Journalists awarded

ISLAMABAD, May 17: The inaugural Canadian High Commissioner’s Awards have been conferred on the Pakistani journalists for rendering meritorious services in public interest. Canadian High Commissioner to Pakistan Ross Hynes presented the awards in a ceremony hosted by National Press Club (NPC) on Thursday.

Speaking on the occasion, Ross Hynes said: “In Pakistan, the flourishing of free media and development of responsible journalism have been critical to strengthen democracy over the past decade. Pakistani journalists are serving their country on the frontlines in the face of intimidation and threats.”

He presented awards to Mubarak Zeb Khan for his report on tax fraud and corruption. Zahid Gishkori was awarded for his report on Airblue plane crash investigation. Masood Raza was honoured for his story on the prevalence of ‘gutka’ and lack of enforcement of ban. Zakia Manzoor was given the award for her reporting on the social obstacles to a woman in obtaining a divorce.

In under 30 category, award was given to Uneeba Waqar for her reports on the heroin markets and the energy crisis.

Eminent Pakistani journalists Azhar Abbas, Mariana Babar, Moeed Pirzada, Murtaza Solangi and Najam Sethi and a Canadian journalist, residing in Pakistan Kathy Gannon designed this award and reviewed the submissions with the support of the Canadian High Commission.— A Reporter

Man killed on road

ISLAMABAD, May 17: A man was killed after felling from a passenger vehicle in the capital’s suburbs here on Thursday, police said.

The victim, Saghir Aslam 35, a native of Haripur was coming to Rawalpindi from Abbottabad in a coaster. He came over to the door and stood at the footrest when the vehicle entered the city.

All of sudden, he fell down from the vehicle and suffered multiple injuries. He was later shifted to the hospital where he was pronounced dead.—Staff Reporter