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Petrol Price in Pakistan drops to Rs386 in fresh Weekend Cut

16 October 2026 at 18:56

ISLAMABAD – The federal government announced another cut in petrol prices, lowering the rate by Rs3.93 per litre to Rs386.30, offering some relief to motorists as fuel prices remain close to the Rs400 mark.

Diesel consumers will see no change, with high-speed diesel (HSD) continuing to sell at Rs396.96 per litre.

Petrol Price In Pakistan Drops To Rs386 In Fresh Weekend Cut

The revised rates will take effect from October 17 and remain in force until October 19, 2026, covering the weekend, according to an announcement by the Petroleum Division.

The latest reduction follows Wednesday’s price adjustment, when petrol became cheaper by Rs3.63 per litre, bringing its price down to Rs390.23. In the same revision, diesel prices increased by Re0.31 per litre to Rs396.96. The latest decision has lowered petrol prices further while leaving diesel rates untouched.

The domestic price revision comes amid continued uncertainty in international energy markets. Crude oil prices remained relatively steady on Friday but were heading towards weekly gains as concerns over Middle Eastern supplies and a larger-than-expected drawdown in US crude inventories supported the market.

 

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Pakistan’s Current Account Deficit surges to $356 Million amid soaring Import Bill

16 October 2026 at 18:24

KARACHI – Pakistan’s external sector is facing pressure as current account deficit jumped to $356 million in September 2026, reversing the surplus recorded a year earlier and raising fresh concerns about the country’s trade imbalance.

Fresh data by State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) shows September deficit was higher than the revised shortfall of $73 million in August. The latest reading also marks a sharp reversal from September 2025, when Pakistan posted a current account surplus of $133 million.

The deterioration comes despite stronger exports and continued growth in overseas Pakistanis’ remittances, highlighting a persistent problem: the country’s import bill is expanding much faster than its export earnings.

The latest figures reveal growing imbalance in Pakistan’s external trade. Exports of goods and services rose to approximately $3.95 billion in September, up from $3.42 billion a year earlier. However, imports climbed to $7.38 billion from $5.99 billion over the same period.

 

indicators Sept 2026 Sept 2025 Annual change
Current account balance -$356 million +$133 million Surplus turns deficit
Exports of goods and services $3.95 billion $3.42 billion +15%
Imports of goods and services $7.38 billion $5.99 billion +23%
Workers’ remittances $3.59 billion $3.18 billion +13%

 

The numbers tell a troubling story for Pakistan’s external account. While export receipts improved, the faster rise in imports increased the pressure on foreign exchange outflows. This imbalance has become a key factor behind the country’s deteriorating current account position.

The pressure is becoming more evident in the broader fiscal-year picture. Pakistan’s current account deficit reached $874 million during the July–September quarter of FY27, compared with $755 million in the same period last year, marking an increase of approximately 15.8%. The deficit accumulated in just three months has already exceeded twice the approximately $391 million shortfall recorded during the entire FY26.

The merchandise trade figures help explain the deterioration. Goods exports increased by 7.7% to $8.45 billion in the first quarter, while goods imports rose by 14.3% to $17.78 billion. Consequently, the goods trade deficit widened by around 21%, reaching $9.33 billion compared with $7.71 billion a year earlier.

The widening gap suggests that export growth has yet to match the pace of Pakistan’s rising import demand. Remittances from overseas Pakistanis remain one of the country’s most important sources of foreign exchange, but their contribution has not been sufficient to offset the growing trade imbalance.

Pakistan received $3.59 billion in workers’ remittances in September, compared with $3.18 billion in the same month last year. This shows annual growth of nearly 13%, although inflows were slightly lower than the $3.66 billion received in August.

Despite this encouraging performance, the current account remained under pressure as payments for imports and other external transactions continued to outweigh foreign exchange receipts.

 

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PMDC slaps Rs20 Million Fine on Fatima Jinnah Medical College over Student’s Death

16 October 2026 at 17:41

LAHORE – Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) imposed Rs20 million fine on Fatima Jinnah Medical College, Lahore, over alleged negligence and lapses in oversight following the death of final-year MBBS student Dr Fariha Ibrahim.

The college administration challenged the decision, refusing to accept the penalty and seeking a formal review of the council’s findings. The case centres on the death of Fariha Ibrahim, a student residing in the college hostel who sustained multiple serious injuries after falling from the rooftop one evening.

Fariha succumbed to her injuries, prompting scrutiny of the circumstances surrounding the incident and the institution’s responsibilities towards students living in its hostel.

PMDC sought detailed explanation from the college on March 31, 2026, as it examined the matter. The college principal submitted an inquiry report and supporting evidence to the council on April 2. The proceedings subsequently moved to the council’s disciplinary committee, where the college principal, acting head of the Department of Psychology and chief warden appeared on April 21 to present their positions.

After its review of available material, the committee imposed Rs20 million penalty and directed the institution to strengthen its student welfare and oversight arrangements. The prescribed measures include a comprehensive framework for medical assessments, counselling services, prevention of harassment and improved monitoring.

The penalty now triggered fresh dispute between the regulatory body and the college administration, which maintains that the decision warrants reconsideration.

After approval from its General Council, the college has filed a review petition before the PM&DC, seeking a reassessment of the findings and the financial penalty.

The administration argues that police and judicial investigations into the student’s death have been completed and that, according to its position, no evidence was found establishing that the institution had committed a criminal offence warranting police action.

On this basis, the college has urged the council to reconsider the investigative findings before reaching a final determination on the disciplinary action.

The administration’s challenge places the regulatory decision under further scrutiny, although the filing of a review petition does not, by itself, establish that the penalty has been overturned or suspended.

Beyond the financial penalty, the case raised broader questions about the responsibility of medical colleges to protect students residing in institutional hostels and provide adequate welfare and support systems. PMDC’s directions concerning medical assessments, counselling, harassment prevention and monitoring indicate that student welfare arrangements form a significant part of the regulatory response.

At the same time, the college’s challenge highlights a dispute over how the findings of separate investigations should be considered alongside regulatory proceedings. The review petition is expected to be placed before the council at an upcoming meeting for further examination and a decision.

MBBS Student drowns in Swimming Pool at Lahore’s Allama Iqbal Medical College

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Fazlur Rehman’s remarks on Soldiers’ Salaries prompt Strong Response from DG ISPR

16 October 2026 at 17:16

ISLAMABAD – Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (DG ISPR) Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry lamented Fazl’s remarks on sacrifices of Pakistan’s military martyrs and linking it to financial compensation.

Reacting to JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman’s remarks about soldiers’ salaries and their duties, the military spokesperson said the sacrifices of fallen personnel form the backbone of Pakistan’s armed forces and play a fundamental role in the country’s defence and security. He stressed that military personnel willingly risk their lives to protect the nation, adding that reducing their ultimate sacrifice to a matter of salary failed to reflect the spirit of service and devotion associated with defending the homeland.

Questioning whether anyone would willingly lay down their life merely for financial reward, the DG ISPR underscored that the commitment of Pakistan’s armed forces extends far beyond the terms of paid employment. He maintained that soldiers remain prepared to make the ultimate sacrifice for the protection of the country and its people, describing the legacy of martyrs as integral to Pakistan’s national security, defence and dignity.

The military spokesperson expressed concern over what he described as disrespectful remarks about Pakistan’s armed forces, particularly the martyrs of the Kargil conflict. He said statements that reinforce the Indian narrative about the conflict were regrettable and difficult to understand.

ISPR chief maintained that their sacrifices deserve lasting respect and recognition rather than being reduced to financial considerations.

His remarks came amid a political controversy following Fazlur Rehman’s comments at a JUI-F rally in Kasur, Punjab, where the opposition leader questioned why civilians were being encouraged to confront armed groups when national defence was the responsibility of the armed forces.

The controversy prompted criticism from government ministers, who argued that the remarks failed to acknowledge the courage and sacrifices of military personnel. Fazlur Rehman subsequently rejected calls for an apology, maintaining that his comments had been misunderstood and were directed at those in positions of authority rather than individual soldiers.

Pakistan Army Major makes Ultimate Sacrifice during Waziristan Operation

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Hira Mani trolled online over Bold Outfit during Canada Visit

16 October 2026 at 16:29

Bubbly versatile actress Hira Mani found herself at centre of social media attention during her visit to Canada, where she is meeting overseas fans at special meet-and-greet events. While the actress has been enjoying interactions with her admirers, her outfit has also sparked discussion online.

Mere Paas Tum Ho star is currently appearing alongside Mikaal Zulfiqar in Geo TV’s drama serial Khafa, continues to draw attention for both her on-screen performances and her personal style. However, her latest appearance in Canada has attracted mixed reactions, with some social media users commenting on her choice of dress.

Hira Mani Trolled Online Over Bold Outfit During Canada Visit

While some fans continue to show their support and appreciate her work, others have focused on her fashion choice. The mixed reactions highlight how celebrities’ public appearances can quickly become a talking point on social media.

Hira Mani Trolled Online Over Bold Outfit During Canada Visit

 

Despite the online chatter, Hira Mani remains active in the entertainment industry, with Khafa and her upcoming projects keeping her connected with audiences in Pakistan and abroad.

 

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Who is Paying Price for Pakistan’s Massive Electricity Losses? latest data here

16 October 2026 at 12:38

ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s electricity crisis has striking geographical divide as some districts reportedly lose nearly all the electricity supplied to them, much of Punjab records losses in single digits.

The district-level figures show the scale of the challenge, with Balochistan and parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa emerging as major centres of electricity losses and revenue-recovery problems.

The figures were shared by former Energy Minister Engr. Dastagir Khurram. Based on Power Division and distribution company data, the map classifies districts according to reported electricity losses and assigns financial-loss estimates to eight percentage bands.

The map of electricity theft and/or refusal to pay is the map of Pakistan’s overall governance.

Non-payment for electricity is a symptom, NOt the disease.

Map courtesy @RShahzaddk

— Engr. Khurram Dastgir-Khan (HI) (@kdastgirkhan) October 15, 2026

The findings point to a crisis extending far beyond electricity theft. Technical losses, unauthorized consumption, billing problems and unpaid bills all place pressure on distribution companies, weakening their finances and adding to Pakistan’s persistent circular-debt burden.

Estimates put electricity losses at around 97% in Awaran, 93–94% in Kalat and Qilla Saifullah, 93% in Sherani, 90% in Pishin and 88% in Chaman. Other districts identified in the high-loss belt include Qilla Abdullah, Khuzdar, Kech, Kharan, Chagai, Washuk and Zhob.

Four locations, Sherani, Chaman, Usta Muhammad and Jaffarabad, are specifically marked on the map.

Balochistan is not the only region confronting severe electricity-sector problems. Several districts in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, particularly in the south and former tribal areas, also feature prominently in the high-loss categories.

Historical estimates put losses at around 82% in Tank, 78% in Karak, 65% in Dera Ismail Khan and 63% in Bannu. Charsadda and some northern areas, including Chitral, have also been associated with elevated losses.

The contrast between districts raises questions about differences in enforcement, network conditions, consumer payment behaviour and the capacity of distribution companies to collect their dues.

While some districts in Balochistan and KP report losses exceeding 80%, most districts across Punjab fall into the map’s lowest-loss categories.

Large parts of the territories served by LESCO, FESCO, GEPCO, MEPCO and IESCO have historically reported losses below 10%. Kasur, Okara, Rajanpur and Rahim Yar Khan are among the exceptions cited in the low-teens range.

Parts of interior Sindh also face substantial electricity losses. Areas served by HESCO and SEPCO, including parts of Hyderabad, Larkana, Sukkur, Jacobabad and Ghotki, appear among the locations associated with moderate-to-high losses.

These districts generally show a more mixed pattern than Balochistan, with some falling into the 21–40% and 41–60% categories.

PESCO and QESCO have repeatedly featured among the major loss-making distribution companies, while HESCO and SEPCO have also faced significant financial challenges. Reports in recent years have cited substantial annual losses at PESCO and rising financial pressure at QESCO, although precise amounts vary by year and methodology.

The pattern also raises broader questions about institutional capacity and the administration of public utilities. In some areas, distribution companies may face difficulties maintaining infrastructure, accessing networks, enforcing disconnections or collecting payments consistently. Political interference, local resistance and weak administrative coordination may further complicate enforcement.

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Gold Price soars to Rs440,636 per Tola; Silver sets New Record

16 October 2026 at 12:18

KARACHI – Gold prices in Pakistan jumped higher on October 16 as international bullion rates advanced, while silver climbed to an unprecedented Rs6,256 per tola in the domestic market.

The price of 10 grams of gold also increased by Rs2,401 to Rs377,774. In the international market, gold gained $28 to reach $4,181 per ounce, while silver prices in Pakistan increased by Rs108 per tola to set a new all-time high of Rs6,256.

Latest Prices

Metal Price Daily Change
Gold per tola Rs440,636 +Rs2,800
Gold per 10 grams Rs377,774 +Rs2,401
Silver per tola Rs6,256 +Rs108
International gold per ounce $4,181 +$28

Gold Rates in Karachi

In Lahore, the local rates for gold piece were Rs434,800 and Rs434,200, while the Pathoor hovers at Rs429,500 and Rs427,500. Karachi’s reported selling rate stood at Rs434,500.

Gold Category Reported Price
22-karat gold Rs398,566
21-karat gold Rs380,450

Lahore Silver Market

Silver prices also remained in focus after the reported per-tola rate reached a record Rs6,256 nationally. Separate quotations supplied for Lahore included the following rates:

Silver Category Reported Rate
999.0 Tezabi silver Rs6,200
Silver bar, 1 kilogram Rs6,30
Silver piece, 10 tola Rs6,350

With gold and silver prices fluctuating, consumers and investors are advised to verify current rates through recognised bullion market associations or local dealers before making transactions.

 

 

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Islamabad Metro Bus Operations suspended between IJP Road, and Pak Secretariat

16 October 2026 at 11:44

RAWALPINDI/ISLAMABAD – Passengers travelling between twin cities have been hit by partial suspension of Metro Bus Service, with operations on key section of the route halted amid security and administrative concerns.

The suspension affected stretch between IJP Road and Pak Secretariat, disrupting direct bus travel along this corridor. However, services between Saddar and Faizabad stations remain operational, providing commuters with a limited travel option.

According to Metro Bus authorities, the decision was taken on the instructions of the district administration as a precautionary measure to prevent any untoward incident.

The sudden restriction may cause inconvenience for daily commuters who rely on the service to travel between Rawalpindi and Islamabad, particularly those heading towards stations on the suspended section.

Passengers have been advised to plan their journeys accordingly, as buses are currently operating only on the available Saddar-Faizabad segment.

Authorities have not announced a specific timeline for the restoration of full operations. Services along the suspended section are expected to resume once the situation improves and conditions permit a safe reopening.

Until then, commuters are urged to remain alert to official announcements regarding changes to Metro Bus operations.

 

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KP Police Martyrs’ Compensation increased to Rs35 Million, Rs 70 Million for Housing Aid

16 October 2026 at 11:44

PESHAWAR – Compensation for martyred personnel has been raised to as much as Rs 35 million, while housing assistance in lieu of residential plots could reach Rs 70 million for the most senior ranks. The measures come as the province faces persistent security threats and renewed calls to address a reported shortage of 17,000 police personnel.

The package, linked to announcements surrounding Governor Faisal Karim Kundi’s police welfare initiatives, seeks to strengthen financial protection for the families of officers killed in the line of duty while improving support for personnel who suffer serious injuries or permanent disabilities.

The precise rank-wise breakdown of several benefits remains inconsistent across media reports, and the complete schedule requires confirmation through an official notification.Martyrs’ Compensation Raised to Rs 35 Million

Under reported revised structure, the compensation payable to the families of martyred police personnel varies according to rank and service grade. Constables through inspectors, including head constables, assistant sub-inspectors and sub-inspectors, are reported to be eligible for Rs 17 million, compared with approximately Rs 11 million previously.

For DSPs and ASPs, the revised amount is reported at around Rs 25 million, against a previous package of approximately Rs 16 million. Officers in Grades 18 and 19, including certain SSP and AIG categories, are reported to receive Rs 30 million, compared with around Rs 21 million earlier.

The highest reported tier provides Rs 35 million for officers in Grade 20 and above, including DIGs and the IGP, compared with approximately Rs 21 million under the earlier arrangement. The revised figures show substantial increase in financial assistance for families who lose their primary earners while serving in one of the province’s most dangerous public-service roles.

Cash payments are being offered as an alternative to residential plots, allowing bereaved families greater flexibility in purchasing property or building homes. The reported housing package includes Rs 18 million for constables and head constables, replacing the earlier entitlement to a five-marla plot. ASIs, sub-inspectors and inspectors are reported to receive Rs 25 million in place of a seven-marla plot.

For DSPs, ASPs and SPs, reported housing assistance ranges from Rs 25 million to Rs 35 million, depending on the applicable category. Officers in Grades 18 and 19, including SSPs, are associated with a Rs 35 million package, replacing a ten-marla plot.

The highest reported housing benefit stands at Rs 70 million for Grade 20 and above, in place of a one-kanal residential plot. The cash-based arrangement could give families greater freedom to choose where they live and how they use the funds. However, discrepancies in the reported rank-wise allocations mean that the exact entitlements should be verified against the final policy.

The reported reforms also provide substantial increases for injured personnel. Compensation for serious injuries sustained during official duty has risen from Rs 100,000 to Rs 1.5 million, while the payment for permanent disability has reportedly increased from Rs 500,000 to Rs 5 million.

The higher amounts are intended to provide greater financial assistance to officers whose injuries affect their ability to work, support their families or maintain their livelihoods. For personnel confronting terrorist threats and other operational dangers, improved injury benefits could form an important part of a wider effort to strengthen institutional welfare.

The package extends beyond direct compensation, with additional measures aimed at supporting the families left behind.

A marriage grant of Rs 1 million for each daughter of a martyred police officer has been announced in media reports. Financial assistance for the education of martyrs’ children is also among the proposed welfare measures, with possible contributions through an endowment fund and partnerships involving banks and corporate organisations.

Separate assistance has also been reported for close relatives of police personnel killed in terrorist attacks. The reported amounts range from Rs 3 million to Rs 5 million, depending on the relationship to the deceased. Spouses and children are generally associated with the higher figure, while parents and siblings are linked to the lower amount.

Some reports additionally refer to support for families of personnel who die from causes unrelated to official duty, although the eligibility criteria and extent of such assistance remain unclear.

Beyond benefits for martyrs and injured personnel, authorities have highlighted the need to improve salaries for serving police officers.

The said change is to make KP Police pay competitive with, or potentially better than, salaries offered by police forces in other provinces.

Abbas Ahsan assigned policing responsibilities for 12 KP districts

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Pakistan issues Blunt Warning to New Delhi after Indian Defence Minister’s Strike Threat

16 October 2026 at 11:29

ISLAMABAD/NEW DELHI — Tensions between nuclear-armed neighbours Pakistan and India intensified amid a fresh exchange of hard-line statements, as Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh made aggressive statement about a military strike even bigger than the last time.

Addressing the Times Network National Defence Conclave 2026 in New Delhi, Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh said any fresh terrorist activity originating from across the border would invite a military response more powerful than India’s previous operations.

Singh warned that India’s commitment to peace should not be mistaken for weakness, saying their government remained prepared to take decisive action against what it considers cross-border terrorism.

To reinforce his warning, Singh cited India’s previous military operations, including strikes after 2016 Uri attack, the Balakot airstrikes after the 2019 Pulwama attack, and Operation Sindoor, which made Indian Air Force a laughing stock in the world.

Meanwhile, Foreign Office rejected Rajnath Singh’s remarks and warned India against what it described as threatening and belligerent rhetoric. During his weekly press briefing, Foreign Office spokesperson Ambassador Sajjad Haider Khan condemned the statements as provocative remarks entailing a threat of Indian aggression.

The statements show what Pakistan considers India’s “hegemonistic mindset” and risked undermining peace and stability across South Asia.

MoFA spox pointed to military confrontation of May 2025, saying that Pakistan had demonstrated both its military capability and its resolve during the crisis by delivering a “befitting response” to Indian aggression. He stressed that there was “no ambiguity” about Pakistan’s readiness to safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity against any ill-advised military action.

The spokesperson also warned that Pakistan’s preference for restraint and peace should not be interpreted as weakness, adding that any aggression would be met with a forceful response.

Islamabad urged New Delhi to learn from the previous year’s confrontation, abandon its belligerent posture and dangerous rhetoric, and adopt a more responsible approach to regional security.

Pakistan Army slams Indian Army Chief’s ‘Geography or History’ statement as provocation amid tensions

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