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Political stability key to Pakistan’s sustainable growth, prosperity: Shahid Imran


Lahore: Political stability is the cornerstone of a strong and resilient economy, and it is a dire need for Pakistan in prevailing global scenario to achieve sustainable growth, development, and prosperity by forging unity



in all ranks in the larger national interest.



These remarks were made by Shahid Imran, Convener of the Federation of Pakistan Chambers of Commerce and Industry’s Regional Standing Committee on Food, during a meeting with a delegation of traders led by Zia Ur Rehman, here on Wednesday.



Shahid Imran said stable political environment fosters investor confidence, encourages economic activity, and attracts foreign direct investment, all of which are critical for economic progress.



Political stability also ensures social harmony, which is critical for fostering a productive workforce and reducing inequalities. It creates an environment where innovation and entrepreneurship can thrive, paving the way for inclusive growth.



Shahid Imran said achieving political stability must be a top priority and its not merely a political agenda but a fundamental prerequisite for building a prosperous and self-reliant Pakistan capable of withstanding global economic challenges,he concluded.



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Tarar congratulates newly elected leaders of KJF office bearers

Islamabad: Minister for Information, Broadcasting, National Heritage, and Culture, Attaullah Tarar, on Wednesday congratulated the newly elected office bearers of the Kashmir Journalists Forum (KJF).

In his message, the minister extended his felicitations to President Sardar Irfan Sadozai and General Secretary Maqsood Muntazir, expressing confidence in their ability to lead the forum toward greater success. He also conveyed his best wishes to the new leadership.

Highlighting the significance of the KJF, the minister noted its vital role as a voice for the people of Kashmir, emphasizing its contributions to promoting the freedom movement, addressing Azad Kashmir's political landscape, and raising public concerns.

The KJF continues to be a powerful platform advocating for the rights and aspirations of the Kashmiri people.

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Punjab govt cracks down on pollution

Lahore: On the directives of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, a province-wide crackdown on pollution-causing brick kilns and industrial units was launched, resulting in significant actions to improve air quality.

From March 1 to December 31, 2024, hundreds of brick kilns were shut down, while strict legal measures were enforced against violators, says a press release issued here on Wednesday.

The authorities inspected over 11,000 brick kilns across Punjab and issued 11,153 notices to kiln owners, demolished 1,191 non-compliant kilns, and sealed 1,335 others. Additionally, 1,832 FIRs were registered against violators, and 95% of the kilns were converted to zigzag technology to reduce emissions. Efforts to convert the remaining 5% are ongoing.

In specific actions, one non-zigzag kiln was demolished in Sahiwal, while 25 such kilns were razed across Chiniot, Faisalabad, Rahim Yar Khan, and Bahawalpur districts.

The anti-pollution drive also extended to industrial units. In Lahore, seven industrial units were sealed, while 22 others, including textile mills, steel mills, rice mills, and plastic fiber units, were shut down across the province. In total, 29 industrial units were sealed for failing to comply with environmental regulations.

Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb emphasized the government's zero-tolerance policy towards pollution. 'Those responsible for spreading pollution will not be pardoned under any circumstances. Special teams have been deployed to monitor kilns and industries,' she stated.

The minister highlighted the government's commitment to public welfare, stating that adopting modern technologies to curb pollution would enhance public health and agricultural productivity. She added that stricter penalties would be imposed on violators of environmental laws in the future.

The crackdown reflects the government's determination to tackle environmental pollution and promote sustainable development across Punjab.

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Air quality in Lahore remains hazardous

Lahore: The air quality in Lahore remained hazardous, with an average Air Quality Index (AQI) of 214 and peak readings surpassing 400.

Data from IQAir indicated that the city's PM2.5 concentration was 27.8 times higher than the World Health Organization's annual guideline.

The most polluted areas in Lahore included: US Consulate: AQI 493; Phase 8, DHA: AQI 383; Pine Avenue: AQI 322; Near Ada Plot, Raiwind Road: AQI 304; University of Management and Technology: AQI 304; Bedian Road: AQI 290; Polo Ground Cantt: AQI 284; Askari 10: AQI 266 and Ghazi Road Interchange: AQI 242.

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10 criminals arrested

Rawalpindi: The Rawalpindi Police on Wednesday arrested some 10 criminal elements, including liquor and drug suppliers and illegal arms owners.

According to a police spokesman, the Chakri Police recovered 520 grams of hashish from accused Sajjad, while the Dhamial Police arrested Akhtar with 5 litres of liquor and Amin with 1 bottle of liquor.

Similarly, the Waris Khan Police held accused Asif with 7 litres of liquor and Shaf Ali with a 30 bore pistol. Likewise, the Sadiqabad Police also recovered a 30 bore pistol with ammunition from accused Shahzeb.

Meanwhile, during search operations four accused namely Shabbir, Asad, Daulat Khan and Nazar Khan were arrested for violation of the Tenancy Act.

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500000 more youth to be provided free IT courses in 2025: Governor Tessori

Karachi: Governor Sindh Kamran Khan Tessori on Wednesday has announced to provide free modern IT courses to as many as 500000 youth during 2025.

Addressing the people at Governor House during New Year celebrations, he said under the Governor's Initiative, more opportunities would be provided to the people of the province.

The Governor informed that since last year, 900,000 ration bags were distributed among deserving people and 50,000 youth were enrolled for IT courses.

He said that mote employment, clean water, affordable electricity supply and cleanliness would be ensured in 2025.

Earlier, new world record was set by setting off fireworks for more than 40 minutes at the Governor's House on New Year celebration.