two were injured as a result of firing by unknown armed men.

The spokesman said that the dead bodies of the deceased have been transferred to the teaching hospital in Panjgur and the investigation into the incident has been started.

President Asif Ali Zardari condemned the firing of armed men in Panjgur and expressed grief and sorrow over the loss of precious lives in the terrorist attack.

He expressed his condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in the incident

President Zardari said that terrorists were enemies of the country’s development and prosperity of the province. He said that terrorists do not want to see Balochistan to develop.

The President prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured of the attack.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also condemned the attack that took place in the Paroom area of Panjgur district targeting the workers at a dam site, killing five of them.

The prime minister, in a statement issued by the PM Office, called for apprehending the perpetrators and taking them to task.

“The attackers of dam workers are the enemies of the development of Pakistan and Balochistan. There is no room for such miscreants in Pakistan. Through such cowardly acts, the miscreants cannot undermine the government’s resolve to uplift Balochistan,” he reiterated.

[embedpost slug=”army-cadet-martyred-as-he-foils-attack-on-mosque-in-lakki-marwat”]

Read more

Balochistan Govt to send skilled youth to Qatar

Balochistan

QUETTA: Chief Minister Balochistan Mir Sarfraz Bugti on Monday said 30,000 youth will be trained in various fields and sent to Qatar and others countries.

Sheikh Talal Khalifa Al Thani, a member of the Qatari ruling family has met Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Bagti. During meeting, issues of mutual interest and cooperation were discussed.

A Qatar delegation led by Sheikh Talal Khalifa AL Thani is on an official visit to Balochistan.

While talking to the high-level delegation, the Chief Minister shared the salient feature of the “Chief Minister Youth Skills Development Program.

“Under the program, the CM said some 30,000 skilled youth from Balochistan are being trained in various fields and traits. After the training phase, they would be sent to the countries where skilled individuals are required.

“For the first time in the province’s history, such a large number of youth are being given employment opportunities abroad,” CM Bugti said adding that “these young professionals will not only secure respectable jobs and support their families but also contribute to Pakistan’s economy by sending foreign remittances.

He emphasized that the program will bring economic stability, helping reduce poverty in the province.

[embedpost slug=”cm-bugti-takes-notice-of-closed-schools”]

Read more

20 miners killed, 7 injured in Dukki coal mines attack

Dukki

QUETTA: At least 20 miners were killed and 7 others were injured in terrorist attack in local coal mines in Dukki region of Balochistan.

According to the police, unknown armed men attacked the coal mines of Dukki District Chairman Haji Khairullah with a rocket-propelled grenade and opened fire on the miners there, killing 20 miners and injuring 7.

According to the police, the miners who died in the attacks belong to Pishin, Qila Saifullah, Zhob, Muslim Bagh, Musa Khel, Kuchlak and Afghanistan.

According to the Medical Officer of Dukki Hospital, Dr Johar Saduzai, those injured in the attack by the armed men have been shifted to Teaching Hospital Loralai after receiving medical aid at Dukki Hospital.

According to the medical officer, 19 people were killed in the Dukki coal mine attack, the dead miners belong to Qila Saifullah, Pishin, Zhob and Muslim Bagh, among the dead are miners from Loralai, Kachlak and Musa Khel.  The three miners belong to Afghanistan.

Haji Khair Ullah, the owner of the coal mine, said that the armed men have also burnt the machinery of ten coal mines. After receiving the information about the incident, police and FC reached the spot and started a search operation.

Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfaraz Bugti condemned the killing of innocent laborers in Dukki and expressed his anger over the incident and ordered action against the terrorists.

Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Bugti said that terrorists’ agenda is to destabilize Pakistan. He said laborers  are targeted as soft targets and terrorists will be brought to their logical end.

On the other hand, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif strongly condemned the terrorist attack killing several miners in the Duki area of Balochistan.

At least 20 miners were killed and seven injured as a group of armed men attacked a private coal company mines in Duki in the wee hours using heavy weapons, the media reports said quoting police officials.

The prime minister, in a statement, sought a report from the authorities concerned on the incident and reiterated his government’s resolve to purge the country of terrorism.

[embedpost slug=”four-khawarij-killed-in-two-separate-operations-in-kp”]

Read more

Security forces kill six BLA terrorists in Harnai

Security forces

RAWALPINDI: At least six terrorists of banned Baloch Liberation Army (BLA) were killed in an intelligence-based operation by the security forces in Harnai area of Balochistan.

The operation, as per the sources, was carried out on secret information in the province’s northeastern district where the forces successfully targeted on BLA hideouts on September 12.

The killed terrorists included Shafu Samalani alias Tadin, Sarmad Khan alias Dasteen, Muhammad Gul Mari alias Wahid Baloch, Ghulam Qadir Mari alias Anjir Baloch, Ubaid Baloch alias Fida, and Taj Muhammad alias Babul, said the sources.

The terrorists, the security sources added, were involved in direct attacks on security forces and innocent people.

On the other hand, Federal Minister for Interior Mohsin Naqvi appreciated the security forces for their successful intelligence-based operation against the banned Balochistan Liberation Army (BLA) in Harnai.

The Interior Minister commended security forces on neutralizing six terrorists, foiling their nefarious plans. He lauded the forces’ timely action and saluted their bravery.

He stated that the nation takes pride in the professional capabilities of security forces. He emphasized that terrorists and their facilitators were the burden and would be eliminated with public support.

[embedpost slug=”security-forces-kill-10-terrorist-in-bannu-cantt-ispr”]

Read more

Balochistan Govt decides to reopen 3700 schools

Pakistan reports 40th polio case of 2024

QUETTA: The Balochistan government has decided to reopen 3700 schools which have been closed for years in the province.

According to the Department of Education, Balochistan, about 3700 schools have been closed for many years due to non-availability of teachers in various districts of the province.

According to the Education Department, the maximum number of 254 schools are in Pishin while 251 schools are in Khuzdar and 152 schools are in Quetta.

Officials said that the education department of Balochistan will recruit teachers on contract to activate these closed schools and till October 11.The education department has invited applications from candidates for teaching posts in various schools.

According to officials of the education department, the recruitment of teachers will be done by a committee under the supervision of deputy commissioners in each district.

On the other hand, the provincial government claimed that they have succeeded in opening 40 closed schools in Pishin and Awaran.

[embedpost slug=”balochistan-govt-dismisses-114-absent-teachers”]

Read more

Balochistan Govt to chase down terrorists: CM Bugti

Balochistan

QUETTA: Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti said that the state would welcome those who shun the path of violence and surrender, however, those killing innocent unarmed people would be chased down till they are taken to task.

Addressing a press conference along with Adeela Baloch and her father, the chief minister hailed her joining of mainstream, saying, that the state would always welcome those who wanted to become the responsible citizens and oppose anti-state elements.

He said that the state would fulfill its responsibility to protect the innocent lives dealing terrorists with iron hands.

CM Bugti warned the miscreants creating law and order not to compel government for closing the door of negotiation and launching major operations.

Expressing government resolve, he said maintaining the law and order and security is not a difficult task as it will take no time to eliminate the terrorists from this land.

However, he noted “government does not believe in launching military operations because it will cause a mass migration and unease for a large number of patriotic Baloch.

He said smart kinetic intelligence based operations are being conducted to curb terrorism, targeting those taking innocent lives under the garb of Baloch rights and furthering the foreign agenda.

Government is well aware of the false propaganda furthered by the foreign funded terrorists, he said urging youth not to become part of these elements and continue their education for securing best future.

The chief minister emphasized the parents to take the responsibility of supervision of their children and inform the government and its institutions timely in case they are disconnected with their children as terrorists were attracting the youth to bring them in their camps in mountains.

“A large number of youth including educated boys and girls are reportedly in the control of such miscreants who allured them of bright future and comfortable life here after,” he added.

Sarfraz Bugti called the youth to become part of the mainstream and don’t be allured by false propaganda of terrorists and foreign elements created for their nefarious designs.

He said the government is providing best free education opportunities to the youth at the top universities of the world whereas the terrorists are giving arms in their hands.

Condemning the ghastly killing of labourers in Panjgur he said “It is not the Baloch traditions to kill innocent workers.

[embedpost slug=”naqvi-bugti-discuss-law-and-order-situation-in-balochistan”]

Read more

ECP announces by-election schedule for vacant seat in Sibi

ECP

QUETTA: The Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) has released the schedule for the by-elections on vacated seat PB-8 Sibi constituency , Balochistan.

According to the announcement issued by the ECP, the seat fell vacant after the death of Sardar Sarfraz Chakar Domki. The polling for the by-elections of PB-8 Sibi will be held on November 14, while the Returning Officer will issue public notices on September.

The announcement said that from October 2 to October 4, the candidates will submit their nomination papers, while the names of the candidates will be published on October 5 and the nomination papers of the candidates will be scrutinized by October 9.

The appeals will be filed against the decisions of the Returning Officer by October 14, and the appeals will be decided by October 17.

According to the announcement, the revised list of candidates will be released on October 18, candidates will be able to withdraw their nomination papers by October.

The election symbols will be allotted to the candidates on October 22, polling for by-elections will be held on November 14.

On the other hand, spokesperson of the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) said the written examination for the vacant posts of Election Officer will be held tomorrow in Lahore and Karachi as per the schedule.

Spokesperson said that the examination held in Rawalpindi examination centers has been postponed, the candidates of Rawalpindi will be intimated in writing about the new date.

[embedpost slug=”reserved-seats-case-ecp-approaches-sc-for-further-clarification”]

Read more

Balochistan Govt dismisses 114 absent teachers

Balochistan Govt

QUETTA: The Balochistan Government has launched crackdown against absentee teachers across the province.

Balochistan Education Department has started action against the absent teachers from 2021, under which 114 absent teachers have been dismissed.

The education department said that 998 absent teachers have been issued show cause notices and 429 others have been issued explanation letter while 78 absent teachers of the province have been suspended.

It should be noted that action has been taken against the absent teachers by the education department Baluchistan.

Earlier,  Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfaraz Ahmed Bugti had decided to sack 2,000 teachers over prolonged absence and fill vacancies in the education department on contractual basis.

The decision was taken during a meeting of the education de­­partment to discuss several issues, including the teachers’ absence, non-functional schools and the shortage of academic staff.

CM Bugti expressed serious concerns over the teachers’ absence and decided to terminate them from service.

CM vows to rid education department of unnecessary interference.  He ordered the chief secretary to complete the termination process within two months.

[embedpost slug=”cm-bugti-order-to-dismiss-2000-absentee-teachers”]

Read more

Balochistan’s LG Minister Sarfaraz Domki passes away

Sarfaraz Domki

KARACHI: The Local Government Minister of Balochistan Sarfaraz Chskar Domki passed away here in a private hospital on Monday.

According to family sources, Domki had been under treatment for lung and kidney disorders at a private hospital in Karachi for the past 10 days.

Sarfaraz Chakar Domki will be laid to rest in his native town of Lahri, family sources confirmed.

He was a seasoned politician and a respected tribal figure, having been elected to the Balochistan Assembly from PB-8 Sabi on a Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) ticket.

On the other hand, President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif  and Chairman Senate Yousaf Raza Gilani expressed grief over the death of Balochistan Provincial Minister for Local Government and Rural Development Mir Sarfaraz Chakar Domki.

The president lauded the political services of the late Mir Sarfaraz Domki and expressed his sympathies for the bereaved family.

He also prayed to Allah Almighty for peace for the departed soul and strength for the bereaved family to bear the loss.

PM Shehbaz Sharif expressed his deep grief over the death of Balochistan Provincial Minister for Local Government and Rural Development Sardar Sarfaraz Chakar Domki.

“By the death of Sardar Sarfaraz Domki, Balochistan’s politics has become bereft of an intellectual and a seasoned politician. We share the grief of his family,” the prime minister remarked.

He prayed to Allah Almighty for peace for the departed soul and strength for the bereaved family to bear the loss.

Chairman Senate, Yousaf Raza Gilani expressed profound grief and sorrow over the death of Sardar Sarfaraz Chakar Domki, Balochistan’s Minister for Local Government.

In his condolence message, Gilani extended his heartfelt sympathies to the bereaved family.

Gilani said that with the passing of Sardar Sarfaraz Domki, Balochistan has lost a wise and exemplary politician, leaving a significant void in the region’s political landscape.

[embedpost slug=”14-member-balochistan-cabinet-takes-oath”]

Read more

4 lives lost, many injured as bus plunges into ditch in Zhob

QUETTA: According to rescue reports, a bus carrying pilgrims fell into a ditch in the Danasar area in Zhob, claiming more than 4 lives while injuring more than 23 people. Many passengers were moved to Trauma Center Zhob in critical condition. The bus was traveling from Islamabad to Quetta, and the speed of the vehicle … Read more

Churna Island becomes second marine protected area in Pakistan

The Cabinet of Balochistan approved the status of Churna Island as the second Marine Protected Area (MPA) in Pakistan in a session held on Wednesday.

The spokesperson of the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) commended the decision of the Balochistan government.

In 2017, the first Island to be designated an MPA in Pakistan was Astola Island.

The spokesperson also shed light on Pakistan’s important location calling it one of the limited marine areas with coral habitat while mentioning its use as a recreational spot.

The spokesperson called the Island an important fishing site that is threatened by human activities.

[embedpost slug=”charna-island-wwf-warns-of-serious-bleaching-of-corals/”]

Read more

PM awards Rs2.5m to excavator operator for rescuing flood-stranded family

PM awards

ISLAMABAD:  Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif awarded Rs 2.5 million to an excavator operator who had rescued a family stranded in the flood in the Qilla Abdullah area of Balochistan.

The prime minister, who invited the rescuer Mohibullah to the Prime Minister’s House, appreciated his courage to save the stranded family while risking his own life.

“The whole nation including me feels proud of you. I deeply adore your love for humanity. You are a nation’s hero as you showed the courage to save human lives,” the prime minister said.

He said that Mohibullah had fulfilled the national responsibility by rescuing the stranded people without caring about his own life.

Besides awarding Rs 2.5 million from the Government of Pakistan, the prime minister also announced a free-of-charge education facility up to the university level for Mohibullah’s children and cost-free healthcare for his family.

“This an honor for me to meet the prime minister of Pakistan. I never thought so. While rescuing the stranded family, I never knew that the act would get that much popular countrywide,” Mohibullah said in the meeting.

[embedpost slug=”mqm-presents-proposals-to-pm-shehbaz-for-karachis-uplift”]

Read more

Bilawal Bhutto meets CM Bugti to discuss provincial issues

Bilawal Bhutto

ISLAMABAD: Chairman Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari met with Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfaraz Bugti.

The meeting focused on the pressing issues faced by Balochistan, including the recent surge in terrorism and the devastating flood situation.

According to PPP Secretariat, Chief Minister Bugti briefed Bilawal Bhutto on the measures taken by the provincial government to combat terrorism and restore peace in the region.

The discussion also touched on the flood situation in Balochistan, triggered by recent rains, and the efforts underway to provide relief and support to affected communities.

Meanwhile, Chairman PPP called on Secretary General of PPPP Syed Nayyer Husain Bukhari and President of Human Rights Committee of PPP Farhatullah Babar.

They discussed current political landscape and organizational matters within the party.

[embedpost slug=”balochistan-cm-bugti-says-terrorists-should-not-be-called-dissident-baloch”]

Read more

PDMA declare 10 districts of Balochistan as calamity hit

PDMA

QUETTA:  Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) declared 10 districts of Balochistan province calamity hit following the heavy rains and directed all concerned district administrations to take measures.

According to the details, the Balochistan government declared 10 districts as calamities, the affected districts include Kalat, Ziarat, Sohbatpur, Lasbela, Awaran, Kachhi.

Apart from this, Jafarabad, Usta Muhammad, Loralai and Chagai are also included in the disaster affected districts.

PDMA directed all concerned district administrations to take action.

Deputy Commissioner has said that rains have damaged hundreds of slums in Usta Muhammad, while many canals have burst in Gandakha Tehsil due to flooding in rivers and hundreds of villages have been flooded due to the bursting of canals.

[embedpost slug=”hub-dam-two-feet-away-from-reaching-its-full-capacity”]

Read more

PDMA puts 17 districts of Bachlostan on high alert

PDMA

QUETTA: The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) has declared 17 districts of Balochistan on high alert regarding monsoon and has put the administration on red alert.

Director General PDMA Balochistan Jahanzeb Khan said that relief materials have been sent to all districts of the province. He said an emergency plan has been prepared regarding monsoon rains, all departments have been informed about their responsibilities.

According to DG PDMA, Deputy Commissioners of high alert districts have been directed to prepare a list of safe places in their respective areas.

Director General PDMA further said that Harnai district of Naseerabad division are affected by flood water while Zhob and Sherani areas are affected by flash flood.

He said that the NGOs of the province have also been instructed to be prepared to deal with emergency situations during monsoon rains.

[embedpost slug=”karachi-weather-metropolitan-to-get-break-from-heat-with-light-showers-today”]

Read more

First female Deputy Commissioner appointed in Balochistan

Balochistan

QUETTA: For the first time in the history of Balochistan, a female officer was appointed Deputy Commissioner (DC), Ayesha Zehri in Awaran district.

A woman DC has been appointed for the first time in the history of Balochistan, Ayesha Zehri has been appointed as Deputy Commissioner in Awaran, a backward area of ​​Balochistan.

Ayesha played her full role for peace and stability in Balochistan and fought bravely against Balochistan Liberation Front (BLF) terrorists and defeated the enemy in all nefarious purposes.

Awaran is one of the most terror-affected areas of Balochistan, Ayesha expressed her determination to eradicate the terrorists completely.

She said that solving the sufferings and problems of the people in the backward areas of Balochistan is one of her top priorities.

On the order of the Chief Minister Balochistan, the Deputy Commissioner successfully organized an Open Kacharis in all the backward tehsils of Awaran and showed great performance to solve the problems and security related problems of the Awaran people.

Awaran is a very important area in terms of agriculture, but the people are suffering a lot due to security concerns, but Aisha, with her bravery and perseverance, led the Awaran back to the path of peace.

[embedpost slug=”justice-aalia-neelum-sworn-in-as-first-women-chief-justice-of-lhc”]

Read more

CM Balochistan Bugti calls on PM Shehbaz

Bugti

QUETTA: Chief Minister Balochistan, Mir Sarfaraz Bugti, met with Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif at the Governor House on Monday.

During their meeting, they discussed various issues, including the overall development of the province and ongoing projects.

The chief minister highlighted public interest projects included in both the federal and provincial Public Sector Development Programs (PSDP).

Chief Minister Sarfaraz Bugti expressed his gratitude to the federal government for its substantial support and funding for solar energy projects.

He also requested the federal government’s special attention towards Balochistan’s development, especially in the areas of peace, education, and health.

Meanwhile , Governor Balochistan, Jaffer Khan Mandokhail, met with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and discussed the conversion of province’s tube wells to solar power, party matters, and other issues of mutual interest.

The Governor expressed his gratitude to the prime minister for his special interest in the development and prosperity of the province.

[embedpost slug=”pm-shehbaz-arrives-in-quetta-on-day-long-visit”]

Read more

NDMA activities NEOC in anticipation of rain related emergencies

NDMA

ISLAMABAD: Based on predictive modelling, National Disaster Management Authority’s National Emergencies Operation Center (NEOC) has been reported a significant activity from the eastern Indian side, indicating intense cloud bursts that may hit Pakistani areas.

Repeated early warnings have been shared with all provinces, and moderate to heavy rainfall is likely to start over the upper catchments of all major rivers particularly Sutlej, Ravi & Chenab from July 2, 2024. NDMA has also issued an alert regarding lightning, according to which lightning is expected to strike in various cities of South and Central Punjab and Islamabad during July 5-7.

This may lead to rapid rises in water levels, flash flooding events, and urban flooding in metropolitan areas. NDMA warns that the anticipated rainfall poses a significant risk of low to medium level flooding in River Sutlej, with water levels expected to reach low flood levels (approximately 50,000 cusecs) by July 5 and high flood levels (approximately 120,000 cusecs) by July 10, 2024.

NDMA is working closely with federal and provincial departments to ensure preparedness and response to this potential emergency.

The public is advised to remain vigilant and follow instructions from local authorities. NDMA advises public to stay informed and download ‘Pak NDMA Disaster Alert’ mobile app for timely alerts and closely monitor weather reports and updates on the flood situation, follow instructions, evacuate immediately if orders are issued by local authorities, protect yourself from floodwater, avoid contact with floodwater, which may be contaminated or contain debris or electrical wires.

Develop an evacuation plans with your family, identify a safe location, and create an emergency kit with essential supplies. Travelers are advised to avoid unnecessary travel in case of heavy rainfalls and likely flooding situations.

[embedpost slug=”rains-leave-six-dead-25-hurt-in-balochistan”]

Read more

PMD predicts rains across country from June 26 to July 01

PMD

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has forecast rain across the country from June 26 till July 01 which may cause urban flooding in the vulnerable areas and disrupt daily routines.

The monsoon currents from Arabian sea and Bay of Bengal are likely to penetrate eastern parts of the country from June 26 and a low pressure was also lying over south of Indian Gujrat.

In Sindh, rain wind/thundershower with isolated heavyfall is expected in Mithi, Umarkot, Mirpur Khas, Sanghar, Tando Allahyar, Badin, Thatta, Karachi, Hyderabad, Jamshoro, Shaheed Benazirabad, Nausheroferoze, Khairpur, Dadu, Sukkur, Jacobabad, Kashmore and Larkana from June 26 to July 01 with occasional gaps.

Rain wind/thundershower with isolated heavyfall/hailstorm is expected in  Islamabad, Rawalpindi, Murree, Galliyat, Attock, Chakwal, Jhelum, Mandi Bahauddin, Gujrat, Gujranwala, Hafizabad, Wazirabad, Lahore, Sheikhupura, Sialkot, Narowal, Sahiwal, Jhang, Toba Tek Singh, Nankana Sahib, Chiniot, Faisalabad, Okara, Kasur, Khushab, Sargodha, Bhakkar and Mianwali from June 27 to July 01 with occasional gaps.

Rain/thundershower is expected in Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar, Dera Ghazi Khan, Multan, Khanewal, Lodhran, Muzaffargarh, Rajanpur, Rahimyar Khan and Layyah from June 26-30.

In Gilgit-Baltistan, rain wind/thunderstorm is expected in Diamir, Astore, Ghizer, Skardu, Hunza, Gilgit, Ghanche, Shigar while in Kashmir, rain wind/thunderstorm is likely in Neelum valley, Muzaffarabad, Rawalakot, Poonch, Hattian, Bagh, Haveli, Sudhanoti, Kotli, Bhimber, Mirpur from June 28 to July 01 with occasional gaps. Few heavy falls are also likely in Kashmir during the period.

In Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, rain wind/thundershower with isolated heavyfall expected in Dir, Chitral, Swat, Kohistan, Malakand, Bajaur, Shangla, Battagram, Buner, Kohat, Bajaur, Mohmand, Khyber, Mansehra, Abbottabad, Haripur, Peshawar, Mardan, Hangu and Kurram from June 28 to July 01 with occasional gaps.

In Balochistan, rain wind/thundershower is expected in Lasbella, Khuzdar, Awaran, Jhal Magsi, Kalat, Naseerabad, Jaffarabad, Dera Bugti, Kohlu, Zhob and Barkhan from June 26-28.

Duststorm/windstorm and lightning may affect daily routines, loose structures like electric poles, vehicles and solar panels etc during the period.

[embedpost slug=”health-professionals-advice-precautions-in-wake-of-hight-temperatures”]

Read more

President calls for enhancing capacity of LEAs in Balochistan

President

GWADAR: President Asif Ali Zardari called for enhancing the capacity of the Law Enforcement Agencies (LEAs), posting competent officers in Balochistan, and improving the prosecution mechanism to effectively counter terrorist elements in Balochistan.

The president expressed these views while chairing a meeting on the security/law and order situation in Balochistan, in Gwadar, on Thursday.

Minister for Interior, Mohsin Raza Naqvi, Chief Minister Balochistan, Mir Sarfraz Ahmed Bugti, senior civil and military officials attended the meeting.

The president was briefed about the overall security situation of the province as well as the role of LEAs in successfully countering terrorist attacks in various districts of Balochistan.

It was informed that the provincial government had adopted a targeted approach to improve the security and law-and-order situation in Balochistan.

It was further apprised that the initiatives taken by the LEAs had resulted in improving the security situation in the province. The president was informed that the provincial government was taking steps to provide fool-proof security to Chinese and foreign nationals.

He appreciated the efforts of the provincial government as well as the sacrifices of the LEAs in combatting terrorism.

The president emphasized that the prosecution system needed to be improved so that the terrorist elements could not escape justice.

He said that compensation for the families of martyrs of LEAs in Balochistan should be enhanced bringing it at par with the rest of the provinces.

Underlining the need to improve the socio-economic condition of Balochistan, the President called for focusing on the skill development of its people and producing more skilled professionals.

He said that the capacity of training institutions should be enhanced to produce more trained human resources and equip them with foreign language skills that would also help them find jobs in foreign countries.

The president also called for promoting the fishing industry of Balochistan by providing financing and equipment to local fishermen, apart from promoting sustainable fishing practices and checking the production of illegal fishing nets.

During the meeting, the president said that political dialogue was the way forward to bring prosperity, development and peace to Balochistan.

[embedpost slug=”president-zardari-to-visit-gwadar-today”]

Read more

Another polio case reported in Balochistan

Balochistan

ISLAMABAD:  The third polio case of the year has been reported from Killa Abdullah district of Balochistan.

According to the Regional Reference Laboratory for Polio at the National Institute of Health, wild poliovirus type 1 (WPV1) was detected in stool samples collected from a child in Darozai union council of Killa Abdullah, who developed symptoms of paralysis on April 20.

Genetic sequencing of the isolated virus is underway.

“It is incredibly tragic that another child has been affected by polio this year in Balochistan,” said Coordinator to the Prime Minister on National Health Services Dr Malik Mukhtar Ahmed Bharath, adding that polio is a terrible illness that changes not just the child’s life but also of the whole family.

He said: “The government is bringing the polio vaccine to our citizens’ doorsteps in multiple polio vaccination rounds. I urge families to understand the risk this disease poses to children and make sure that they vaccinate all their children under the age of five when the polio worker shows up to their homes.”

Dr Shahzad Baig, Coordinator of the National Emergency Operations Centre for Polio Eradication, said that a detailed case investigation will be launched immediately to identify the origins of the virus, find populations that may have missed vaccination and take corrective measures to contain its spread.”

“We have already conducted four polio vaccination campaigns this year, including two nationwide campaigns to boost children’s immunity and we will be conducting another campaign in June,” he added.

This is the third polio case from Balochistan this year and the first reported from Killa Abdullah after three years.

Last year, six polio cases were reported in the country, four from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and two from Karachi.

[embedpost slug=”punjab-govt-decides-to-stop-unnecessary-use-of-antibiotics”]

Read more

President Zardari due in Quetta today

Zardari

ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari is scheduled to visit Quetta today on a maiden official trip to Balochistan after assuming office.

During the visit, the president will be given briefings about the law and order as well as the development projects in the province.

President Zardari is also scheduled to interact with the newly elected Members of the Provincial Assembly. Chief Minister of Balochistan Sarfaraz Bugti will also host a dinner reception in honor of the president.

[embedpost slug=”president-zardari-approves-appointment-of-governors”]

Read more

Balochistan announces to launch air ambulance service

Balochistan

QUETTA:  The government of Balochistan has announced to start air ambulance service for the first time in the history of the province.

Balochistan Chief Minister Mir Sarfaraz Bugti has said that instead of selling a plane, the government has decided to use it for public use, one of the two planes of the Balochistan government will be converted into an air ambulance.

Mir Sarfaraz Bugti said that service delivery is being improved in all sectors including health services in Balochistan, substantial results can be achieved by changing decision-making priorities.

He said that People’s Air Ambulance will be deployed for emergency transfer of patients.

[embedpost slug=”punjab-cm-approves-solar-system-project-for-50000-households”]

Read more

Lightning kills 24 people in Punjab, Balochistan

Lightning kills

LAHORE: At least 24 people were killed in lightning related incidents in Punjab and Balochistan as heavy rains hit the provinces.

South Punjab and Balochistan experienced thunder and lightning rains during which 24 people died due to lightning strikes.

During the heavy rains, 16 deaths have occurred due to lightning in South Punjab and 8 in different areas of Balochistan.

In Punjab out 16 deaths, 7 were reported Rahim Yar Khan and three each in Bahawalnagar, Bahawalpur and Lodhran due to lightning.

According to the rescue, 7 people including two children and a husband and wife were killed due to lightning strikes at three places in the surrounding areas of Rahim Yar Khan. Husband and wife were harvesting wheat and children were playing when they were struck by lightning.

On the other hand, 3 people, including a woman and an 8-year-old child, were killed due to lightning in Bahawalpur.3 people including a woman died due to lightning in Lodhran.

3 members of the same family were killed and 2 injured due to lightning strike near Faqirwali area of ​​Bahawalnagar.

According to rescue officials, the lightning struck the motorcycle riding family. Among the deceased are father and two sons, mother and son were injured.

Meanwhile, 8 deaths have occurred in different areas of Balochistan during the last 24 hours while 6 people have been injured.

Chaman and Surab had two deaths due to lightning, while Qila Abdullah, Muslim Bagh, Pishin and Dera Bugti had one death each due to lightning.

Meanwhile, according to the spokesperson of the Balochistan government, instructions have been issued to all commissioners and deputy commissioners in view of the unusual rains and weather conditions in the province.

[embedpost slug=”sindh-cm-issues-alert-amid-heavy-rains-prediction”]

Read more

9 killed in terror attack in Nuskhi Balochistan

9 killed in terror attack in Nuskhi Balochistan

Nine passengers were killed in Nuskhi incident. The bodeies were found under bridge in the Nuskhi area. 2 more were killed in another incident in Sultan Chadhai. QUETTA: At least nine passengers were offloaded from a bus going from Quetta to Taftan and later killed after identification. The rescue sources said that the bodies of … Read more