KARACHI – Pakistan’s motorists get some relief as the federal government announced a reduction in petrol and high-speed diesel prices, bringing the cost of both major fuels down for Tuesday.

Under the revised rates, petrol has become cheaper by Rs5.16 per litre, with its price falling to Rs381.14. High-speed diesel (HSD) has seen a larger cut of Rs7.69 per litre, bringing its new price to Rs389.27.

The Petroleum Division confirmed the adjustment in an official press release, stating that the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) revised the ex-depot prices in accordance with the federal government’s petroleum pricing mechanism.

The domestic price reduction comes as global oil markets witnessed a decline on Monday, with crude prices slipping by more than $1 after reaching multi-month highs last week.

Investors moved to secure profits following the recent rally, while uncertainty surrounding geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and Ukraine continued to influence market sentiment.

Traders are also assessing the possible effects of US waivers involving certain sanctions and tariffs linked to Russian exports, with developments in global energy markets remaining a key factor for oil prices.

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The Australian sharemarket opened sharply lower on Tuesday, with miners leading the losses and only tech stocks in the green as they tracked a rebound in AI stocks on Wall Street.

KARACHI – The controversy involving actress Momina Iqbal and PML-N MPA Saqib Chadhar again made headlines amid ugly allegations and legal proceedings linked to the dispute.

Lately, Momina Iqbal’s sister Advocate Ramsha Iqbal claimed that more than two dozen women, including actresses, are prepared to file cases against Saqib Chadhar. She has also spoken about the pressure she says her family faced and maintained that documents she previously presented were certified copies.

Momina Iqbal’s sister alleges more women, including actresses, are prepared to pursue legal action; says she faced immense pressure and her family was targeted in the media. Ramsha made the claims while addressing the media, where she also spoke about the pressure she says she endured and the allegations levelled against her.

Ramsha thanked those who had supported her throughout the controversy, saying that the pressure she experienced was difficult for any woman to withstand. She alleged that her entire family had been subjected to negative media coverage and maintained that she had endured the situation before deciding to present evidence in her defence.

Referring to her previous presser, Ramsha said the documents she presented were certified copies. She also claimed that complaints had been filed against her, but decisions issued by the Punjab Bar and other forums had gone in her favour.

According to Ramsha, efforts had been made to humiliate her, while the opposing parties had failed to appear in court. She expressed confidence that the relevant institutions would ultimately determine who was telling the truth.

She also questioned the changing figures allegedly cited against her, claiming that the amount initially mentioned was Rs20 million before being reduced to Rs8 million. She further raised concerns about her confidence in the institutions handling the matter, while defending the legal process that led to the registration of a case against the other party.

Explaining the role of the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA), Ramsha said the agency conducts an inquiry before registering a case. She argued that the registration of a case reflected the presence of evidence, although the allegations and evidence would ultimately need to be assessed through the legal process.

Earlier this year, Momina alleged that Chadhar harassed and threatened her after she rejected his marriage proposal upon learning that he was already married. She also accused him of blackmail involving private videos, unauthorised access to personal information and threats against her fiancé and sister. Momina further claimed that the alleged conduct affected her personal life and professional reputation.

National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA) later registered a case against Chadhar and his wife, Sumaira, following a preliminary inquiry and reported technical and forensic examinations of electronic devices. The case reportedly involved allegations under the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) and the Pakistan Penal Code.

On July 28, an investigating officer reportedly told a sessions court that the initial investigation had found Chadhar guilty of the allegations. However, this was an investigative statement, not a final court conviction.

The case took another turn on September 3, when the NCCIA reportedly appointed a new investigating officer and formed a special team after additional defence evidence emerged. The new investigator said the arrest of Chadhar and his wife was not required at that stage, and both withdrew their interim pre-arrest bail petitions. Chadhar has denied the allegations and presented his own account of his relationship with Momina. Her legal team, meanwhile, questioned the change in the investigation’s direction.

Momina Iqbal stuns in Golden Bridal Look as Nikah Pictures break the internet

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ISLAMABAD – Pakistan’s efforts to ease tensions between US and Iran could enter another crucial phase, with Iranian media reports reporting that Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Asim Munir may visit Tehran this week.

The reported visit comes at a time when the confrontation between Washington and Tehran continues to threaten regional stability, disrupt energy markets and raise fears of further military escalation. However, Pakistani government, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), nor Iranian authorities officially confirmed the upcoming visit.

If the visit takes place, it could provide another opportunity for Islamabad to engage with Iranian leadership and explore ways to revive negotiations with Washington. The purpose of the reported visit, the officials expected to participate and the possible outcomes remain unclear.

The security situation around Hormuz emerged as one of the concerning aspects of the conflict. Maritime reports indicate that at least 15 vessels were attacked over approximately ten days in October, with incidents reportedly involving drones, naval mines, projectiles and rocket-propelled grenades.

Energy markets have already felt the pressure. Brent crude oil prices reportedly approached $108 per barrel, reflecting growing uncertainty over supplies and the risk of further disruption. Continued instability around the waterway has also increased concerns among shipping operators and energy traders.

Meanwhile, Washington has maintained its naval blockade targeting Iranian ports, while US forces have reportedly carried out strikes against vessels. The Trump administration has also kept the possibility of additional military action in view, further complicating efforts to secure a lasting settlement.

Islamabad also reaffirmed its support for Saudi Arabia amid attacks linked to Iran-backed Houthi rebels, condemning strikes on Saudi territory and emphasizing the kingdom’s right to defend its sovereignty. Islamabad has also indicated its readiness to honour its defence commitments, although it has not publicly confirmed participation in offensive military operations against the Houthis.

Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said Islamabad could make its available capabilities accessible to Riyadh under their mutual defence arrangements.

The situation has placed renewed attention on Pakistan’s defence cooperation with Saudi Arabia, particularly amid a joint arrangement involving Turkey that treats an armed attack against one member as an attack against all.

At the same time, Islamabad faces a delicate diplomatic challenge. While supporting Saudi security and reportedly urging Tehran to discourage further Houthi attacks, Pakistan is seeking to preserve relations with neighbouring Iran and prevent a wider regional confrontation.

Saudi Ambassador meets Field Marshal Asim Munir to discuss defence cooperation, regional security

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MULTAN – The death of 15-year-old laborer in Royal Orchard housing society sparked widespread concern after disturbing CCTV footage surfaced on social media, prompting questions about the circumstances surrounding the teenager’s final moments.

The victim, Wasim Abbas, died after being struck by car in the residential area. Police held contractor Tauqeer Nazir and registered a murder case in connection with the incident. According to police, the suspect was taken into custody at the scene, while further investigation is underway.

ملتان کے رائل آرچرڈ میں 15سالہ وسیم عباس کا قصور صرف اتنا تھا کہ گھر کی وائرنگ کا کام دیر سےمکمل ہوا۔ مبینہ طور پر ٹھیکیداروں نے تشدد کےبعد گاڑی سےکچل کر اس کی جان لے لی۔محنت کش بچوں کی زندگیاں اتنی سستی کیوں ہیں؟ کیا ایسے سفاک قاتلوں کو سرعام پھانسی کےپھندے پر نہیں لٹکانا چاہئے؟ https://t.co/uYgwvgu1JA

— Umar Khattak (@iUmarKhattak) October 19, 2026

The case gets attention after viral clips show white car hitting the teenager, some pictures also surfaced online with several people gathered around a person lying on the ground. The available video captures the aftermath but does not clearly show the collision itself.

@realsher07 ملتان: تھانہ ڈی ایچ اے کی حدود میں بچے کو گاڑی تلے کچل کر قتل کرنے کے واقعہ پر ملتان پولیس نے کارروائی کرتے ہوئے اپنی مدعیت میں قتل کا مقدمہ درج کرتے ہوئے ملزم توقیر نذیر کو موقع پر گرفتار کر لیا گیا۔ ملزم سے مزید تفتیش جاری ہے اور مقدمہ کے قانونی تقاضے مکمل کیے جا رہے ہیں۔ https://t.co/mv79wBbe1S

— CPO Multan (@multan_cpo) October 19, 2026

As per available information, the teenager travelled to Multan to learn electrical wiring and was working at a house when a dispute allegedly erupted over delays in completing the job.

Wasim was reportedly assaulted and attempted to flee before being chased by a vehicle and run over. Other reports claim that local residents apprehended the suspect and handed him over to police.

With the suspect in custody and a murder case registered, investigators face the task of establishing what happened before the fatal incident. CCTV recordings, forensic evidence and witness statements could prove crucial in determining the sequence of events and assessing the allegations.

The available footage alone does not establish how the collision occurred or confirm the claims circulating online. The arrested contractor’s legal responsibility will depend on the evidence gathered during the investigation and subsequent legal proceedings.

The incident has prompted renewed calls for clarity over the circumstances of the teenager’s death and accountability based on verified evidence.

MNA Khurram Shehzad’s Son injures Two Bikers in Islamabad Crash

 

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KARACHI – Pakistan’s economic growth lost momentum in final quarter of fiscal year 2025–26, with gross domestic product (GDP) expanding by 2 percent as the industrial sector contracted sharply.

The latest figures by National Accounts Committee (NAC) shows contrast between stronger-than-expected growth in the middle quarters and a substantial slowdown toward the end of the fiscal year. NAC lowered full-year GDP growth estimate to 3.65 percent from 3.70 percent, while the fourth-quarter performance fell far short of the 6.07 percent growth recorded in the corresponding period of FY25.

The revisions were approved at committee’s 118th meeting after adjustments to import data and other annual and quarterly economic indicators, the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics (PBS) said in a press release.

Pakistan’s economy was valued at Rs. 126.4 trillion, equivalent to $450.4 billion, during FY26. Per capita income stood at Rs. 531,897, or $1,896. The NAC also revised the previous fiscal year’s growth rate downward to 3.11 percent from the earlier estimate of 3.18 percent.

The revised quarterly figures show that economic growth remained relatively strong through the first nine months of FY26 before slowing sharply in the final quarter. First-quarter growth was marginally reduced to 3.89 percent from 3.92 percent. In contrast, the second-quarter estimate was raised to 4.31 percent from 4.05 percent, while third-quarter growth was revised upward to 4.42 percent from 3.99 percent.

The fourth quarter, however, delivered a markedly weaker result, with GDP growth dropping to 2 percent against 6.07 percent a year earlier.

Industrial sector emerged as the weakest performer in the fourth quarter, contracting by 4.70 percent after recording an extraordinary 20 percent expansion in the same period of FY25. The steepest decline came from electricity, gas and water supply, which plunged by 33.19 percent. The PBS linked the contraction to lower subsidies, a high deflator and the base effect from the previous year.

The industrial sector’s full-year growth estimate was also reduced to 3.34 percent from 3.51 percent, reflecting weaker-than-expected large-scale manufacturing and adjustments in utilities-related activity.

Large-scale manufacturing shows significant downward adjustment, with its FY26 growth estimate cut to 5.01 percent from 6.11 percent, based on the Quantum Index of Manufacturing.

The revision came despite strong growth in several industries, particularly automobile production, which surged by 57.77 percent. Transport equipment output increased by 42.36 percent, while electrical equipment production rose by 14.25 percent and rubber products expanded by 14.19 percent.

Furniture manufacturing posted growth of 22.69 percent, tobacco production increased by 12.61 percent, petroleum products rose by 9.7 percent, and food manufacturing expanded by 7.03 percent.

Mining and quarrying performed better than previously estimated, with its growth rate revised upward to 1.52 percent from 0.38 percent.

Agriculture provided a more encouraging picture, with its annual FY26 growth estimate revised upward to 3.50 percent from 2.89 percent. The growth estimate for important crops increased to 1.59 percent from 0.65 percent, supported by wheat and maize. Other crops also performed better than initially expected, with their growth rate revised upward to 4.28 percent from 2.43 percent.

Construction was another area where the revised estimates improved. Its FY26 growth rate was raised to 6.30 percent from 5.73 percent, reflecting increased public-sector construction expenditure.

 

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Pervert kneecapped by gang as a teenager told to stay out of east Antrim

LAHORE: A sessions court on Saturday sought arguments from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s counsel on a miscellaneous application by a lawyer for PTI founding chairman Imran Khan seeking permission to meet his client in jail regarding a Rs10 billion defamation suit filed by the former against the latter.

Earlier, Khan’s counsel, Muhammad Hussain Chotia, argued for permission to meet his client at Adiala Jail, Rawalpindi, saying he needed instructions from him regarding the case and his signatures on documents.

He told the court that the jail authorities were not allowing the meeting. He asked the court to direct the jail superintendent to permit him to meet Khan.

Additional District & Sessions Judge Yalmaz Ghani adjourned the hearing till Oct 31 and sought arguments from the prime minister’s lawyer.

In his suit filed in 2017, Prime Minister Shehbaz said Imran Khan levelled baseless allegations against him in connection with the Panama Papers controversy.

He sought a decree for recovery of Rs10bn as compensation from the defendant for publication of defamatory content.

Several key government figures, including Federal Information Minister Attaullah Tarar and Punjab Assembly Speaker Malik Ahmad Khan have already recorded their statements in support of the plaintiff, the prime minister.

Published in Dawn, October 18th, 2026

ISLAMABAD – United States Chargé d’Affaires Natalie Baker praised Pakistan for hosting its first international women’s tennis tournament at the W15 level, calling it a milestone for women’s sports and an opportunity to strengthen ties through sports diplomacy.

Speaking at the closing ceremony of the Junaid Family Foundation (JFF) Women’s W15 Futures Tournament on Saturday, Baker congratulated the organisers for bringing together 30 players from 17 countries and territories.

She said holding Pakistan’s first women’s tournament at this level was an achievement that players, officials and organisers could take pride in.

Baker said sports helped develop teamwork and resilience while building connections between people and countries that endured beyond the competition.

Referring to the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Los Angeles, she expressed hope that more Pakistani athletes would compete on the international stage.

The American diplomat also praised the players’ sportsmanship and the hospitality extended to visiting participants. She thanked Pakistan Tennis Federation President Aisam-ul-Haq Qureshi and JFF founders Ansir and Sufia Junaid for organising the event.

Baker recalled Qureshi’s achievement at the 2010 US Open, where he reached the men’s and mixed doubles finals, becoming the first Pakistani to contest a Grand Slam final. She also acknowledged his efforts to create opportunities for younger players.

France’s Astrid Cirotte won the women’s singles title, while China’s Ru Xi Wu and Thailand’s Kamonwan Yodpetch claimed the doubles championship. Baker joined Ansir and Sufia Junaid in presenting prizes to the winners.

The tournament, sponsored by the foundation led by the Pakistani-American philanthropists, took place under the theme “A Powerful Serve for Women’s Health”. It also highlighted the organisation’s work in maternal and child health, education and women’s empowerment in Pakistan.

Ansir Junaid said the competition showed how international sporting events could inspire young women and bring together policymakers, philanthropists and development partners.

“What we saw this week was about much more than tennis,” he said, adding that the event offered young people a chance to see what they could achieve.

Sufia Junaid said the foundation regarded healthcare, education and sporting opportunities as connected investments in women’s futures.

She said better maternal healthcare could give children a stronger start, while education and exposure to international athletes could help girls imagine new possibilities.

Ansir Junaid reiterated the foundation’s long-term commitment to Pakistan, saying it aimed to support initiatives capable of delivering lasting results.

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UPPER KURRAM – A fresh border confrontation between Pakistan and Afghanistan erupted in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s Upper Kurram on Saturday, with Pakistani forces launching retaliatory artillery fire against Afghan Taliban positions following reported cross-border firing, according to Pakistani state media and security sources.

The latest clash unfolded in Taldah sector and around Ghuzgarhi, where Afghan Taliban personnel allegedly opened fire to facilitate the movement of militants towards Pakistan.

Pakistan’s military responded with heavy weapons, reportedly striking several positions across the border and forcing Afghan Taliban personnel to abandon their posts. Security sources told the Associated Press of Pakistan (APP) that several Taliban personnel were reportedly killed during the retaliation.

Taida Sector, Upper Kurram, Pak-afghan International Border

Pakistan Army gave an effective response to firing by Afghan militants, hitting the enemy’s Topser Post & its base camp. https://t.co/II876JgqYv

— Pakistan Strategic Forum (@ForumStrategic) October 17, 2026

Among the reported targets were the Taliban’s Topsar post and Shipola base camp in Upper Kurram. Security sources claimed that artillery fire completely destroyed the Shipola installation, while the exchange of fire was still continuing when the reports emerged.

The latest confrontation comes against the backdrop of a sustained deterioration in relations between Islamabad and Kabul, with Pakistan repeatedly accusing the Afghan Taliban authorities of failing to prevent militant groups from operating from Afghan territory.

September escalation saw Pakistan launch airstrikes against what its government described as terrorist hideouts in Afghanistan following major attacks in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. On September 21, officials said the operation had killed more than 28 militants.

 

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KARACHI – Pakistani actress Kubra Khan is in spotlight after her appearance at recent event hosted by Samsung Pakistan. Pictures sparked interest among fans and entertainment enthusiasts, with the actress’s elegant style becoming a talking point online.

The latest buzz surrounding Ehd-e-Wafaa began after a post featured the actress at the event. The pictures showed her glamorous appearance, showing social media users and fans to take notice.

Actress #KubraKhan looking gorgeous in while spotted a recent event of @SamsungPakistan https://t.co/PlgCFYUkjM

— Showbiz & News (@ShowbizAndNewz) October 15, 2026

The actress’s is among Pakistan’s recognised TV and film actresses and has earned appreciation for her performances in several popular drama serials. Her notable projects include Noor Jahan, Alif and Hum Kahan Ke Sachay Thay. She maintain a strong presence in the country’s entertainment industry and gained a following.

The actress public appearances and fashion choices attract interest from her admirers. Her latest appearance at the Samsung Pakistan event has once again brought her into the spotlight, as fans continue to follow updates about the actress and her professional engagements.

Hira Mani trolled online over Bold Outfit during Canada Visit

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GUJRANWALA – Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif comes up with strong defence of the federal government’s decision to impose emergency measures and governor’s rule in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P), warning that failure to act amid escalating political tensions could have resulted in bloodshed.

PM Sharif maintained that the government could not stand by as the security situation deteriorated and the threat of violence surrounding Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) long march intensified. He described the intervention as a necessary step to prevent further instability and protect the country’s interests.

The decision deepened political confrontation, with PTI leader Asad Qaiser ruling out negotiations with the federal government and signalling that the opposition would formulate a collective response.

Defending the government’s action, Shehbaz said the authorities had reached a point where inaction was no longer an option. Invoking the historical analogy of Rome burning while Nero played his fiddle, he argued that allowing the situation to deteriorate without intervention would have amounted to criminal negligence.

PM hoped that the decision would produce positive results, insisting that it had been taken in the best interests of Pakistan.

The federal government imposed emergency measures and governor’s rule in K-P on October 11 under Articles 232 and 234 of the Constitution. The move suspended the PTI-led provincial administration and transferred executive authority to Governor Faisal Karim Kundi.

Federal officials have defended the intervention on security grounds, also citing what they described as a lack of cooperation from the provincial government.

The move has become a major flashpoint in the ongoing political dispute, with the federal government defending its actions as necessary while PTI has condemned the handling of the crisis.

Shehbaz linked the decision to the deteriorating security environment in K-P, warning that the province continued to face serious challenges from terrorism and alleged infiltration from Afghanistan. He said the resurgence of militant activity since 2018 required a united national response, pledging that the federal government would provide the necessary resources and administrative assistance to combat terrorist groups.

The premier also paid tribute to law-enforcement personnel and security forces, including Pakistan Army officers, who have lost their lives in counterterrorism operations. He lamented that attacks had also killed innocent civilians, including women and children.

Describing K-P as an integral part of Pakistan, Shehbaz said its people had demonstrated courage and resilience and deserved every possible opportunity for peace, stability and development.

Premier said the government had made repeated attempts to defuse tensions before introducing the emergency measures. He said discussions were held with the province’s former chief minister and current Chief Minister Sohail Afridi as part of efforts to address outstanding issues. He said the government had also established a committee and conducted negotiations with relevant stakeholders for around 48 hours to prevent the PTI long march from proceeding.

Shehbaz claimed the talks had progressed to the preparation of a comprehensive agreement under which PTI was expected to withdraw its march call, allowing the country to focus on economic recovery and development.

However, he said the proposed settlement collapsed following consultations involving the then provincial chief minister. Disagreements over the consultation process were followed by a further deterioration in the situation, according to the prime minister.

He also accused PTI of repeatedly disrupting national affairs through protests and long marches, arguing that the country could ill afford prolonged political instability amid serious security and economic challenges.

 

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ISLAMABAD — Iran’s exports to Pakistan are facing disruption as banking restrictions threaten to bring cross-border trade to a standstill, raising fresh concerns over the economic relationship between the two neighbouring countries.

Peyman Sanandaji, head of the Transportation Commission of the Tehran Chamber of Commerce, told Iranian media that banking-related hurdles temporarily disrupted Iranian exports to Pakistan. He warned that if the obstacles to financial transactions remain unresolved, exports could effectively grind to a halt.

The development highlights how international banking sanctions, particularly those imposed by the United States on Iran, continue to complicate trade even when physical borders remain open.

According to Sanandaji, Pakistani importers are required to submit electronic import forms to their banks for goods arriving from Iran. However, difficulties associated with Iran’s restricted banking system have made the process increasingly challenging, disrupting the movement of Iranian goods into Pakistan.

The immediate concern is not a border closure but the inability to complete the banking and payment procedures required to facilitate trade.

Sanandaji warned that continued difficulties in processing financial transactions could effectively halt Iran’s exports to Pakistan if no workable solution is found.

Despite the disruption, the shared land trade border between Iran and Pakistan remains open, according to the reported remarks. Sanandaji also dismissed claims circulating in a purported letter that a border crossing had been closed.

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While Iranian exports face uncertainty, shipments from Pakistan to Iran may still continue, Sanandaji said, although their continuation would depend on cooperation from the Pakistani side. This creates the possibility of an uneven impact on bilateral trade, with Iranian exporters facing immediate difficulties while Pakistani suppliers could retain opportunities to access the Iranian market.

Iran and Pakistan have long sought to expand economic ties, with some estimates placing their bilateral trade potential at between $10 billion and $13 billion. Actual trade has remained substantially below that level, reaching several hundred million dollars to a few billion dollars in recent years, depending on the period and measurement used.

Tehran supplies Pakistan with oil, petroleum products, chemicals, steel and other goods. Pakistan, meanwhile, exports rice, meat, agricultural products and other commodities to Iran. Yet banking restrictions, customs procedures, logistics bottlenecks and difficulties moving goods across the border have repeatedly limited the expansion of formal trade.

 

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LAHORE – Amid weeks of uncertainty over earlier plan to extend celebrations across Lahore’s upcoming Basant festival, the Deputy Commissioner’s office proposed return to the original dates of March 12–14, 2027.

The latest proposal, reported on October 17, revived hopes among kite makers and traders who had raised concerns about the feasibility of the revised winter schedule. However, the Punjab Cabinet’s approval is still awaited, meaning the proposed dates cannot yet be treated as final.

Under the latest reported plan, kite flying would be permitted within Lahore district, except in designated prohibited areas, and only with materials approved under the government’s safety regulations.

The renewed uncertainty comes as the provincial administration attempts to balance the revival of a popular cultural tradition with public safety, legal restrictions and the practical concerns of the industry supplying the festival.

Basant 2027 calendar has changed more than once, leaving manufacturers, retailers and residents waiting for a definitive decision. The original plan, announced in August 2026, envisaged a three-day celebration from March 12 to 14. Preparations followed, including manufacturer registration and the development of safety procedures.

The situation changed in late September when Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz approved 10-day festival from January 29 to February 7, with a break on February 5 for Kashmir Solidarity Day.

The proposed shift brought an immediate response from kite and string manufacturers. Industry representatives argued that bringing the festival forward would leave insufficient time to produce the required supplies. They also cited winter fog, limited availability of raw materials and sharp increases in production costs.

Earlier this month, manufacturers reported price increases in key materials following the schedule change. The reported price of bamboo used in kite-making rose from approximately Rs12,000–15,000 per stack to Rs25,000–28,000. Paper prices were also reported to have climbed from Rs3,200–3,800 per ream to between Rs7,000 and Rs14,000, while thread prices increased from around Rs2,800 to as much as Rs6,500, depending on the brand.

Manufacturers warned that higher material and labour costs could push up the price of kites and string, potentially making the celebrations less affordable for ordinary residents.

Punjab Home Secretary subsequently indicated that the scheduling issue would be placed before the provincial cabinet. The latest move by the DC Lahore office now points back to March, although the final decision remains with the provincial government.

The date dispute also reached the Lahore High Court. Lahore court took up a petition challenging the proposed 10-day Basant schedule. According to reports published on October 17, the petition was withdrawn after the court questioned the legal basis for challenging the plan without an authenticated formal government notification.

The proceedings did not establish the January schedule as the final arrangement. Instead, the case highlighted the importance of obtaining an official notification before pursuing a legal challenge.

With DC office now reportedly proposing March 12–14, attention has returned to the cabinet’s decision and the formal notification required to settle the matter.

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Foodie, Entrepreneur, and traveller reportedly Khurram Ali Khan passed away in a tragic accident, leaving behind his wife, children, and a community of thousands of followers.

His death sent shockwaves through the community of food lovers, travel enthusiasts, and digital media followers who knew him through his work and social media presence. Known for his entrepreneurial activities and passion for exploring Pakistan, Khurram had established a recognisable identity among people who shared his interests.

His reported death in a car accident while travelling to Muzaffarabad has sparked an outpouring of grief. The news is particularly painful for his family, including his wife and children, as well as friends and acquaintances who had known him through personal and professional connections.

Funeral details are expected to be announced by his family. Meanwhile, people have been requested to pray for the forgiveness of the departed soul.

Khurram was widely associated with Foodies and Friends, a Facebook community. The private group amassed alot of people with a shared appreciation for food, restaurants, travel, and discovering destinations across Pakistan.

Beyond his online activities, he was known as an entrepreneur, philanthropist, chamber of commerce member, and food reviewer. His enthusiasm for travelling frequently took him and his friends to scenic locations around the country, reflecting his interest in exploration and shared experiences.

His involvement in business and community activities, alongside his digital presence, helped him build connections with a diverse audience.

The reported news has prompted heartfelt reactions from people expressing sadness, disbelief, and sympathy for his family. Some recalled meeting him personally, while others shared prayers for his forgiveness and eternal peace.

 

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