GUJRANWALA, May 1: The Gujranwala Chamber of Commerce and Industry (GCCI) has expressed concern over increase in interest rates and termed it ‘disastrous’ for industrial development and demanded soft-term loans for industrialists.

Speaking at a meeting held here on Sunday presided over by chamber president Asad Elahi, the participants said industrialists and traders were already facing hard times owing to high production cost and petroleum prices.

They urged the government to take industry-friendly steps.

SHOT DEAD: A farmer was gunned down by his rivals over a land dispute in Bharoki, Wazirabad on Sunday.

Reports said Muhammad Boota was working in his fields when Muhammad Latif and Ghulam Sarwer came there and opened fire following an exchange of hot words. He died on the spot.

Police have registered a case.

TWO DIE ON ROAD: A youth and his sister were killed in a road accident on Hafizabad Road here on Sunday.

Reports said Anser Iqbal was on his way to Qila Dedar Singh along with his sister Misbah by a motorcycle when a speeding truck ran over and killed them.

Police have registered a case against truck driver Muhammad Anwer.