Category: District

Multan: In a bid to ensure an exemplary waste management system, Multan Waste Management Company (MWMC) has launched a comprehensive smart cleanliness operation across the City of Saints.

Following the directions of Commissioner Aamir Kareem Khan, a massive cleanliness drive has been initiated at key entry and exit points, main roads, and residential colonies.

To tackle dirt and garbage effectively, the entire fleet of MWMC's machinery has been deployed in the field. Advanced mechanical sweepers and tractor loaders are being utilized for debris clearance, while special spraying operations have also commenced to suppress dust and dirt on roads.

Chief Executive Officer MWMC, Abdul Razzaq Dogar, said that a control room has been established to monitor the cleanliness operation. Meanwhile, Divisional Manager Anwar-ul-Haq inspected the field operation and received briefings on the ongoing activities.

MWMC is going to setting up new landfill sites and temporary transfer stations across the division to ensure proper waste disposal," said CEO Abdul Razzaq Dogar.

A uniform waste management system will be imposed across all four districts of the region by the end of this month.

Peshawar: To effectively combat the spread of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), there is an urgent need to adopt contemporary strategies that leverage technology, social media, and targeted messaging.

These approaches are essential for creating impactful awareness among the masses about the prevention and treatment of this life-threatening disease.

This recommendation was emphasized during the fourth quarterly meeting of the Provincial AIDS Network, held at the conference room of the National Commission for Human Rights (NCHR).

The meeting was attended by CEO of Da Hawa Lur, Khurshid Bano, noted health activist Nighat Kamdar, NCHR Coordinator M. Rizwan, Dr. Faheem Nawaz of UOP, transgender activist Sobia Khan, media representatives and other stakeholders.

The Provincial AIDS Network, established by the non-governmental organization Da Hawa Lur, aims to curb the spread of HIV and ensure proper treatment for infected patients.

As part of its efforts, the organization has developed a comprehensive strategy titled Plan of Action to reduce HIV/AIDS prevalence in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. This plan will be presented to relevant government officials for implementation.

Shawana Shah, Programme Director of Da Hawa Lur, highlighted the importance of modern awareness campaigns.

'By utilizing data-driven strategies, engaging storytelling, and culturally sensitive communication, we can break down stigmas, educate communities, and encourage proactive measures such as testing, prevention, and treatment,' she stated.

She emphasized the need for improved advocacy to sensitize the public and policymakers about the threats posed by HIV to public health.

The meeting participants stressed the need to rethink awareness efforts to ensure they resonate with today's audiences, creating a meaningful impact in the fight against HIV.

During the discussion, a consensus emerged on the importance of developing a centralized database of HIV patients.

To facilitate this, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) will be signed with the University of Peshawar to initiate research and data collection.

Participants also called for the centralization of patient data under the Provincial AIDS Control Programme in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to ensure proper treatment for all affected individuals.

Nighat Kamdar, a veteran with over two decades of experience in HIV prevention, proposed innovative awareness initiatives, such as street theatre programs and social media campaigns.

'Insufficient public health education leaves people unaware of HIV transmission risks, prevention methods, and treatment options,' she lamented.

Another suggestion involved engaging influential social media personalities to host podcasts and motivational programs aimed at educating the public about HIV risks and preventive measures.

At the outset of the meeting, Aisha from Da Hawa Lur shared media reports indicating that over 6,000 HIV patients are registered in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, including 2,080 women, 171 transgender individuals, and the remaining men.

The meeting concluded with a unified call for immediate action, underscoring the importance of modern, inclusive, and data-driven approaches to combat HIV/AIDS effectively.

Sukkur: Like other parts of the country, Kashmir Solidarity Day will be observed in northern Sindh including Sukkur, Khairpur, Ghotki, Noshehroferoze, Shikarpur, Jaccobabad, Kashmore- Kandhkot and other districts on Saturday to express solidarity with the Kashmiri people struggling for their right to self-determination under United Nations resolutions.

The Government of Sindh also announced February 5 as holiday to observe Kashmir Solidarity Day in support of Kashmiris.

The day will start with special prayers in almost all mosques of the region for early freedom of occupied Kashmir.

Quran Khawani sittings will also be arranged after Fajr prayers where the participants will offer Fateha for the souls of martyrs of Kashmir struggle.

The religious, political as well as social organizations will arrange a number of function, meetings, seminars and walks to highlight the Kashmir Solidarity Day.

Sukkur Municipal Corporation (SMC) will also chalk-out the various programmes in this regard.

Besides, the social organizations as well as political parties have also chalked out programmes to mark the day.

Sargodha: Punjab Emergency Service (Rescue 1122) Sargodha provided services to 5,486 people in average response time of 7.9 minutes in the district in January.

Sharing the monthly performance report of the Rescue 1122 with media on Saturday, District Emergency Officer Mazhar Shah said that during January, the service conducted 5,692 rescue operations and provided first aid to 2,448 people on the spot.

He said that rescue teams transported 2,795 people to hospitals for medical care but 243 people lost their lives in various incidents last month. The emergencies included 1,128 road traffic accidents, 3,886 medical emergencies, 89 criminal incidents and 58 fire incidents.

He emphasized the growing concern over the rising number of dumper-related accidents. He urged the public to follow the traffic laws and safety regulations to avoid accidents. Rescue 1122 continues to work tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of Sargodha's residents, he added.

Nathiagali: Galyat is experiencing a continuous spell of snowfall on Saturday.

According to Assistant Director of Galyat Development Authority (GDA), Ahsen Hameed, this is the third spell of snowfall of the current season in the region.

Intermittent snowfall in areas including Nathiagali, Khaira Gali, Changla Gali, and Thandiani, as well as other parts of Galyat.

This weather pattern is expected to continue through the night.

Hameed also said that snowfall of up to six to seven inches has been recorded in several areas.

He highlighted that due to the lack of snowfall in previous months, the underground water levels had decreased, leading to difficulties in water access for locals.

However, he assured that the current snowfall will resolve these water shortages.

Despite fewer tourists in the region on Saturday, the GDA's staff and machinery remain on hand to assist both visitors and local residents with their needs.

Abbottabad: Following the recent snowfall in Galiyat, road clearance operations are in full swing with the help of heavy machinery.

The Deputy Commissioner of Abbottabad has directed Additional Assistant Commissioner Galiyat, Shamim Ullah, to oversee the ongoing activities in collaboration with the Galiyat Development Authority (GDA).

In light of the prevailing weather conditions, tourists traveling to Galiyat, Thandiani, and other mountainous regions in Abbottabad district have been advised to take necessary precautions.

Authorities have implemented several measures to ensure the safety and convenience of visitors.

To prevent potential hazards, the use of gas cylinders or coal by tourists will be prohibited after midnight. The Communication and Works Department and the Galiyat Development Authority have deployed heavy machinery and staff around the clock to facilitate road clearance and ensure smooth traffic flow.

Additionally, dumping of construction materials along roadsides has been strictly banned to prevent any disruption in movement.

For the ease of travelers and locals, petrol pumps will maintain a continuous supply of fuel. Tourists are advised to check the fitness of their vehicles before setting out for their journey, ensuring they have a sufficient amount of fuel. In snowy conditions, the use of iron chains on vehicle tires is recommended, along with driving in low gear for better control.

Travelers should also carry essential food supplies such as dry fruits, biscuits, and water to prepare for any unforeseen circumstances.

Authorities have urged visitors to avoid unnecessary travel at night, especially during fog or snowfall, and to use fog lights and indicators for visibility. Additionally, citizens and tourists must remain cautious of potential landslides and avalanches in mountainous areas.

In case of emergencies, travelers can contact the District Control Room Abbottabad at 09929310553, the District Resource and Communication Center Abbottabad at 09929310556, or the Galiyat Control Room Nathiagali at 0992355138.