News Archives for Latest - 2026-03-31

LNG supplies under force majeure, not available for power generation, say officials

Govt working on a tariff package "to encourage better utilisation of electricity during the daytime" when solar power generation is also possible, officials say during Nepra hearing.

Updated 01 Apr, 2026 12:17am

‘What can you expect from a govt with people like Netanyahu?’: Palestinians horrified by Israel’s new death penalty law

Under the new law, Palestinians in the occupied West Bank convicted by military courts of carrying out deadly attacks classified as “terrorism” will face the death penalty as a default sentence.

Published 31 Mar, 2026 09:52pm

Branded Content

Lucky Motor Corporation signs strategic and exclusive partnership with GAC Group for Pakistan

This strategic partnership will enable LMC to offer Pakistani consumers robust build quality and competitively priced NEVs backed by advanced battery technology.

Published 31 Mar, 2026 09:07pm

War Diary Day 32: Still no clear winners as diplomacy yet to take off

Absence of meaningful diplomatic progress is keeping the risk of further escalation elevated in the near term.

Published 31 Mar, 2026 08:59pm

ICT

Ogra notifies 35pc increase in LPG rates for April

The price of an 11.8kg domestic cylinder has been set at Rs3,588.60 for April against Rs2,664.88 in March.

Published 31 Mar, 2026 08:47pm

ICT

Rising oil prices pose risk to Pakistan’s import bill, macroeconomic conditions, finance ministry warns

In its monthly update, the ministry says the near-term outlook for the economy remained cautiously optimistic despite emerging geopolitical risks.

Published 31 Mar, 2026 08:31pm

KP & FATA

Repatriation of Afghans resumes at Torkham as border reopens

The repatriation process was suspended last week after a security official was injured in a firing incident from the Afghan side.

Published 31 Mar, 2026 08:14pm

King Charles to pay state visit to US as UK seeks to mollify Trump

Trump says the king and queen’s visit will begin on April 27 with a banquet dinner at the White House the next day.

Published 31 Mar, 2026 07:56pm

Punjab

Bill seeking up to 5 years in prison for perpetrators of forced conversion submitted in Punjab Assembly

The proposed bill also empowers the judiciary to take proactive measures in cases of forced marriages, granting them the authority to issue protection orders.

Published 31 Mar, 2026 07:54pm

KP & FATA

Finance minister assures KP CM Afridi of ‘full support’ in resolving all ‘legitimate issues’

Finance ministry says meeting held in a "cordial and constructive atmosphere" where CM Afridi informed the finance minister about the issues being faced by KP.

Published 31 Mar, 2026 06:54pm

ICT

PM directs strict action against smuggling, hoarding of petroleum products

Instructs relevant ministries to consult provinces on providing relief to low-income groups and submit final recommendations.

Published 31 Mar, 2026 06:54pm

How the Middle East war is driving up shipping costs

Prices have risen because of falling vessel capacity, long and costly alternative routes, and reduced oil flows.

Published 31 Mar, 2026 06:37pm

ICT

All suspects involved in killing of prominent Islamabad businessman during dacoity arrested, Tallal says

"The suspects belong to the Mansoor Khan gang," he says.

Updated 31 Mar, 2026 06:55pm

‘Bewajah’ hits close to home for Hasan Raheem — and for sad people everywhere

The song, with lyrics in Urdu and Shina and a music video based around polo, is an ode to Raheem's native Gilgit.

Published 31 Mar, 2026 04:52pm

UNRWA chief seeks probe into killing of hundreds of staff in Gaza

“I believe that we need to have a panel … a high-level panel of experts to look into the killing of our staff,” he says.

Published 31 Mar, 2026 04:51pm

Punjab

Defamation case: Lahore court orders Meesha Shafi to pay Rs5 million in damages to Ali Zafar

Court issues short order in a defamation case filed against Shafi by Zafar for levelling allegations of sexual harassment.

Updated 31 Mar, 2026 08:20pm

Top Featured

‘Hunuz Dilli Dur Ast’: Climate crisis in the age of war

The long-term ecological consequences of conflict are often overlooked in post-war reconstruction efforts, which typically prioritise physical infrastructure and immediate humanitarian relief.

Updated 31 Mar, 2026 05:14pm

Cricket

Fakhar Zaman suspended for two PSL matches for ball-tampering

The incident occurred in the final over of Sunday’s match between Karachi Kings and Lahore Qalandars.

Published 31 Mar, 2026 04:12pm

Balochistan

Schools across Sindh and Balochistan to re-open from April 1, have classes 5 days a week

A day earlier, the Punjab govt had announced that educational activities would resume from April 1, with classes taking place five days a week.

Updated 31 Mar, 2026 06:03pm

Review: Aag Lagay Basti Mein is loud, local and leans into chaos

At its core, Fahad Mustafa and Mahira Khan's film is made very clearly for a Pakistani audience to laugh at.

Published 31 Mar, 2026 03:18pm

£190m case: IHC adjourns hearing of Imran, Bushra’s pleas after defence seeks more time

NAB prosecutor seeks to argue on main appeals rather than on pleas for sentence suspension; PTI lawyer seeks time to consult clients.

Updated 31 Mar, 2026 05:15pm

KP & FATA

NDMA warns of Glof, landslides in GB, KP areas from April 1-10

Rain and snowfall across GB turn weather unusually chilly, creating difficulties for the residents.

Published 31 Mar, 2026 02:55pm

Interior minister directs Nadra to identify foreigners who illegally obtained citizenship

Naqvi noted significant improvements in Nadra’s services over the past two years and directed that more modern services be introduced for public convenience.

Updated 31 Mar, 2026 03:19pm

Showgirl showdown — Las Vegas performer sues Taylor Swift over trademark rights on Life of a Showgirl

Maren Wade claimed the album name could be confused for her stage show Confessions of a Showgirl.

Published 31 Mar, 2026 02:28pm

Punjab

Tribunal dismisses petition against info minister Tarar’s win from Lahore’s NA-127

Election tribunal terms petition "non-maintainable" as it fails to comply with statutory requirements under Election Act 2017.

Updated 31 Mar, 2026 03:50pm

What the Mideast war means for China’s ties with Iran

While China and Iran are sometimes considered part of a broader anti-Western group — alongside Russia and North Korea — their relationship is transactional.

Published 31 Mar, 2026 02:13pm

China bans entombing cremated remains in empty flats

"Bone-ash apartments" can be cheaper than a public cemetery plot, according to local media.

Published 31 Mar, 2026 01:47pm

‘Do not waste your time’: Ahsan Mohsin Ikram asks Pakistanis to boycott Dhurandhar 2

The actor appealed to the government to make efforts to get the film banned in allied countries.

Published 31 Mar, 2026 01:10pm

Sindh

PMD forecasts chances of thunderstorms, rain in Karachi, other parts of Sindh on Thursday

Temperatures will dip slightly on Thursday, seeing highs of 28-30°C and lows of 20-22°C.

Published 31 Mar, 2026 01:09pm

At least 70 killed in Haiti massacre, rights group says, far exceeding official toll

Defenseurs Plus rights group estimates 6,000 people displaced by the violence.

Published 31 Mar, 2026 12:40pm

KSE-100 gains 1,900 points day after war-driven meltdown

KSE-100 index went up by 1,900.34 points, or 1.29 per cent, to close at 148,743.31.

Updated 31 Mar, 2026 04:20pm

‘Diplomacy takes time’: Pak envoy reaffirms Islamabad’s commitment to Iran-US peace amid complex situation

Ambassador to the US says "upon conflicting parties themselves" to make decisions which make any talks successful.

Published 31 Mar, 2026 12:02pm

Branded Content

Myco is leading TV and streaming rights for PSL 2026 in Pakistan

Myco acquired exclusive TV sales and monetisation rights, along with non-exclusive streaming rights for PSL 2026 in Pakistan, making it easier for fans to watch matches on any screen.

Published 31 Mar, 2026 11:42am

Middle East

Pakistan, seven other countries condemn Israeli curbs on Muslim and Christian worship in occupied Jerusalem

Ministers reiterate that Israel, being an occupying power, holds “no sovereignty over occupied Jerusalem”.

Published 31 Mar, 2026 11:12am

Lahore court expected to announce verdict in Ali Zafar’s defamation suit against Meesha Shafi today

Both counsels delivered closing arguments last week and the hearing concluded on Monday.

Published 31 Mar, 2026 10:38am

Middle East

US says respects Israel ‘right’ to legislate as death penalty bill for Palestinians widely condemned

EU calls bill "discriminatory"; Germany expresses concern; Spain terms it "a step closer to apartheid”.

Updated 31 Mar, 2026 04:31pm

Australia investigates tech giants over social media ban breaches

Tech companies such as Facebook, TikTok and YouTube face fines of up to $33.9 million under new laws.

Published 31 Mar, 2026 10:22am

Punjab

Canadian national held in Feb in cybercrime case moves LHC for bail

Previously, a judicial magistrate and a sessions court had dismissed Hamza Ahmad Khan's bail petitions.

Published 31 Mar, 2026 10:15am

Pakistan, China issue 5-point initiative for restoring peace in Middle East

Call for the immediate cessation of hostilities and the start of peace talks as soon as possible.

Updated 31 Mar, 2026 09:11pm

ICT

TikToker Sana Yousaf’s father, mother record statements

Court adjourns further hearing till March 31, directs prosecution to produce more witnesses.

Published 31 Mar, 2026 09:44am

Battles for human rights are for Pakistanis to fight on their own, rather than counting on outside help

Anything short of fulsome praise falls under the category of unpatriotic activities.

Published 31 Mar, 2026 09:04am

Why Iran believes asymmetrical warfare will improve its success rate

Iran has followed the Chinese model as one can see from its defiance of sanctions to build excellent healthcare, education and nuclear-free defence.

Updated 31 Mar, 2026 09:15am

Balochistan

Gas supply to Quetta, other parts of Balochistan suspended after armed men blow up pipeline

SSGC spokesman says gas supply is affected in Hazara town, Hazarganji, Khaizi, Nohsar, Pishin, Ziarat, Kalat, Mastung and Kuchlak.

Published 31 Mar, 2026 08:45am

KP & FATA

Opposition questions status of KP finance ‘minister’ without swearing-in

Law minister insists oath mandatory for elected members only.

Published 31 Mar, 2026 08:41am

KP & FATA

KP govt sets new school timings

Under the new schedule, primary schools will commence at 7.30am and close at 1.35pm.

Updated 31 Mar, 2026 09:05am

KP & FATA

KP govt increases monthly budget for free treatment scheme by Rs1 billion

Enhanced amount will help executor to clear liabilities of empanelled hospitals.

Updated 31 Mar, 2026 09:02am

Oil prices extend gains as Brent crude futures rise to $113.17 per barrel

Investors have grown increasingly uneasy about a war entering its fifth week with no clear path to resolution.

Published 31 Mar, 2026 08:33am

Editorial: While the govt deserves credit for its diplomatic efforts, only America can and should end this disastrous war

Unless there is an immediate ceasefire, and plans for a ground invasion are nixed, de-escalation efforts by Pakistan and other states will go nowhere.

Published 31 Mar, 2026 08:31am

ICT

Temperature dips as heavy rain lashes Rawalpindi, Islamabad

Low-lying areas inundated as Met Office forecasts more rain today, warns of flash floods, hailstorms.

Published 31 Mar, 2026 08:21am

ICT

Revised PC-I increases Kutchery Chowk remodeling project cost to Rs19bn

Communication and Works Department will send PC-I to the Planning and Development Board for approval, says official.

Published 31 Mar, 2026 08:18am

Pak-China talks in Beijing to ‘refine’ framework for possible US-Iran dialogue

Ceasefire, maritime trade protection among guiding principles; Iran lauds Islamabad’s peace efforts, says it did not participate in framework.

Published 31 Mar, 2026 08:17am

ICT

Woman allegedly gang-raped in moving van near Punjab’s Rawat

Police spokesman says special teams constituted to arrest accused and raids underway.

Updated 31 Mar, 2026 12:18pm

ICT

Kashmir CEC seeks fair election on refugee seats

Justice Mughal requests ECP assistance in preparation of electoral rolls, establishment of polling stations, deployment of polling staff in refugee constituencies.

Published 31 Mar, 2026 08:08am

EU aviation watchdog warns of rising risks as wars squeeze global flight paths

Top EU regulator warns of new dangers as conflicts squeeze flight paths; Europe drafts rules to counter "hybrid warfare"drone.

Published 31 Mar, 2026 08:03am

Punjab

Two air passengers, three human smugglers arrested in Punjab

Passengers had a plan to travel illegally to Albania via the Sri Lanka-Cambodia route.

Updated 31 Mar, 2026 09:26am

Punjab

Punjab Defamation Act: LHC summons assembly debate record

Petitioners argue that new law creates a parallel judicial system.

Published 31 Mar, 2026 08:02am

Punjab

Two suspects killed, another injured as ‘encounters’ continue

Suspect shot dead in alleged encounter with CCD personnel.

Published 31 Mar, 2026 07:58am

Punjab

Illegal sale of govt medicines: Health officials among 14 booked

Lodhran ACE has so far arrested three of the suspects.

Updated 31 Mar, 2026 09:33am

Business

Ban on low-grade diesel lifted for harvest

Iranian permission being secured to route imports via Strait of Hormuz.

Updated 31 Mar, 2026 08:09am

Business

Pakistan’s public debt surges to Rs80.52tr

Debt per capita hits Rs333,041.

Published 31 Mar, 2026 07:24am

Business

Digital trade dispute fractures WTO unity

US and allies fail to secure long-term moratorium amid rising economic nationalism.

Updated 31 Mar, 2026 08:18am

Sindh

Rural women’s issues stay unresolved despite legislation, seminar told

Sindh govt urged to introduce skill development programmes, instead of BISP-like charity schemes.

Updated 31 Mar, 2026 08:52am

Sindh

Rules for witness protection law yet to be framed, Sindh High Court told

Bench gives home dept time to file comprehensive report on April 21; law to provide govt protection to witnesses was passed.

Updated 31 Mar, 2026 08:49am

Sindh

Public holiday across Sindh on 4th

The Sindh government has declared public holiday across the province on the occasion of the 47th death anniversary of former prime minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto.

Published 31 Mar, 2026 07:11am

Sindh

‘Rescue Authority’ proposed to bring all Sindh emergency services under one body

Lanjar stresses autonomous institution to carry out all rescue work across Sindh; recommendations to be sent to CM.

Updated 31 Mar, 2026 08:41am

Sindh

Body of missing three-year-old boy found in open manhole in Karachi

The officer said the relatives and residents protested against the union committee representatives for not covering the manhole that led to the tragic incident.

Updated 31 Mar, 2026 10:57am

International

Study identifies hurdles to reproduction in outer space

New study is the first to show that gravity plays a critical role in sperm’s ability to navigate toward an egg.

Published 31 Mar, 2026 07:11am

International

Myanmar paves way for junta chief to become president

Political manoeuvering signals that Min Aung Hlaing intends to continue ruling the country with an iron fist, says analyst.

Published 31 Mar, 2026 07:11am

International

Nepal court seeks govt explanation on Oli’s arrest

Protesters demand release of detained former prime minister.

Updated 31 Mar, 2026 08:54am

Cricket

Raza admits hosting visitors but cites lack of awareness of new PSL rules

“By birth I am a Pakistani, so some family members or friends have to meet me and it has happened in the last five editions of the PSL,” he says.

Updated 31 Mar, 2026 09:19am

Football

Solano backs local talent ahead of Myanmar qualifier

“Preparation has been good. These boys are really exciting, really humble, easy to work with. They want to learn, they want to do well,” Solano says.

Published 31 Mar, 2026 07:10am

Football

New Zealand thrash Chile for first win over South American team

New Zealand will face Belgium, Iran and Egypt in the group phase this summer in North America.

Updated 31 Mar, 2026 09:13am

Business

Sugar industry seeks export freedom

Warn delayed export permissions are causing serious financial losses, the country is missing out on vital foreign exchange.

Published 31 Mar, 2026 07:10am

Business

Conventional banks shun private lending

Lending by conventional banks through their Islamic banking branches at record high during first nine months of current financial year.

Published 31 Mar, 2026 07:10am

Business

Auto sector moves ahead amid uncertainty

Atlas Honda Ltd says Rs5.3 billion investment will enhance capacity, automation and productivity.

Published 31 Mar, 2026 07:10am

Balochistan

Govt to continue action against terrorists: Zia Ullah Langove

Home minister says anti-state elements want to spread unrest in country.

Updated 31 Mar, 2026 08:18am

National

World Bank develops roadmap to modernise wheat sector in Pakistan

Move aims to stimulate private sector investment and redirect resources.

Updated 31 Mar, 2026 08:15am

Balochistan

Three martyred in attacks on security forces in Quetta, Jhal Magsi

Unknown armed men reportedly hiding in the area opened fire on the officers with automatic weapons.

Updated 31 Mar, 2026 10:27am

National

3,000 Sikh pilgrims to attend Baisakhi festival

The main ceremony will be held on April 14 at Gurdwara Panja Sahib, Hasanabdal.

Published 31 Mar, 2026 07:10am

National

Five bills introduced amid unusually calm NA session

Fazl’s brief sitting on treasury benches stirs interest across the aisle.

Published 31 Mar, 2026 07:10am

KP & FATA

Security forces kill 10 terrorists after ‘brief school seizure’ in Bara

Security officials stated that the armed group of terrorists were in a hurry to flee the area after briefly seizing the school building and hoisting their flag.

Updated 31 Mar, 2026 07:50am

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