UET awards PhD degrees

Lahore:The University of Engineering and Technology (UET) Lahore has conferred PhD degrees in Electrical Engineering to two scholars.

According to a UET spokesman, Anam Mughees completed her doctoral thesis on 'Development of Novel Feature Extraction Method Based on Fractal Analysis for Appliance Classification in Nonintrusive Load Monitoring," while Muhammad Anique Aslam's research focused on 'Microgrid Control with Grid Support Features for High Penetration of Renewable Energy Sources."

Both candidates successfully completed their respective research projects, contributing significantly to their fields of study.

Anti-encroachments operation intensified

Lahore:A comprehensive operation to remove encroachments across various areas of Lahore is currently underway, with strict measures being implemented to clear public spaces. In line with the directives of Deputy Commissioner (DC) Syed Musa Raza, Assistant Commissioner (AC) Sahibzada Mohammad Yousaf conducted a rigorous operation against encroachments in the Model Town area. The operation led to the sealing of 10 shops, and two trucks of goods were confiscated. In another move, 11 more shops were sealed, and two trucks of goods were seized in Model Town.

AC Shalimar Dr Anum Fatima oversaw the retrieval of 12 kanals of government land in Shalimar, worth approximately 240 million rupees. Additionally, she carried out a crackdown in the Garhi Shaho Bazaar, sealing 11 food points and providing one day's notice to the affected shopkeepers.

AC City Rai Babar led a coordinated operation against encroachments and illegal banners in key commercial areas including Mall Road, Hall Road, Urdu Bazaar, and Anarkali Market. AC Nishtar Mohammad Saleem Asi carried out an operation against encroachments and illegal banners on Ferozepur Road, enhancing measures to maintain traffic flow and public safety. AC Ravi Tariq Shabbir took action in the city's vegetable market, confiscating a truckload of fruits and vegetables. Announcements were also made from mosques in Model Town urging shopkeepers to remove encroachments around their premises.

AC Fatima Arshad visited prominent roads such as Allama Iqbal Road, Infantry Road, and Main Canal Road, removing illegal banners and taking action against street vendors. AC Raiwind Zainab Tahir spearheaded operations against encroachments at Adda Plot and Raiwind Road. AC Iqbal Town Khawaja Mohammad Umair Mahmood took action on Raiwind Road, confiscating goods from one shop and instructing vendors to keep their merchandise inside their stores. AC Sadar Abdul Basit Siddiqui led an operation against illegal encroachments and banners. Due to repeated violations, 10 cases were registered.

DC Syed Musa Raza reiterated that the administration will continue its no-tolerance policy against encroachments. He emphasized that keeping the city clean and free from illegal encroachments remains a top priority. He also urged citizens to report encroachments by contacting the control room at 03070002345.

Eight dead, 1317 injured in 1,250 accidents in Punjab

Lahore:At least eight people were killed and 1,317 injured in 1,250 accidents in Punjab during the last 24 hours. According to the Rescue 1122, 744 drivers, 69 underage drivers, 165 pedestrians, and 415 passengers were among the victims of road traffic crashes. The statistics showed that 264 accidents were reported in Lahore which affected 274 persons placing the provincial capital at top of the list followed by Faisalabad 88 in with 81 victims and at third Multan with 86 accidents and 97 victims.

According to the data, 1110 motorbikes, 82 auto-rickshaws, 145 motorcars, 23 vans, 10 passenger buses, 36 truck and 86 other types of auto vehicles besides slow-moving carts were involved in

the accidents.

Minister calls for SOPs to combat dengue outbreaks

Lahore:Punjab Minister for Primary and Secondary Healthcare Khawaja Imran Nazir has instructed the

preparation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for dengue prevention, taking into account weather conditions and temperature patterns from the previous year.

He made these remarks while addressing as the chief guest at a training workshop for entomologists and dengue master trainers, held at the Institute of Public Health (IPH) under the Department of Primary and Secondary Healthcare on Wednesday.

During his address, the minister directed health department CEOs to establish laboratories in every district for diagnosing dengue larvae samples. He also announced plans to introduce a new policy aimed at achieving effective results in dengue prevention this year.

Khawaja Imran Nazir assured that measures to combat dengue would not compromise the natural environment. He emphasized the need for public awareness, stating that while the government can provide guidance, it is the responsibility of citizens to ensure the cleanliness of their homes and surroundings. He called on the public to support the government in its efforts to eradicate dengue.

The workshop included briefings on the causes and factors behind dengue outbreaks, vector surveillance techniques, and detailed sessions on biological and chemical control, laboratory testing, medication use, spray techniques, fogging, and Indoor Residual Spraying (IRS).

At the conclusion of the workshop, Khawaja Imran Nazir distributed certificates to dengue master trainers. Prominent attendees included Dean IPH Professor Saira Afzal, Director CDC Dr. Yadullah, and Dr. Shaiban.

Sports gala, cultural day celebrations at UET

Lahore:The Department of Computer Science at the University of Engineering and Technology (UET) Lahore organized its annual sports gala and cultural day in a vibrant and festive manner. The event showcased the diverse cultures of Pakistan's all provinces, with students representing their respective cultural traditions. Female students also set up stalls featuring henna, bangles, flower garlands, and jewelry. Vice Chancellor UET Prof Dr Shahid Munir, inaugurated the Sports Gala. He stated that "The culture of any nation is deeply rooted in its people. Celebrating one's culture is the best way to pay tribute to our ancestors. It is crucial for young people to stay connected with their cultural heritage to keep traditions alive." He further emphasized that healthy minds are the foundation of a healthy society and that such activities are essential for students' physical, mental, and social development. The event was attended by Deans, faculty members, administrative staff, and a large number of students. Va rious sports competitions were held, with students participating enthusiastically. The event provided students with a great opportunity for entertainment, learning, and understanding cultural heritage.

Minister visits head office of department of Auqaf & Religious Affairs

Lahore:Provincial Minister for Industry, Commerce, and Auqaf Chaudhry Shafay Hussain visited the head office of the Department of Auqaf and Religious Affairs here on Wednesday. Secretary Auqaf Dr Tahir Raza Bukhari gave a detailed briefing on the organizational structure, workings, and future plans of the department. The minister also chaired the Auqaf Board meeting at the Auqaf House. During the board meeting, a five-point agenda was discussed. The board approved the Auqaf budget estimates of 4,508.367 million rupees for the fiscal year 2024-25. The board ratified the notification of a 20-25 per cent salary increase for employees and a 15 per cent increase in pensions for Auqaf department staff. The board approved the elimination of unnecessary posts in the department as per government policy. The reduction of unnecessary posts will result in annual savings of 33.7 million rupees for the department. The board also approved certain administrative and financial matters of the department. 'It is h eartening to know that the Department of Auqaf and Religious Affairs generates its own resources,' remarked Provincial Minister Chaudhry Shafay Hussain. The minister congratulated the secretary Auqaf on achieving the budget targets. The minister directed improvements in the cleaning system of shrines and mosques under Auqaf's administration.

'Ensure the provision of better facilities to visitors,' instructed the minister. 'There is also a need to increase the rent of Auqaf properties rented out,' said the minister. He directed the development of an effective strategy to eliminate illegal encroachments on Auqaf lands. He emphasized the activation of the United Ulema Board and announced an upcoming visit to the Quran Board. The board meeting was attended by the secretary Auqaf , officials from the Finance, Regulation, and Planning and Development departments, and other relevant officers.