Category: Islamabad

Islamabad: The district administration intensified its action against illegal construction and encroachments in Shah Allah Ditta, demolishing seven unauthorized structures and arresting nine individuals during the latest operation.

Officials also suspended a patwari and removed a revenue estate numberdar over alleged negligence in carrying out official responsibilities.

The operation was conducted under the supervision of the Assistant Commissioner Shalimar as part of an ongoing campaign against unlawful construction in the area. According to the district administration here on Monday, teams carried out inspections in Mauza Shah Allah Ditta and took action against structures built without the required approvals.

During the operation, authorities demolished seven illegal construction sites, including a commercial padel court that was under construction without a No Objection Certificate (NOC). Officials said the action was taken without distinction and that all unauthorized developments were treated in accordance with the law.

Nine people were taken into custody from the site during the enforcement drive. The administration did not immediately disclose further details regarding the arrests but stated that legal proceedings would follow under relevant laws.

The district administration also initiated disciplinary measures against officials responsible for monitoring land records and construction activity in the area. A patwari was suspended after authorities determined that he had failed to identify and report illegal construction activities. In a separate action, the numberdar of the revenue estate was removed from his position for alleged negligence in fulfilling official duties.

Officials reiterated that no construction activity was currently permitted in Mauza Shah Allah Ditta and Sangjhani without prior approval from the relevant authorities. The administration warned that any structure built without a valid NOC would be considered illegal and would face immediate demolition.

The district administration said the crackdown would continue and that enforcement teams would remain active to prevent unauthorized development and protect public land. Authorities stressed that all construction projects must comply with legal requirements and obtain the necessary permissions before work begins.

Residents and property owners have been urged to avoid starting any type of construction without securing the required NOC. The administration warned that violations could result in demolition, legal action, and financial losses for those involved.

Officials said the campaign was aimed at ensuring compliance with planning regulations and preventing unlawful occupation and development of land in the affected areas.

Islamabad: Sardar Mohammad Asif, Deputy Commissioner Capital Development Authority (CDA) and Senior Special Magistrate on Monday reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining close coordination with the business community and assured that his office will remain readily accessible for addressing issues confronting traders and entrepreneurs.

He expressed these views during his visit to the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI) on Monday, where he held a detailed interaction with the chamber leadership and members, said a press release.

Addressing the gathering, Sardar Mohammad Asif said that the business community is the real engine of the national economy, which continues to contribute towards the country’s development with resilience and dedication despite numerous challenges.

He emphasized that all stakeholders must work collectively to transform Islamabad into a model capital city par excellence, equipped with modern civic facilities and a conducive business environment.

He stated that the doors of his office would always remain open for the resolution of issues faced by the business community, adding that stronger collaboration between the civic administration and the private sector would contribute significantly towards sustainable urban development.

Speaking on the occasion, President ICCI Sardar Tahir Mehmood said that the business community and the Capital Development Authority share a special relationship aimed at promoting the development of the federal capital and enhancing trade and investment activities.

He observed that close cooperation between the two institutions is essential to realize the vision of transforming Islamabad into a regional business hub.

He highlighted the significance of cordial relations between ICCI and CDA in making Islamabad a clean, green and attractive city, expressing confidence that this partnership would further strengthen in the coming days to make the capital more vibrant, business-friendly and aesthetically appealing.

Islamabad: Speaker of National Assembly Sardar Ayaz Sadiq has expressed deep grief and heartfelt condolences over the demise of the mother-in-law of the President of the Parliamentary Reporters Association (PRA), M. B. Soomro.

Extending his sympathies to the bereaved family and M. B. Soomro, he prayed to Allah Almighty to elevate her ranks in Jannat-ul-Firdous, and bless the family with patience, strength, and fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.

Ayaz Sadiq said that the passing of an elder is an irreparable loss for any family. He said that in this hour of grief, he stands in solidarity with M. B. Soomro and his family.

He prayed to Allah Almighty to shower His infinite mercy upon the departed soul, grant her the highest place in Jannat-ul-Firdous, and bestow solace upon the bereaved family as they bear this irreparable loss.

Islamabad: Fear of failure has become a major obstacle for many young people in Pakistan. Whether in education, careers or personal life, many believe that one wrong decision or a poor exam result will determine their entire future. This mindset creates stress, lowers self-confidence and makes it difficult to stay motivated. Instead of viewing mistakes as opportunities to learn, many see them as proof that they are incapable.

Experts have long warned about the consequences of unrealistic expectations. Dr. Zainab, a psychiatrist practicing in Islamabad, talking to reporter said, “When young people are taught that their value rests solely on success, failure becomes terrifying, not educational.” He said that when fear of failure becomes overwhelming, it can contribute to anxiety, depression and emotional distress, making timely psychological support essential.

Dr. Kazmi, a Clinical Psychologist, in response to an reporter query explained, “Societies that stigmatize failure often discourage young people from taking healthy risks, trying new opportunities and developing creative thinking. According to her, viewing failure as a learning experience instead of a personal defeat is essential for building resilience and emotional well-being.”

Many young people have experienced this firsthand. Samra Batool, a COMSATS University student living in a hostel, shared, “The fear of failing examinations often keeps me awake at night because delaying my degree is not an option. Studying away from my parents and native home is already expensive, and extending my education would place an additional financial burden on my family.” However, she believes that fear is not always negative. “A reasonable fear of failure creates a sense of responsibility and motivates us to work harder, as long as it does not damage our mental health.”

Employers, however, often value resilience over perfection. “Not everyone needs to have a perfect record. Those who have experienced setbacks and overcome them by learning and progressing are appreciated,” said the human resource manager of a prominent firm in Pakistan. His perspective highlights that adaptability and perseverance can be more valuable than an uninterrupted record of success.

Society also tends to judge individuals by their achievements, careers and financial status. As a result, many young people fear criticism, disappointment and embarrassment if they fail to meet these expectations.

Social media has intensified this pressure. Every day, young people are exposed to posts highlighting scholarships, promotions, successful businesses and outstanding exam results. These carefully curated success stories encourage unhealthy comparisons, making many believe that everyone else is succeeding while they are falling behind.

Fear of failure is not limited to academics alone. Many young people also experience it in career choices, job interviews, entrepreneurship, relationships and even social interactions. The pressure to ‘succeed early’ in life makes them hesitant to take risks such as changing career paths, starting a business, or expressing themselves freely, as failure in any of these areas is often seen as permanent rather than temporary

Students, recent graduates and young job seekers are particularly vulnerable. Those preparing for MDCAT, engineering entrance tests and university admissions often face intense pressure. According to a study by the Pakistan Institute of Living and Learning (PILL), many Pakistani students experience significant stress and anxiety related to academic and career concerns. Mental health professionals also identify academic pressure as one of the biggest challenges facing young people in Pakistan, leading to psychological health issues.

Responsibility for this issue is shared by parents, educational institutions, society and the media. Parents may unintentionally increase pressure by demanding outstanding results or comparing their children with siblings, relatives or classmates. Educational institutions often prioritize grades over creativity, critical thinking and emotional well-being. Society frequently treats failure as a disgrace rather than an inevitable part of growth. Meanwhile, the media often celebrates success without acknowledging the struggles and setbacks behind it.

Pakistan has witnessed several tragic incidents linked to excessive academic pressure. In 2015, Abdul Basit, a final-year dental student at Hamdard University Karachi, became emotionally distressed after being denied permission to sit an examination because he arrived late. The incident sparked a nationwide debate on student stress and academic pressure. Similarly, in 2018, multiple student suicides following Intermediate examination results in Chitral highlighted the immense pressure students face to perform academically and socially.

Fear of failure has become a significant challenge for Pakistan’s youth, fuelled by academic pressure, family expectations, social judgment and unrealistic comparisons.Young people need to understand that failure does not define their worth; it prepares them for greater challenges and stronger successes. Every setback is an opportunity to learn, grow and move one step closer to a brighter destination.

Islamabad: At least two police officials sustained injuries after a speeding truck struck their motorcycle near Hawksbay Road in Karachi on Sunday afternoon while they were on patrol duty.

According to a police official, the incident occurred during routine patrolling when a speeding truck hit the motorcycle from behind near Hawksbay road, media channel reported.

As a result of the collision, the officers lost control and the motorcycle overturned, leaving both personnel injured on the spot. Initial assistance was provided immediately following the accident.

The injured officials were identified as Faizan Ahmad and Malik Tahir. They were taken to Civil Hospital Karachi for medical treatment, while authorities have launched an investigation into the incident.

Islamabad: The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has launched a global call for creative contributions under its Gamechangers campaign, inviting young people to submit creative works on the theme of youth violence and crime. According to the UNODC, the initiative, themed “Understanding Violence and Crime Through the Lens of Youth,” is open to young people aged 18 to 29 from all regions of the world and encourages them to share their perspectives, experiences and ideas through creative expression.

The campaign particularly welcomes submissions from young people who are, or have been, in conflict with the law or affected by involvement in violence or crime and wish to share their experiences, as well as those who have observed, experienced or been impacted by youth violence and crime in their communities.

This has been observed that youth violence and crime affect communities across the world in various forms, including delinquency, gang involvement and recruitment by organized criminal groups.

The organization said lasting prevention requires understanding the root causes of violence, strengthening protective factors and supporting rehabilitation and reintegration.

UNODC said the campaign aims to promote understanding of youth violence and crime while encouraging young people to contribute their lived experiences and perspectives to support more effective prevention responses. Participants may submit a wide range of creative works, including poetry, short stories, illustrations, drawings, paintings, photography, audio pieces, videos, mixed-media creations and other forms of artistic expression.

The selected submissions will contribute to a digital youth zine featuring creative works from around the world.

These works will also be showcased at a youth art exhibition on violence and crime during the Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Convention against Transnational Organized Crime (UNTOC), scheduled to be held in Vienna from October 19 to 23, 2026.

The organization said the campaign is intended to support advocacy for more inclusive and youth-centred approaches to violence and crime prevention.

The deadline for submitting entries is July 31, 2026.

According to the campaign announcement, the initiative is funded by the Ministry of Justice of the People’s Republic of China.