Last week, PPP leader Najmi Alam reportedly said that if Sindh gets new administrative units, the Karachi mayor should be handed DHA and the cantonments. After 18 years of PPP rule in Sindh, this is not a proposal. It is a dare.

Let me do what Mr Alam apparently didn’t: count what the mayor already runs.

Murtaza Wahab heads the KMC, which includes the fire brigade, chairs the Karachi Water and Sewerage Corporation, and sits on the governing bodies of KDA, MDA and LDA. Around him sit provincial bodies like the SBCA, also in PPP hands. Mr Alam knows this machinery from the inside, having served as vice-chairman of the water board himself. So, in the spirit of a fair audit: name one institution among them that has become better under this mayor. I’ll wait.
The fire department. On the night of 17 January, a fire began at Gul Plaza at 10:14 pm. The first engine left at 10:27 pm. It burned for roughly 24 hours. More than 70 people died, and about 1,200 shops were reduced to ash, in the city’s worst fire since Baldia in 2012. And what does a city of 20 million-plus have to fight such fires? 35 fire stations, by KMC’s own count. In September, fire gutted the mayor’s own office at KMC headquarters. An administration that could not protect its own chamber from a kitchen short circuit now wants Defence.

The gutters. I’ll be blunt: the mayor cannot even keep a lid on a manhole. At least 22 people died in Karachi’s open manholes and drains between January and November last year, eight of them children aged ten or younger. In 2023, the toll reportedly rose to 68. The mayor says the city has 245,000 manholes and that it installed 88,000 new covers last year, leaving roughly 157,000 still to go. A cover costs around Rs700 in the market. After a toddler died, KMC blamed the BRT project, which blamed the water corporation, which said the drain wasn’t its jurisdiction. Karachi’s children keep falling through the gap between your institutions.

University Road. The Red Line was launched in 2022 and was meant to be done by 2024. The deadline slid to 2025, then 2026, and now sits at June 2027, on a road that carries one to 1.5 million vehicles every day. The first contractor was removed, and the FWO took over to finish the job. In August, the senior minister promised the road would be fully motorable by 15 September. On 27 September, he apologised and promised to complete it in two months. Ask any student at Karachi University or NED how that feels. Five years is not a project. It is a sentence.

Lyari. This is the PPP’s own stronghold. In July, four-year-old Shavez drowned in the Lyari River and a young man, Gulab, died trying to save him. Opposition leaders say the major drains remain choked despite a municipal budget of Rs63 billion and billions earmarked for cleaning. Water shortage and uncollected garbage in Lyari are complaints older than some of the councillors who campaign there. If you cannot deliver in your own heartland after 18 years, why should Karachi trust you with its most expensive neighbourhoods?

Now compare. I am not romanticising DHA. Its drainage has its own sins. But walk its streets and then walk Lyari’s lanes. The difference in sweeping, lighting, and basic upkeep is visible to anyone with eyes. Whatever you think of the cantonment boards, they deliver something the mayor hasn’t: maintained roads and cleaned lanes. Even the mayor appears to know it. When he promised DHA a 10 million gallons-a-day water pipeline, he called the Cantonment Board Clifton “very forthcoming” and brought in the FWO to build it. The man who wants to absorb the cantonments is already borrowing their capacity.

Mr Alam has asked voters in PS-110, the Clifton–Defence side of Karachi South, for their votes twice. He knows exactly what a well-kept lane looks like, and exactly how far it is from Lyari’s. The distance between the two is not geography. It is 18 years of PPP governance.

Defenders will say the mayor lacks the powers to deliver. Critics do argue that the 2013 local government law left Karachi’s mayor weak and gave provincial bodies like the SBCA and the waste management board the real control. But whose law is that? And the PPP’s other line is that the Gul Plaza lease dates back to MQM-era mayors: the chief minister blamed the mayor who approved the lease in 1991. You cannot plead powerlessness for today’s failures and ask for more power in the same breath.

Small administrative units are a legitimate debate, and the more local the unit, the more accountable it should be. That is why failed institutions should go to someone who can run them, not the other way around. Fix the manholes. Finish University Road. Clean Lyari. Then ask for Defence. And, Mr Alam, a modest invitation: you and the mayor are welcome to walk Lyari’s lanes this monsoon, with the cameras on.

The post Najmi Sahab, You Can’t Run Defence When You Can’t Cover a Manhole appeared first on Daily Pakistan English News.

I recently came across a SUPARCO note saying Karachi’s built-up area has grown by about 32 per cent since 2010 and now covers more than 1,400 square kilometres. By my rough arithmetic, that’s about 340 square kilometres of new city in fifteen years. I wasn’t shocked. You don’t need a satellite to notice that the farmland and empty plots on the city’s edges have been turning into housing and roads for years. It’s still odd to see it written down as a number.

We talk about heat here the way we talk about traffic, as something to grumble about and get through. But in June 2015, temperatures touched 45°C and well over a thousand people died in Karachi in about a week. Power cuts made it worse, knocking out the pumps that bring water to our homes. Concrete and asphalt soak up warmth all day and release it slowly at night, so the city never properly cools. Trees and open soil used to help, and there’s less of both now. Add the humidity, which makes sweating far less effective, and a day can turn dangerous long before anyone announces a heatwave.

M Toheed, an urban planner linked with IBA, says Karachi has lost around 40 per cent of its green cover in about fifteen years. I’d be careful with that figure, since it still needs checking against proper land-cover data. But I haven’t heard anyone claim the city has become greener.

Hard surfaces don’t just hold heat; they also shed water. In August 2020, a record 230.5 millimetres of rain fell in a single day, beating a record that had stood since 1967. By the Sindh chief minister’s count, 47 people died in the city. Our drains were overwhelmed, and SUPARCO warns that building over natural ground makes a repeat more likely. We called it a freak event and carried on pouring concrete.

What bothers me most is who pays for all this. Toheed estimates that 62 to 70 per cent of Karachi lives in informal settlements, often in homes with tin or steel roofs and eight or more people inside. Picture that room at three in the afternoon, then take away the electricity. He named North Karachi, Ajmer Nagri, Pahar Ganj and Lyari as places where long outages are routine, with 10 to 14 hours a day in some neighbourhoods and up to 18 on Baba Bhit Island. In those homes, a working fan is not a small thing.

And it isn’t over. Earlier this month, K-Electric began cutting power in previously exempt areas, including Clifton and DHA, blaming an LNG shortage. Even the neighbourhoods that usually escape are now learning what the rest of the city already knew.

Women, children and the elderly get it worst. A man can step outside and sit somewhere breezy. His wife, his mother or a small child usually can’t.

Heat costs money too, though we rarely add it up. A labourer who can’t finish a shift earns less. A child worn out by the heat falls behind in school. One hospital visit can wipe out the savings of an already stretched family. None of this makes one dramatic headline, which may be why it gets ignored.

Part of this is a failure of oversight. The Supreme Court has repeatedly criticised the Sindh Building Control Authority for illegal construction and said at one hearing that officials allegedly took bribes. The mayor once told the court he controls only about ten per cent of the city. When nobody owns the problem, everybody can point elsewhere.

The fixes aren’t mysterious, just hard. Someone in government should be responsible for heat; Toheed notes other cities have appointed heat officers, and we haven’t. The 2017 Heat Wave Management Plan reportedly expects the power company to keep supply going during heatwaves, and he alleges that it doesn’t. That claim deserves a proper answer. Solar could help too, but he estimates only about one in ten households has it, because so many families rent, can’t afford panels, or have no roof to put them on.

And we should stop treating trees and parks as leftover land. A neighbourhood with shade and open ground is simply easier to live in, and cheaper to run, than one that is all rooftops.

None of this will cool Karachi overnight. I’d just like the next satellite report to have better news.

The post Karachi Is Running Out of Places to Cool Down appeared first on Daily Pakistan English News.

ISLAMABAD – Pakistani government slashes petrol prices by Rs1.60 per litre while increasing the price of high-speed diesel (HSD) by Rs1.64, with the revised rates coming into effect on October 23, 2026.

Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) revised petroleum prices under the federal government’s pricing mechanism. After adjustment, petrol will be available at Rs377.71 per litre, down from Rs379.31, while the price of high-speed diesel has risen to Rs391.75 per litre from Rs390.11.

The latest revision comes a day after the government reduced the petrol price by Rs2.71 per litre and raised the diesel rate by Rs0.31 per litre. Those changes had brought petrol to Rs379.31 per litre and diesel to Rs390.11 per litre.

International crude oil markets moved higher today, with prices climbing to a five-month high as escalating regional tensions raised concerns about potential disruptions to energy supplies.

Houthi attacks in Saudi Arabia intensified market concerns over oil flows from the Middle East, a strategically important region for global energy exports.

Brent crude futures had gained $2.42, or 2.2%, to reach $111.24 per barrel. US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude rose by $1.14, or 1.2%, to $98.29 per barrel. Brent crude also entered technically overbought territory for the third time in a week and was on course for its highest closing price since May 18.

 

The post Petrol Price in Pakistan drops to Rs377, Diesel jumps to Rs391 appeared first on Daily Pakistan English News.

LAHORE – Car drivers and bikers involved in 21 serious traffic violations in Lahore will face criminal cases instead of routine challans, City Traffic Officer (CTO) Syed Abdul Rahim Shirazi announced on Thursday, signalling stricter enforcement against offences that endanger public safety.

The stern measure covers range of violations, including the unauthorised use of police-style flasher lights, illegal blue lights and green number plates.

Drivers caught travelling against the flow of traffic will also face criminal proceedings. The policy further targets motorists who tamper with number plates by printing over them, altering registration details or concealing a vehicle’s identity.

Other offences falling under the crackdown include blocking roads, reckless and negligent driving, over-speeding, dangerous zigzag manoeuvres and drifting. Disorderly conduct and extremely careless driving have also been included among the violations that can lead to the registration of First Information Reports (FIRs).

CTO Shirazi said the decision was aimed at curbing dangerous driving practices and addressing violations that pose a serious threat to human life. He made it clear that offenders involved in these categories of violations would no longer be let off with a fine alone.

Punjab Police already issued more than 6.5 million traffic challans across region by August this year, generating over Rs12.19 billion in fines. Lahore traffic police took action against more than 42,000 vehicles and motorcyclists on designated model roads. The violations included 10,114 helmet-related offences, 3,819 cases of driving without a valid licence, 2,289 one-way traffic violations and 616 signal violations.

 

The post From Wrong-Way Driving, to Green Number Plates; Lahore Drivers to face FIRs for THESE Traffic Violations appeared first on Daily Pakistan English News.

The post Fact Check: BLA’s Gwadar Attack Propaganda Exposed amid Damage to Balochistan’s Civilian Property appeared first on Daily Pakistan English News.

The post Suzuki Alto, Cultus, Kia Stonic Price Update under Auto Policy 2026-31 appeared first on Daily Pakistan English News.

ISLAMABAD – The Ministry of Religious Affairs has issued a travel advisory for Pakistani pilgrims travelling by air to Iran and Iraq, urging them and Ziyarat Group Organisers (ZGOs) to verify flight schedules before departure.

According to a spokesperson for the Ministry of Religious Affairs, pilgrims have been advised to confirm flights operating to Iran and Iraq in advance, avoid relying on uncertain flight schedules and ensure alternative travel arrangements are in place.

The spokesperson particularly urged pilgrims travelling between Tehran, Mashhad and Najaf to verify their flights before departure.

In case of flight cancellations, pilgrims have also been advised to carry additional funds to cover alternative air or land travel arrangements, as well as accommodation expenses.

The ministry has directed registered Ziyarat Group Organisers to avoid relying on unconfirmed Iranian flights and ensure that all pilgrims are fully informed about the travel advisory.

The measures aim to help Pakistani pilgrims travel safely and avoid disruptions during their journeys to religious destinations in Iran and Iraq.

 

The post Pakistan issues travel advisory for pilgrims travelling to Iran, Iraq appeared first on Daily Pakistan English News.

PESHAWAR –  Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has announced key decisions to accelerate development and strengthen security in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, pledging Rs160 billion in federal funding for development projects and all necessary resources for the fight against terrorism.

The prime minister made the remarks during a meeting in Peshawar with a development council comprising representatives from the tribal districts and tribal elders. Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir also attended the meeting.

During the meeting, tribal elders thanked the prime minister for paying special attention to the situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. They said the province’s people had been facing difficulties for the past 13 years and pledged their full cooperation in resolving public issues.

The elders also said people in the province had welcomed the recent developments and celebrated by distributing sweets.

Addressing the gathering, Prime Minister Shehbaz said tribal elders had always stood firmly with Pakistan and that tribal communities had made extraordinary sacrifices in the fight against terrorism.

He said the government highly valued their sacrifices, adding that despite suffering deep wounds and hardships, the tribal people’s commitment to Pakistan had never weakened.

The prime minister said that if peace had prevailed in the tribal districts, emergency measures might not have been necessary. He added that important decisions had been taken to accelerate development and make security arrangements in the province more effective.

Federal Government to Support Development and Food Security

Shehbaz Sharif said the federal government would provide Khyber Pakhtunkhwa with all the wheat it required and stressed that hoarding must not be allowed.

He said instructions had been issued to complete Safe City projects and accelerate development schemes where progress had been slow.

The prime minister reiterated that the federal government would provide all necessary resources to combat terrorism. He said steps would be taken to improve police training and operational capacity, while instructions had also been issued to strengthen the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD).

PM Calls for Improved Policing and Accountability

The prime minister said shortcomings had emerged in security operations and police performance in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa over the past 13 years.

He directed the relevant authorities to ensure prompt action in cases of theft and robbery and the immediate arrest of suspects.

Shehbaz Sharif also raised concerns over alleged corruption in the province, claiming that a Rs100 billion scandal had emerged in drinking water projects, while alleged fraud worth Rs37 billion had been reported in the Kohistan scandal.

He further alleged that widespread corruption had affected numerous development projects and that provincial resources had been misappropriated.

The prime minister said every rupee of public money would be spent on development and prosperity, adding that the government would work to prevent the alleged misuse of provincial resources.

Tribal Council to Be Empowered

Shehbaz Sharif said the 40 elected members of the tribal council carried a significant responsibility towards their communities.

He pledged that the council would be fully empowered and that the federal government would provide comprehensive support for development initiatives and access to justice in the tribal districts.

The prime minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving security, accelerating development and addressing the longstanding challenges faced by the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

The post Federal govt to provide Rs160b for development in KP, says PM Shehbaz appeared first on Daily Pakistan English News.

ISLAMABAD – President Asif Ali Zardari departed for Germany on Thursday for a three-day visit aimed at strengthening bilateral relations, with Pakistan and Germany set to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the establishment of their diplomatic ties this year.

According to the Foreign Office (FO), the president’s visit, scheduled for October 22 to 24, is part of ongoing high-level exchanges between the two countries.

The President’s Office confirmed Zardari’s departure from Lahore in a post on social media on Thursday.

The Foreign Office said the visit carries particular significance as Pakistan and Germany mark 75 years of diplomatic relations, reflecting their shared commitment to further strengthening bilateral cooperation.

During the visit, President Zardari is scheduled to meet his German counterpart, Frank-Walter Steinmeier, along with senior German officials and business leaders. Discussions are expected to focus particularly on expanding economic and trade cooperation.

Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah is also expected to accompany the president. His possible participation was discussed during a meeting with German Consul General Thomas E. Schultze.

Recent Diplomatic Engagements

In September, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar met German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly.

According to Germany’s Foreign Office, the German side appreciated Pakistan’s mediation efforts in regional conflicts, particularly concerning the Strait of Hormuz and Bab al-Mandab.

The two sides also agreed to support renewed peace negotiations on Ukraine, according to the German Foreign Office.

President Zardari’s visit is expected to provide an opportunity for both countries to review their longstanding partnership and explore avenues for enhanced cooperation in trade, investment and other areas of mutual interest.

The post President Zardari leaves for Germany on three-day visit to strengthen bilateral ties appeared first on Daily Pakistan English News.

ISLAMABAD – The federal government has decided to seek details of foreign citizenship held by government employees and directed them to submit declarations within 90 days.

The government has also issued a prescribed pro forma regarding foreign citizenship, instructing ministries and divisions to collect and submit details about their subordinate officers.

In addition to employees’ own citizenship status, the government has sought information about the foreign citizenship held by their dependants and details of their dependants’ travel documents.

Government employees will also be required to disclose details of marriages to foreign nationals as part of the declaration process.

 

The post Federal employees given 90 days to submit foreign citizenship declarations appeared first on Daily Pakistan English News.

ISLAMABAD – The World Bank has released its Pakistan Development Update 2026 economic report, outlining the country’s economic performance, inflation trends and recent changes in fuel and transport costs.

According to the report, Pakistan’s economic growth rate stood at 3.7 per cent in 2026. During the fiscal year 2025-26, average core inflation in urban areas was recorded at 7.4 per cent, while the overall fiscal deficit declined to 2.6 per cent of gross domestic product (GDP).

The report stated that petrol prices increased by approximately 36 per cent between February and June 2026. High-speed diesel prices rose by 31 per cent, while liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) prices recorded an increase of around 46 per cent during the same period.

Transport fares also increased by approximately 30 per cent, according to the report.

The World Bank further noted that international credit rating agencies S&P Global Ratings and Moody’s had upgraded Pakistan’s credit ratings, reflecting improvements in the country’s credit assessment.

The post World Bank presents economic growth forecast and inflation outlook for Pakistan appeared first on Daily Pakistan English News.

PESHAWAR – A meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has agreed on the complete elimination of terrorism, with the premier saying the federal government cannot remain a silent spectator while Khyber Pakhtunkhwa continues to suffer from violence.

“We cannot leave Khyber Pakhtunkhwa burning and remain silent spectators,” the prime minister said, adding that emergency measures and governor’s rule had to be imposed in the province under compelling circumstances.

The Federal Apex Committee of the National Action Plan met at Governor House in Peshawar under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Field Marshal Asim Munir, Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, Azam Nazeer Tarar, Attaullah Tarar, Amir Muqam, Rana Sanaullah, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi, the chief secretary, inspector general of police and Peshawar corps commander also attended the meeting.

According to sources, the meeting reviewed the province’s political situation and recent developments, with participants agreeing on the need to eradicate terrorism completely.

Addressing the participants, the prime minister vowed that the government would not rest until the last terrorist was eliminated. He said the sacrifices made by the country’s soldiers and officers would not go in vain.

Shehbaz Sharif assured the participants that the federal government would provide whatever support was required for the provincial police, Safe City projects and the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD).

PM Says KP Cannot Be Left to Suffer

The prime minister described Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as a beautiful province inhabited by courageous and resilient people, saying the province had been severely affected by circumstances that had developed over the past several years.

He said Pakistan’s armed forces and security institutions had made immense sacrifices to eliminate terrorism and that complete peace had been restored in the province by 2018.

However, he alleged that terrorists were brought back during the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government after peace had been established, undermining the sacrifices made by security personnel and the public.

He said the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa had paid the price for what he described as a failure to respect those sacrifices. He further alleged that education, healthcare, security and other public welfare matters had been neglected during the PTI government, contributing to a resurgence in terrorism in recent years.

PM Criticises Previous Provincial Government

Shehbaz Sharif said 5,000 police vacancies had not been filled during the previous provincial government’s tenure and that the Safe City project in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa remained incomplete.

He also criticised what he described as a lack of attention to counterterrorism institutions, police training and modern equipment for security forces.

According to the prime minister, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa had received Rs800 billion under the National Finance Commission (NFC) Award for counterterrorism-related purposes.

He expressed concern that terrorism had resurged despite the funding, saying security forces had not been adequately equipped with modern weapons, training and other necessary resources.

The prime minister said the federal government had repeatedly assured PTI chief ministers that it was prepared to support the province in combating terrorism.

PM Says Tough Decisions Followed Consultations

The prime minister said the government had worked tirelessly over the past two and a half years to revive the national economy, adding that sustained efforts by the political and military leadership had helped stabilise the economy.

He questioned how long the government could continue to witness bloodshed in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa without taking action.

According to Shehbaz Sharif, a political committee had been formed and its members worked hard during 48 hours of negotiations. He said he had consulted the president twice over the deteriorating situation in the province, adding that these circumstances had led to difficult decisions.

The prime minister said an advisory council had also been established, comprising experts from various fields and individuals he described as capable and honest.

He said the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa had been waiting for 13 years for their problems to be resolved and stressed that the recent changes must produce positive results.

Shehbaz Sharif also levelled corruption allegations against the PTI-led provincial administration, claiming that corruption cases involving public projects had come to light.

He alleged that Rs100 billion had been embezzled in a clean drinking water project and that corruption worth Rs37 billion had been uncovered in the Kohistan mega scandal. He also claimed that contracts under the placer gold project had been awarded to favoured individuals.

These allegations were presented by the prime minister during his address.

PM Says Decisions Are Within Constitutional and Legal Authority

Shehbaz Sharif maintained that the steps taken in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa were authorised by the Constitution and the law.

He thanked the coalition partners for their support regarding the decisions concerning the province and expressed particular gratitude to President Asif Ali Zardari and former prime minister Nawaz Sharif.

The prime minister pledged to restore peace, prosperity and development in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, saying he would work with the support of Field Marshal Asim Munir to bring stability and happiness back to the province.

He also promised that Khyber Pakhtunkhwa would receive development opportunities comparable to those available in other provinces.

Governor KP Calls for Joint Efforts Against Terrorism

Addressing the meeting, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Governor Faisal Karim Kundi said establishing peace in the province was a shared priority.

He said the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa wanted peace and development, emphasising that the federal government had a crucial role in achieving stability.

The governor said progress towards peace and development could not be halted if all institutions worked together with a common objective.

He added that eliminating terrorists and their facilitators from the province remained a key priority.

Faisal Karim Kundi said the government wanted to create an environment in which every citizen felt safe and had the opportunity to participate in the development process.

He stressed that cooperation between the federal and provincial governments was essential to ensuring public safety and prosperity, adding that the ultimate goal was to transform Khyber Pakhtunkhwa into a model province of peace, stability, development and prosperity.

The post PM Shehbaz vows to eliminate terrorism, says KP cannot be left to burn appeared first on Daily Pakistan English News.

JACKSON – Toyota announced major safety recall involving more than 105,000 Land Cruiser SUVs in US after discovering potentially dangerous fuel system defect that could cause petrol leakage and increase the risk of vehicle fires.

Japanese automobile giant is recalling over one hundred thousand Toyota Land Cruiser Hybrid SUVs from 2024 to 2027 model years, raising fresh safety concerns among owners of one of the world’s most popular luxury off-road vehicles.

According to documents submitted to the US National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the recall was officially reported on October 14, 2026, under campaign number 26V673. Toyota has assigned internal recall numbers 26TB23 and 26TA23 to the safety campaign.

The potentially hazardous component in Land Cruiser’s fuel delivery system spaked concerns as Toyota’s investigation found that the connector joining a resin fuel tube near the fuel tank to the main metal fuel line could separate if its retaining clip becomes raised. Such a disconnection could allow petrol to escape from the fuel system until the hybrid vehicle’s combustion engine shuts down. If the leaking fuel comes into contact with an ignition source, it could potentially trigger a fire.

More concerning is that Toyota has not yet established the exact circumstances responsible for the retaining clip becoming displaced. Despite the uncertainty surrounding the underlying cause, the company has decided to initiate a large-scale preventive recall. The recall targets selected Toyota Land Cruiser Hybrid SUVs manufactured between November 29, 2023, and October 1, 2026.

According to Toyota’s regulatory filing, the affected population includes 25,041 vehicles from the 2024 model year, 41,955 from 2025, 21,274 from 2026 and another 17,524 from 2027. 2025 Land Cruiser accounts for the largest number of potentially affected vehicles, representing nearly 40% of the total recall population.

All current-generation Land Cruisers sold in the United States feature Toyota’s i-FORCE MAX hybrid powertrain. However, not every vehicle manufactured during the specified period is included in the recall, making individual VIN verification essential.

Toyota’s documentation includes estimated defect rate of approximately 1%, although the actual number of vehicles containing the problem has not been conclusively established. The recall follows more than two years of investigations into fuel leakage concerns involving the Land Cruiser.

Toyota startes getting field reports related to issue in July 2024. By early October 2026, the company had documented 23 Field Technical Reports and 64 related warranty claims in the United States. These complaints prompted further examination of the fuel line connection and the possible consequences of a separation.

Although the reviewed regulatory documents did not highlight specific cases of fires or injuries linked to the defect, Toyota determined that the potential danger justified immediate preventive action. The manufacturer decided to proceed with the voluntary recall after assessing the volume of possible fuel leakage and the number of reported cases, even though investigators had not fully identified the root cause.

Toyota has assured affected customers that all necessary inspections and repairs will be carried out without any charges. Authorised Toyota dealerships will inspect the connection between the resin fuel tube and the main metal fuel line before deciding on the appropriate corrective procedure.

If the existing fuel tube remains suitable, technicians will install an additional securing clamp to prevent the connector from separating. However, if the component requires replacement, dealerships will fit a new resin fuel tube along with the supplemental clamp. The repair procedure is intended to eliminate the risk of the affected fuel connection becoming detached during vehicle operation.

Toyota plans to begin mailing official recall notification letters to affected vehicle owners on November 29, 2026. The company has also indicated that the notification process is expected to continue into December, with owners anticipated to receive recall information around mid-December.

However, owners concerned about their vehicles can check their recall status immediately rather than waiting for official correspondence.

Owners can enter their vehicle identification number (VIN) to check for outstanding safety recalls associated with their particular SUV. The fuel system safety concern has also prompted a separate recall campaign in Canada, where approximately 6,721 Toyota Land Cruiser SUVs from the 2024 through 2027 model years are potentially affected.

Canadian recall addresses the same fuel line connection problem and the associated risk of petrol leakage and fire. Combined, the US and Canadian campaigns involve approximately 112,515 Toyota Land Cruiser vehicles, making the safety action significant across the North American market.

 

The post Toyota Land Cruiser faces Major Safety Scare due to Fuel Leak defect appeared first on Daily Pakistan English News.

LAHORE – The National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) Lahore has arrested a well-known TikToker for allegedly harassing a female journalist on social media.

According to reports, the arrested TikToker has been identified as Muhammad Shahzaib, also known as Shahzaib Sialkoti, a resident of Sialkot. A case was registered against him following a complaint by the female journalist. The suspect had allegedly uploaded an obscene, insulting and derogatory video targeting the journalist on Facebook.

Reports said that, with the approval of the Additional Director of NCCIA Lahore, a raid was conducted at City Housing Society in Sialkot following a tip-off from an informant. The TikToker was arrested during the operation, and two mobile phones were recovered from his possession.

During an on-the-spot technical examination, investigators reportedly found that the suspect’s Facebook account, two Instagram accounts and TikTok account were active on the recovered phones.

According to reports, the controversial video was found in the Downloads folder of an iPhone. The investigation further revealed that the suspect’s Facebook and TikTok accounts were monetised and linked to a private bank account. He allegedly earned money by uploading roast videos and controversial content on social media.

Reports added that during interrogation, the TikToker admitted to uploading the video on September 10, 2026, and later deleting it because of the inappropriate language used in it.

The timely action by NCCIA Lahore highlights the agency’s stated commitment to investigating cyber harassment and defamation cases.

The post Famous TikToker arrested for harassing female journalist on social media appeared first on Daily Pakistan English News.

RAWALPINDI –  England set Sri Lanka a mammoth target of 430 runs in the third match of the tri-nation series being played at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.

After winning the toss, Sri Lanka elected to field first. However, England capitalised on the opportunity, scoring 429 for four in their allotted 50 overs.

England captain Harry Brook produced a sensational innings, scoring 202 off 116 balls to register a remarkable double century. Joe Root contributed 69 runs, Tom Banton scored 50, and Ben Duckett added 29, while Will Jacks remained unbeaten on 66.

For Sri Lanka, Dunith Wellalage claimed two wickets, while Asitha Fernando and Janith Liyanage took one wicket each.

Sri Lanka made one change to their playing XI, bringing in Dunith Wellalage in place of Sanchitha Colombage.

Meanwhile, Pakistan remain unbeaten in the tri-nation series, having defeated Sri Lanka by 37 runs in the opening match and England by 87 runs in the second.

The post Harry Brook smashes double century as England post 429 against Sri Lanka appeared first on Daily Pakistan English News.

RAWALPINDI – England captain Harry Brook produced a sensational batting performance at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on Thursday, smashing a fastest double century against Sri Lanka in the Pakistan ODI Tri-Nation Series.

Brook blasted an extraordinary 202 runs off just 116 balls, becoming the first England batter to score a double century in men’s One-Day International cricket.

Harry Brook smashed the fastest double-century in ODI history, off 114 balls, breaking Shubman Gill’s record of 117 balls

The England skipper dominated the Sri Lankan bowling attack with an outstanding display of power hitting and innovative stroke play. His remarkable knock included 16 fours and 10 sixes, leaving the opposition struggling to contain the aggressive captain.

Brook’s incredible innings helped England post a mammoth total of 429 for four, putting Sri Lanka under enormous pressure in the high-profile tri-series encounter.

Joe Root also contributed a valuable 69 runs, while Tom Banton scored 50 and Will Jacks provided a late explosive contribution with 66 off just 24 balls.

The Rawalpindi crowd witnessed a memorable display of modern ODI batting as Brook demonstrated his leadership, confidence and exceptional ability to dominate world-class bowling.

Brook’s historic double century marked a major milestone in English cricket and strengthened his reputation as one of the most dangerous batters in international cricket.

His extraordinary performance will be remembered as one of the standout moments of the Pakistan ODI Tri-Nation Series.

 

 

The post England captain Harry Brook smashes fastest double century in ODI appeared first on Daily Pakistan English News.

ISLAMABAD – Gold prices in Pakistan continues to move downward on October 22, as another major reduction brought some relief to jewellery buyers amid falling international bullion rates.

The domestic gold market recorded a fresh decline of Rs3,000 per tola, pushing the price of 24-karat gold down to Rs431,536, according to the latest figures issued by the All-Pakistan Gems and Jewellers Sarafa Association (APGJSA).

Gold Rates in Pakistan Today

Gold Category	Latest Price	Change
24K Gold (1 Tola)	Rs431,536	↓ Rs3,000
24K Gold (10 Grams)	Rs369,972	↓ Rs2,572
International Gold (1 Ounce)	$4,090	↓ $30
Silver (1 Tola)	Rs6,086	↓ Rs121

Pakistan’s bullion market has witnessed consecutive price cuts this week, with gold becoming noticeably cheaper within 48 hours. On Wednesday, October 21, the price of one tola of gold stood at Rs434,536 after a reduction of Rs900.

The downward trend intensified on Thursday as another Rs3,000 was wiped off the per-tola price, bringing the rate to Rs431,536.

Date	Gold Price Per Tola	Daily Decline
October 21, 2026	Rs434,536	Rs900
October 22, 2026	Rs431,536	Rs3,000
Total Two-Day Decline	—	Rs3,900

International Gold Prices

The decline in Pakistan’s gold market coincided with a fresh correction in global bullion prices. International gold prices dropped by $30 per ounce, settling at $4,090 compared with the previous level of $4,120.

Changes in international bullion prices are an important factor influencing domestic gold rates, alongside movements in the rupee-dollar exchange rate.

The downward pressure was not limited to gold, as silver also registered a significant price reduction. According to APGJSA figures, silver became cheaper by Rs121 per tola, with the latest rate reaching Rs6,086. Before the reduction, silver was priced at Rs6,207 per tola.

 

The post Relief for Gold Buyers as Per Tola prices drops to Rs431,536 appeared first on Daily Pakistan English News.

The post Pakistanis Could Become 3 Times Richer in next 20 years, World Bank predicts appeared first on Daily Pakistan English News.

ISLAMABAD – Ahead of the winter gas crunch, Pakistanis witnessed another price shock as Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) rates have skyrocketed to Rs750 per kilogram in some areas, raising fears that the cost of a domestic cylinder could cross Rs10,000 mark.

With gas demand expected to rise in months to come, consumers could face another blow as the government considers a major overhaul of the country’s LPG pricing mechanism. Under the proposed changes, LPG prices could be revised daily instead of monthly, potentially exposing households and businesses to more frequent fluctuations in cooking gas costs.

LPG Prices Update

The situation becomes concerning in northern regions, where LPG is reportedly being sold for as much as Rs750 per kg. At this rate, a standard 11.8-kilogram domestic LPG cylinder would cost approximately Rs8,850, excluding any additional charges. A further increase could push the cylinder price beyond Rs10,000.

The steep rise is particularly worrying for households that rely on LPG for cooking and heating, especially in areas where piped natural gas is unavailable or unreliable.

Amid growing concerns over rising gas prices, the federal government is reportedly considering replacing the existing monthly LPG pricing formula with a daily rate-setting mechanism. The proposal is intended to address price volatility, discourage hoarding and prevent artificial shortages during the winter months.

LPG importers have urged authorities to review the existing price determination system, arguing that monthly revisions may not adequately reflect changing market conditions. Importers have proposed two alternatives: weekly or daily LPG price adjustments. The suggested reforms would replace the current monthly system with a more frequently updated pricing structure.

Although fears of cylinder price intensified, the price has not been officially announced. For a standard 11.8-kilogram domestic cylinder to cross Rs10,000, the LPG rate would need to exceed approximately Rs847.46 per kilogram, excluding additional charges. At the reported rate of Rs750 per kilogram, the gas alone would cost Rs8,850.

LPG overcharging costs Pakistani consumers more than Rs1.4b five days

 

 

The post LPG Cylinder may soon cost over Rs10,000 as Per Kg Price hits Rs750 appeared first on Daily Pakistan English News.

LAHORE – Apps and games developed in Pakistan recorded 4.6 billion downloads worldwide over the past 12 months, Google said on Thursday, highlighting the sector’s potential to contribute to the country’s digital exports.

The company shared the figures at Think Apps 2026 in Lahore, where Pakistani developers and international industry experts discussed the use of artificial intelligence to improve production, attract users and expand into overseas markets.

Sessions focused on growth strategies and monetisation as studios contend with increasing competition and rising user acquisition costs.

Opportunities for local studios

Google said Pakistan’s app and gaming industry now supported more than 30,000 professionals, with studios such as Game District and Funsol developing products for audiences beyond the domestic market.

Farhan Qureshi, Google’s cluster director for Pakistan, the Philippines, Thailand and Frontier Markets, said the international reach of Pakistani developers reflected the strength of local talent.

“The global impact of Pakistan’s developers reflects the world-class talent and ambition driving the local ecosystem,” he said.

He added that the company aimed to help studios use AI to develop products for international audiences, strengthen their businesses and increase Pakistan’s participation in the global digital economy.

Experts at the event discussed how AI could accelerate coding, support creative production and help developers respond to changing user needs. They also emphasised the importance of product quality and retaining users to sustain growth.

Tools for development and expansion

Under its “Build, Yield and Scale” roadmap, Google outlined tools intended to support studios through product development, user acquisition and revenue generation.

The company said Google Cloud AI could assist developers in building products, while Google Ads and AdMob could support audience growth and advertising revenue.

It also highlighted opportunities to enter new categories and markets, pointing to Google Play’s global reach of more than three billion monthly active users.

AI training pledge

Google reiterated its pledge to train 100,000 developers in Pakistan in AI by 2028, saying the initiative would support the development of new apps and games.

The company also highlighted plans to enable the local production of 500,000 Chromebooks to broaden access to technology for education.

Separately, it said 200,000 families had received online safety training through its Digital Pasban programme.

The post Pakistani apps record 4.6bn downloads in a year, Google says appeared first on Daily Pakistan English News.