Bears grow strong at KSE; Index sheds 83 points

KARACHI: Bears grew further strong at Karachi Stock Exchange (KSE) on Thursday, eroding 83 points from the benchmark KSE-100 Index which finished the day at 9,169. The share market began today’s trade in the green territory but later off loading in energy and banking stocks pulled the Index back from moving up which closed at the current level at the end of the session. The trade volume stood improved to 220 million shares today. Pak PTA clinched the spot of top volume leader, advancing by paisas 50 to close at Rs7.80. Meanwhile, KSE-30 Index eased 71 points to peg at 9,683. The market analysts foresee more correction in the coming sessions.

EU agrees for trade talks: Federal secretary

ISLAMABAD: European Union (EU) has agreed to discuss trade agreement with Pakistan, federal secretary for trade said. Talking to Geo News here, Suleman Ghani, Federal Trade Secretary said EU has agreed to discuss free trade agreement with Pakistan in a meeting held on October 20 in Brussels. The first round of talks will be held in February next year. The trade secretary level talks will likely discuss the technical aspects of free trade agreement and other issues.

Bears continue to grip local share market

KARACHI: The local equities market remained in the grips of bears on Friday too with the benchmark KSE-100 Index further losing 17 points to peg at 9,151. The share market began its activities in upbeat mode and at one stage the major Index was also witnessed at 9256 level. However, later selling in energy scrips led the to close in the red zone. The market turnover was registered at 170 million shares. TRG Pakistan was today’s star performer in terms of volume which gained paisas 14 to close at Rs2.59. KSE-30 Index eased 30 points to finish the day at 9,653.

KSE-100 Index slides 64 points

KARACHI: The deadly bomb blast in Peshawar Wednesday forced the investors not to take fresh positions in the local equity market where the benchmark KSE-100 Index shed 64 points to close at 9,251. The market started today’s trade with positive numbers but the bomb blast in Peshawar eroded the early hour gains and the Index closed at the current level. The trade volume was recorded at 170 million shares. Arif Habib Securities topped the list of volume leaders, gaining paisas 48 to close at Rs54.85. The selling eroded 75 points from the KSE-30 Index which pegged at 9,754.

Security forces kill 15 terrorists in operation Rah-e-Nijat

RAWALPINDI: Fifteen terrorists have been killed during Security forces operation in South Waziristan Agency while 3 security personnel including an officer embraced shahadat and seven were injured during the last 24 hours. According to ISPR, security forces have made good progress and cleared Khaisura village linking up with Tiarza fort. During the operation eight terrorists have been killed. Heavily fortified bunkers having 2 meters thick concrete walls have been discovered in the above village. At present security forces are conducting search and clearance operation in Sherwangi and surrounding areas along with consolidation at Wuzi Sar and Gurgura Sar. During exchange of fire one soldier embraced shahadat and three were injured. Security forces are engaged in an intense encounter with terrorists hiding on heights surrounding Kotkai. After securing Tor Ghundai feature east of Kotkai, security forces are in the process of clearing surrounding heights and caves. During exchange of fire one officer and one soldier embraced shahadat and four were injured. After securing Malik Shahi, security forces are undertaking clearance operation upto Mizo-Wam. During the operation seven terrorists were killed. Security forces check post has been established at Manzai Kili west of Mandanna. Security forces are strengthening their positions at area around Spinkai. During search of houses of Uzbeks, converted into bunkers around Sher Wangi, 105 bottles of Liquor were discovered. During the operation security forces recovered 27 hand grenades and 4 rockets; 2 ammunition carrying bags; 7 x 12.7 mm Anti Air Craft guns and 2 x 14.5 mm Anti Air Craft guns along with 2007 mortar rounds; 2 x rifles - 7 mm and 4 x rifles – 303 7x RPG-7; 36 x 82 mm mortar rounds; 1 x 75 mm RR; 14 x 107 mm Single Barrel Rocket Launcher; 18 x 60 mm mortar rounds; 22 IEDs.

Malik vows civil guards for public schools

ISLAMABAD : Federal Interior Minister Rehman Malik Wednesday said full-fledged arrangements are being taken up for the security of the educational institutions, as 300 civil guards are being provided for the security of public schools. Talking to media here, he said nobody even thought of such an incident of terrorism at an educational institution, adding the security at educational institutes would be aggrandized. The interior minister said one main committee and three sub-committees have been instituted in a meeting held here in connection with the security. He informed that the federal capital has been divided in seven zones as regards the security, and the terror incident at Islamic University occurred at least 24 km away from Islamabad. Commenting upon the Indian allegations, Malik warned against them, saying Indian Home Minister should see about their home first, as it is beset with flaws, adding criticizing Pakistan would not set their issues aright. Rehman Malik stressed that Pakistan may give well-substantiated threats better than those India gave, adding Pakistani offer regarding negotiations should not be deemed as its frailty.

Waziristan: 6 more extremists killed in operation, 11 wounded

WANA: Six more extremists have been killed and 11 others wounded in ongoing operation Rah-e-Nijat in Northern Waziristan Tuesday. According to sources, security forces are advancing to extremists bases in Makeen and Ladha from the area of Razmak. Gunship helicopters, jet planes and ground troops are taking part in the operation. Extremists death tally has mounted to over 80 and more than 30 hideouts have been destroyed in the continuing operation for last four days, state sources added.Meanwhile, security forces are facing severe resistance on part of the extremists in some areas.

Explosion heard near Islamic University in Islamabad

ISLAMABAD: A blast heard near Islamic University in Islamabad, Geo News reported.

Two bombs defused near Peshawar girls’ school

PESHAWAR: Two bombs planted near a government girls’ school in Peshawar have been defused.According to sources, unknown miscreants planted two bombs near government girls’ high school in Bhana Mari. Bomb disposal unit, ambulances and heavy police contingents have reached the scene after getting the news of bombs. The source of bomb disposal unit said 14 kilograms of explosive and bullets were put in a pressure cooker whereas five kilograms explosives and shrapnel put in a tin box to make bombs. Bomb disposal unit said both home-made bombs have been defused. The bombs were defused after evacuating the school and nearby buildings. On the other hand, NWFP assembly member belonged to PML-Q Nighat Orakzai has demanded the government to close all the schools for some period to end the inconvenience facing by the parents.

20 militants killed in operation’ Rah-e-Nijat’

WANA: Twenty more militants have been killed during ongoing operation ‘Rah-e-Nijat’ in South Waziristan.

According to sources, troops advancing towards strongholds of militants Makeen and Ladha through Zarmak.

Ground troops, fighter jets and gunship helicopters are taking part in the action. Twenty more militants have been killed during clashes in Makeen, Ladha and adjoining areas. The official sources said death toll of militants killed during four days offensive has climbed to more then 90. Thirty hideouts have also been destroyed. Security forces facing stiff resistance from militants in some of the areas, they added.

KU declares BS Physiotherapy exam result

KARACHI: (PPI) The University of Karachi has announced the result of fourth year BS Physiotherapy Annual Examination 2009. According to result statistics, all 69 registered candidates appeared in the examination and all of them pass it with pass percentage of 100.

SBP conversion rates

KARACHI: (PPI) The State Bank of Pakistan on Friday announced the rates applicable for conversion into rupee of Foreign Currency Deposits, Dollar Bearer Certificates, Foreign Currency Bearer Certificates, Special US Dollar Bonds and profits thereon by all banks and for providing forward cover on Foreign Currency Deposits (Excluding FE 25 deposits) on August 22, 2009. The rates are: US Dollar Rs82.9434, Japanese Yen Rs0.8851, Pound Sterling Rs136.7156 and Euro Rs118.5676.

CMCH's injections recovered from medical store

RATODERO: (PPI) RMO Chandka Medical College Hospital (CMCH) Larkana Dr Muhammad Saleem Shaikh has recovered government property of medicines containing 29 ampules of injections, duly marked by CMCH, from the Pharmacy Medical Store located along the Civil Hospital Road, here on Friday morning. He also arrested store owner Waqar s/o Muhammad Hanif Shaikh and handed over him to Civil Lines police station for further legal action. The Medical Superintendent CMCH has issued a letter to SHO Civil Lines police station to lodge an FIR against the accused. He also constituted a committee of senior officials of CMCH to conduct probe into the matter and take action against the accused so that no such crime could occur in the future.

Four dacoits loot Rs.9.8 million from a local bank branch

Karachi: (PPI) Four unidentified dacoits looted Rs9.8 million from the branch of Al-Meezan bank at Seelani Chowk in the limits of Bahdurabad police station on Friday. The bank is located near Rangoonwala Hall at Seelani Chowk, where the four unidentified robbers entered and snatched repeater guns and TT pistols from the two guards deployed inside the bank, Said DSP New Town Abdul Majeed Rind. The robbers looted Rs 9.8 million from the bank cashier and managed to flee after completing their swift operation within eight to ten minutes, the eyewitnesses and police said. The bank is situated at busiest place where four banks- Al-Meezan, Al-Habib, UBL and Metropolitan have branches near to each other. The incident occurred at peak hours of Friday. When the dacoits were managing to flee from the scene the people understood that they were carrying their own cash because they completed their operation very immediately and easily, the DSP added. DSP further said,''We had deployed two police constables for all four banks branches and there was also the alarm system but no one had given caution to police constables or switched on the alarm. We were informed after 15 minutes of incident when the bank manager phoned us." DSP said,''When we received information about the incident, we immediately rushed to spot and started probe. He said it is premature to say that any employee of bank was involved and provided the information to dacoits. Bahadurabad police have registered the case no 141/09 under section 395 against unidentified dacoits on the complain of bank manager Muhammad Usman.

411 sailors join Pakistan Navy

KARACHI: (PPI) The passing out parade of Pakistan Navy New Entry Sailors batch comprising 411 men was held at PNS Himalaya, Manora, this morning. Rear Admiral Tehseen Ullah Khan, Director General Maritime Security Agency, graced the occasion as chief guest. Addressing the ceremony, the chief guest said that for a country like Pakistan, peace and stability is imperative for sustainable growth and prosperity. "It is therefore important for us to maintain credible defence capability so that no one can challenge our security," he added. He further said that in present-day world, navel warfare is getting more and complex with every passing day wherein technology plays a vital role. Pakistan Navy has, therefore, always focused on acquiring latest technology, he added. Tehseen Ullah Khan hoped that the passing out sailors would devote themselves to learn efficient usage of available equipment to enhance their professional skills. He urged the graduating sailors that besides improving their professional skills, they should also inculcate in them the traits of a good citizen and contribute towards developing a society where justice, tolerance, enlightenment and brotherhood reign supreme. He also extended his felicitations to the passing out sailors specially those who excelled in their training and won prizes. Earlier in his welcome address, Commanding Officer PNS Himalaya Captain Naveed Akhtar underlined salient features of sailors training. He apprised that besides professional training, the sailors are also exposed to various sports and co-curricular activities to make them a good soldier and citizen. Later, the chief guest gave away prizes to the winners. Chief of the Naval Staff Trophy for overall best performance was given to Usman Umer. Commander Karachi Gold Medals for being the best in Academics and Sports were awarded to Imran and M Zahid respectively. Badr Squadron received proficiency banner. The ceremony was attended by a large number of senior naval officers and parents and relatives of the passing out sailors.

Chances of rain in Karachi

Karachi: (PPI) The Met. office has forecast cloudy weather with chances of rain in Karachi during next 24 hours. The maximum temperature in the city is expected to be 32 to 34 degrees centigrade on Saturday. The highest maximum temperature of 43.8 degrees centigrade was recorded at Nokundi and lowest minimum temperature of 14.5 degrees centigrade at Kalat hill station, Balochistan on Friday.

Air Chief Marshall calls on Sindh CM

KARACHI: (PPI) Air Chief Marshall Rao Qamar Suleman Friday called on Chief Minister Sindh Syed Qaim Ali Shah at Chief Minister House. The Chief Minister Sindh welcomed the Air Chief Marshall and appreciated the role of Air Force in the filed of defence of country and people of Pakistan. He said that Air Force had always performed their duties together with armed forces for the protection and defence of homeland. Rao Qamar Suleman apprised the Chief Minister about the performance and activities of Air Force. He asked the him to provide some land required for expansion of airbase at Nawabshah which Chief Minister assured that the required land will be provided for expansion of airbase. Air Chief Marshall presented a shield of Pakistan Air Force and crest to Chief Minister Sindh who also give away a shield of Chief Minister House and traditional gifts of Ajrak and Sindhi Cap to him.

KU announces Ramazan working timings

KARACHI: (PPI) The University of Karachi on Friday announced that its working hours during the holy month of Ramazan-ul-Mubarak will be as: from Monday to Thursday (08:00am to 01:00pm) and on Friday from 8:00am to 12:00 noon. It further said that canteens will remain closed from dawn to sunset, adding no food and drinks will be supplied to any one from the hostel canteens and mess during fasting hours except upon the certificate of the senior medical officer in case of illness.

KU condoles killing of MBA student

Karachi: (PPI) Vice Chancellor, University of Karachi, Prof. Dr. Pirzada Qasim Raza Siddiqui in a condolence meeting on Friday expressed deep grief over brutal murder of Ahad Ahsan Faridi who lost his life while resisting to a mobile-snatch. The meeting also attended by Dean Management Sciences & Director of Evening Program Dr. Abuzar Wajidi, Chairman KU Business School Dr. A. R. Zaki, Campus Advisor Dr. Khalid Iraqi and Students Advisor, Dr. Tanveer Khalid, prayed for the departed soul, expressed their sympathy with the family of the deceased Ahsan Faridi and demanded immediate arrest, trial and punishment of the culprits, and check on such crimes in the city claiming innocent lives. The deceased Ahsan Faridi was a bright student of MBA in the Evening Program at KU. His death has sent a wave of grief among the student community of the varsity.

SUP, PML-N activists protest against jail official

SEHWAN SHARIF: (PPI) The activists of the Sindh United Party (SUP) and the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) took out a rally against Superintendent of Hyderabad Nara Jail, here on Friday. The rally, led by SUP Taluka Sehwan Sharif President Haji Dodo Khan and PML-N leader Ahsan Rind, was taken out from Dua Chowk to Press Club. The protesters chanted slogans against Superintendent Central Jail Hyderabad Shahnawaz Saandh and Head Constable Ali Gul Chandio. Addressing on the occasion, SUP leader Haji Dodo Khan said the Superintendent through police officials is tormenting those visiting jails to meet their imprisoned persons. They demanded of the government to transfer the jail official with immediate effect.

President Zardari speaks highly of China's achievements

Islamabad: (PPI) President Asif Ali Zardari has said that China's economic and social prosperity will contribute to the international peace and prosperity and he wishes China every success. President Zardari made the remarks in an interview with the Chinese media based in Islamabad. "My message to the Chinese people would be that here the people of Pakistan are proud of you and proud of your achievements. Being an example in the region to all the nations which have been brought to turmoil, that inspires all of us, nations can stand on their feet for progress if the determination and the discipline is there. So I would applaud the nation of China and the people of China on this happy occasion." "We have seen a growth of double digit since last 20 years in China, and that is transcended into economic growth of the individual. Today every Chinese is feeling the advantage and the benefiting from the progress that China has made," he said. Zardari said that China's economic and social prosperity would contribute to international peace and prosperity. China could also play its role in promoting understanding and peace in the region, he said. On bilateral relations, President Zardari said that Pakistan and China enjoy excellent relations which have evolved into a multifaceted, strategic cooperative partnership. "China is Pakistan's all-weather and time-tested friend. We greatly value our cherished friendship and have complete trust on all bilateral, regional and global issues," he said. On his visits to China, Zardari said that this would actually be his fourth visit to China. "The reason that I keep going to China is to learn and educate myself, then transfer what I can experience and what I can see other people cannot involve or think for, and then translate that success to Pakistan and accordingly hope to do better for my nation," he said. On measures taken by the Chinese government to deal with the riot which happened in early July in Urumuqi, Xinjiang, Zardari said that Pakistan supports China's position on all issues. "We are glad that the situation in Urumuqi has been brought under control. We believe that China's policy of social harmony and development is producing great results for all Chinese people. The economic development in China is unprecedented and all ethnic groups in China would benefit from it," he said.

Shutter down strike in Sanghar

Sanghar, Sindh: (PPI) Complete shutter down strike was observed here Friday against the murder of Allama Ali Sher Hyderi, chief of banned outfit Sipah-e-Sahaba few days back in Khairpur. All the trading centers, markets and shops remained closed on the call given by the religious organizations. A rally was also taken out in the district headquarter town.

PMA threatens country-wide shut down of health services

Karachi: (PPI) Pakistan Medical Association has strongly condemned yet another murder of Dr. Sajjad Arain in Hyderabad who was killed while on his way to attained duty at civil hospital Hyderabad. A similar incident had also occurred a couple of days before in Quetta when Dr. Iqbal Zaidi was killed by unidentified miscreants. ''It is unfortunate that PMA on every occasion has drawn attention of the law enforcing agencies towards plight of doctors but no effect. By now this easy phenomena of killing the doctors has been a routine and right to life of those who are providing souls to humanity irrespective of sex, color, religion or beliefs, is sadly no more available to them in the country,'' a release said on Friday. PMA demanded immediate arrest of culprits as the doctors appear to be victimized due to carelessness of the government. If stern action is not taken within 24 hours, the doctors community will be forced to hold country-wide protest by calling total shut down of health services in the country, release said.

Landlord kidnapped near Shahdadpur

SHAHDADPUR: (PPI) A gang of four bandits abducted a landlord Dado Dero near here on Friday. Landlord Dadodero, resident of Baqadardero, along with his two friends Fazal and Riyaz was coming to Shahdadpur from his village on a bike when four bandits riding in a car intercepted them at gunpoint near Railway Crossing Shahdadpur. They forced the three in their car and drove it away. Later, they abandoned his two friends Fazal and Riyaz at a deserted place after beating them ruthlessly but took away the landlord to unknown destination. After getting information of kidnapping incident, the police have started search for the bandits and abductee.

Aaqib sacked in disastrous Sri Lankan tour aftermath

Karachi: (PPI) Pakistan Test pacer Aaqib Javed became the most high-profile casualty of the national team's disastrous tour of Sri Lanka when he was sacked Friday as assistant coach. Aaqib, 37, will not be a part of the Pakistan squad for the Champions Trophy in South Africa and has been replaced by Mohtashim Rasheed, a Karachi-born first-class cricketer who has served as a fielding coach of the national team in the past. Mohtashim, 40, is the younger brother of Haroon Rasheed, a former Pakistan Test batsman, currently serving as PCB's Director of Game Development. Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ijaz Butt announced that it has been decided to replace assistant manager Mohammad Ahmed with Shafqat Rana, a former Test cricketer. However, the PCB decided against replacing the team's 74-year-old manager Yawar Saeed, who was criticized bitterly by the media over his handling of reports of bookies contacting the Pakistani players in Sri Lanka. Ijaz Butt made it clear that he will not take decisions to please the media. "We cannot fire our people just because the media wants us to," said Butt, a former Pakistan Test cricketer. Speaking on the omission of Aaqib from the team management, Butt said he has "better plans" for the former test pacer.

Snooker: Sattar clinches Sindh Cup Snooker tourney title

Karachi: (PPI) Abdul Sattar recorded a 5-3 win over Irfan Rasheed in the final of Sindh Cup Snooker Phase 1 Snooker Tournament here Friday at Indus Snooker Club. Abdul Sattar lost the first frame but bounced back in the match winning the next three straight sets. The final score-line was 47-77, 71-41, 72-20, 116-0 (99), 51-60, 76-37, 22-72, 63-59.

Minister calls for more projects for betterment of women

Karachi (PPI): Sindh Minister for Women Development Ms. Tauqeer Fatimah Bhutto, has called for preparing more proposals for the betterment of the females. She issued such directives while chairing a meeting here Tuesday. The Minister was of the view that such projects should be aimed at fostering women development and help to resolve the problems that the female face. She said that Shahed Mohtarama Benazir Bhutto always desired that women in our country should be empowered and imported knowledge because an educate mother looks after the family well and brings up children in better way. She was informed at the meeting that the department of women development was imparting training of baby child care. Such trainings were already imparted in various towns of Karachi including Lyari, Shah Faisal, Gulshan-e-Iqbal and Kemari as well as in Hyderabad, Jamshoro, Khairpur, Badin, Larkana and Benazirabad (Nawabshah), it was informed further. The minister directed that more projects for the betterment of the women be prepared . She also appreciated the peformance of the officers as well as the staff of the department and said that this should be improved further.

Literacy forums to be reactivated as district level

Karachi (PPI): The government has decided to reactivate literacy forums at district and provincial level to fight illiteracy. Sindh Senior Minister for Education Pir Mazharul Haq said this while chairing a meeting at the Literacy Directorate here on Tuesday. It was decided to reactivate literacy forums at district and provincial level. In this regard the Literacy Directorate would recommend names three men and three women for every district literacy forum to boost education and literacy. These people would hold meeting with stakeholders to promote literacy and submit monthly progress reports to the Literacy Directorate. Director Literacy Abdul Wahab Abbassi, Zameer Ahmed Qazi, Hassan Ali Effendi, Ramzan Awan, Sikander Mallah, Nazish Abbassi and others attended the meeting.

President assures government strengthen institutions, uphold independence of judiciary, resolve Balochistan issue

Islamabad (PPI): President Asif Ali Zardari, who is also PPP Co-Chairman Tuesday assured the government would strengthen institutions, uphold independence of judiciary and resolve Balochistan issue. He was addressing Convention of PPP National, Provincial, District & Tehsil level office-bearers, workers at Aiwan-e-Sadr. It as also attended by Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari & Asifa Bhutto Zardari. President Zardari said ``a handful of people want to impose their will on the people, but PPP would never allow to turn Pakistan into a failed state. The Government succeeded in Swat only because its policy is backed by people.'' He said assassination of Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto was ``a conspiracy against Pakistan, its poor people, Muslim world and the region. In line with resolutions passed by parliament and four Provincial Assemblies, the Government approached the UN for inquiry into her assassination.'' He said Government is implementing its manifesto that promises Roti, Kapra aur Makan. ``It was in this spirit that it ordered reinstatement of those employees sacked by the then Government eight years ago.'' Prime Minister said PPP and its allies were determined to meet challenges confronting the nation with support of masses. The party gathering was taking place at a time when Government was taking decisive measures to ensure sovereignty and security of the country. Gilani said ``we believe in supremacy of Constitution, Parliament, rule of law, independence of judiciary and freedom of media. We are following a foreign policy that upholds national sovereignty.'' He agreed people were facing problems of price hike, load-shedding, unemployment, law and order situation and said Government is taking steps to address these issues. He said Gojra incident and target killings in Karachi and other areas were ``part of conspiracy to destabilize the elected government. PPP leadership never compromised on principles in the past and will not do so in future.'' PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said party workers and people have rendered great sacrifices for democracy and it is time to reward them by fulfilling party's manifesto. He vowed he was determined to complete mission of late Z A Bhutto and her mother Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto. PPP will make Pakistan a role model not only for Muslims but entire world. Asifa Bhutto Zardari, PPP Secretary General Jehangir Badr, Deputy Secretary General Raza Rabbani and Secretary General PPP Parliamentarians Raja Parvez Ashraf also addressed. Mr Jehangir Badr proposed evolution of a strategy to make elections inexpensive so that those belonging to poor and middle classes should also reach corridors of power.

Govt taking steps to solve problems of fishermen: Sharmila

Karachi (PPI): Advisor to Sindh Chief Minister Sharmila Faruqui has said government is taking all-out efforts to solve the problems of fishermen. Addressing a meeting in the office of Pakistan Fisherfolk Forum, where she was given a presentation on Tuesday, she said a fisheries policy is a must to solve the problems of fishermen. She said she had written letters to the president and prime minister to solve the problems of fishermen languishing in the Indian jails. She said contract system of fishing should be ended and small dams built to end water shortage. PFF chairman Syed Muhammad Ali Shah also spoke.

Three kidnapped from Landikotal area

Landikotal (PPI): Three Afghan nationals kidnapped from Landikotal on Tuesday. Unknown armed persons kidnapped Imran Shinwari, Sultan Khan and one of their relatives from Wali Khel area while they were on their way to Peshawar. The kidnappers left behind a pickup at Ziarai mountainous area where the road is cut off. The three kidnapped persons were told to be Afghan nationals, but living at Shinwari area of Mukhtar Khel since long. Sources of political administration told that Tehsildar Landikotal ordered suspension of one of the subidars of Khasadars Force for negligence, and failure to stop the kidnapers while passing through the Ziarai check post. Meanwhile, political administration deported 19 Afghan nationals at Torkham. They had been arrested after the bomb blast at Mata Khel area of Khyber some days back. They were fined five thousand rupees each before releasing them.

Pakistan reiterates commitment to resume dialogue process with India

Islamabad (PPI): Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi reiterated Pakistan's commitment to resume dialogue process with India as it is only way forward to improve relations. Talking to newsmen after presiding specialised training of foreign office officers at Foreign Office Training Academy here Tuesday, he said mutual cooperation and dialogue were only way forward that will benefit both countries. ``We have to engage to resolve all issues. Foreign secretaries of Pakistan and India will meet very soon before annual UN session so that they present report to their Foreign Ministers as they will then engage each other on sidelines of UN session. Following meeting between Prime Ministers in Sharm El-Sheikh, leaders once again reiterated willingness to resume dialogue process.'' On sharing information at level of agencies between Pakistan and India, he said engagement at any level is possible. He said both countries have a joint mechanism for sharing information and fighting terrorism. With more interaction, mechanism could be further improved. About providing information to India on its interference in Baluchistan, he issue was discussed by two Premiers and foreign secretaries in Sharm el-Sheikh. ``I believe sensitive matters should be handled carefully and through diplomatic sources instead of media.'' On fresh answers to queries sent by Pakistan to India in Ajmal Kasab case, Qureshi said these were necessary to make case more logically tenable in court. As case is in court, it required more tangible and logical evidences so that case could reach to conclusion. Pakistan and India are victims of terrorism and cooperation in fight against this menace was need of hour. On acquisition of nuclear powered submarines by India, he said ``we have taken serious notice of this development. Pakistan is fully aware of its defence needs and confident of its defence strength. We have full confidence in our armed forces and people. ``Pakistan has no aggressive designs. We do not want to follow arms race in the region but there is balance due to strategically ability of Pakistan. This clearly indicates war in not option in the region and will be suicidal attempt. Dialogue is only way forward. I don't see any lack of will among leaders of Pakistan and India. ``I hope dialogue process will resume soon and urge media of both countries to play constructive role for its success. With positive attitudes we can make progress,'' Qureshi observed.

Prices of essential commodities to be maintained during Ramadan

KARACHI (PPI): Sindh Minister for Supply and Prices Syed Shoaib Ahmed Bukhari has expressed determination to maintain the prices of the essential commodities during the month of Ramadan. He was presiding over a meeting regarding fixation of prices of the commodities during the month of Ramadan at his office on Tuesday. The Minister also displayed resolute to take harsh action against hoarders, black marketers and those who charge more than fixed prices, in order to provide relief to the consumers in this context. He advised the wholesalers and retailers to exhibit a sprit of true Muslim by reducing the rates of the commodities during the holy month of Ramadan and continue this practice during normal days also. The Minister also asked the officers concerned to keep constant vigilance on the rates of the commodities and stem the irregularities in this regard timely so that the consumers could not face any hardships. Sindh Minister for Agriculture, Syed Ali Nawaz Shah said that the present Sindh government has pledged to provide relief to their people at all costs and advised the officers of his department to cooperate with the people who pinpoint the overcharging, black marketing and hoarding of the edible items. The meeting was also attended by the officers of the concerned departments, representatives of the wholesale and retailers Association, DDO and EDOs of the Revenue Department.

Retirement date of ADJ Kamber-Shahdadkot

KARACHI (PPI): The Law Department, government of Sindh has notified that on attaining the age of Superannuation, Zaheer Ahmed Khan, Additional District & Sessions Judge (BS-20) Kamber-Shahdadkot at Kamber will stand retired from service with effect from 20 January 2010.

Independence Day Week begins from 8th

Karachi (PPI): The National Independence Day is celebrated on August 14 every year with full enthusiasm and fervor. The Prime Minister has approved the Independence Day celebrations 2009, for which an "Independence Day Week" will be celebrated form August 08 to 14. During this week, seminars, meeting conference, lectures, debates, speech contests at different academic level, besides inter-provincial exchange of visits of students. Exhibitions of books /articles, quiz competitions, qirat, naat, khawani, stage dramas and mushairas in national as well as local languages will be arranged with a view to highlight the Islamic spirit and democrat struggle for achievement of Pakistan and reflect upon national unity, integrity and solidarity. The programmes will be held with simplicity, grace and austerity. Firing of 31 gun salute at dawn at Federal Capital, Islamabad and 21 gun salute at all provincial capitals vis: Karachi, Lahore, Peshawar and Quetta. A dramatic pause at 09.58a.m. with sounding of sirens to herald the flag-hoisting at 10:00 a.m. All traffic (road, rail and sea) to stop for one minute. Flag-hoisting ceremony will contain the programmes by the Prime Minister at 10:00a.m. at the Jinnah Convention Center, Islamabad and playing of the National Anthem, independence day message to the nation by the Prime Minister at the flag hoisting ceremony, hoisting of the national flag on principal public/private buildings and major parks at 10:00 a.m. flag hoisting ceremonies at the provincial capitals by Chief Ministers in the morning and receptions in the afternoon at the provincial headquarters by the district nazims or whosoever hold the charge, followed by playing of the national anthem. Flag hoisting ceremonies would be held at Pakistan Missions aboard in the morning, followed by playing National Anthem. The public holiday throughout the country on August 14 will be the main features of the day. The celebrations will have a national perspective. Formal functions / celebrations would be held though religious, historical cultural and social activities at all level with public sector corporations industries, autonomous bodies, local governments, chambers of commerce and industry and tajir associations. Special advertisement would be published in newspapers/ periodicals and telecast in electronic media highlighting the theme of unity, the role of Pakistan, projection of the senior citizens who took the part in the independence movement. Promotion of national integration and social and cultural values would include the programs. Pakistan Missions aboard at their level will mobilize overseas Pakistanis to participate to the maximum extent possible. Publications of special supplements in leading national dailies of host counties in coordination with external publicity wing (EP) of the ministry of information and broadcasting would be carried out. Three thousand students of federal government education intuitions will participate in the flag hoisting ceremony. Boy scouts and girl guides would be actively participate in the celebrations. Special tree plantation ceremonies will also be organized on the day. Also the ministry of culture will display its artisans at Lok Virssa. Pakistan National Council of Arts will arrange exhibition of special photographs comprising historic documents and photographs of the heroes of freedom movement. Quaid-e-Azam Academy Karachi will arrange flag-hoisting ceremony, besides organizing lecture on Quaid-e-Azam and independence of Pakistan. Fateha offering ceremony will also be held at academy premise. People would participate in the celebration of the day at Mazar-e-Quaid. Sale/exhibition of publications on a special discount of 50% for general public at Aiwan-e-Iqbal Complex Lahore, Mazar-e-Iqbl Lahore and Iqbal's old residence (116 Melcod Road, Lahore) will also be held. Ministries of Information, Education, Railways and sports will also organize and plan such programs on the independence day falling on August 14, 20009.

Issuance of marriage certificates lauded

KARACHI (PPI): On the request of Union Council Nazims of Karachi, issuance of marriage registration certificates was started a month before, while before this only registration of marriages had been carried out, due to which, the couples had to face difficulties while traveling foreign counties due to non issuance of marriage certificate. NADRA Project Manager for Sindh Khalid Waleed told this to Naib City Nazim Karachi Nasreen Jalil at her office on Tuesday. Assistant Manager Technical NADRA Sajid Aziz Awan also accompanied him. Nasreen Jalil paid tribute to UC Nazims and said with the cooperation of NADRA, issuance of birth, death and marriage certificates is a positive step to facilitate people. She said it should make sure that polio vaccination should also be marked in column of birth certificate form and UC Nazims could play an important role in this regard. Naib Nazim said issuance of fake certificates would be stopped with the introduction of computerized system in UCs. He lauded the performance of NADRA Project Manager for Sindh and hoped that he would continue his work with the same dedication. Khalid Waleed presented the report of NADRA Sindh to Naib Nazim Nasreen Jalil and told him NADRA had stared Civil Registration Management System in whole country last year, under which birth, death, marriage and divorce computerized entry and certificates were issued with the cooperation of UCs. He said computerized certificate would be issued in Urdu and English.

Punjab Governor says Gojra incident could have been averted

Faisalabad (PPI): Punjab Governor Salman Taseer says Gojra incident could have been averted if police and administration had reacted diligently, efficiently and with responsibility. Addressing Christians while visiting Christian Colony, Catholic Church and village Korian near Gojra Tuesday, he expressed grief and said such treatment to Christians in Pakistan of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto and Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto is ``highly regrettable.'' ``The white strip in our national flag clearly admits presence of minorities and PPP would continue its struggle for their rights. Christians are very dear to us as a Christian had committed suicide on hanging of Shaheed Z A Bhutto. We are duty bound to protect their fundamental and constitutional rights,'' Taseer stated. He said President Asif Ali Zardari took immediate notice and sent Rangers to restore normalcy and protect Christians life and properties. We are here to share your grievances and give you sense of protection on special directive of President Asif Zardari.'' He assured Christians federal government would help and protect their life and property at all costs. He directed Chairman Evacuee Trust Property to send engineers to undertake the work for repair and construction of damaged houses. Governor described Gojra incident as ``a black spot on Pakistan's face. We all should make serious efforts to remove it as early as possible. Gojra incident is not a sudden happening, it was a planned conspiracy. ``Same elements are involved in it that had turned Swat into a hell. We had flushed them out from Swat and would also eliminate them from Punjab. The families of deceasad will get Rs 5 lac and Rs 3 lac given for repair of damaged properties,'' he added. Federal Minister for Minorities Shahbaz Bhatti said judicial inquiry into this incident has already been ordered and strict action would be taken against elements responsible for these riots. He said President Zardari asked him to go to Gojra to condole with affectees. ``We will remain here till complete rehabilitation of affectees.'' Bhatti said President took immediate notice and sent Rangers to control the situation. He termed incident as ``a deep rooted conspiracy to sabotage the efforts of government to promote religious harmony. The elements involved in this riot would not be spared.'' Rana Mohammad Farooq Saeed Khan Federal Textile Industry Minister, Punjab Revenue Minister Haji Muhammad Ishaq & Ms Neelum Jabbar were also present.

CDGK to purchase machinery worth Rs240mn

Karachi (PPI): City District Government Karachi has during last four years purchased machinery worth Rs.1.23billion, while further orders for procurement of machinery costing Rs.420million were also issued to respective suppliers. These machines will be used for solution of citizen's problems including sanitation and cleanliness. City Government is presently utilizing its 25 mechanical sweeping machines to clean the major roads and corridors of Karachi. This was stated by City Nazim Karachi Syed Mustafa Kamal while addressing a ceremony held on the occasion of handling over of two modern sweeping machines to municipal services department at civic on Tuesday. These machines have been imported by city government form China with a cost of Rs12.3million. The Municipal Services Department will use them for lifting garbage and domestic waste from roads and cleaning and washing of roads. The American branded machines have the capacity of storing 2 thousand liter water and containing 2.5tons of garbage at a time. These machines can clean and wash 20km road in just an hour time and will be used to clean and was Shara-e-Faisal, all three signal-free corridors and 5000 Road from Sakhi Hassan to Surjani town. Speaking on this occasion, Kamal said that in today's era of science and technology it has become much easy to solve the problems of citizens. In all over the world machines are being used for rapid solution of the problems of citizens. Till four years back we did not had required machinery, however the Haq Parast leadership of city government succeeded in bringing modern and latest machinery and technology to Karachi in very short time. Today it has record machinery worth billions of rupees. The cleaning and sanitation condition in the city would get better due to these machines. He said that Haq Parast City Government has besides performing lot of development works also purchased latest machinery as a way to solve the peoples' problems in least possible time. We have taken all these steps to bring the city government Karachi at par with the developed mega cities of the world and this is another gift from city government to Karachiites.

Pakistan reiterates commitment to resume dialogue process with India

Islamabad (PPI): Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi Tuesday reiterated Pakistan's commitment to resume dialogue process with India. Talking to newsmen here, he said dialogue is the only way forward to improve relations between the two countries. Foreign Secretaries of Pakistan and India will meet before annual session of United Nations General Assembly. On sharing of information at the level of the agencies of both countries, Qureshi said engagement at any level is possible. He said Pakistan and India have a joint mechanism for sharing information and fighting terrorism and this could be11 Mumbai incident, Foreign Minister s aid Pakistan has received answers to its queries and these will be referred to the Interior Ministry. On acquisition of nuclear submarines by India, he said Pakistan has taken serious notice of this development and is fully aware of its defence needs. He felt both Pakistan and India are victims of terrorism and cooperation in the fight against this menace was need of the hour. Qureshi said there is ``no external pressure regarding trial of former President Pervez Musharraf. Parliament is independent and sovereign and whatever decision it takes, the Government will accept it.''

CPP organizes programs on mark Comrade Nazeer Abbasi anniversary

Karachi (PPI): Communist Party of Pakistan (CPP) has organized a procession of workers that would travel on foot from Karachi to Hyderabad for paying tributes to the renowned communist leader Comrade Nazeer Abbasi on his death anniversary. The procession would leave for Hyderabad on 7th August 2009. The participants of the procession would also attend meeting on the mark of the 29th death anniversary of Nazir Abbasi Shaheed at Hyderabad Press Club on August 09. CCP general Secretary Comrade Khadim Theem and member of the Karachi Committee Comrade Ishaq Baloch would see-off the procession. Meanwhile, a bicycle procession of workers from different areas including Sibi, Dera Murad Jamali and Dera Allah Yaar would also participate in the anniversary programs. Comrade Parkash, CPP provincial secretary for Balochistan would see-off the procession on August 6. In is pertinent to mention here that Nazeer Abbasi was brutally killed during the era of Gen Ziaul Haq due to his struggle of the rights of working class in Pakistan.

Indian opposition BJP to take Indo-Pak statement, price rise to streets

New Delhi (PPI): Even as Indian Parliament session draws to a close, main opposition Bharatiya Janata Party BJP has decided to keep alive twin issues of Indo-Pak joint statement delinking terror from the composite dialogue and price rise by raking it up at the constituency levels through its MPs. Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha and senior BJP leader L K Advani Tuesday told party MPs to "take to streets" on issue of Indo-Pak joint statement and rising prices of essential commodities after end of ongoing session of Parliament. BJP Deputy Leader in Lok Sabha Sushma Swaraj told reporters that Advani, while addressing "wrap up" session of the party's Parliamentary Party meeting today, asked MPs to tour their constituencies "to spread awareness about the government's mistake to delink action against terror from composite dialogue and issue of rising prices". "Advani ji asked them to raise the two issues before the people after the session ends," Swaraj said. She said BJP is also "pleased" that government has unexpectedly given so many issues to the opposition by its mistakes so soon after elections. BJP leader claimed her party managed to raise important issues and corner the government on various occasions without disrupting the House.

Pakistan Embassy staff member dies of H1N1

Jakarta (PPI): The Embassy of Pakistan confirmed Tuesday one of its staff members had died of the H1N1 flu virus. ``The health ministry official told our charge d'affaires it was swine flu,'' Press & Cultural Attache Saeed Javed told Jakarta Post over the phone. Tanwer Akhtar Ansari, 50, who worked as an accountant at the embassy, died at MMC hospital Monday morning after being treated as a H1N1 flu suspect. His body has been flown home for burial, Javed said. ``He had been in Indonesia for three years and his term here had ended; he was to leave within a couple of weeks,'' Javed said. He is first foreigner to fall victim to the deadly virus in Indonesia.

Kaneria returns for needy Essex county

London (PPI): Pakistan's leg spinner Danish Kaneria returns to boost Essex county attack as Southend Cricket Festival begins with LV County Championship match against Gloucestershire. Kaneria resumes his spell as overseas player having returned from his country's Test series in Sri Lanka. Hashim Amla, his replacement during July, has returned to South Africa. Essex went into match at Grace Road without a specialist spinner, but Kaneria is a shoo-in for this crucial encounter at Garon Park, which could determine whether Essex stay in the Division Two promotion race.

AJK prime minister assure solution to problems of Haweli

KARACHI (PPI): Prime Minister of Azad Jamma and Kashmir Sardar Muhammad Yaqoob Khan has said that none would meet injustice in District Haweli and we would ensure participation of all stakeholders in the development of the district. This he said while talking to a delegation of Pasban Haweli, led by Faisal Mumtaz Rathor, that called on him at PM Secretariat Muzaffarabad Tuesday. He said Mumtaz Hussain Rathor was the great man. Political workers should avoid point scoring with other political activists. Pasban delegation assured the Prime Minister of their full cooperation. The delegation comprised of former Administer District Council Sheikh Mehmood, President Pasban Haweli Sheikh Arif, Sohail Masood Advocate, Sarbuland Rathor, Jamsheed Kiyani, Nasim Rathore and Raja Jameel Rathore. The delegation informed the AJK Prime Minister about the problems they faced. The Prime Minister assured them full cooperation and said everyone has to show cohesion and unity to resolve the issues of district Haweli. He said I have old relation with Haweli and I know the difficulties faced by the area. He said Tehsil Haweli was my favorite area and Haweli used to remian disconnected from other districts during snowfall for many weeks. The Haweli was given the status of district in order to solve the problems faced by people. He said it was very difficult to give Haweli status of a district. It was my desire to make Haweli a district. He said now it is duty of all people to show cohesion and unity for development of district, added there is a coalition government in the AJK and all parties are with us. The AJK Prime Minister presented rich tribute to former Prime Minister Raja Mumtaz Rathor and said he was the great man of this century, added he had big contribution for the development of the territory. Sardar Yaqoob Khan said district Haweli would be formally inaugurated on 14 August. He asked all political activists to participate in the ceremony. He said unity is mandatory in politics and we would solve the issues with unity. He said all appointments in education and other departments would be on merit and no compromise would be made on supremacy of constitution and law. Pasban Haweli delegation assured the AJK Prime Minister to participate in inaugural ceremony of the district on 14 August.

PTCL corporate solutions conference on Aug 6

Karachi (PPI): Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL) is arranging Corporate Solutions one day conference on Aug 06, 20009, at Sheraton Hotel in Karachi. Senior Executive Vice President Business Zone South Abdullah Yousuf, SEVP Commercial Dr. Sadik Jadir, EVP Corporate Services & Product Development General Manager Corporate Services Kamran Mehmood Kamran Mehmood General Manager Corporate Services, Zaman Gulzar EVP Corporate Services & Product development, General Manager IP Operations South, Senior Manager Product Development Syed Ali Javed, and Senior Manager Salman Saad Khan will address the conference . A large number of corporate customers, dignitaries and peoples of all walks of life are invited to attend the conference and express their views in Question Answer session.

Teenage girl commits suicide

Karachi (PPI): A teenage girl on Tuesday committed suicide over family disputes in the house of her brother-in-law within the limits of Maripur police station. The station house officer of the Maripur police station, Malik Saleem, said the victim, 14-year-old Saira, committed suicide by shooting herself with the pistol of her brother in law pistol. She pumped single bullet in her head and died at the spot. Her brother-in-law is a constable of ACLC and she used to live in their home situated opposite Maripur police station, he said adding that police was informed about the incident on the evening of Tuesday; however, the incident occurred at around 1:00pm noon. He said the family tried to hide the incident, as they first informed the police that it was a robbery incident and unidentified suspects killed her during dacoity on resistance. He further said she might be killed her over family dispute. Chhipa ambulance shifted the body to the Civil Hospital Karachi for autopsy. No FIR was registered till last reports.

No rift in ruling coalition, Sindh in favor of continuing LB system: Dr Ibad

Hyderabad (PPI): The Sindh Governor, Dr. Ishratul Ibad Khan, has said that there was no any deadlock in the coalition of partners of Sindh government, adding the coalition government of PPP and MQM was running successfully. This he said while talking the journalists at inaugural ceremony of signal-free corridor from Superhighway to Railway Station Hyderabad with four flyovers and provision of water supply, roads, electricity facilities for Gulistan-e-Sarmast Housing Scheme, held at the Zila Nazim Secretariat Hyderabad Tuesday. The Sindh Governor when asked about the need of this clarification about working relationship between coalition partners, he said that recently some unauthentic news were appeared in the section of press about the differences in coalition partners of Sindh Government, which according to him were totally baseless. He said that the City Nazim Karachi has withdrawn his petition filed against Sindh Government and the administrative matters if any were being resolved with mutual understanding. He made it clear that the coalition partners of Sindh Government were enjoying good working relationship. While responding a question about the fate of local government system, the Sindh Governor said that all three provinces except Sindh had demanded to scrap the system while Sindh province wants to continue the system with bringing some changes and reforms in it. He said that the Sindh Government is assessing & monitoring the situation and it will announce the local bodies' election at suitable time. Earlier, addressing the inaugural ceremony, the Sindh Governor said that our country cannot afford any political confrontation, especially in present situation of terrorism and economic recession. He said that political stability and peaceful atmosphere is essentially required for the development of the country. He said that PPP - MQM alliance was not a temporary coalition but there was a philosophy and clear vision in its background. He said that this alliance has solid objectives for the ameliorations of the people. The Sindh Governor while also acknowledged the continues support of President of Pakistan Asif Ali Zardari and Sindh Chief Minister Syed Qaim Ali Shah for the development of Hyderabad and Karachi and said that an amount of Rs2.5 billion from federal government and Rs.500 million from Sindh Government has been allocated in current budget only for the development of Hyderabad district. The Sindh Governor thanked Sindh Chief Minister and Sindh Minister for Local Government Agha Siraj Durani for providing their full support for launching low cost housing scheme Gulistan-e-Sarmast in Hyderabad. While expressing his satisfaction over the development works performed by District Government Hyderabad, the Sindh Governor termed it as landmark achievement of the District Government Hyderabad and said that any development in Hyderabad would also facilitate to the people of interior Sindh. He said that it was remarkable performance of Zila Nazim Hyderabad that out of 1550 development schemes conceived in Master Development Plan of Hyderabad, more than 1250 have been got completed and now the people of Hyderabad were enjoying all basic facilities like supply of safe drinking water, efficient sewerage system, signal free traffic system and facilities in health and education sectors. He said that reconstruction of more than 2000 kilometers long roads and revamping of outdated sub-surface infrastructure was not an easy job, which was done by the district government in efficient manner. Earlier, the Zila Nazim Hyderabad in his keynote address listed the development achievements including construction of flyovers, roads bridges, filter plants, parks and playgrounds in the city and added that the tenders of two more flyovers have also been floated. He said that district government has conceived a Master Plan 2027 under which the required infrastructure needed for facilitating people in all fields upto 2027 to be laid-down. He said that Hyderabad was the only district which has its own GIS system. He said that the district government Hyderabad has also converted 310 government schools into English medium schools where 25000 students were getting qualitative education. Similarly eight new hospitals with one trauma centre have also been constructed during his tenure as Zila Nazim. The Zila Nazim also thanked to President of Pakistan Mr. Asif Ali Zardari for supporting and providing funds for the development scheme of Hyderabad. The Zila Naib Nazim Hyderabad Mr. Zaffar Rajput in his welcome address lauded the services of Sindh Governor and Zila Nazim Hyderabad for the development of Hyderabad. He said that the Hyderabad which earlier was deprived from all basic facilities and was giving look of ruined city now has been developed and heading towards as model district of the province. Earlier, warm welcome was accorded to Sindh Governor by Zila Nazim Hyderabad Mr. Kanwar Naveed Jamel, Sindh Minister for Rural Development Mr. Zubair Ahmed Khan, party leaders and workers on his arrival at Toll Plaza Hyderabad. Later, in a big vehicular procession took round of the city and inspected the newly constructed flyovers at Poonam Chowk named after by Hosh Mohammad Shidi, Shahbaz Chowk named after by Lal Shahbaz Qalandar, flyover at Latifabad No.7 named after by late Nazeer Hussain (the father of the Quaid MQM Mr. Altaf Hussain) and Railway Station respectively. He stopped at flyover at the Latifabad No.7 and unveiled the plaque. Later, he inspected flyover near Railway Station which was named after Sakhi Abdul Wahab Shah Flyover. The Sindh Governor also went to low cost housing scheme Gulistan-e-Sarmast launched by district government Hyderabad at Kohsar Extension where he unveiled the plaque of the scheme and took briefing about the salient features of the scheme from the Zila Nazim. Zila Nazim Kanwar Naveed Jameel briefed the Sindh Governor about the Gulistan-e-Sarmast Low Cost Housing Scheme and said that H.D.A. own 5000 acres of land at Kohsar Zone, out of which 2000 acres have been reserved for this scheme. He said that as many as 40000 plots have been curved out from this land, where 50000 families could be provided accommodation. He said that all infrastructure facilities like supply of water, electricity, roads have been provided and provision of schools, colleges, mosques and community centres have also been made available to facilitate the inhabitants. The Sindh Governor talking on the occasion said that housing facilities to poor people was the major problem of the country. He said that constant political will and spirit was needed to resolve this problem. Lauding the efforts of Zila Nazim Hyderabad, the Sindh Governor said that Zila Nazim Hyderabad has made excellent planning for providing residential facilities to the people. He said that Zila Nazim has planned for de-congestion of the influx by launching Gulistan-e-Sarmast Housing Scheme as he de-congested the traffic of Hyderabad by constructing flyovers and added that the Zila Nazim has did good job in the interest of common people. Later, the Sindh Governor accompanied Zila Nazim Hyderabad Kanwar Naveed Jamil unveiled the plaque of Ghulam Shah Kalhoro Flyovr at Ghangra Mori and took round of the flyover. He lauded the efforts of district government and said that this flyover is facilitated inter-district commuters.

No rift in ruling coalition, Sindh in favor of continuing LB system: Dr Ibad

Hyderabad (PPI): The Sindh Governor, Dr. Ishratul Ibad Khan, has said that there was no any deadlock in the coalition of partners of Sindh government, adding the coalition government of PPP and MQM was running successfully. This he said while talking the journalists at inaugural ceremony of signal-free corridor from Superhighway to Railway Station Hyderabad with four flyovers and provision of water supply, roads, electricity facilities for Gulistan-e-Sarmast Housing Scheme, held at the Zila Nazim Secretariat Hyderabad Tuesday. The Sindh Governor when asked about the need of this clarification about working relationship between coalition partners, he said that recently some unauthentic news were appeared in the section of press about the differences in coalition partners of Sindh Government, which according to him were totally baseless. He said that the City Nazim Karachi has withdrawn his petition filed against Sindh Government and the administrative matters if any were being resolved with mutual understanding. He made it clear that the coalition partners of Sindh Government were enjoying good working relationship. While responding a question about the fate of local government system, the Sindh Governor said that all three provinces except Sindh had demanded to scrap the system while Sindh province wants to continue the system with bringing some changes and reforms in it. He said that the Sindh Government is assessing & monitoring the situation and it will announce the local bodies' election at suitable time. Earlier, addressing the inaugural ceremony, the Sindh Governor said that our country cannot afford any political confrontation, especially in present situation of terrorism and economic recession. He said that political stability and peaceful atmosphere is essentially required for the development of the country. He said that PPP - MQM alliance was not a temporary coalition but there was a philosophy and clear vision in its background. He said that this alliance has solid objectives for the ameliorations of the people. The Sindh Governor while also acknowledged the continues support of President of Pakistan Asif Ali Zardari and Sindh Chief Minister Syed Qaim Ali Shah for the development of Hyderabad and Karachi and said that an amount of Rs2.5 billion from federal government and Rs.500 million from Sindh Government has been allocated in current budget only for the development of Hyderabad district. The Sindh Governor thanked Sindh Chief Minister and Sindh Minister for Local Government Agha Siraj Durani for providing their full support for launching low cost housing scheme Gulistan-e-Sarmast in Hyderabad. While expressing his satisfaction over the development works performed by District Government Hyderabad, the Sindh Governor termed it as landmark achievement of the District Government Hyderabad and said that any development in Hyderabad would also facilitate to the people of interior Sindh. He said that it was remarkable performance of Zila Nazim Hyderabad that out of 1550 development schemes conceived in Master Development Plan of Hyderabad, more than 1250 have been got completed and now the people of Hyderabad were enjoying all basic facilities like supply of safe drinking water, efficient sewerage system, signal free traffic system and facilities in health and education sectors. He said that reconstruction of more than 2000 kilometers long roads and revamping of outdated sub-surface infrastructure was not an easy job, which was done by the district government in efficient manner. Earlier, the Zila Nazim Hyderabad in his keynote address listed the development achievements including construction of flyovers, roads bridges, filter plants, parks and playgrounds in the city and added that the tenders of two more flyovers have also been floated. He said that district government has conceived a Master Plan 2027 under which the required infrastructure needed for facilitating people in all fields upto 2027 to be laid-down. He said that Hyderabad was the only district which has its own GIS system. He said that the district government Hyderabad has also converted 310 government schools into English medium schools where 25000 students were getting qualitative education. Similarly eight new hospitals with one trauma centre have also been constructed during his tenure as Zila Nazim. The Zila Nazim also thanked to President of Pakistan Mr. Asif Ali Zardari for supporting and providing funds for the development scheme of Hyderabad. The Zila Naib Nazim Hyderabad Mr. Zaffar Rajput in his welcome address lauded the services of Sindh Governor and Zila Nazim Hyderabad for the development of Hyderabad. He said that the Hyderabad which earlier was deprived from all basic facilities and was giving look of ruined city now has been developed and heading towards as model district of the province. Earlier, warm welcome was accorded to Sindh Governor by Zila Nazim Hyderabad Mr. Kanwar Naveed Jamel, Sindh Minister for Rural Development Mr. Zubair Ahmed Khan, party leaders and workers on his arrival at Toll Plaza Hyderabad. Later, in a big vehicular procession took round of the city and inspected the newly constructed flyovers at Poonam Chowk named after by Hosh Mohammad Shidi, Shahbaz Chowk named after by Lal Shahbaz Qalandar, flyover at Latifabad No.7 named after by late Nazeer Hussain (the father of the Quaid MQM Mr. Altaf Hussain) and Railway Station respectively. He stopped at flyover at the Latifabad No.7 and unveiled the plaque. Later, he inspected flyover near Railway Station which was named after Sakhi Abdul Wahab Shah Flyover. The Sindh Governor also went to low cost housing scheme Gulistan-e-Sarmast launched by district government Hyderabad at Kohsar Extension where he unveiled the plaque of the scheme and took briefing about the salient features of the scheme from the Zila Nazim. Zila Nazim Kanwar Naveed Jameel briefed the Sindh Governor about the Gulistan-e-Sarmast Low Cost Housing Scheme and said that H.D.A. own 5000 acres of land at Kohsar Zone, out of which 2000 acres have been reserved for this scheme. He said that as many as 40000 plots have been curved out from this land, where 50000 families could be provided accommodation. He said that all infrastructure facilities like supply of water, electricity, roads have been provided and provision of schools, colleges, mosques and community centres have also been made available to facilitate the inhabitants. The Sindh Governor talking on the occasion said that housing facilities to poor people was the major problem of the country. He said that constant political will and spirit was needed to resolve this problem. Lauding the efforts of Zila Nazim Hyderabad, the Sindh Governor said that Zila Nazim Hyderabad has made excellent planning for providing residential facilities to the people. He said that Zila Nazim has planned for de-congestion of the influx by launching Gulistan-e-Sarmast Housing Scheme as he de-congested the traffic of Hyderabad by constructing flyovers and added that the Zila Nazim has did good job in the interest of common people. Later, the Sindh Governor accompanied Zila Nazim Hyderabad Kanwar Naveed Jamil unveiled the plaque of Ghulam Shah Kalhoro Flyovr at Ghangra Mori and took round of the flyover. He lauded the efforts of district government and said that this flyover is facilitated inter-district commuters.

SHC imposes cost Rs 10,000 for non-compliance of order

KARACHI (PPI): A division bench of Sindh High Court, comprising Justice Mushir Alam & Justice Muhammad Athar Saeed Tuesday imposed cost Rs 10,000 for non-compliance of court order. M/s Molasses Export Company Pvt Ltd., filed appeal against order passed by SHC single Judge Ms. Qaiser Iqbal, but its counsel was not present. Court order said: "Looking at prevailing shortage of judges, we have no option but to allow adjournment subject to cost of Rs 10,000 to be deposited in SHC Bar Library Fund. On May 28, 2009 specific direction was passed that if appellant's counsel will not be available on next date, some alternate arrangements be made to proceed with matter. But, Advocate Mushtaq A Memon, holding brief for Advocate Khalid Anwar has prayed for adjournment." Order said: "In case, no arrangement is made by appellant to proceed with matter on next date, cost may be enhanced, interim passed earlier shall be vacated and instant appeal may be dismissed for non-prosecution. Interim order passed earlier would remain in force till next date."

City Nazim withdraws petition in Sindh High Court

KARACHI (PPI): Sindh High Court Tuesday allowed Karachi City Nazim Syed Mustafa Kamal and five Twn Nazims of the city to withdraw petition in which they challenged ban imposed by Sindh Chief Minister on disposal of lands by local governments. A division bench, comprising Chief Justice Sarmad Jalal Osmany & Justice Sajjad Ali Shah, was hearing petition of City Nazim Syed Mustafa Kamal and five Town Nazims who challenged letters issued on July 19 & 20, 2009 by Sindh Chief Minister Syed Qaim Ali Shah imposing ban, restriction on disposal of properties of Local Government (including residential or commercial plots, shops) as well as restricting said Local Government disposing off land of local government through auction, lease or any other means. They prayed to declare letters void, ab initio and stay implementation of orders till disposal of case. Naseem Farogh, counsel of City Nazim and others prayed to allow petitioners withdraw the petition. SHC division bench allowing request disposed of petition as withdrawn.

Karachi transporters call off strike

Karachi (PPI): Karachi transporters called off their wheel-jam strike in the city, scheduled on Wednesday, after successful talks with the Sindh government, here on Tuesday. In this regard a meeting was held in the office of Karachi Transport Ittehad. Provincial minister for transport Akhtar Hussain Jadoon, addressing the meeting said the government would accept all genuine demands of transporters and solve problems facing them on priority. He said the total amount of compensation for 927 vehicles brunt on December 27 after the assassination of PPP chairperson Benazir Bhutto is Rs245million and the provincial government is in touch with the federal government to get this amount for distribution amongst the affected transporters. He said the compensation for the killed and injured drivers and conductors would also be paid soon. Jadoon said the present government is fully aware of the problems faced by transporter community. He said the Sindh chief minister has agreed in principle to pay compensation for vehicles used in Begar (free use for the government departments), ending ban on new route permits, and payment for compensation to heirs of the killed and injured drivers and conductors during riots. Sindh Minister for Labor Amir Nawab Khan said, on the occasion, that the provincial government is also in contact with the federal government for getting cut in the price of petrol and diesel. Both the provincial ministers requested the transporters to call off their strike, scheduled on Wednesday, August 5, 2009. Karachi Transport Ittehad President Syed Irshad Shah Bukhari in his address said both the ministers had come to their office and they were their guests. He said that giving respect and honor to the guests was their tradition. He said besides the ministers had assured them of solving their problems; therefore, the Karachi public transporters would not observe any strike on Wednesday. He formally announced call off the wheel-jam strike and assured the ministers that public transport would ply on Karachi roads as per routine on Wednesday.

NIT unit prices

Karachi (PPI): The National Investment Trust Limited (NIT) announced its unit prices applicable for Tuesday, August 04, 2009. Sale price Rs26.95 and repurchase price Rs26.00.

Nawaz Sharif says Army must pledge not to violate Constitution

London (PPI): PML-N Chief and former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif Tuesday said that Army must pledge not to violate the Constitution again and said July 31, 2009 judgment of 14-member larger bench of Supreme Court was ``a landmark in the country's history.'' ``It is for the first time that PCO judges have been practically relieved. The apex court's verdict is self accountability by the judiciary which is a laudable step and will have far reaching effects. I faced courts but never appeared before PCO judges,'' he noted while addressing PML-N workers in London. Nawaz Sharif said the government and the parliament should take action against Pervez Musharraf under Article six of the Constitution. Those who violated or abrogated the Constitution should be punished. ``Pervez Musharraf was made hero by giving him guard of honour when he left Presidency after resigning in August last year.'' He felt the country's integrity is fully safeguarded by rule of law and supremacy of Constitution and not by possessing nuclear weapons. He vowed PML-N would continue its struggle for the rule of law, supremacy of Constitution, independent judiciary and free media. The 170 million people are the masters of Pakistan, he declared. He said load shedding was a curse for which Pervez Musharraf was entirely responsible as he (Musharraf) did nothing during last eight years for overall betterment of the country. The military dictators were not responsible to anyone for their misdeeds but now since the country was moving towards democratic rule they (military dictators) should be made accountable, he demanded. PML-N Chief said wars with India always took place during tenure of military dictators like 1965 war in Ayub Khan rule and 1971 war when Yahya Khan was in power. He said if martial laws had not been imposed in the past, the country would have achieved all-round socio-economic development. Today, Pakistan is ``economically weak,'' he observed. Nawaz Sharif recalled in his tenure then Indian Prime Minster Atal Bihari Vajpayee in official visit to Pakistan in early 1999 extended hand of friendship for peace, respect Pakistan's sovereignty and agreed to sit on table to resolve Kashmir issue. He said Pakistan become a nuclear power during the tenure of a democratic government. ``We must learn a lesson from the past and eliminate black sheeps from our ranks,'' he emphasized.

PTF organizes Throwball Refresher course from 10th August

Karachi (PPI): Pakistan Throwball Federation (PTF) is organizing National Throwball Refresher Course 2009 from 10th August at Women Sports Complex, Gulshan-e-Iqbal. Maqbool Ahmed, Secretary General PTS told PPI, "the main reason of conducting this course is to enhance the expertise of umpires and coaches." He said that they have invited referees and coaches from all affiliated units and departments to participate in the course. "After the course, twenty technical officials will be selected and will be sent to national and international assignments," he said. The course will conclude on 13th August.

MNAP organizes seminar on TV journalism

Ahmedpur East (PPI): Rural Media Network Pakistan (RMNP) is organizing a seminar on TV journalism on 5th August at 8PM in the office of National Press Union Mubarakpur. It will be chaired by President RMNP Ehsan Ahmed Sehar while former Federal Minister for Information & Broadcasting Senator Mohammad Ali Durrani will be the chief guest. He will distribute Urdu language training manual among TV channels reporters hailing from Uchsharif, Khanqah Sharif, Samasatta, Noorpur, Mubarakpur and Chanigoth on the behalf of Rural Media Network Pakistan (RMNP). Later on he will meet TV reporters on dinner which will be hosted by RMNP Mubarakpur Chapter.

Injured human rights lawyer dies in hospital

Hyderabad (PPI): A lawyer, Sherbaz Khoso, who had been injured few days back, succumbed to his injuries in local civil hospital on Tuesday morning. He was a human rightist and had fought many cases of poor without fee. He was pleading case of Faqir Mukhtiar Khoso of Syed Gaji Shah shrine, which was pending in a court in Tando Allahyar town. He was facing some threats regarding the case. Five days back he had gone to Tando Allahyar along with his client Faqir Mukhtiar Khoso. They were attacked at Kirya branch and injured. Advocate Khoso was critically injured and rushed to Civil Hospital Hyderabad. Tando Allahyar police did not take action and failed to arrest nominated accused. Two days back Hyderabad Action Committee Chairman Ashraf Noonari had held a press conference in Hyderabad in which he had made appeal to chief justice and others to grant treatment of advocate Sherbaz Khoso on state expenses and to arrest the nominated accused, but no response was given by authorities. Noonari has announced three days of mourning to pay respect to slain lawyer Sherbaz Khoso and has said that he would launch movement for arrest of his killers. The body was taken to his ancestral village Gulab Leghari near Tando Allahyar where he was buried.

KESC energizes new transformer, 13mw power shortfall on Tuesday

Karachi (PPI): The Karachi Electric Supply Company has energized a new 40MVA transformer at Elander Road Grid Station which will provide significant relief from overloading to the consumers of Saddar, I. I. Chundrigar Road and Old Town. In addition a 132KV underground circuit between Elander Road and Queens Road Grid Station has also been energized which will give operational flexibility in case of tripping of any circuit. This was stated by Jan Abbas Zaidi, Chief Operating Officer Distribution, in a media briefing here on Tuesday. He said the work had been under progress for the last 3 to 4 months. Addition of a new transformer will reduce the overloading on other transformers of the gird. Giving out operational update,. Zaidi said that at 2 PM Tuesday, the total demand of the City stood at 2198 megawatts while the utility had been supplying 2185 megawatts. During the previous 24 hours, the utility had repaired 40 cable faults. He said that the areas, of Kharadar, Garden and Clifton have been normalized.

Minister urges end to potable water shortage

KARACHI (PPI): Provincial Minister for Wildlife Dr Daya Ram Eseerani has directed irrigation officials to ensure drinking water supply to their respected areas after rise in seawater level in view of massive recent rains. "People are making complaints of drinking water shortage. There should be no complaints of potable water shortage any more after massive rainfall," he said this while hearing public problems at Chief Minister's Complaint Cell, here on Tuesday. The cell registered the complaints of water shortage raised on phone by people belonging to Shahdadkot, Gambat and Petaro. He received complaints from people from all over Sindh. He issued spot orders on them. Provincial Minister also contacted relevant officials on phone and directed them to resolve the public issues on priority basis. The complaints include furniture & water shortage, garbage disposal, KESC loadshedding, sewerage problems by KWSB and complaints against police.

Sarfraz blames captain for embarrassing performance of the team

Karachi (PPI): Former cricketer Sarfraz Nawaz said the Pakistani team skipper Younis Khan abuse players and his inconsistent policy of changing batting order was the reason behind embarrassing performance of Pakistan cricket team in Sri Lanka. Pakistan faced three consecutive defeats at the hands of Sri Lanka, who has recorded a 3-0 win in the five-match ODI series. "I have been told by many people who are with team in Sri Lanka that the captain Younis Khan misbehaves with the teammates," Sarfraz Nawaz told PPI. "The behavior of the captain with the players has lead to the disunity within the team. All players have been performing below par in the team including the skipper," Sarfraz said. He said that the players must be dealt with care by the skipper. "There was no co-operation in the team which is necessary for the team's perform," he added. He said that Younis policy of changing batting order has not helped the team. "Shoaib (Malik) sometimes has been sent to open and in the next match he goes at number six. Younis himself changes his batting order. And the changes he made in the team was also questionable," Sarfraz said. The former pacer said that Shahid Afridi was also not bowling up to the mark as he bowled in UAE against Australia and in World T20 Championship. "He was seen making efforts in the UAE and in England but now he was not making effort to pick wickets at all," he added.

Eight booked for kidnapping girl

Mirpurkhas (PPI): Police booked eight men for kidnapping a young girl here on Tuesday. One Hussain Bux Thahim lodged a case with Town police that eight accused kidnapped his 19-year-old girl Ameerzadi, from Bashirabad area. Police registered the case and started raids to arrest the accused and recover the girl.

IMC hosting 2nd National Auto Journalists Awards

Nawabshah (PPI): Indus Motor Company (IMC) is to host Pakistan's 2nd National Auto Journalists Awards (NAJA) 2009 on August 6, 2009 at a local hotel in Karachi. This year's awards follow the success and popularity of the 1st National Auto Journalists Awards held last year. Ms. Shazia Marri, Minister for Information, Government of Sindh will grace the occasion as the Chief Guest. Nominations for 2nd NAJA 2009 have been short listed from publications over the course of last year, and have been judged, on a number of criteria, by an independent jury comprising of senior journalists, auto industry professionals and mass media academics. Initiated by IMC, the National Auto Journalists Awards primarily aim to acknowledge the efforts of journalists working in the local media for the coverage and analysis of the auto sector. The awards are aimed at giving recognition to auto reporting, enhancing the quality of professionalism in this field, and encouraging capacity building in line with modern reporting methodologies practiced internationally.

First woman SHO posted in Nawabshah

Nawabshah (PPI): A first female SHO in the history of Nawabshah was posted at the Airport police station on Tuesday. SHO Rukhisana Leghari took charge as SHO Airport and began work. Rukhisana Leghari joined police as ASI in 2002. Previously she was posted in Tando Allah Yar. This is her first posting as SHO. Talking to media, Rukhisana Leghari said she would try her best to discharge her duties with sense of responsibility. DSP City Aijaz Tareen said if this experiment proved successful, 30 percent female cops would be posted in all police stations. He said all cases related to women would now be shifted to the Airport police station.

SHC exempts Culture & Tourism Secretary's appearance on contempt plea

KARACHI (PPI): Sindh High Court Tuesday exempted Secretary Sindh Culture & Tourism Department from personal appearance on contempt plea of terminated employees. Former Sindh caretaker government made appointments in Culture & Tourism Department against posts in grade BS-1 to BS-15, but new administration terminated them. On petition of 23 terminated workers, SHC ordered Secretary Culture Department on March 25, 2009 to appoint them after conducting interviews to judge their suitability, but he allegedly failed to comply. They filed application, seeking contempt proceedings against Secretary. Today, Secretary Shams Jaffery in person submitted in compliance of court orders department conducted interviews of terminated workers, of them 28 found suitable, had joined service. He prayed to dismiss petition as compliance was made. SHC division bench, comprising Justice Mushir Alam & Justice Muhammad Athar Saeed exempted Secretary Culture & Tourism from personal appearance unless required. It adjourned hearing to date in office, as petitioner's counsel was abroad to perform Umrah.

SHC calls authority's comments in wheat transporation awards case

KARACHI (PPI): Sindh High Court Tuesday directed Additional Advocate General Sindh to file comments of concerned authority on award of contract for transportation of government-procured wheat to warehouses in Karachi and interior Sindh. Petitioner, transporter Khadim Hussain, submitted contracts under policy for year 2009-10 were awarded at excessive rates. The rate fixed last year was Rs48 per bag while new at Rs98 per bag, causing Rs 660 million loss to national exchequer. The exorbitant rate would not only be burden on public exchequer but would also raise price of wheat. He stated according to public procurement policy formulated for award of government contracts, rates be fixed in accordance with prevailing market rates as well as rates prescribed last year. Deputy Director Food Karachi acted arbitrarily and awarded questionable contracts to six transportation companies. He prayed to order inquiry into award of illegal contracts. SHC division bench, comprising Justice Mushir Alam & Justice Muhammad Athar Saeed after hearing arguments directed counsel to satisfy court as to locus standi of petitioner to impugned act of respondents without being directly affected by award of contract and directed AAG Sarwar Khan to call comments from authority concerned.

SHC calls progress report in Allama Hasan Turabi assassination case

KARACHI (PPI): Sindh High Court Tuesday directed Deputy Prosecutor General Sindh to submit jail authorities comments and progress report in Allama Hasan Turabi assassination case. A division bench comprising Justice Mushir Alam & Justice Muhammad Athar Saeed passed order on petition of six defendants seeking open trials of Allama Hasan Turabi assassination case. Mohammad Amin alias Khalid Shaheen, Sultan Mehmood alias Saifullah, Mohammad Rehman alias Mani, Ashfaq Qureshi, Mohammad Akbar Khan, Raheemullah were charged with masterminding suicide attack to kill Chief of Pakistan Islami Tehrik & Muttahida Majlis-e-Amal leader Hasan Turabi on July 14, 2006 outside his house in Gulshan-e-Iqbal, Karachi. They were also charged with grooming suicide bomber for executing plan & being tried by Anti-Terrorism Court Karachi inside prison due to security reasons. Their counsel submitted trial against defendants was pending for last three years, but trial court examined only 10 prosecution witnesses, out of 57, so far. He said trial against his client seemed to be held in-camera as their relatives was disallowed from observe proceedings. Prosecution witnesses were also facing hardship due to inside-prison trial. Counsel stated open trial was right of defendants envisaged in criminal procedure code. He prayed to issue directions for open trial in ATC instead of trial inside prison. SHC division bench said in its order: "Deputy Prosecutor General Sohail Jabbar is directed to call comments from jail authorities and progress in case. Hearing adjourned to date in office."

KBCA to move court for vacating 161 dangerous buildings

KARACHI (PPI): The Karachi Building Control Authority (KBCA) will move the courts to get vacated 161 buildings in Karachi, declared dangerous by the KBCA, as owners of many of these buildings ad got stay orders from courts. In this regard KBCA chief controller Manzoor Qadir has the legal section of the authority to take required measures to move the courts. The committee on dangerous buildings and concerned town building officers have been asked to provide necessary documents to the legal section of KBCA so that the courts could be informed about their status. He said timely action to get these dangerous buildings safely vacated could save the precious human lives. The KBCA has also appealed the residents of these dangerous buildings to voluntarily vacate them at the earliest. It also appealed the general public to play their due role in this regard, and inform the KBCA about violation of building rules and use of substandard material in any building, especially in the congested residential areas. Separately, the KBCA termed illegal the selling of plots and advertisement for it in a private public sell project "Super Dreams" of Super Developers. It said the required permission for this project from the KBCA was not obtained. It advised the public not to indulge in any transaction regarding this illegal project; otherwise, they would be responsible, themselves, for any loss.

PCB plays down KCCA request to move matches from Ramazan

Karachi (PPI): Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) rejected the Karachi City Cricket Association (KCCA) request to move the Regional Inter District U-19 One-Day and Two-Day tournaments from the holy month of Ramazan. Secretary KCCA Sirajul Islam Bukhari requested PCB to change the date of the tournaments asked either to play the matches before or after the month of Ramazan. However, PCB said that the One-Day and Two-Day tournaments would start from 16th and 17th August 2009 respectively as it was earlier scheduled. "Some matches of this tournament will be played in the Holy month of Ramadan. It is a regular practice and this is not the first time that the matches would be played in Ramadan," PCB official said. "The dates of these tournaments were fixed keeping in view the ICC Under-19 World Cup in New Zealand," he added.

Indian Navy to undergo infrastructural development soon

Kochi (PPI): Indian Navy would undergo infrastructural development in the next few years, Admiral Sureesh Mehta, Chief of Naval Staff, said Tuesday. Addressing a ceremonial parade at Naval Base here, he said Indian Navy was getting much needed "boost" in terms of advanced ships, submarines and aircraft. Navy had taken steps for procurement of an aircraft carrier, new helicopters and MIG 29, which would be inducted into the force within four years. Admiral Mehta, who will retire on August 31 said Navy had commissioned Indian Naval Academy at Ezhimala in Kerala and Naval Base at Karwar in Karnataka.

Pakistan Railways starts booking consignments for its international container train

Lahore (PPI): Pakistan Railways has started booking consignments for its international container train to be inaugurated on August 14 which would run from Islamabad to Turkey via Tehran. Train being run under Economic Cooperation Organisation (ECO), will consist of 20 containers with capacity of around 750 tons. Chief Marketing Manager Freight Pakistan Railways Imtiaz Hussain Rizvi said on Tuesday ``we have contacts with traders and hopefully freight for train would be secured by August 10. In case cargo is not obtained as per full capacity till August 10, booking will continue upto Aug 14.'' He hoped traders from Lahore, Faisalabad, Islamabad would prefer to send their consignments by train as it would take 15 days to reach Turkey against ship which takes about a month. He said first train which is demonstrative one Pakistan Railways accepted same tariff being charged in Turkey & Iran. ``After running first train, we would review it.''

Pest attacks wheat stored in govt godown

BADIN (PPI): Eight thousand four hundred bags of wheat worth Rs20 million are at the stake after reports of pest attack on a government godown at Tando Ghulam Ali town near here . The sources said godown has been sealed off after conducting pesticide spray so as save the stocked wheat. The pest has also been found in godown No.3. The relevant authorities are taking steps to get pesticide sprays to save the wheat stock.

Young man shot dead in Saeedabad area

Karachi (PPI): A young man was killed at Bismillah Chowk, Sector 4-F, Lane no 12 within the limits of Saeedabad police station on Tuesday. The victim, identified as Nadeem Khan, 26 son of Sarfarz Khan, was resident of same area where the incident took place. The station head officer of the Saeedabad police station, Zahid Hussain, said the incident took place on late Monday night but police was informed about the incident at Tuesday morning. He said victim was Punjabi speaking and he married a Pakhtoon girl and used to live alone with his wife. He said according to his wife he left home at 1:00am Monday night to buy some medicines and did not return till morning. His wife informed the police and relatives of the victim. When the police reached there they found the bullet-riddled body of the victim near his house. He said the victim had no affiliation to any political party. He was a machinist at local loom mill. He got married two year before. His father was a police constable at local police station. The police officer said the victim might be killed over some family dispute. The police registered a case and initiated further probe.

AJK WDP approves 11 uplift projects worth Rs731m

MUZAFFARABAD, AJK (PPI): Azad Jammu and Kashmir Working Development Party has approved 11 uplifts projects worth Rs731 million. The projects belong to communication, social welfare, education and sports sector. A meeting was held at Kashmir Plan House in chair with Additional Chief Secretary Development Captain (retd) Muhammad Yousuf here on Tuesday. Senior Chief Development Muhammad Hafeez Kyani and secretaries of relevant departments and other high officials attended the meeting. The meeting approved Rs394.5 million for three projects of communication in which Rs123.3 million allocated for 20km Kahuta-Palandari Road, repair of 2.5km Kahuta bypass, Rs 59.9 million allocated for construction and expansion of a bridge in Kotli and Rs21.8 million for purchasing machinary for Department of Roads South. It approved Rs14.3 million for three projects of education sector. The meeting approved Rs68.4 million for four projects of social welfare including setting up Kashiyana in Kotli, Bagh, and establishment of centers for employment and women development in whole Azad Kashmir, besides constructing shelter homes in district headquarters of Azad Jammu and Kashmir. The meeting also approved Rs126.9 million to purchase land for constructing a stadium in Khoi Ratta. Addressing the meeting Additional Chief Secretary Captain (retd) Muhammad Yousuf said completion of uplifts projects in stipulated time is responsibility of relevant departments. The government is trying to spur the development process and large funds are being provided in this regard. He asked all departments to make comprehensive strategy for all projects as per allocated budget and present it before relevant forums for approval. He said the AJK would develop with the completion of these uplift projects, besides paving way for many new opportunities of investment.

MBBS final supplementary exam schedule

Karachi (PPI): The Karachi University Tuesday announced schedule for MBBS Final Professional Supplementary examination 2009. The examination would be held this month at the Center of Excellence for Women Studies, University of Karachi. A total of 33 candidates would appear in the exam. The paper of surgery-I would be held on Tuesday August 8, surgery-II on Thursday August 13, pediatrics on Saturday August 15, medicine-I on Monday August 17, medicine-II on Wednesday August 19, gynecology on Saturday August 22, and obstetrics on Monday August 14, 2009. The timing of all papers would be 2:30 to 5:00p.m.

SHC admits appeal of defendant facing death sentence in artist Afreen Baig murder case

KARACHI (PPI): Sindh High Court Tuesday admitted for hearing appeal of defendant awarded death sentence in TV producer, artist Afreen Baig's murder case of October 2004. Farooq Mengal, husband of Afreen Baig, her driver Mohammad Bux and his wife Zahida were prosecuted with killing TV artist in her house in DHA, Karachi, on Oct 14, 2004. Additional Sessions Judge, South, Karachi, Abdul Razzaq, who conducted trial inside Central Prison, convicted Muhammad Bux as found guilty of committing offence on July 22, 2009. He was awarded death sentence in addition to fine Rs 100,000 to be paid by him to legal heirs of deceased Afreen Baig & serve six months RI on default subject to confirmation of sentences by SHC. He was also awarded seven years RI US 392, 397 PPC, fine Rs 10,000 and undergo additional six months RI on default. Deceased's husband Farooq Mengal was acquitted due to want of evidence. Advocates Shahid Nazir Khan and Syed Salahuddin filed appeal on behalf of defendant Muhammad Bux in SHC, submitting impugned judgement passed by trial court was contrary to evidence, facts available on record & against principal of laws. No legal recovery was affected from appellant, who on many occasions was found in illegal detention. No single eyewitness to crime was available. Prosecution itself proved ATM bank accounts of deceased were used by many people even on eventful day, but there was no basis of their use by appellant. Challan not remotely connected to appellant. Counsels prayed to set aside impugned judgement or amend it and release him. SHC division bench said in order: "Appeal is accordingly admitted to regular hearing. Let paper book be prepared. Notice be issued to Prosecutor General Sindh. It is further revealed through judgement that other co-accused, Farooq Mengal, has been acquitted and in case appeal against acquittal judgement is filed, same may also be placed alongwith this appeal."

LCCI demands ROZ in whole Balochistan province

Lasbela (PPI): Dr. Muhammad Aslam, President Lasbela Chamber of Commerce & Industries has urged the Prime Minister of Pakistan to ensure the inclusion of the whole province of Balochistan in the programme of developing the Reconstruction Opportunity Zone in order to avoid the discrimination feelings amongst the people of the province due to exclusion of some its parts as proposed by some sectors. He paid tributes to the efforts of the Governor and Chief Minister of Balochistan to include the whole province in the above Zone and assured them to fully cooperate with them to attract industrial investment in the region, which would be much helpful for the economic development of the Province and uplifting of its people.

UBL Academy, Mans Hawks to feature in tournament in KL

Karachi (PPI): UBL Academy and Mans Hawks cricket teams will leave for Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on Wednesday to feature in a four-team event involving two Malaysian national teams. The tour has been arranged at the request of Malaysian Cricket Association and tournament will be played at famous international venue, the Kinara Oval in Kuala Lumpur. The forty-over tournament will be played on a round robin league from August 8 to 12 with two top teams qualifying for the final of the event. A former Test umpire Saleem Badar will also accompany the contingent. A Karachi Region Under19 all-rounder Hassan Mehmood will lead Mans Hawks, while wicket-keeper Asim Saleem will be the Captain UBL Academy during the Malaysian assignment. UBL Academy: Asim Saleem (Captain), Hassan Tariq, Adil Ashraf, Adeel Ahmed, Abid Nawaz Afridi, Musaib Haider Ali, Valeed Bin Arif, Rabi Khan, Rabish Ahmed, Syed Muzzamil, Talal Khan and Farhan Rafiq, Nawab Alam (coach), Ataur Rehman (Manager). Mans Hawks: Hassan Mahmood (Captain), Jahangir Shah, Salman Bukhari, Hasan Bukhari (wicketkeeper), Faheem, Mohammad Talha Khan, Syed Sameer Ali, Mohsin Zaman, Shahroz Ali, Adil Irshad, Jasir Bin Khalid and Talha Ali, Saleem Badar (coach).

Kidney Center Landhi doctors call on Marri

KARACHI (PPI): Sindh Minister for Information Shazia Marri has said the government would not render anyone unemployed and it would provide employment to jobless. She said this while talking to delegation of doctors from Kidney Centre Landhi Karachi who called on her at her office on Tuesday. The delegation told her that they had been appointed on contract basis two years back and now they were being fired. The Minister assured the doctors that she would raise the issue with Sindh Chief Minster and Sindh Labor Minister and they would be provided justice. The doctors said Pakistan People Party (PPP) had provided jobs to various people in its every tenure. Dr Shahnawaz, Dr Shahid Butt, Dr Rauf, Dr Shafqat, Irfan Memon and Khadim Hussain and others comprised the delegation.