ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad High Court (IHC) directed the Islamabad deputy commissioner (DC) to hold talks with the demonstrators protesting outside the National Press Club (NPC) and ensure the peaceful end of the protest.
A single bench of Chief Justice Sardar Sarfraz Dogar, on Monday, heard the petition filed by an owner of a petrol pump at F-6 who is aggrieved due to continuing protest by Baloch outside the press club. He adopted the stance that protests be managed that roads be opened so that business may not suffer.
During the proceeding, the chief justice questioned why is the road blocked?
Advocate General Islamabad Ayyaz Shaukat informed the court that members of the Baloch Youth Council (BYC) were leading the protest.
When questioned by the Chief Justice about whether permission had been granted for the demonstration, the Advocate General admitted that no such permission was given. He said that they disperse them but they return.
The IHC chief justice expressed concerns over the prolonged closure of road by the protestors and asked Deputy Commissioner Irfan Nawaz Memon to negotiate with the protesting people and tell them that they cannot sit here. The bench questioned the administration’s approach and emphasised the need for immediate and effective action.
Justice Dogar remarked that the measures taken so far are inadequate, adding that “you are responsible for protecting the property rights of others as well.”
The deputy commissioner told the court that an alternative location could be offered to the protesters. In response to it, the chief justice ordered him to engage with the demonstrators and ensure the site is cleared. He also directed to submit a progress report on the next hearing, which is scheduled after two weeks, without failure.
Clarifying it, Justice Dogar said that “when they say 15 days, it does not mean you return after 15 days.” The DC assured the court that action would be taken immediately.
The petitioner’s counsel urged the court to expedite its directives, stating that local businesses had come to a standstill. In response to it, the chief justice remarked, “The direction has been given.”
Later, the bench deferred hearing of the case for two weeks.
ISLAMABAD: Police Martyrs Day was observed with reverence at ceremonies held across the country, including a major event at the National Highway and Motorway Police (NHMP) Headquarters in Islamabad.
The gathering honoured the courageous officers who laid down their lives in the line of duty while serving the nation.
NHMP Inspector General B.A. Nasir was chief guest at the event, which was attended by senior officers, staff and families of the martyrs. The ceremony began with the laying of wreaths at the Martyrs’ Memorial followed by special prayers for the departed souls.
In his address, IG Nasir paid tribute to the fallen officers, emphasising their dedication and heroism.
Thousands of police officers laid down their lives and many more injured while combating terrorism and organised crime, says ex-IGP
“This day reminds us of the courage, unwavering commitment and sacrifice of our valiant police officers who gave their lives for peace, law and justice in Pakistan,” he said.
Being part of the police force is not just a profession; it is a pledge to protect the lives and property of the people.
He noted that 51 officers and personnel of the Motorway Police, including one female officer, embraced martyrdom in the line of duty. From constables to inspectors, these heroes represent a legacy of bravery.
“Every martyr is a shining star in our national history. Behind each sacrifice is a story of honour, duty and love for the nation,” he added.
Addressing the martyrs’ families, the IG stated, “Your sacrifices are eternal. You are the pride of this nation, and we owe you a debt that can never be repaid.” He said NHMP remains committed to supporting the families of martyrs and upholding their legacy through continued professionalism and service.
The ceremony also featured emotional reflections from the widow and son of martyred officer Mansoor Asghar. Souvenirs were distributed among the families in recognition of their loved ones’ supreme sacrifices.
A separate event was held at the National Police Bureau (NPB) in collaboration with the Association of Former Inspectors General of Police (AFIGP). The gathering included members of civil society, students, business leaders, newly-recruited DSPs from Sindh and families of police martyrs.
The event featured a guard of honour, Fateha Khwani and a multimedia presentation showcasing the contributions of the fallen officers.
Speaking on the occasion, former IGP Sindh and AFIGP President Afzal Ali Shigri noted that thousands of police officers laid down their lives and many more were injured while combating terrorism and organised crime so the people of Pakistan may live in peace.
“Their bravery goes beyond the call of duty and remains a guiding light for the force,” he said.
Meanwhile, police departments across the country marked the Police Martyrs Day with traditional devotion. Ceremonies were held at police lines and memorials where armed squads saluted and paid homage to the brave souls who embraced martyrdom.
Since Pakistan’s inception, over 8,300 police officers have laid down their lives while protecting the country. Their sacrifices continue to inspire generations and strengthen the resolve of the law enforcement community to safeguard peace and justice.
RAWALPINDI: In the wake of a protest call given by Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) outside Central Jail Adiala on August 5, the district administration has imposed Section 144, banning all kinds of gatherings, sit-in, rallies and processions.
The ban will remain in force for a period of seven days from August 4 till 10th within the revenue limits of Rawalpindi district. Under the ban, all kinds of assemblies, gatherings, sits-in rallies, processions, demonstrations and other such activities are prohibited.
Carrying of weapons, spikes, batons, ball bearings, petrol bombs, improvised explosives or any other instrument that could potentially be used for violence, besides pillion riding and use of loudspeakers have also been banned. The decision to impose Section 144 was taken in the light of the district intelligence committee’s meeting on Monday.
On the other hand, 4,000 police personnel are being deployed, and roads leading to Adiala jail has virtually been sealed. According to sources, additional police have been deployed on roads leading to Adiala jail following a request from the jail authorities.
They indicated that SP security issued a letter on behalf of CPO Rawalpindi Khalid Hamdani, instructing all Rawalpindi police personnel to remain at their duty posts.
The letter further states that all forces should be present at police stations, checkpoints, guards and offices until further notice, ensuring police presence to facilitate prompt response in any emergency.
LAHORE: The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA), Punjab and the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) on Monday warned that a spell of heavy torrential rains will begin on Aug 5 (today), persisting till August 7, warning of urban flooding in some cities.
Officials warn that urban flooding is feared in Lahore, Rawalpindi, Gujranwala and Islamabad over the next 72 hours.
According to the PDMA fact sheet, heavy rains have already claimed 163 lives so far this season, besides leaving 579 people injured and 215 homes damaged across Punjab.
The PDMA also predicted moderate to high-level flooding in the Chenab and Jhelum rivers from August 5, with thunderstorms expected in upper catchment areas.
PDMA Director General Irfan Ali Kathia placed all emergency centres on high alert, stating, “Our field teams are monitoring the situation 24/7, especially in vulnerable areas like Murree where landslides remain a serious threat.”
Meanwhile, the current rains and floods have filled the Tarbela Dam up to 91 percent of its full capacity and the Mangla Dam to 60pc, while major rivers currently show normal flow levels, say officials.
Residents in low-lying areas of 19 districts, including Faisalabad, Sialkot and Bahawalpur, have been advised to move to safer locations.
The PDMA has activated its emergency helpline 1129 and deployed special teams to prevent water accumulation in vulnerable cities.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has ordered immediate financial assistance for affected families as the province braces for what meteorologists predict could be the heaviest rainfall of this monsoon season.
The PDMA urged people to keep children away from storm drains and waterways. “One moment of carelessness can cost lives in these conditions,” it cautions.
ISLAMABAD: After facing public criticism over a tender worth over Rs47 million for the repair and maintenance of a federal minister’s official residence, city managers clarified on Monday that there was a typographical error.
The CDA on Saturday had floated the tender worth Rs 47.3 million for “repair and maintenance of house No 36 at Minister Enclave, Islamabad,” and called for bids from registered firms.
There was uproar on social media on Sunday, as people criticised the civic agency for its plan to spend such a huge amount on the official residence of Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi.
However, the CDA on Monday came up with a statement saying the tender was originally meant for eight houses in the Minister Enclave, not one. The CDA also issued a corrigendum with an amendment to the tender on Monday edition of newspapers, removing the name of house No 36 and replacing it with eight houses.
When contacted, a CDA spokesperson stated: “It was a routine matter which was meant for maintenance of 8 houses at the cost of 47 million but there was a typo error in the advertisement published on August 2. The typo error was immediately rectified by the CDA itself and a corrigendum was issued the very next day.”
However, an official source expressed surprise at the CDA’s explanation, pointing out the significant discrepancy between mentioning house No 36 and listing eight separate houses.
“If this was a typo error, a proper inquiry should be conducted to fix the responsibility for such a blunder,” he said.
KARACHI: Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) Yahya Afridi on Monday highlighted ongoing efforts to automate the country’s justice sector and stressed that the development of judicial infrastructure must follow a citizen-centric approach.
The chief justice is in Karachi to head a three-member larger bench of the apex court, which is hearing cases from Aug 4 to Aug 7 at the Supreme Court Karachi Registry.
CJP Afridi made the remarks during a visit to the Sindh High Court, where he was briefed on the proposed construction of a state-of-the-art judicial complex in Karachi.
During a meeting, Sindh High Court (SHC) Chief Justice Muhammad Junaid Ghaffar told the CJP that the proposed complex would comprise 125 fully equipped courts with all requisite amenities.
Reforms should be citizen-focused, Justice Afridi tells SHC top judge
The project, intended to address the growing needs of the city’s judicial system, is expected to commence shortly.
The CJP lauded the initiative and underscored the importance of sustainable, scalable and forward-looking infrastructure planning.
According to a statement from the apex court, he “also emphasised that future forecasting must be integrated into the design to ensure long-term viability of the complex”.
CJP Afridi recommended that structured consultations be held with all relevant stakeholders, including judges and members of the district bar, to gather practical input.
The goal is to produce a refined proposal for the government for timely execution of the project.
Underscoring the need to focus on citizens, The CJP called for “the inclusion of a modern facilitation centre within the judicial complex to assist litigants and the public at large”. He said this would ensure improved access to information and services focused on helping litigants, lawyers and the public.
CJP was accompanied by SHC Chief Justice Ghaffar and senior judges Justice Zafar Rajput and Justice Mohammad Iqbal Kalhoro.
The court statement said the visit “reaffirmed the judiciary’s commitment to institutional development, participatory planning and the delivery of accessible and efficient justice”.
Nasir Iqbal in Islamabad also contributed to this report
• Premier tells climate ministry, NDMA to complete early warning system project within two months • Announces Rs4bn for reconstruction, distributes cheques among flood victims; says those living along waterways needed to be relocated • Ghizer residents cut off, at risk of food shortage as link road submerged • Met Dept warns of flash floods, landslides in GB and KP ahead of new rain spell
GILGIT: As flash floods in the mountainous northern parts of the country leave a trail of destruction in their wake, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Monday directed the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) and the climate change ministry to set up an “early warning and monitoring centre in Gilgit-Baltistan within the next few months”.
These directives came as the premier visited GB along with cabinet members to take stock of the damage caused by floods over the past few weeks, which claimed several lives and destroyed homes and farmland across the region.
About the early warning system, the state-run Associated Press of Pakistan quoted the PM as saying that for the past seven years, the subject “remained confined to papers only” and over the past year and a half, “no progress had been made”.
He asked stakeholders to complete the project within two months, ruling out the possibility of any extension.
In a meeting held to assess the damage, the premier asked the climate change ministry to adopt a “proactive approach” as he underscored the importance of generating funds to develop climate-resilient infrastructure.
He said an early warning system should be installed for tourist destinations, adding that residents should be moved away from natural watercourses.
Addressing the meeting, PM Shehbaz stressed that he had issued “clear” directives to Climate Change Minister Dr Musadik Malik and his team to work on the matter. He highlighted that Mr Malik has attended various conferences on climate change and secured funds for resilient infrastructure in Pakistan. The PM, however, did not specify the quantum of these funds.
He said the ministry had a key role in “mitigating the changes arising from climate change” across the country, whereas the NDMA was originally established for relief, rescue and rehabilitation work.
PM Shehbaz said a survey of the damage to highways and other infrastructure should be conducted and communication links of all areas should be restored on a priority basis. The premier also directed the water resources minister for an improved water system in the region. He also announced Rs4 billion for the restoration of infrastructure in GB.
Later, addressing a cheque-distribution ceremony for the flood victims, PM Shehbaz recalled, “A huge cloudburst occurred in Gilgit-Baltistan, as a result of which there were immense rains and floods.” He said being one of the most vulnerable countries, Pakistan needed to be prepared against climate disasters.
Furthermore, the premier announced a Daanish school and a 100MW solar power project for the region. He said the solar project’s approval would be sought from the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council.
During his one-day trip, the premier also held separate meetings with the GB chief minister and the governor to discuss the region’s flood damages, among other matters.
Separately, Climate Minister Musadik Malik told journalists that the early warning systems had either been stolen or deliberately damaged. He said the unplanned construction in the region added to the recent disasters, saying people had built hotels and other infrastructure in the pathway of streams.
Ghizer residents stranded
Meanwhile, the residents of Ghizer remained marooned for a fifth straight day after a flood cut off the Gilgit-Shandur road access, even as the mountainous region braces for more disasters in light of a warning issued by the Pakistan Meteorological Department.
According to the local administration, a flooded stream in Khotom village blocked the Ghizer River, due to which the river overflowed and submerged a 500-metre stretch of the road, cutting off access for thousands of residents in Phander, Khalti, Teero, and other areas up to Shandur Top.
Five stranded residents from Khotom village were, however, rescued via boat, while a search for missing tourists in the Babusar area had also been concluded.
Rescue 1122 officials reported that five members of a family from Khotom village were rescued and moved to safety via boat on Monday, while food supplies were delivered to other stranded families. The rescue team stated that restoring the submerged road was extremely difficult due to the rocky terrain at the blocked section.
The Gilgit-Shandur road also serves as a link between Gilgit-Baltistan and the Chitral district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Local resident Yaqoob Tai told Dawn that the road blockage occurred in a mountainous area, making the repair work particularly complicated.
Residents are unable to reach Chitral because the alternative route is under construction and much longer. Locals are facing shortages of essential items and medicine amid fears that if the situation continues, a severe food shortage may occur.
On the other hand, the Ghizer district administration has contacted the Chitral administration, requesting a no-objection certificate to transport essential food and fuel supplies from Chitral to Phander Valley via Shandur Road.
Separately, the search operation for 12 tourists who went missing after rain-induced floods in Gilgit-Baltistan’s Babusar area was concluded on Monday without any success. GB government spokesperson Faizullah Firaq stated that the 14-day-long search operation on the Babusar Highway had ended. While all vehicles were recovered from the debris, the missing tourists could not be traced.
On July 21, at least four tourists died, and 14 went missing after floods swept through the Babusar area in Diamer. During the operation, seven bodies were recovered.
Glof alert
Meanwhile, the Pakistan Meteorological Department issued an alert for increased risk of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (Glofs), flash floods, and landslides in the glaciated regions of Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
A wet spell is expected this week, with scattered rain and thunderstorms, including isolated heavy rainfall. The PMD advised relevant authorities to remain vigilant and take precautionary measures to avoid any untoward incidents.
• Licence granted to UK-based ‘Sea Keeper’ seven years after operator applied for it • Ministry fast-tracks approval amid suspension of land travel to Iran, affecting pilgrims • Ferry service to link Iran and GCC countries with Karachi and Gwadar ports
ISLAMABAD: While a large number of pilgrims en route to Iraq have been stranded due to a sudden ban on land travel to Iran, the government has approved the first ferry service licence.
Applications by ferry operators have been pending since 2017 -18. Taking a fast-track route, the Ministry of Maritime Affairs on Monday approved the first ferry service licence to an international ferry operator.
The UK-based company — ‘Sea Keeper’— will operate ferry routes connecting Pakistan with Iran and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.
The government is under serious pressure from around one million pilgrims who attend Arbaeen (Chehlum of Imam Hussain) in Karbala, as land travel to Iran has been stopped without any notice recently.
Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry has led the move by fast-track approval to ferry service operators who had filed applications in 2017 and 2018.
The minister emphasised that ferry service will not only provide the pilgrims going to Iraq and Iran a safe and secure travel but it also provides an opportunity for boosting regional connectivity as well as economic activity via sea routes.
“Initial operations will commence from the ports of Karachi and Gwadar using modern ferry vessels equipped with essential amenities to ensure safe, affordable travel. Expansion of routes and port calls is planned based on demand and bilateral agreements”, the minister said in a statement.
This ferry service launch forms part of Pakistan’s broader strategy to develop its blue economy, improve trade logistics, and promote maritime tourism, reflecting a renewed commitment to sustainable regional sea transport infrastructure, the minister stated.
Sources in the Ministry of Maritime Affairs confirmed that more ferry services licences are expected to be issued in near future as the licence committee was scrutinising the cases.
The Licensing Committee comprises officials from the Ministry of Maritime Affairs, Ministry of Defence, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Interior, and representatives from the Pakistan National Shipping Corporation (PNSC) and port and shipping authorities.
The PNSC will be the regulator of ferry companies ensuring the technical aspect of ships and their services.
Meanwhile, a senior official of Karachi Port Trust told Dawn that the ferry terminal has already been established at the Karachi port.
Once the relevant formalities are notified, the terminal will be handed over to the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) for immigration and passport duties.
Other relevant departments, including Customs and security agencies, will also deploy staff at the ferry terminals in both Karachi and Gwadar.
THE May 9 convictions are here. Wholesale. And after a long wait — during which time most of those who were behind bars remained behind bars and most of those who had managed to wrangle some form of freedom continued to remain outside.
So far, this situation has not really changed as we wait to see if any of the well-known names who have been convicted are found and arrested.
None of this is surprising — neither the judgements nor the convictions/acquittals. And not even the names of those who were able to escape being tried in the first place.
So far, in the three decisions which have come forward, among others, Yasmin Rashid and the other prisoners in Lahore have been found guilty, as have key PTI leaders in the various assemblies — from Omar Ayub in the National Assembly to Shibli Faraz in the Senate and the Punjab opposition leader Ahmed Bachchar.
The judgements appear to have given a starring role to the key prosecution witnesses, who hid in Zaman Park, and heard the PTI’s ‘evil’ planning. The testimony of these police officers established for the courts the case against the party leaders and workers, who took part in these discussions.
And while time may have dimmed recollections of May 9, these two star witnesses are now etched in the memory of even those who heard any of the commentary about these cases with half an ear.
It is hard to understand why the judgements have come now.
Since then, checking under the table or behind the sofa has become as mandatory as the quick move to stuff phones in sofa crevices or under a pile of cushions during casual discussions in Islamabad. Beware of the Big Brother who may be listening through the phone and be equally afraid of the police wallah under the coffee table.
But in the confusion of who has so far been convicted and who has been spared, the real question here is: why? Two years later, when those who have been able to escape have escaped and those who are never to be forgiven languish in jail, it is hard to understand why the judgements have come now. What is the point?
For those who are never to be forgiven were already in jail, and those who were as free as the other parliamentarians continue to be somewhere out there, with the police searching for them. And doubting Thomas that I am, I wonder if any of them will be caught.
But I digress. The main question still remains, why? And why now?
It is not as if the government or its allies needed more seats in parliament for stability or legislation. It is already sitting pretty and the numbers, whenever needed, are easy to complete, as the 26th Amendment showed.
It could be to weaken the PTI; many say this when asked. But in recent times, the party has revealed quite comprehensively that it is incapable of functioning coherently or strategically; its internal rifts have rendered it incapable of action, before or after Aug 5, and the limited access to Imran Khan adds to the confusion.
Combine this with the allegations that most of those making the decisions within the party are compromised and it seems there is little reason for any concern or fear.
But when these questions are asked, those with bigger and wiser brains (bigger and wiser than those inside the head of subeditors), feel that it is essential to prove not just that the party is weak and dysfunctional but also that it can be broken or fragmented further.
It is to send a message. A message not just to the party but also to prove that those in charge are in control and confident about their position. This is being linked to recent international events such as the Indo-Pak conflict, the reaction to it worldwide and especially the newfound warmth with the White House.
It goes without saying that, internally, there is little reason for any questions about the control of the system.
But that is not all. Somewhere, there is also concern and an effort to prove that May 9 has been forgotten. It was a terrible event and it has to be taken to its logical conclusion. There is concern that if it was abandoned, or the cases allowed to languish, then it may send the message that it was a day used simply for political purposes and then forgotten.
And if this is not the case, the culprits of the day must be brought to ‘justice’ so the people at large (within the country) know how serious it is. This is also why the military courts’ judgements have also been announced.
Perhaps this is also why many of the same people who spent months informing all and sundry that what happened on May 9 was unforgiveable now speak about the possibility of forgiveness if an apology is sought.
This idea of an apology had also been mentioned over the past two years, but the intensity with which it is now echoing across TV screens and elsewhere should not be taken lightly.
If this last issue is of concern, then it is worth asking if such judgements, which are raising further questions, will be able to change the larger perception. Especially because in the process, the judicial system has suffered further collateral damage.
And there is risk of more, in case those convicted manage to file appeals and the higher courts hear these cases. Generally, a lot more attention is paid to the proceedings in the high courts and beyond. And upholding these judgements there will not be easy, in terms of the credibility of the post-26th Amendment judiciary.
But then, who would even heed these words? Credibility is a word that is becoming rather irrelevant.
The PAA’s pivot to the Z-10ME was not a choice made in a vacuum. It was the final, logical step on a long and frustrating path paved with broken promises and geopolitical maneuvering. The original modernization plan, a carefully balanced two-tiered approach to acquire12 Bell AH-1Z Vipers and30 Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI) T129B ATAK helicopters, collapsed under the weight of a fundamental US miscalculation.
Washington’s error was twofold.
First, it underestimated the velocity at which the Chinese defence industry was advancing and scaling, operating under the assumption that Beijing was at least another decade away from producing a truly competitive equivalent to top-tier US platforms. The belief was that Pakistan, facing a capability gap, had no viable alternative and would eventually be forced to accept US terms regarding the withholding of financing support.
Second, it overestimated Pakistan’s patience while also underestimating the PAA’s operational urgency. The aging Cobra fleet was not just obsolete; it was an airworthiness and major safety liability. The need for a replacement was an urgent, non-negotiable requirement.
The historical context of mistrust is deep. The Pressler Amendment of the early 1990s, which blocked the delivery of 28 F-16A/B Block 15 aircraft that Pakistan had already paid for, had left a scar on the relationship. Not only were F-16s withheld, but the US ‘repaid’ Pakistan with soybean stocks, rather than the cash the PAF had needed (for a downpayment for alternate French Mirage 2000/-5 fighters sought in lieu of the F-16s at the time).
This event, where US law unilaterally abrogated an existing contract and withheld Pakistan’s payment for years, created a policy-level reluctance within Rawalpindi to commit its own national funds for major US procurements without the security of co-funding using aid mechanisms like Foreign Military Financing (FMF) or Coalition Support Funds (CSF). These mechanisms were not just for financial relief; rather, they were a litmus test of American commitment.
When the Trump Administration froze the FMF/CSF designated for the AH-1Z deal in 2017 and asked Islamabad to self-fund the acquisition, it triggered this deep-seated institutional memory of the Pressler-era betrayal. Islamabad walked away, just as it had from a self-funded F-16C/D Block 52 deal earlier in 2016. Subsequently, the T129 deal fell victim to Washington’s refusal to issue re-export licenses for its American-made LHTEC T800 engines – a decision tied to broader US geopolitical friction with Turkey.
This was the final straw. It demonstrated to Pakistani defense planners that even sourcing from a non-US, NATO-aligned partner offered no immunity from a US political veto. Supply chain security could only be guaranteed from a source outside the Western orbit.
