Prime Minister’s package for the construction industry would be a game changer: Mian Zahid Hussain

KARACHI : Mian Zahid Hussain, President Pakistan Businessmen and Intellectuals Forum and All Karachi Industrial Alliance, Chairman National Business Group Pakistan, Chairman Policy Advisory Board FPCCI, and Former Provincial Minister Information Technology, has welcomed Prime Minister Mian Shehbaz Sharif’s announcement of a comprehensive development package for Pakistan's construction sector. He said that effective and timely reforms can transform Pakistan’s construction sector into a major engine of economic growth, employment generation and industrial activity. He fu

rther said that the government’s proposals for the establishment of a Construction Industry Development Board (CIDB), the possible establishment of a Construction Development Bank (CDB), improvement in trade policies and tax reforms are timely and important. The proposed framework also includes extending the defect liability period to improve the quality and accountability of public-sector projects.

Mian Zahid Hussain said that the construction sector is moving towards recovery. According to the Pakistan Economic Survey 2025-26, the construction sector grew by 5.7 percent during FY2025-26. This progress is particularly important because construction has direct linkages with more than 40 allied and related industries, including cement, steel, glass, ceramics, cables, electrical equipment, paints, sanitary products, transport and engineering services. He said cement sales data also confirms the improvement in domestic construction activity. During FY2025-26, total cement dispatches increased by 7.2 percent to 50.5 million tonnes, compared with 47.1 million tonnes in the previous year. Domestic cement sales increased even faster, rising 9.5 percent to 41.507 million tonnes. The positive trend continued into the new fiscal year, as total cement dispatches reached 4.476 million tonnes in July 2026, up 6.02 percent year-on-year. Domestic cement sales recorded a significant 17.3 percent increase to 3.771 million tonnes, compared with 3.215 million tonnes in July 2025. Mian Zahid Hussain expressed his concern over the decline in cement exports by 30 percent to 705,341 tonnes, highlighting the high cost of doing business and the need to improve the global competitiveness of Pakistan’s cement industry.

Mian Zahid Hussain said that the current recovery in the construction sector should not be limited to temporary incentives but should be converted into long-term structural reforms. With the federal Public Sector Development Programme at around Rs1 trillion for FY2026-27, greater private-sector participation in housing, commercial development and infrastructure will be essential. He appreciated Prime Minister Mian Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif’s focus on construction-sector reforms and expressed confidence that the proposed CIDB would be developed as a genuine public-private platform rather than another bureaucratic institution. It should play an effective role in setting national standards, accelerating approvals, improving contractor accountability and resolving industry disputes.

Mian Zahid Hussain said that a specialised construction financing system or institution should be established in collaboration with the State Bank of Pakistan and commercial banks to address the gap of long-term and low-cost financing. He also called for a digital one-window approval system, improvements in tax policy, faster land and building approvals, digitisation of land records and reduction in duties on construction materials. He said government incentives should be directed towards affordable housing, vertical urban development, green buildings, earthquake-proof construction, locally produced construction materials and the adoption of modern technologies.

Mian Zahid Hussain said that Pakistan must now view the construction sector not merely as a real-estate activity but as a multiplier for industrial growth. With construction growing by 5.7 percent and domestic cement demand increasing significantly, timely reforms can strengthen employment generation, investment, innovation, dozens of allied industries and overall economic growth.

Tree Protection, Large-Scale Plantation Essential to Save Karachi from Environmental Disaster: Experts

KARACHI: Environmental experts, urban planners and climate change specialists have stressed the urgent need to protect existing trees and undertake large-scale plantation across Karachi to prevent further environmental degradation and make the city safer, healthier and more sustainable.

The views were expressed during a special panel discussion titled “Karachi Without Trees: Environmental Degradation, Climate Change and the Future of Our City”, organized by the Environment Committee of the Karachi Press Club.

The discussion brought together environmentalists, urban planners, climate change experts and other stakeholders, who examined Karachi’s growing environmental challenges and discussed possible solutions.

Karachi Press Club President Fazil Jamili and Environment Committee Secretary Fahmida Yousufi were among those who attended the panel discussion, along with prominent experts and representatives from relevant fields.

The participants observed that the rapid decline in the city’s tree cover, rising temperatures, air pollution, extreme heat and the growing impacts of climate change have emerged as serious threats to Karachi’s future.

They emphasized that environmental considerations must become an integral part of urban planning if Karachi is to be transformed into a livable and climate-resilient city.

The experts noted that the continuous loss of trees is not merely an environmental concern but is directly linked to public health, quality of life and the well-being of future generations. They called for effective measures to protect existing trees and green spaces, along with large-scale plantation drives and the development of new green belts.

The panelists stressed that environmental impacts must be carefully assessed before approving development projects and constructing urban infrastructure. They called for coordinated and long-term planning to promote tree plantation along roads, in parks, on footpaths and at other public spaces.

The speakers also highlighted the increasing risks posed by climate change, particularly rising temperatures and heatwave events. They said trees play a vital role in reducing urban temperatures, improving air quality and creating a healthier urban environment.

The experts urged authorities to make tree protection and plantation a permanent component of environmental and urban policy rather than treating them as temporary campaigns.

Participants further emphasized that tackling Karachi’s environmental crisis requires a collective effort involving the government, local government institutions, environmental experts, civil society, media and citizens.

They pointed out that plantation alone would not be sufficient. Newly planted trees must receive proper care, adequate water and long-term protection to ensure their survival and growth.

The participants agreed that the concept of a “Karachi Without Trees” represents a dangerous future for the city and that decisions being taken today will determine the environmental conditions inherited by future generations.

At the conclusion of the panel discussion, participants reaffirmed their commitment to raising environmental awareness, protecting Karachi’s existing trees and promoting plantation initiatives to transform the city into a greener, safer and more sustainable urban centre.

Historic Ceremony in Karachi Highlights Human Rights, Interfaith Harmony, and Elderly Care

Karachi: The Peace Council for Human Rights (PCHR) and the Islamic Council for Human Rights (ICHR), in collaboration with the Ibni Sina Institute (ISI) and the World Aging Council (WAC), organized the "Introduction, Training & Certificate Distribution Ceremony" under the theme "Together for Humanity," bringing together national and international stakeholders to promote human rights, interfaith harmony, healthy ageing, and the protection of older persons.

The event marked the first major joint programme following the newly established international collaboration among the participating organizations. It served as a platform to encourage dialogue, cooperation, and collective action aimed at safeguarding the rights, dignity, and well-being of senior citizens while strengthening interfaith understanding.

A diverse audience comprising religious scholars, government representatives, healthcare professionals, academics, civil society leaders, media personnel, and participants from different faiths attended the ceremony. Speakers described the gathering as a significant demonstration of unity and shared commitment to peace, compassion, and humanity.

During the programme, representatives from various religious communities emphasized that all faiths advocate respect for parents, care for elders, and service to humanity. They stressed that promoting peaceful coexistence and mutual respect is essential for building inclusive and harmonious societies.

The ceremony included institutional presentations, professional training sessions, awareness discussions, and certificate distribution. Discussions focused on healthy ageing, home-based healthcare, community support, social inclusion, and the need to strengthen services and protection for senior citizens.

Speaking on the occasion, Muhammad Babar Ali, President of PCHR and ICHR, described the initiative as the beginning of a long-term humanitarian movement dedicated to protecting the rights, health, and dignity of older persons. He announced the launch of the "Save the Elders – Save the Seniors" campaign and introduced the vision of "Healthcare at Every Doorstep," encouraging communities to establish home-based healthcare support and caregiver training programmes for elderly family members.

Chairman of PCHR and ICHR, Amin ur Rehman Khan, said that human rights belong to every individual regardless of age, religion, nationality, or background. He noted that protecting the rights of older persons is both a moral obligation and a humanitarian responsibility, while highlighting the importance of dialogue and cooperation in advancing peace and justice.

Dr. Kemal Aydin, President and CEO of the Ibni Sina Institute and the World Aging Council, appreciated the hospitality extended in Pakistan and praised the commitment of all participating organizations. He stated that population ageing is a global challenge requiring international collaboration, innovative solutions, and sustainable action. He also highlighted the potential for Pakistan and Türkiye to work together in promoting healthy ageing, accessible healthcare, social inclusion, and dignity for senior citizens.

Participants supported expanding the initiative through partnerships with national institutions, international organizations, universities, healthcare providers, faith leaders, and development partners to advance the rights and welfare of older persons at regional and global levels.

The collaborating organizations announced plans to continue joint programmes focusing on healthy ageing, community healthcare, caregiver training, research, policy advocacy, interfaith dialogue, and public awareness. The ceremony concluded with a renewed commitment to transform collaboration into practical action and ensure that no elderly person is neglected, isolated, or deprived of dignity, healthcare, and social protection.

Career Fair 2026 Connects Students with Industry Leaders at IoBM

Karachi: Institute of Business Management hosted its Career Fair 2026, successfully bringing together more than 100 organizations and a large number of aspiring professionals in a vibrant display of academia–industry collaboration.

The event created a dynamic platform where students interacted directly with recruiters, explored employment prospects, and gained firsthand understanding of evolving market expectations. Company representatives held detailed conversations with participants, offered guidance on recruitment pathways, and highlighted emerging opportunities across multiple sectors.

Organizers noted that the fair aimed to bridge the gap between education and employment by enabling meaningful engagement, professional networking, and knowledge sharing. Students benefited from exposure to diverse career options while employers had the chance to identify fresh talent aligned with their organizational needs.

The Career Fair reaffirmed IoBM’s commitment to career development and industry linkage, strengthening its role in preparing graduates for the professional world.

Demonstrations highlight ongoing violence and brutality in Palestine

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi 

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

A large demonstration was held at a busy intersection in Elk Grove, Sacramento, to inform the American public about the ongoing violence and brutality in Palestine and to protest against the genocide and killing of innocent people. 

People from different countries, including Pakistan, Palestine, Egypt, India, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh, participated in the demonstration, along with native American women. 

The demonstration was part of a series of protests held at busy intersections in different cities across the US to end the war and impose a ceasefire in Gaza and to stop the US financial and military aid to the aggressor country. 

Similar protests were held in Roseville and Folsom over weekend. The protesters carried Palestinian flags and large banners with slogans demanding an end to the violence, an end to the use of American tax money for killing innocent people, and calling for the right to life for the people of Gaza. 

The protesters also demanded that the US government should use the tax money for the welfare of its own people instead of funding wars abroad. 

The demonstration lasted for two hours, from 10:30 am to 12:30 pm, and was attended by thousands of people who showed their support by honking their horns and holding up signs of support for the protesters and the people of Palestine. 

A Catholic woman, Liz, travelled 40 miles from Sacramento to attend the demonstration and said that Americans are now aware of the brutality and violence committed by Israel and are ready to stand up against it. 

The demonstration ended peacefully after two hours, with the protesters marching around the intersection and chanting slogans in unison.

US lawmakers pledge to raise Gaza human rights Abuses in Congress

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi 

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

A group of four Muslim members of the US Congress, Andre Carson, Ilhan Omar, Rashida Tlaib, and Latifah Simon, along with non-Muslim lawmaker Summer Lee, pledged on Saturday to bring the issue of human rights violations and the alleged genocide of unarmed Palestinian civilians in Gaza to the US Congressional Human Rights Commission. 

During a meeting in Oakland with a delegation from the Islamic Circle of North America (ICNA), the lawmakers assured they would push for formal congressional hearings on the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and explore all possible avenues to facilitate the delivery of food and medical aid to besieged areas. 

The ICNA delegation, led by Dr. Asim Asad, included members who travelled from across the United States, Florida, Dallas, Sacramento, and San Jose. Dr Bilal Piracha, Junaid Qureshi, Ariful Haque Arif, Ijaz Arif and Dr Jawad Arif met with the lawmakers. 

The meeting was organized in coordination with the US American Muslim Public Affairs Committee (USAMPAC) whose president, Istefa Zaidi, hosted a reception dinner in honour of the congressional guests.

“There are 10 million Muslims in USA but are shown less than the original population. If we count ourselves half of it (five million,) there should be 15 Muslim members in the congress but now we are only five members we have to strive for getting elected 10 more members but this objective cannot be achieved without unity in our ranks,” the USAMPAC leader remarked. 

The ICNA delegation invited Dr Bilal Piracha, a physician who had returned just three days earlier from Gaza, to brief lawmakers on the worsening situation. 

Piracha, speaking at the event, delivered an emotional and graphic account of the destruction he witnessed, calling on members of Congress to personally visit the Gaza border and lead convoys of aid trucks into the region. 

"This is no longer a time for words but for action. Let members of Congress be seen, let the world see that we cannot stay silent while genocide unfolds. Even if we are arrested or blocked, the message must be sent: enough is enough," he stated. 

He also appealed, through a viral social media video, to Pakistan’s Army Chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, urging him to leverage his growing rapport with former US President Donald Trump to pressure American leadership into halting what he described as “the systematic extermination of Palestinians.” 

Piracha further urged Pakistan’s military to coordinate with Egypt and Jordan to send relief goods, including food and medicine, via C-1 transport planes through the Rafah border crossing. 

Describing this as his third medical relief mission to Gaza, Dr. Piracha said the current conditions were “far worse and utterly inhumane” compared to his previous visits. 

"Continuous bombings, bloodshed, and a flood of injured women, children, and the elderly in hospitals that are barely functioning which is a humanitarian catastrophe,” he reckoned. 

He noted that World Central Kitchen, which had been providing one meal per day, ceased operations a week ago. 

He revealed that many victims lay unattended as the fear of sniper fire deterred efforts to retrieve bodies. His team, granted access through the World Health Organization (WHO) and humanitarian group Heroic Heart, included 30 volunteers who worked in extreme conditions.

Prominent Journalists Discuss the Challenge of Fake News at Greenwich University

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

Greenwich University’s Department of Media, Art, and Design hosted a compelling panel discussion titled "Navigating Fake News in the Digital Era" on May 22 at its DHA campus. The event brought together several renowned media professionals who shared candid insights into the growing menace of misinformation and disinformation in today’s digital landscape.

The two-session panel featured leading names in journalism, including Manzar Naqvi, Syed Khalid Mahmood, Mazhar Abbas, Mubashir Mir, and Muhammad Nazakat Ali. Their thought-provoking commentary engaged a diverse audience of students, scholars, and media practitioners, sparking meaningful dialogue on digital journalism, ethics, and media responsibility.

Moderated by veteran journalist Iqbal Jamil and Dr. Sundus Basharat Ahmad, Assistant Professor and Programme Manager of International Relations at DHA Suffa University, the event was a showcase of expertise and experience in tackling fake news.

The first session, led by Dr. Sundus Basharat Ahmad, featured Mazhar Abbas (Senior Journalist and Columnist, Geo News/Daily Jang), Mubashir Mir (Senior Journalist and Resident Editor, Daily Pakistan), Tariq Moin Siddiqui (Bureau Chief, Geo News), and Syeda Hoor Shumail (Editor-in-Chief, Pakistan State Time). The discussion highlighted the media’s ethical responsibilities, emphasizing the importance of unbiased and fact-based reporting. Panelists also reflected on the challenges media organizations face when navigating state narratives, especially in sensitive contexts such as international conflict.

The second session, moderated by Iqbal Jamil, focused on the role of digital media literacy in combating misinformation. Panelists included Manzar Naqvi (Editor-in-Chief, The Financial Daily), Syed Khalid Mahmood (Journalist, Author, Blogger), Muhammad Nazakat Ali (Chief Editor, KarachiObserver.com), and Ali Asghar (Senior Journalist, PTV News). They offered real-world examples and called for collaborative strategies to counter the spread of fake news across digital platforms.

Speakers underscored the importance of media literacy, urging joint efforts by media houses, academia, and civil society to foster critical thinking and safeguard the integrity of information. It was noted that audiences increasingly rely on traditional and credible sources, such as established newspapers, to verify digital content.

The event concluded with an engaging Q&A session, where attendees posed insightful questions to the panelists. The exchanges were handled with clarity and openness, reinforcing the educational value of the discussion.

In their closing remarks, Iqbal Jamil, Dr. Uzma Qazi, and Dr. Sabir Ahmed reaffirmed Greenwich University’s commitment to promoting ethical journalism and announced plans for similar initiatives in the future.

The panel discussion was praised as a timely and impactful initiative. Many students expressed that they left the event better informed and more aware of their role in discerning truth in the digital age.

Sindh Government Intensifies Crackdown on Traffic Violations Following CM's Directives

Karachi: In a determined effort to enforce traffic regulations and enhance road safety, the Sindh government, under the directives of Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, has continued its crackdown on traffic violations across the province. The Traffic Police presented a progress report to the Chief Minister detailing their actions from April 9th to 18th.

According to the report, a significant number of motorcycles, totaling 15,217, were impounded for various violations, primarily for riders not wearing helmets and other breaches of traffic laws. Furthermore, action was taken against 1,124 vehicles for using unauthorized fancy number plates and tinted windows (kaalay sheeshay).

The Traffic Police also reported the impounding of 274 dumpers and tankers for issues related to fitness and over-speeding, highlighting a focus on heavy vehicle compliance as well.

In a strong recommendation to further improve road safety, the Traffic Police proposed the permanent cancellation of registration for 25 large and small vehicles found to be unfit. Additionally, they have recommended the temporary suspension of registration for another 200 vehicles with fitness issues.

Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, upon reviewing the report, issued further stringent directives to the Traffic Police. He emphasized the need for immediate action against those involved in over-speeding and reiterated that underage drivers should not be allowed on the roads under any circumstances.

The Chief Minister also instructed the police to take strict action against individuals driving without a valid license and to ensure that fines are imposed on those who violate traffic signals.

Furthermore, CM Murad Ali Shah ordered a complete ban on the use of pressure horns in vehicles and called for special measures to be implemented at zebra crossings for the safety of pedestrians. He also directed immediate issuance of challans for vehicles using additional lights and creating unnecessary noise.

Recognizing the importance of public awareness, the Chief Minister stressed the need to launch a comprehensive public awareness campaign to educate citizens about traffic laws.

These ongoing efforts and new directives underscore the Sindh government's commitment to ensuring safer roads for all citizens by strictly enforcing traffic regulations and promoting responsible driving habits.

New AMUOBA President Vows to Revive Association's Credibility, Focus on Modern Education

By Abdul Qadir Qureshi

(Pakistan News & Features Services)

Mohammed Akbar Ali Khan, the newly-elected President of the Aligarh Muslim University Old Boys Association (AMUOBA) and Chancellor of Sir Syed University of Engineering and Technology (SSUET), has pledged to restore the association's past glory and implement modern educational reforms.

In his inaugural address during the first meeting after his election, Khan, speaking to members of the Pakistan News & Features Services, described his victory as a "momentous occasion" and committed to upholding the association's rich history and traditions. "Our mission is not only to revive its past credibility but also conceive new ideas for its future role," he declared.

Khan emphasized the need for educational reforms to address contemporary challenges, outlining plans for curriculum changes and the integration of modern teaching practices. "I promise to adopt modern day teaching practices by adopting modern technology and thus promote the creative talents of our youth by focusing mainly on research," he stated. He also highlighted the importance of fostering international cooperation to enhance research activities.

Jaffar Nazir Usmani, the AMUOBA’s General Secretary, echoed Khan's commitment, pledging to utilize his abilities to fulfill the promises made and prioritize their implementation. "The time has come to move forward with new determination and ensure bringing positive changes by promoting mutual cooperation," he said.

Erum Akbar, another key figure in the association, attributed their electoral success to teamwork and stressed the importance of continued collaboration. She also addressed past grievances, notably the revocation of Akbar Ali Khan's membership, vowing that "no injustice will be allowed to be done to anyone and all decisions would be taken purely on performance and merit."

Engr Adil Usman, former AMUOBA President and SSUET Chancellor, expressed hope for improved management of associate institutions and the continued advancement of the late Zakir Ali Khan’s mission.

Noted Aligarhian and poet Tariq Sabzwari criticized the past decade for deviating from Aligarh's traditional culture, introducing "self-centered objectives." He acknowledged that reversing this mismanagement would require time.

Members of AMUOBA engaged in open discussions, proposing both short-term and long-term strategies, emphasizing the integration of technologies with current market value. They highlighted the dawn of a "new era" for AMUOBA and SSUET, stressing the importance of strengthening ties between industry and academia.

Notably, some members expressed surprise at their inclusion in the AMUOBA, indicating potential gaps in communication. The meeting was also attended by prominent figures, including Farrukh Nizami, son of SSUET’s founder Engr Z.A Nizami, and Engr Adil Usman.