Day: July 11, 2026

Peshawar: Internationally renowned public health expert and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, Dr. Sania Nishtar has lauded the contribution of civil society organizations (CSOs) in reaching zero-dose and under-immunized children in remote and hard-to-reach areas.

The community-based efforts by CSOs had played a pivotal role in improving vaccine acceptance and expanding immunization coverage, she added.

She expressed these views while addressing the “Listening, Learning and Partnering” dialogue between Gavi and civil society organizations working to strengthen routine immunization, particularly among zero-dose, under-immunized, and hard-to-reach children.

The dialogue also served as a platform to review lessons learned from the first phase of Pakistan’s Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination programme and develop strategies for the successful rollout of the cervical cancer prevention campaign in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in November 2026.

Representatives of various organizations, including Community Health Directorate (CHD) of Indus Hospital, Rural Education and Economic Development Society (REEDS), Civil Society Human and Institutional Development Programme (CHIP), Association of Mothers and Newborns (AMAN), Medical Emergency Resilience Foundation (MERF), HUJRA Village Support Organization and KDO (Khagarah Development Organization), shared their experiences in delivering immunization services in remote, underserved, and security-compromised areas.

Director General Federal Directorate of Immunization (FDI) Dr. Musa Khan, Coordinator of the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Shafiullah Khan, Director Expanded Programme on Immunization (EPI) KP Dr. Suhail Ahmad, Strategic Advisor for CSO Engagement at MannionDaniels, Huma Khawar, health officials and representatives of partner organizations also attended the dialogue.

Dr. Sania said she came from a civil society background and fully understood the invaluable role played by CSOs, as well as the challenges faced by their staff in working under demanding conditions, heavy workloads and tight deadlines.

She said meaningful public health interventions could not succeed without the active engagement of civil society organizations, which often work in remote and underserved communities where routine health teams face difficulties in gaining access and overcoming vaccine hesitancy.

Agreeing with a suggestion from participants, Dr. Sania emphasized the need to allocate adequate time for planning immunization campaigns and communicating clear and convincing messages to communities about the importance of vaccination.

She said public confidence could not be built through hasty or short-term efforts, stressing that sustained community engagement, effective communication, and meticulous planning were essential for the success of any immunization campaign.

She advised health workers to ensure detailed planning, strict adherence to implementation plans, and unwavering commitment while carrying out immunization activities. She also urged them to treat communities with humility, respect, and empathy to build trust and encourage greater vaccine acceptance.

Reaffirming Gavi’s long-term commitment to Pakistan, she said the organization would continue supporting the country’s immunization programme despite a decline in financial contributions from some donor countries.

“We will continue to support all vaccines, including the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, to help prevent cervical cancer among women and girls,” she added.

Dera ismail khan: The head of the inquiry committee constituted by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government and the Higher Education Commission (HEC) to investigate issues concerning Gomal University has said that the committee is conducting its work independently and impartially to ensure the submission of a transparent report.

Commissioner Dera Division Muhammad Daud Khan, who is heading the committee, expressed these views while talking to a delegation of Dera Ismail Khan civil society at his office on Friday.

The delegation was led by former justice Muhammad Daud Khan.

The commissioner said the committee would record statements from all stakeholders before obtaining the viewpoints of Gomal University Vice Chancellor Prof. Dr. Zafar Iqbal Baloch and Registrar Dr. Zahir Shah.

He said the committee would not rely on verbal allegations but would prepare its report on the basis of written evidence and documentary proof.

“We will compile and submit a report supported by documentary evidence. Anyone possessing relevant records or evidence is welcome to present them before the committee,” he added.

Speaking on behalf of the civil society delegation, former justice Muhammad Daud Khan expressed confidence in the inquiry committee, saying its members were credible and trustworthy individuals who would conduct the investigation in an impartial and independent manner.

The delegation included Gulzar Ahmad, Syed Irshad Hussain, Muhammad Irfan Mughal, Shafqat Qayyum Alizai, and Abul Muazzam Turabi.

Assistant to Commissioner (Political and Development) Sajjad Baloch was also present during the meeting.

Rawalpindi: President of the Restaurants, Caterers, Sweets and Bakers Association Pakistan, Muhammad Farooq Chaudhry, on Friday strongly condemned the recent terrorist attacks in Balochistan, terming them cowardly acts aimed at undermining national security, peace and stability.

He said the martyrdom of 27 police personnel, 11 soldiers and 4 civilians in these incidents was a tragic loss for the entire nation, adding that the sacrifices of the martyrs would always remain a source of pride.

In a joint statement, Muhammad Farooq Chaudhry, Chairman Mumtaz Ahmad and Patron-in-Chief Chaudhry Muhammad Naeem said the fight against terrorism was not only the responsibility of security forces but of the entire nation.

They paid tribute to Field Marshal General Syed Asim Munir for his prudent and courageous leadership, stating that under his command, effective operations against terrorists and anti-state elements were continuing and hostile designs were being foiled on all fronts.

Farooq Chaudhry said that armed forces had demonstrated unmatched bravery, professionalism and enduring sacrifices in the war against terrorism, adding that their services for the defence, peace and stability of the country were unforgettable.

The leaders expressed complete solidarity with the armed forces and prayed for the elevation of ranks of the martyrs, early recovery of the injured and patience for the bereaved families.

They said national unity, harmony and cohesion were essential to eliminate terrorism and ensure lasting peace, stability and prosperity in Pakistan.

Chiniot: In line with the vision of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif to protect women’s rights, practical steps are being taken to address women’s problems on a priority basis through the Anti-Women Harassment and Violence Cell.

The Cell received more than 110 applications of various types last June. During the month, 74 applications were related to domestic violence, fights, and disputes between husbands and wives. Additionally, 10 harassment, 11 transaction disputes, 10 dowry-related, and 7 other applications were received.

Action was taken as per rules on all applications to resolve the problems of women. Cases were registered in different police stations on eight applications.

Speaking to the media, Sub-Inspector Shamaila said the safety of women is being ensured through an awareness campaign in the Anti-Women Harassment and Violence Cell.

She added that women can get help via the Women Safety App, Punjab Police Public App, and emergency numbers in any emergency situation.

Punjab Police is taking all possible steps to prevent incidents of domestic violence, harassment, and abuse against women.

She further said a virtual women’s police station has been established to protect women’s rights and prevent violence and harassment. In case of any problem, women can file an online complaint at the virtual women’s police station.

Muzaffargarh: A green bus terminal has been set up in tehsil Chowk Azam of Layyah district.

Additional Deputy Commissioner General (ADCG) Shabir Ahmad inaugurated the terminal, which is expected to become operational within the next few days.

Talking to journalists, the ADCG said the launch of the green bus service would bring a new era of comfortable and reliable public transport for local residents, who have long been relying on substandard transport facilities to reach their destinations.

He said the terminal would be kept clean and regularly sprinkled with water to control dust and ensure a pleasant environment for passengers. He added that security arrangements at the terminal and on the buses would be strengthened to ensure the safety of passengers and boost public confidence in the new transport system.

He said the green bus service has been designed to provide a safe, comfortable and smooth travelling experience, which is one of the key objectives of the Punjab government. No hurdle would be allowed to disrupt the commuting of people through the green bus service, he maintained.

Peshawar: The Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) on Friday issued a weather alert forecasting rain, strong winds and thunderstorms across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on July 11 and 12, warning of possible flash floods, landslides and urban flooding in several districts.

According to a PDMA spokesperson, heavy rainfall is expected in Chitral, Swat, Upper and Lower Dir, Shangla, Mansehra and Kohistan, where the risk of landslides remains high.

The authority warned that flash flooding could occur in parts of the Malakand and Hazara divisions, while urban flooding is likely in Peshawar, Charsadda, Nowshera, Mardan, Swabi and Abbottabad due to heavy downpours.

PDMA cautioned that strong winds and lightning may damage vulnerable houses, electricity poles and standing crops.

All district administrations and relevant departments have been directed to complete precautionary measures in advance.

Rescue teams, heavy machinery and emergency services have also been instructed to remain on high alert to respond promptly to any emergency situation.

The authority advised tourists to avoid unnecessary travel and exercise extreme caution near rivers, streams and mountainous areas during the forecast period.

Citizens have been urged to stay away from weak structures, exposed electricity wires and seasonal drainage channels during rainfall, while farmers and livestock owners have been advised to take preventive measures to protect crops and animals.

The PDMA’s Emergency Operations Centre remains operational round the clock, and the public has been advised to contact the emergency helpline 1700 in case of any emergency, the spokesperson added.