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KP CM Sohail Afridi rejects governor’s rule threats • Nadia Khan faces criticism after questioning Preshay Adnan over gym attire • OpenAI scraps new AI model launch over safety concerns • Men face higher cancer rates than women, study finds • Pakistan earn first point in FIFA ASEAN Cup after 2-2 draw with Philippines • Tax return filing deadline tomorrow as late-filer category set to end • Floods and heavy rains kill 23 in Thailand • Ahsan Bhoon sends Rs5b defamation notice to Capt (R) Safdar • Salman Khan speaks out against AI-generated deepfake videos • Insomnia linked to 26% higher stroke risk, study finds • Google Chrome introduces feature to preserve tab position across devices • Four militants killed in security operation in DI Khan • Clashes erupt over partial demolition of 600-year-old Ujjain mosque in India • Pakistan thrash Oman 7-2, set up Asian Games semifinal against India • Pakistan plans $500mn ADB loan for pension reforms
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Pakistan News

Read the latest Pakistan news, politics, economy, public services and breaking developments with verified updates, context and original analysis.

Another polio case reported in Pakistan

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Another polio

ISLAMABAD: Another case of poliovirus has been confirmed in Pakistan, health ministry sources said on Tuesday.

According to officials, the affected child — a 12-month-old boy — belongs to the Kandar tehsil of Torghar district in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The child reportedly developed symptoms of the disease on September 19, 2025.

Health ministry sources added that this is the 19th polio case reported from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa so far this year, bringing the total number of cases nationwide in 2025 to 30.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s tally for the year has reached 19 cases, nine from Sindh, and one each from Punjab and Gilgit-Baltistan.

Polio is a highly infectious and incurable disease that can cause lifelong paralysis. Health experts emphasize that the only effective protection is repeated doses of the Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV) for every child under the age of five, along with timely completion of routine immunizations.

Sindh’s Fuel Cess Likely to Raise Prices Nationwide

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Sindh fuel cess, Pakistan oil prices, infrastructure tax Sindh, inflation in Pakistan, fuel import levy, petroleum news Pakistan


Sindh’s new 1.8% infrastructure cess on oil imports may push fuel prices higher by Rs 3 per litre, sparking economic concerns nationwide.


The Sindh government’s decision to impose a 1.8% infrastructure cess on oil imports has raised alarm among economists and transport associations, who warn of potential fuel price hikes of up to Rs 3 per litre across Pakistan.

The cess, announced earlier this week, aims to generate funds for infrastructure maintenance and development within Sindh. However, oil marketing companies say the added cost will likely be passed on to consumers, worsening inflation at a time when the rupee remains under pressure.

According to industry sources, Pakistan’s current account deficit has widened again, and any additional tax burden could further slow industrial output. Transport unions have already threatened protests if the increase is not withdrawn or adjusted.

The Petroleum Division is in talks with provincial authorities to reconsider the levy or develop a shared revenue mechanism that would not burden end-users. Sindh officials, however, argue that the cess is “necessary to maintain critical logistics infrastructure used by the oil industry.”

Economists suggest that such regional levies could complicate federal-provincial fiscal coordination. With global oil prices fluctuating, even minor tax changes can have cascading effects on transportation, manufacturing, and household budgets.

The federal government has yet to issue an official statement on whether it will intervene or offer a subsidy to offset the increase.

Former Skipper Misbah-ul-Haq tipped for top PCB post

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Former Skipper

ISLAMABAD: Former Pakistan captain Misbah-ul-Haq is likely to be given a key role by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

According to sources, the PCB had recently advertised the position of Director Cricket Operations (International), and Misbah-ul-Haq has emerged as the top contender for the post.

Sources revealed that for the first time, the eligibility criteria in the job advertisement specifically required the candidate to be a former Test or One Day International (ODI) cricketer.

It is worth mentioning that the PCB had earlier suspended Director of International Cricket Operations Usman Wahla for his alleged mishandling of the situation during the Pakistan-India dispute in the Asia Cup, although he was later reinstated.

Pakistan, Afghanistan Agree to Ceasefire Amid Border Clashes

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Pakistan Afghanistan border, ceasefire news, Qatar mediation, Taliban Pakistan relations, Chaman border clashes, South Asia security, latest Pakistan news


Pakistan and Afghanistan have agreed to an immediate ceasefire following deadly cross-border attacks. Qatar confirms mediation efforts between both nations.


Pakistan and Afghanistan have agreed to an immediate ceasefire following a series of intense cross-border clashes that left dozens dead, officials confirmed on Monday. The agreement, brokered by Qatar, comes after Pakistan’s defence chief urged the Taliban to halt militant incursions from Afghan soil.

According to Pakistan’s military, more than 30 people were killed in overnight attacks near the Chaman and Torkham borders. Islamabad accused Afghan-based militants of targeting civilian and security installations. Kabul has yet to issue an official statement, but Afghan Taliban representatives have reportedly assured cooperation to de-escalate tensions.

The ceasefire was confirmed by Qatar’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, which said both countries had “agreed to halt hostilities and establish a joint mechanism for future communication.” Analysts believe Qatar’s involvement underscores the growing diplomatic interest in stabilizing the Pakistan-Afghanistan frontier.

Pakistan’s Defence Minister stated that long-term peace “depends on the Taliban’s ability to control militant networks operating within Afghanistan.” The issue of border management and refugee movements has also been brought to the table.

The recent escalation marks one of the deadliest border episodes since the Taliban took control of Afghanistan in 2021. Experts warn that any prolonged conflict could undermine regional stability and trade routes connecting South and Central Asia.

Security officials said both sides will maintain communication through military channels to ensure that the ceasefire holds in the coming days.

Pak-Afghan border partially reopened after Doha meeting

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Pak-Afghan border

CHAMAN: Following renewed peace efforts in Doha, Pakistan and Afghanistan have moved toward normalization as the Chaman border crossing has been partially reopened.

According to local sources, empty vehicles and trucks engaged in Afghan transit trade have been allowed to enter Pakistan from Afghanistan. However, pedestrian movement across the border remains suspended.

Entry has been permitted only for Afghan drivers holding valid passports and visas. A large number of vehicles are reportedly crossing into Pakistan at Chaman, while Afghan refugees being repatriated from Pakistan have also been allowed to cross the border.

President of Chaman Traders Association, Muhammad Sadiq, told media that the permission is temporary. The Spin Boldak border crossing between Pakistan and Afghanistan has been reopened.

Media reports indicate that the border has been reopened solely for trade activities. Sources added that pedestrian crossings remain restricted due to certain sensitive security concerns.

Background of the Clashes:

The border clashes began on the night between October 11 and 12 when Afghan Taliban militants launched unprovoked attacks on Pakistani forces. According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), more than 200 militants were killed, while 23 Pakistani soldiers embraced martyrdom while defending the border.

Lahore Emerges as the Most Polluted City Globally

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Lahore emerges

LAHORE: The provincial capital recorded one of the worst air quality readings in the world on Monday, with Lahore ranked as the most polluted city globally.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Lahore’s Air Quality Index (AQI) surged to 332, placing it in the “hazardous” category. Faisalabad followed closely with an AQI of 325, while Sheikhupura recorded 311, Dera Ghazi Khan 239, Gujranwala 233, and Multan 224.

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) classification, an Air Quality Index (AQI) reading between 0 and 100 is considered clean and healthy, while 101 to 200 falls under the “moderately polluted but tolerable” category.

AQI readings between 300 and 500 are classified as polluted to severely polluted, posing serious health risks—particularly for individuals with heart and respiratory diseases who may experience breathing difficulties during prolonged exposure.

The EPA further states that when the AQI exceeds 500, the air quality is deemed extremely hazardous, with potential health impacts even on otherwise healthy individuals.

The Punjab government has made it mandatory for motorcycle riders to wear face masks amid worsening air pollution across the province.

Experts have warned that the worsening air quality poses serious health risks, urging residents to limit outdoor activities and wear protective masks when necessary.

Rawalpindi Test: Pakistan opts to bat first against South Africa

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Rawalpindi Test

RAWALPINDI: Pakistan opted to bat first after winning the toss in the second and final Test against South Africa at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Monday.

Captain Shan Masood, after winning the toss, confirmed one change in the playing XI, with Asif Afridi coming into the side in place of Hasan Ali, who has been rested for the match.

Masood said the team aims to put up a strong total on the board and make the most of the batting conditions early in the game.

Asif Afridi will make his Test debut on behalf of Pakistan, Shaheen Afridi gave Test cap to Asif Afridi. Asif Afridi made his Test debut at the age of 39 years and 299 days.

South African captain Aiden Markram said that his side would also have opeted to bat first had they won the toss. He added that two changes have been made in the team for the Rawalpindi Test, with Keshav Maharaj, Marco Jensen have been included in the team.

Spin bowler Asif Afridi is set to make his Test debut for Pakistan in the second Test match against South Africa at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.

The players and support staff extended their best wishes to Asif Afridi for his debut match, wishing him a successful and memorable outing in Test cricket.

It is worth mentioning that Pakistan leads the two-match Test series 1–0, after securing a 93-run victory over South Africa in the Lahore Test.

Hindu community observes Diwali, festival of lights

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Hindu community

KARACHI: Hindu communities in Pakistan and across the globe marked the festival of Diwali on Monday, observing the occasion with traditional rituals, prayers, and festive celebrations.

Special ceremonies are being organized in temples to mark the occasion, where devotees light earthen lamps in remembrance of Lord Rama’s return, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness.

The festival commemorates the sacrifices of Shri Ram Chandra Ji, who spent nearly fourteen years in exile, spreading the teachings and values of Hinduism.

President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif extended his heartfelt greetings and best wishes to the Hindu community in Pakistan and abroad on the joyous occasion of Diwali.

In a message on the occasion of Diwali, President said, “As our Hindu citizens and millions around the world celebrate Diwali, this festival reminds us of the triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.”

He said, “The celebration of Diwali reminds us of the universal values of peace, compassion and harmony that are shared across faiths. These values are at the heart of our national life and reflect the principles of mutual respect and coexistence that Islam itself upholds.”

“The Constitution of Pakistan guarantees equal rights and complete freedom of religion to all citizens, reaffirming our commitment to a society where people of every faith live together in dignity and mutual respect,” he added.

The President said, “Our founding father, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah envisioned a Pakistan where minorities would enjoy equal rights and opportunities and where every citizen could freely practice their religion. The Hindu community has been an integral part of our social, cultural, and economic fabric since the country’s inception. Their contributions in education, commerce, and public service have enriched our shared national life.”

“To our Hindu community across Pakistan, I convey my sincere wishes for happiness, prosperity, and peace. May the light of Diwali bring joy to your homes and strengthen the bonds that unite us as one nation. Happy Diwali,” he concluded.

PM Shehbaz Sharif extending Diwali greetings to the Hindu community in Pakistan and around the world, reiterated his government’s commitment to providing equal rights and opportunities for progress to all communities, irrespective of their beliefs.

The prime minister, in his message on Diwali being celebrated today, said that the “festival of lights” reflected the light prevailing over darkness and hope over despair.

“As we celebrate Diwali, let us collectively look toward a future filled with positivity and unity. As Pakistanis, we take pride in the diversity of our society, which strengthens our national fabric and enriches our shared culture,” he remarked.

He expressed the pleasure over Pakistanis from Hindu and other minority communities working shoulder to shoulder with their Muslim countrymen for the progress of our country.

Concluding his message with “Happy Diwali,” the prime minister prayed that the “festival of lights” brought peace and prosperity to the lives of Hindu community and fostered unity and brotherhood among people of all faiths in the country.

President, Bilawal pay glowing tribute to Shaheed Benazir Bhutto

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President

ISLAMABAD: On the 18th anniversary of the Karsaz tragedy, President Asif Ali Zardari and PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari honoured the memory of Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto and the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for democracy.

He said that from that day until her martyrdom, her life and sacrifice remained a source of guidance and strength for all those who stood for democracy and peace.

The president said that Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto returned to Pakistan on this day despite clear threats to her life, adding she remained resolute after the terrorist attack at Karsaz and continued her struggle for the restoration of democracy.

“Recalling the events that followed, the president said that she visited hospitals and neighbourhoods the next day to meet the injured and console the bereaved families, reflecting her deep concern for her workers and the people of Pakistan,” President Secretariat Press Wing said in a press release.

As the nation continued to confront terrorism and extremism, the courage and sacrifice of the martyrs of the Karsaz tragedy reinforced their resolve to defeat all such forces, he further added.

Chairman Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has paid glowing tribute to the martyrs of the Karsaz tragedy on its 18th anniversary, honoring their unshakable courage, unwavering loyalty, and supreme sacrifices for democracy.

In his message, Bilawal said October 18, 2007, is etched forever in the nation’s memory, marking the day when over 3 million people gathered to welcome Shaheed Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto back to her homeland.

He said it was also the day when 180 brave party workers laid down their lives for the dream of a democratic Pakistan.

Bilawal recalled that dictatorship and terrorism had joined hands to launch a heinous attack on Benazir Bhutto’s caravan. “Those who attacked the caravan of Benazir wanted to extinguish the light of democracy — but the blood of our martyrs only made it shine brighter,” he said.

He vowed to carry forward the mission of Shaheed Benazir Bhutto and the martyrs of Karsaz, reaffirming his commitment to building a Pakistan where democracy, equality, and justice prevail.

“The blood of our martyrs continues to illuminate our journey toward a peaceful, democratic, and prosperous Pakistan,” Bilawal Bhutto Zardari added.

PCB responds after Afghanistan withdraws from tri-nation series

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PCB

LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has issued a statement following Afghanistan Cricket Board’s (ACB) announcement that it will not participate in the upcoming Tri-Nation T20 Series scheduled to be held in Pakistan in November.

Earlier, the ACB confirmed in an official statement that Afghanistan will not take part in the series, which was set to feature Pakistan, Sri Lanka, and Afghanistan.

Responding to the development, a PCB spokesperson said that the Tri-Nation T20 Series will proceed as per schedule, adding that discussions are underway to invite a replacement team. “Arrangements are ongoing, and a final decision will be made soon,” the spokesperson added.

The Tri-Nation T20 Tournament is scheduled to take place in Pakistan from November 17 to 29, with Pakistan and Sri Lanka confirmed as participating teams.

Meanwhile, diplomatic sources indicate that Pakistan and the Afghan Taliban administration have agreed to maintain the ceasefire, signaling a potential easing of tensions amid broader regional developments.