Author: dailybalochistantimes.com

Multan: In a thrilling encounter, Pakistan secured a commanding 127-run victory over the West Indies in the first Test match in Multan, taking a 1-0 lead in the two-match series. Chasing a target of 251, the West Indies were bowled out for just 123 runs, due to a stellar performance by Pakistan's spinners. Sajid Khan was the star of the show with five wickets, while Abrar Ahmed and Noman Ali claimed four and one wickets, respectively. For the visitors, Alick Athanaze stood tall with a resilient 55 runs, but his efforts were not enough to save his team from defeat. Resuming their second innings at 109/3, Pakistan struggled to build momentum. Saud Shakeel departed early without adding to his overnight score, falling for just two runs. Wickets tumbled quickly as Mohammad Rizwan (2), Kamran Ghulam (27), and Salman Ali Agha (14) failed to contribute significantly. Pakistan were eventually dismissed for 157 runs, setting a 251-run target for the visitors.

West Indies spinner Jomel Warrican wreaked havoc, taking an impressive seven wickets, while Gudakesh Motie picked up one while two Pakistani players were run out. The West Indies began their chase under pressure, losing their first wicket at just 16 runs when skipper Kraigg Brathwaite was dismissed by Sajid Khan. Wickets continued to fall at regular intervals as the visitors struggled to handle the Pakistani spin attack. Keacy Carty (6), Kavem Hodge (0), and Justin Greaves (9) failed to make an impact, while Tevin Imlach (14) and Kevin Sinclair (10) offered brief resistance. Gudakesh Motie and Jomel Warrican were both dismissed without scoring, leaving Alick Athanaze as the lone fighter with his valiant 55-run effort. Earlier in the match, Pakistan managed 230 runs in their first innings, with West Indies collapsing for just 137 in response. The early lead proved crucial as the hosts dominated the second innings. With this convincing win, Pakistan showcased their dominance, particularly through th eir spinners. The victory also gives them momentum heading into the second Test of the series, as they look to secure a clean sweep.

Faisalabad: Assistant Commissioner (AC) Saddar Aurangzaib Goraya said on Sunday that efforts would be accelerated to make the entire tehsil encroachment-free by adopting zero-tolerance policy.

Supervising anti-encroachment drive here, he said scope of the operation would be expanded from highways to main markets. He said that stalls and carts were removed from the main bazaars and cleared them for smooth flow of vehicular traffic in addition to adding beauty to the city whereas the cart venders were shifted to pushcart markets, established in various parts of the tehsil.

He said that Chief Minister (CM) Punjab Maryam Nawaz had issued clear directives for complete removal of encroachments. In line with these instructions, the markets and highways were being cleared from encroachments to restore public spaces and improve urban management. He, however, stressed the need for public cooperation to achieve the goal of a clean and encroachment-free tehsil.

Abbottabad: The Additional Chief Secretary for Home Affairs, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on Sunday has announced a province-wide ban on CNG stations under Section 144, effective until January 31, 2025.

The measure aims to ensure the uninterrupted supply of natural gas to domestic consumers amid the harsh winter season.

This is the third such restriction in recent season, following similar bans during the previous two winter seasons, which were implemented to prioritize household needs during periods of high gas demand.

The provincial administration emphasizes that the step is crucial to address the challenges posed by a sharp increase in gas consumption during colder months, ensuring that essential heating and cooking requirements of households are met without disruption.

Faisalabad: Water And Sanitation Agency (WASA) has successfully completed repair and restoration of the settled main force line at PS-34 Disposal Station and trunk sewer line in Jhang Bazaar.

Managing Director (MD) WASA Aamer Aziz said here on Sunday that Deputy Director Operations Engineer Nauman Noor along with his worked strenuously and achieved this milestone in a short span of time. After completion of these critical repair works, the sewerage operations have resumed smoothly in Jowala Nagar, Samanabad, Raja Park, Sheikhanwala, and other adjacent areas including Jhang Bazaar.

He said that WASA engineers and staffers demonstrated exceptional dedication by working round the clock for restoring the main force line and trunk sewer line Jhang Bazaar.

In this connection, the public cooperation also remained pivotal, he said and appealed for continuous this support in future also.

Sukkur: In a collaboration for community welfare, Shah Abdul Latif University (SALU), Khairpur, partnered with Alkhidmat and the Manan Qazi Foundation, conducted 35 free eye surgeries.

According to a release on Sunday, these surgeries, performed at Sukkur Alkhidmat Hospital, brought relief to patients from Khairpur Mir's and nearby areas.

Vice Chancellor (VC), SALU, Prof Dr Yousif Khushuk emphasized the university's dedication to societal well-being. 'This collaboration reflects SALU's mission to go beyond academia and support the health and well-being of the community, in alignment with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, especially Goal 3: Good Health and Well-Being,' he stated.

Dr. Ali Raza Lashari, Coordinator of the Student Societies Center at SALU, highlighted the university's proactive role in addressing health challenges. 'Our Health and Hygiene Society has consistently organized health camps during emergencies and disasters. This collaboration with Alkhidmat and the Manan Qazi Foundation is another milestone, showcasing how partnerships can make a significant impact. It aligns perfectly with SDG Goal 17: Partnership for the Goals,' he remarked.

Rawalpindi: Rawalpindi District Police on the directives of City Police Officer, Rawalpindi are making efforts to control kite flying and managed to arrest four kite sellers on recovery of over 552 kites and kite flying string rolls, said a police spokesman here on Sunday.

He informed, that Waris Khan police arrested three kite sellers namely Attique ur Rehman, Dawood Akhtar and Wajahat and recovered 527 kites and five kite flying string rolls.

Sadiqabad police also rounded up a kite seller, Musa and recovered 25 kite from his possession.

Separate cases have been registered against the accused and further investigations are under process.

Superintendent of Police, Rawal directed the police teams to accelerate operations against kite sellers and flyers.