Author: newsdesk

  • Planning to travel on the motorway? You’ll be paying more for it now

    Planning to travel on the motorway? You’ll be paying more for it now

    The toll tariff for the Lahore-Islamabad Motorway (M2) underwent a 10 per cent increase, with the new rates becoming effective starting from Saturday, August 26th, 2023.

    The decision to revise the toll rates comes as the National Highways Authority (NHA) releases an official notification, citing the execution of a concession agreement with M/s Motorway Operations and Rehabilitation Engineering (Private) Limited, a subsidiary owned by the Frontier Works Organisation (FWO). 

    The agreement, which was formalised on April 23, 2014, pertains to the modernisation and overlay of the Lahore-Islamabad Motorway (M-2) under the Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) framework. The agreement spans two decades.

    As per the terms stipulated in the concession agreement, an escalation of 10 per cent in toll rates is set to be implemented from the second operational year onward. Thus, from the 26th of August 2023 to the 25th of August 2024, the revised toll rates are set to take effect.

    According to the official notice provided by the NHA, the revised toll rates are outlined as follows:

    • Car/Jeep/Pickup: Rs1,100, equivalent to Rs3.07 per km
    • Van: Rs1,840, equivalent to Rs5.15 per km
    • Coaster: Rs2,590, equivalent to Rs7.22 per km
    • Coach: Rs3,690, equivalent to Rs10.29 per km
    • Truck: Rs4,800, equivalent to Rs13.39 per km
    • Trailer: Rs6,170, equivalent to Rs17.22 per km

    The decision to raise toll rates by 10 per cent reflects the ongoing economic trends in Pakistan, where a range of commodities and services have experienced notable price increments. 

    The revised toll rates are envisaged to contribute to the sustainability and enhancement of the Lahore-Islamabad Motorway infrastructure, supporting ongoing operational and maintenance efforts.

    As Pakistan grapples with economic dynamics, this adjustment in toll rates underscores the authorities’ focus on maintaining and improving critical transportation networks across the country.

  • PM Kakar sets 48-hour deadline for relief plan amid electricity bill protests

    PM Kakar sets 48-hour deadline for relief plan amid electricity bill protests

    Amid escalating protests across the nation demanding relief from inflated power bills, Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar ul Haq Kakar has taken proactive steps to address the pressing issue. In response to the ongoing unrest, Prime Minister Kakar convened a high-level meeting yesterday to strategise and formulate a comprehensive relief plan within the next 48 hours.

    The focal point of the meeting was an informative briefing provided by the Power Division, shedding light on the notable increase in power bills during the month of July. Attended by esteemed members of the interim cabinet, including Dr Shamsad Akhtar, Dr Gohar Ijaz, and the PM’s advisor, Dr Waqar Masood, the meeting aimed to address the mounting concerns over the substantially high electricity bills. There are growing fears that if swift action is not taken, the situation could spiral into widespread public protests and potentially even riots.

    In the aftermath of the meeting, PM Kakar took to social media to communicate the intended course of action. “The Ministry of Energy and the Ministry of Finance have been tasked with collaboratively devising an action plan aimed at providing relief to the public with regard to their electricity bills,” announced the Prime Minister, reiterating the government’s commitment to addressing the pressing issue.

    Beyond seeking immediate measures to curtail electricity consumption on government premises, Prime Minister Kakar emphasised that consultations would be initiated with all provincial representatives. He further assured the public that the caretaker government was resolute in its commitment to providing the maximum possible relief while remaining within its designated mandate.

    The Caretaker Minister for Information and Broadcasting, Murtaza Solangi, echoed the Prime Minister’s sentiments by sharing the key outcomes of the meeting via social media. He conveyed that PM Kakar had stressed the urgency of devising an action plan within the next 48 hours to alleviate the mounting financial burden caused by excessive charges on electricity bills. The Prime Minister’s emphasis was on implementing measures that wouldn’t have a detrimental impact on the national exchequer yet would genuinely alleviate the financial strain on consumers.

    The meeting concluded with a comprehensive commitment to tackle electricity theft, roll out energy-efficient initiatives, and initiate dialogue with provincial chief ministers regarding the substantial charges incurred in July. The meeting also included detailed briefings on pertinent issues within the electricity sector and strategies to counteract electricity theft.

    Against the backdrop of sustained protests, political parties from diverse backgrounds have voiced their concerns and demands. Jamaat-e-Islami has taken a decisive step by announcing a nationwide strike on September 2 as a means of voicing their discontent with the drastic surge in electricity bills. The party’s leader, Siraj-ul-Haq, articulated his intention to mobilise people across the country to participate in these protests, lamenting the financial hardship faced by salaried individuals due to soaring living costs.

    According to Brecorder, adding to the chorus of concerns, MQM-P leaders have issued a stern warning that the ongoing protests could rapidly escalate into violent riots if prompt relief measures are not taken. Farooq Sattar, Senior Deputy Convener of MQM-P, highlighted the burden of multiple taxes contributing to the high electricity bills, underscoring the palpable frustration among the populace.

    As the nation anticipates the proposed relief plan within the stipulated 48-hour timeframe, the government’s actions in response to the mounting crisis will significantly shape the trajectory of the ongoing protests and public sentiment at large.

  • Smart solutions for cleaner Lahore: LWMC integrates AI into waste management operations

    Smart solutions for cleaner Lahore: LWMC integrates AI into waste management operations

    In a significant stride towards modernising waste management operations and addressing the escalating waste challenges within the provincial capital, Lahore Waste Management Company (LWMC) has harnessed the power of artificial intelligence (AI).

    According to the recent communication from LWMC, a transformative journey towards digitalization has been set in motion to revamp waste management practices. In its initial phase, AI-driven route optimisation has been deployed in Gulberg Town, yielding remarkable outcomes. Notably, the integration of AI has led to a reduction in both the number of vehicles deployed and the distance covered, resulting in substantial fuel savings.

    In addition, the implementation of AI-powered attendance monitoring has not only bolstered the presence of field staff but has also unveiled instances of ghost employees, thereby fortifying operational credibility. The commitment of LWMC to digitalization is further exemplified by its initiatives encompassing GIS-based live mapping of containers and vehicle routes, the introduction of the ‘Hot Spot’ application for real-time container monitoring, and an upcoming Android application tailored for waste-related entity registration.

    According to Brecorder, speaking about these innovative measures, Babar Sahib Din, the CEO of LWMC, said that these endeavours underscore the organisation’s dedication to efficiency, ecological sustainability, and revenue enhancement. He underscored that waste management remains a universal challenge for urban centres worldwide, and Lahore, akin to the global arena, faces a mounting waste predicament. To effectively address this challenge, the adoption of digital reforms for comprehensive solid waste management is imperative.

    Din stated, “By harnessing the capabilities of artificial intelligence, LWMC has introduced pivotal interventions, including AI-optimised routes, waste segregation via a three-bin system, digital monitoring of field operations, vehicle tracking, and a centralised command center.” This transformative approach has been realised in collaboration with the Centre for Urban Information, Technology, and Policy at LUMS University.”

    He further highlighted, “The recent strategic partnerships with Harvard University, the International Growth Centre, and the Centre for Economic Research in Pakistan attest to LWMC’s commitment to evidence-based research, innovation, and digitization for sustainable waste management. As Lahore residents, it was incumbent upon us to support these advancements and maintain a clean city. Through these transformative digital initiatives, we envision a cleaner, more efficient waste management landscape that benefits both the environment and the community.”

    Furthermore, LWMC has diversified its revenue streams with the aim of elevating the annual collection rate from the current Rs40 million to an impressive Rs1 billion. This ambitious goal has been realised by extending coverage to encompass a wide spectrum of establishments, including previously untapped revenue sources such as private clinics and industrial units.

  • Maryam Nawaz to release secret audio tapes of specific individuals before election

    Maryam Nawaz to release secret audio tapes of specific individuals before election

    According to ARY News, Maryam Nawaz, senior vice president of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), will release covert audio tapes of notable individuals during her party’s campaign in general elections.

    After PML-N leadership met in London to discuss the upcoming general elections, the party made the decision to take a strong stance against specific individuals.

    The meeting decided that retaliatory action in the election campaign would be brought forward in the form of a documentary, sources have told ARY.

    Forner Prime Minister and party supremo Nawaz Sharif will expose the role former Chief Justice Saqib Nisar and others played against the PML-N, while Maryam Nawaz will release audios of prominent figures during the election campaign.

    Sources also said that only Nawaz Sharif has the authority to decide whether seat adjustment with any political party will be considered or not.

  • PS5 goes portable: Sony introduces PlayStation Portal for on-the-go gaming

    PS5 goes portable: Sony introduces PlayStation Portal for on-the-go gaming

    Sony is set to introduce a new addition to its gaming lineup later this year with the official launch of the portable PlayStation device, the PlayStation Portal remote player.

    This handheld gadget is designed to enable seamless streaming of PS5 games over Wi-Fi, boasting an impressive eight-inch LCD screen that supports a crystal-clear 1080p resolution at a smooth 60 frames per second. For eager gamers, the PlayStation Portal is anticipated to hit the market later this year, accompanied by a price tag of $199.99.

    Hideaki Nishino, the senior vice president of platform experience at Sony Interactive Entertainment, elaborated on the innovative features of the PlayStation Portal. He emphasised that the device will facilitate a remote connection to the PS5 through Wi-Fi, granting players the convenience of swiftly transitioning between gaming on their PS5 and the PlayStation Portal.

    With compatibility to play supported games installed on the PS5 console and the utilisation of the DualSense controller, the PlayStation Portal promises an immersive gaming experience beyond traditional boundaries.

    Drawing design inspiration from Sony’s acclaimed PS5 DualSense controllers, the PlayStation Portal showcases prominent controllers on both sides. These controllers boast adaptive triggers and haptic feedback, ensuring that the gameplay experience mirrors the sensation of using a dedicated DualSense controller.

    Beyond gaming, the PlayStation Portal extends its capabilities to media playback, offering a dedicated section on the homescreen that mirrors content from the PS5. However, it’s important to note that local execution of applications is not supported, making a Wi-Fi connection a prerequisite for usage.

    Regrettably, the PlayStation Portal lacks Bluetooth functionality, which means that wireless headphones and Sony’s Pulse 3D headset cannot be paired with it. Instead, Sony has introduced the proprietary PlayStation Link wireless technology, designed to provide low-latency, lossless audio transmission. In response to this, Sony is also launching a range of wireless headsets and earbuds that are compatible with PlayStation Link technology.

    Although these can be used with a PS5 through a USB adapter, there are indications that future PS5 models, potentially including a rumoured “Slim” version, could seamlessly integrate the PlayStation Link standard. Notably, third-party manufacturers will also have the opportunity to incorporate the PlayStation Link standard into their products. As a nod to versatility, the PlayStation Portal features a 3.5mm headphone jack to accommodate wired audio preferences.

    Intriguingly, details regarding the battery size of the PlayStation Portal remain unconfirmed. This leaves us eagerly anticipating the announcement of its battery life, which is projected to be in the ballpark of the DualSense controller’s runtime—approximately seven to nine hours, according to sources.

    The PlayStation Portal, previously codenamed Project Q, was unveiled under its official name in May. Although a specific release date remains undisclosed, the device is rumoured to make its market debut in November. As the anticipation builds, the PlayStation community can look forward to the upcoming launch of the PlayStation Portal, available at a competitive price of $199.99.

  • Jubh hum sub ko pyaar hua tha: the KKKG scene we’ll never forget

    If we ask y’all when did your love affair with the superstar Shah Rukh Khan begin, we’d get a lot of different responses but mostly it is the cult classic ‘Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Ghum’ that struck the hearts of fans. It is remembered as one of Karan Johar’s most iconic rom-com’s of all time, and the pairing of SRK with Kajol to be one that can outshine all the Hollywood romcoms ever created.

    But looking back at the song from the film ‘Shava Shava’ a scene continues to find its way back on Twitter once again, when Rahul dreams up Anjali dancing at his father’s party and then re-calls how he fell in love with her at first sight. You know which scene we’re talking about, and yes it completely set the bar for how superior the SRK-Kajol chemistry is.

    No matter how many rom-coms Bollywood will keep churning out, the beauty and simplicity of this heartfelt confession within 25 seconds will never ever be matched by any Bollywood films. Once more Twitter users began falling back in love with the film.

  • PM Kakar highlights the positive aspect of Pakistanis going abroad for ‘better opportunities’

    PM Kakar highlights the positive aspect of Pakistanis going abroad for ‘better opportunities’

    The issue of emigration from Pakistan has gained significant traction as more than 450,000 Pakistanis have departed the country in pursuit of improved job prospects overseas during the first half of 2023. Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar ul Haq Kakar addressed this pressing concern, emphasising the dual nature of this trend as both a challenge and an opportunity for the nation.

    Speaking to an audience at the University of Harvard’s interactive session in Islamabad, Prime Minister Kakar acknowledged the historic pattern of individuals leaving Pakistan in search of better livelihoods abroad. He highlighted the positive contributions that these expatriates make to the country through remittances, underscoring the integral role they play in supporting their families and contributing to Pakistan’s economy.

    Amid discussions about Pakistan’s desire for a constructive long-term partnership with the United States, the premier also turned the spotlight on the phenomenon of emigration. He stressed that the exodus of individuals seeking better opportunities was a recurrent trend and not exclusive to the present time. Prime Minister Kakar further asserted that the pursuit of a better life beyond national borders was a valid aspiration, echoing the sentiment that the success of these individuals, whether at home or abroad, was of paramount importance.

    Prime Minister Kakar’s address touched upon the challenges posed by high expenditures and limited resources in Pakistan. In this context, he emphasised that democracy served as a cornerstone of the nation’s strength and resilience. He commended the Pakistani populace for their ability to navigate crises with determination.

    The premier’s discourse extended to the issue of unemployment, which he identified as a concern shared by individuals both within the country and those who have sought opportunities abroad. However, Prime Minister Kakar also shed light on the positive aspects of this migration trend.

    “This is not only a challenge but also an opportunity, as these individuals bring benefits to the country through remittances,” Kakar said.

    “It is not wrong for them to go to other countries in search of better opportunities,” he said, adding that when individuals return to Pakistan, they bring not only financial assets but also valuable professional skills, enriching the country’s human capital.

    While the emigration trend remains a matter of significance, Prime Minister Kakar drew attention to the historical context. In the past, the country has witnessed varying levels of emigration, with the highest numbers recorded in 2015 and 2016. He underlined that this movement was a testament to individuals’ quest for better prospects and should be understood in that light.

  • ‘Ya Allah Reham’: Mohib Mirza, celebrities react to recent electricity bill hike

    ‘Ya Allah Reham’: Mohib Mirza, celebrities react to recent electricity bill hike

    Social media users and public figures expressed outrage over the weekend at the hike in electricity bills. The exorbitant sums led to protests across the country with citizens burning their bills. Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar ul Haq Kakaar has responded to the outrage by tweeting that an emergency meeting would be called at the Prime Minister’s residence on Sunday to address the sudden hike.

    READ MORE: PM calls emergency meeting as public outcry grows over high electricity bills

    Celebrities have also decried inflation and how it impacts an ordinary citizen’s life.

    Actor Sami Khan shared a tweet by a journalist who shared a video of a man protesting against the price hike, and in the caption he wrote:

    ‘Ya Allah Reham farma.”

    Mohib Mirza addressed the situation with his own hilarious but rather dark twist:
    “Thank god we have not gone on the moon, otherwise the fuel adjustments for the rocket would have been taken from our bills!”

    Actress Mariyam Nafees shared a screenshot of a request of an imam, asking him to pray that inflation goes away, so a family could afford to eat. In the caption, she had requested all her followers to be thankful for having food to eat and a place to stay, because such things are luxuries for others.

  • JI announces protest against inflated electricity bills

    JI announces protest against inflated electricity bills

    The Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) announced on Saturday that it would stage a protest against the exorbitant electricity bills.

    Addressing a seminar in Lahore, JI Ameer Sirajul Haq lashed out at political opponents and the caretaker government, saying, “The caretaker government is following the footsteps of the previous governments in terms of taking wrong decisions for the sake of the country.”

    “The power bills have increased three times within one month. People have been compelled to commit suicide due to the ballooning inflation. The electricity bill of at least Rs50,000 has been sent to every house,” said Mr Haq.

    He made it clear that the JI would stage a protest outside of the power distribution companies.

    Earlier, interim Prime Minister Anwaar ul Haq Kakar took to X (formerly Twitter) to announce that that he has summoned an emergency meeting over the price of electricity and consumers’ inflated bills, adding that he will hold consultations to provide maximum relief to power consumers.

    The prime minister has directed the Ministry of Energy and power distributions companies to present him with a detailed briefing over the issue.

  • 93% of married individuals in Pakistan are happy; new survey

    93% of married individuals in Pakistan are happy; new survey

    Gallup & Gilani Pakistan has published a new survey that indicates that 93% of married individuals in Pakistan are “satisfied with the level of dignity and respect they receive from their spouses”.

    The aim of the study was to gauge marital contentment, providing insights into the dynamics of marital relationships across the country.

    The sample of the study included married adult men and women from urban and rural areas of all four provinces of Pakistan. Gallup and Gilani approached 929 respondents from July 7th to July 16th, 2023 through telephonic surveys (CATI).

    The survey carries a confidence level of 95% with an estimated error margin of approximately ± 2-3 percent.

    The primary question asked was, “Considering your married life, please tell me to what extent are you satisfied with your spouse regarding ‘Treating with dignity and respect’?”

    As per the report, here are the response:

    Completely satisfied: 76%

    Somewhat satisfied: 17%

    Somewhat dissatisfied: 5%

    Completely dissatisfied: 1%

    Gave no response: 1%