The decision was finalised at a high-level meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

Under the new policy, markets, shopping malls, departmental stores, and general retail outlets in Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, Islamabad, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Azad Jammu and Kashmir will close at 8.00 p.m. from April 7.

Food outlets, including restaurants, bakeries, and tandoors, will be allowed to operate until 10.00 p.m. Marriage halls and marquees will also close by 10.00 p.m., with a ban on late-night wedding events, including those held at private residences.

In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, divisional headquarters will be permitted to keep markets open until 9.00pm. Medical stores and pharmacies are exempt from the restrictions.

Officials said consultations are ongoing with Sindh regarding similar measures.

The prime minister thanked provincial leadership for reaching consensus on the decision, calling it vital for national energy management.

The government also announced free intra-city public transport for one month in Gilgit and Muzaffarabad.

A framework to end hostilities has been put together by Pakistan and exchanged with Iran and the US overnight, the source said, outlining a two-tier approach with an immediate ceasefire followed by a ​comprehensive agreement.

“All elements need to be agreed today,” the source said, adding the initial understanding would be ​structured as a memorandum of understanding finalised electronically through Pakistan, the sole communication channel in ⁠the talks.

Axios first reported on Sunday that the United States, Iran and regional mediators were discussing a potential 45-day ​ceasefire as part of a two-phase deal that could lead to a permanent end to the war, citing US, ​Israeli and regional sources.

The source told Reuters that army chief Field Marshal Asim Munir has been in contact “all night long” with US Vice President JD Vance, special envoy Steve Witkoff and Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi.

Under the proposal, a ceasefire would take effect immediately, ​reopening the Strait of Hormuz, with 15-20 days to finalise a broader settlement.

The deal, tentatively dubbed the “Islamabad Accord,” ​would include a regional framework for the strait, with final in-person talks in Islamabad.

There was no immediate response from the US and ‌Iranian officials. ⁠

Pakistan’s foreign office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi declined to comment.

Iranian officials have previously told Reuters that Tehran was seeking a permanent ceasefire with guarantees that they will not be attacked again by the US and Israel.

They have said Iran has received messages from mediators, including Pakistan, Turkey and Egypt.

The final agreement is expected to include Iranian commitments not to pursue ​nuclear weapons in exchange for ​sanctions relief and the ⁠release of frozen assets, the source said.

Two Pakistani sources said Iran has yet to commit despite intensified civilian and military outreach.

“Iran has not responded yet,” one source said, adding ​proposals backed by Pakistan, China and the United States for a temporary ceasefire ​have drawn no ⁠commitment so far.

There was no immediate response from Chinese officials to requests for comment.

The latest diplomatic push comes amid escalating hostilities that have raised concerns over disruption to shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical artery for global oil ⁠supplies.

US President ​Donald Trump has in recent days publicly pressed for a rapid end ​to the conflict, warning of consequences if a ceasefire is not reached within a short timeframe.

The conflict has heightened volatility in energy markets, ​with traders closely watching any developments that could affect flows through the strait.

The signing ceremony was held at the Supreme Court of Pakistan, where Chief Justice Yahya Afridi and Kadir Ozkaya formalised the agreement.

The MoU outlines collaboration in judicial training, exchange of best practices, and the use of modern technology to improve the justice system. Both sides also agreed to establish a joint working group and enhance professional training at the district judiciary level.

Chief Justice Afridi termed the agreement a significant step towards deeper institutional cooperation, noting that judicial systems cannot operate in isolation in an increasingly interconnected world.

He also highlighted Turkiye’s advancements in adopting artificial intelligence within judicial frameworks.

Justice Ozkaya emphasised the need to modernise judicial systems and said mutual learning would help improve efficiency and effectiveness.

Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to continue working together on judicial reforms, rule of law, and strengthening judicial independence.

The update came on Monday during a meeting of the cabinet committee on petroleum pricing, chaired by Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb.

Officials told the meeting that diesel reserves are sufficient for around 25 days, while crude oil stocks can meet demand for approximately 12 days. Petrol availability remains aligned with consumption levels.

The committee reviewed supply conditions following recent price adjustments and stressed the need to maintain uninterrupted supply, enforce market discipline, and enhance monitoring mechanisms.

Authorities said import arrangements for the coming weeks are in place through both commercial purchases and government-to-government agreements.

The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority was directed to improve coordination with oil marketing companies, while joint teams, including the Federal Investigation Agency and Pakistan State Oil will monitor selected petrol pumps in Islamabad.

Officials also warned against hoarding and artificial shortages, directing strict action to ensure market stability.

The victims — identified as Mazhar Hussain, Atif, Haroon, Hamza, and Jafar — had left Pakistan four months ago in pursuit of better job opportunities abroad. They had reportedly sold their savings and livestock to finance the journey.

According to family members, each individual paid between Rs4.5 million and Rs5 million to agents to facilitate travel to Europe via Saudi Arabia and Libya, with Italy as the intended destination.

The boat carrying the migrants overturned in rough waters near Libya, leading to their deaths.

However, one companion, Imran Sher, survived after boarding a separate vessel and has reportedly reached Italy safely.

The deceased belonged to different villages of Hafizabad, including Bagh Kehna, Kot Nizam, Tahli Goraya, Behak Muqeemuddin, and Chohdu Khunian.

News of the tragedy has left families and communities in deep grief, with mourning reported across the affected villages.

The board administration said the delay was caused by the late submission of exam forms by schools, particularly private institutions.

Thousands of forms were submitted with late fees in recent days, putting pressure on the admit card system and raising concerns among parents and students.

A spokesperson for the Board of Secondary Education Karachi explained that the delay also coincides with the board’s transition from a manual to a digital system.

The large volume of data caused a temporary overload in the software, which the IT team is working to resolve.

Parents and students said that while obtaining admit cards was straightforward last year, this year they are struggling and spending valuable time chasing the process instead of focusing on exam preparation.

Officials said the decision to postpone the exams ensures admit cards can be issued on time and that the annual exams are conducted in an organised, stable, and transparent manner.

The exercise commenced on April 6, 2026, at the Special Operations School in Cherat, according to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

Troops from the Pakistan Army’s Special Services Group (SSG) and the Egyptian Army’s Special Forces are participating in the exercise, which focuses on joint training in counter-terrorism operations.

The Commandant of the Special Operations School, Cherat, attended the opening ceremony as the chief guest.

The ISPR said the exercise is designed to improve professional skills through coordinated training and provide an opportunity to further strengthen longstanding military-to-military relations between the two friendly nations.

Participating troops are expected to benefit from the exchange of operational experience and expertise, particularly in the domain of counter-terrorism.

In a statement on X, he said the government is closely monitoring reports of Pakistani citizens among the wounded in the incident at Khorfakkan Port and is praying for their swift recovery.

“We are committed to providing all possible assistance to those affected and are in close contact with UAE authorities to support our citizens,” the prime minister said.

Shehbaz Sharif reiterated Pakistan’s solidarity with the people of the UAE, describing the two countries as “brotherly nations.”

He also emphasised the need for patience and restraint to reduce tensions in the region.

The order was issued on the instructions of Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah.

The School Education Department has notified all public and private institutions, warning that violations will result in legal action against transport operators and school administrations.

Officials said the ban applies to all pick-and-drop services, whether operated by schools or private contractors.

Despite rising fuel prices, the chief minister directed that transport charges remain unchanged to prevent additional financial burden on families.

Authorities have also instructed schools to provide complete data on transport services, including vehicle and operator details, to ensure compliance and oversight.

The government said it may extend support to transport operators to help manage operational challenges while maintaining fare stability.

The individual, identified as Abdul Latif, a resident of Sherpao Colony, was seen dangling from the bridge before authorities reached the scene and carried out a swift rescue operation.

Using a ladder-equipped vehicle, police safely brought him down and shifted him to a police station, where a case was registered.

According to officials, the man said his protest was aimed at calling for the reinstatement of former governor Kamran Tessori. He also appealed for personal assistance.

Family members, including his wife and children, were present at the scene during the incident. Authorities are investigating the case.

Presiding over a meeting held to review progress on the implementation of subsidies announced on petroleum products, the prime minister stated that trucks would receive a monthly subsidy of Rs70,000 to reduce transportation costs.

Additionally, passenger buses would receive Rs100,000, mini-buses and wagons would get Rs40,000, while cargo vehicles would be granted Rs80,000 per month, and delivery vans Rs 35,000 per month.

The meeting reviewed the progress of subsidy distribution, along with a briefing on the country’s fuel reserves and consumption.

To ensure transparency, these subsidies will be provided through digital wallets, the meeting was informed.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif emphasised that the government would not allow transporters to raise fares, and action would be taken against those who attempt to do so.

Relief packages

Addressing the meeting, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif highlighted that the Balochistan government has contributed the agreed-upon amount for the national relief package.

He expressed hope that other provinces would soon follow suit and contribute their share.

He also revealed that in the past three weeks, the government had provided a public relief package worth Rs129 billion to assist the citizens in the current challenging times.

The prime minister stated that the reduction in petrol levy, by Rs80 per litre, was an immediate measure to offer relief to the public.

He vowed that during such difficult times, the government would stand by the people and ensure that they were not left to fend for themselves.

Railways and transport measures

The prime minister informed the meeting that Pakistan Railways had provided a subsidy of Rs6 billion, ensuring that there would be no increase in passenger train or cargo freight fares.

Additionally, the government had reversed the 25% quarterly increase in toll tax to further ease the financial burden on the public.

Fuel reserves and govt actions

The prime minister was briefed that adequate fuel reserves were available to meet the country’s needs.

It was also informed that relief payments to public transport and cargo vehicle owners and drivers had already started through digital wallets.

The Met Office in its report said a westerly wave is expected to enter Balochistan on Sunday. Under the influence of this weather system, it said, wind-thunderstorm and rain with few moderate to isolated heavy falls and hailstorms are likely to hit Sukkur, Kashmore and Ghotki districts on Monday.

“Thunderstorm and rain of light to moderate intensity are likely in Jamshoro, Dadu, Kambar Shahdadkot, Naushahro Feroze, Shaheed Benazirabad, Sanghar, Mirpurkhas, Mityari, Hyderabad, Tando Muhammad Khan, Tando Allahyar, Thatta, Badin, Sujawal districts and Karachi Division on Monday,” it further added.

The weather department advised that windstorms and hailstorms with lightning may damage weak structures such as electric poles, billboards and solar panels during the forecast period.

Hailstorm/windstorm may damage standing crops as well, it added. Farmers are advised to manage their crops according to the prevailing weather conditions.

According to the PDMA spokesperson, rain is expected in Rawalpindi, Murree, Galiyat, Attock, Jhelum, Chakwal, Talagang, and Gujranwala.

Other districts, including Hafizabad, Wazirabad, Sargodha, Mianwali, Sheikhupura, Gujrat, Khushab, and Mandi Bahauddin, are also likely to receive rainfall.

Further showers are predicted in Sialkot, Narowal, Faisalabad, Jhang, Chiniot, Bhakkar, Layyah, and Dera Ghazi Khan, along with surrounding areas.

Director General Irfan Ali Kathia has issued directives to commissioners and deputy commissioners across the province to remain on alert.

Citizens have been advised to stay in safe locations during thunderstorms and avoid open areas during lightning.

Farmers have been urged to take precautionary measures to protect crops, while tourists travelling to northern areas have been advised to exercise caution.

Authorities also advised the public to contact the PDMA helpline 1129 in case of emergencies.

President Asif Ali Zardari said the government is committed to safeguarding the lives, property, honour, and welfare of minority communities. He described the services of the Christian community as an integral part of the country’s social system.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif highlighted the government’s focus on protecting the religious, economic, and educational rights of minorities. “In the current situation of global tension, the importance of the teachings of peace, tolerance, and brotherhood of all religions has increased further,” he said.

Interior Minister emphasised the government’s determination to protect minority rights and ensure the security of their places of worship. Speaker of the National Assembly Ayaz Sadiq described Easter as a universal message of love, hope, and peace, noting the Christian community’s role in the country’s development.

In Lahore, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif congratulated the Christian community, calling them peace-loving, patriotic, and respectable. She praised their contributions to the Pakistan Movement and the country’s development. Maryam Nawaz Sharif cited the vision of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, who advocated equality for all minorities without discrimination.

She said Easter is an occasion to pledge spreading love, brotherhood, and unity. The Chief Minister also announced an increase in grant and development funds for minority communities in Punjab, alongside the introduction of minority cards. Over 100,000 eligible minority families are to receive Rs 10,500 quarterly under the new program.

The meeting was briefed that adequate stocks of petroleum products are available to meet the country’s needs, even as prices have surged in recent weeks.

Addressing participants, the prime minister said the government would not leave citizens alone in difficult times.

“Relief for the common man is our top priority. Savings from austerity measures will be spent on the public,” he said, adding that efforts are underway to extend support to economically vulnerable segments at the earliest.

He announced that the provision of subsidies through digital wallets has begun for public transport operators and goods carriers. Under the system, financial assistance is being transferred directly to buses, wagons, trucks and other goods vehicles through a “transparent and effective mechanism”.

Officials also briefed the meeting on progress in implementing relief measures designed to offset the impact of higher petroleum prices.

Centre, provinces agree on subsidy-sharing formula

Separately, sources said the federal and provincial governments have agreed on a joint funding mechanism to provide subsidies to the transport sector.

Under the arrangement, provinces have accepted the federal government’s request to share the financial burden, leading to the creation of a joint financial pool. The federal government is expected to contribute over Rs129 billion, while provinces will collectively add Rs40-50 billion.

A “one-window operation” plan has been finalised to streamline subsidy disbursement through digital channels. The Ministry of IT and the State Bank of Pakistan have been tasked with ensuring smooth fund transfers.

The prime minister has directed provinces to provide verified data of eligible beneficiaries. Under the plan, owners of public transport, small and large vehicles, and goods carriers will receive financial assistance from the federal share.

Provinces will separately handle subsidies for agriculture, motorcycles and rickshaws.

The meeting was attended by federal ministers Attaullah Tarar, Dr Musadik Malik, Ali Pervaiz Malik, Special Assistant Talha Burki, and senior officials.

While exclusively speaking with PTV News in Riyadh, the Federal Minister stated that all arrangements for Hajj 2026 are being completed efficiently with no extra cost.

He announced that a total of 180,000 pilgrims will perform Hajj this year, including 120,000 under the government quota and 60,000 through private arrangements, ensuring fair access for all eligible pilgrims.

Highlighting improvements for this year, he revealed a new Lahore-to-Saudi Arabia route to facilitate easier travel for pilgrims, while flights from other cities will continue as scheduled.

The minister emphasised that all operations, including flights, accommodations and transport, will be organised in a smooth and exemplary manner to ensure the comfort and safety of all pilgrims.

He further stated that the Ministry of Religious Affairs will closely coordinate with private companies to regulate Umrah services, accommodations, catering and transport.

Every effort is being made to provide pilgrims with high-quality arrangements, and the ministry aims to make this year’s Hajj an exemplary experience in terms of management and facilities.

The minister also reaffirmed the strong relationship between Pakistan and Saudi Arabia, appreciating the host country’s arrangements and support for Pakistani pilgrims.

He highlighted that this year’s Hajj would fully utilise the Pakistani quota while maintaining exemplary standards, reflecting the commitment of both governments to facilitating a safe and memorable pilgrimage experience.

Responding to a query, he said that previously the Hajj route ran from Karachi to Islamabad, and now a new Lahore-to-Saudi Arabia route has been added to facilitate easier travel for pilgrims, while flights from other cities will continue as scheduled.

Speaking at a press conference in Karachi, He said the Sindh government would bear additional expenses faced by transporters to prevent an increase in public transport fares.

He said fares of coaches, buses, coasters and wagons would not be allowed to rise, adding that the provincial government would provide a subsidy of 14 billion rupees.

He warned that action would be taken against transporters who increase fares.

In a recent statement, the UN experts had urged Pakistan and Afghanistan to commit to a permanent ceasefire and had also claimed that Pakistan had not published credible evidence that TTP attacks within its territory were directed or controlled by the de facto Afghan authorities.

Contradicting their position, Pakistan highlighted a contrast between the UN experts’ statement and established findings from various UN Security Council Monitoring Team reports and SIGAR assessments consistently documenting TTP presence, safe havens, and operational activity from Afghan soil.

Pakistan referred to the 35th, 36th, 16th and 37th UN Security Council Monitoring Team Reports issued in February 2025, July 2025, December 2025 and February 2026, respectively.

It also cited the SIGAR 66th and 68th reports of January 2025.

Additional references include the Russian MFA Military-Political Assessment of February 2026, the CSTO Security Assessment of 2026, the SCO Deliberations of September 2025, and the Quadrilateral Assessment by Russia, China and Iran in September 2025.

Pakistan further mentioned statements by the Danish Ambassador at the UN Security Council in November 2025, Russia’s Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu in 2025, Russia’s UN Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia in 2025, and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in August 2025.

The said reports and assessments collectively highlighted Afghanistan as a hub for over 20 international terrorist organisations (ITOs), with 13,000-23,000 foreign terrorists, including more than 6,000 TTP fighters enjoying safe havens and operational freedom.

They also note continued Al Qaeda presence and leadership regrouping, as well as active ISIL-K expansion.

The above assessments document over 600 TTP attacks in Pakistan launched from Afghan soil, with the Afghan Taliban providing sanctuary, facilitation, and logistical support that enabled cross-border attacks and regional instability.

Pakistan questioned what additional evidence the UN human rights experts required, noting that multiple UN and international assessments already confirmed the presence of over 20 terrorist groups, thousands of foreign terrorists, and continued Taliban support to proxies operating from Afghan soil.

“Whether these findings are being ignored? Do they expect Pakistan’s leadership to go to Afghanistan and have photographs with TTP leaders like Hafiz Gul Bahadar and Mufti Noor Wali Mehsud,” a security analyst questioned.

He also raised concern over the UN experts questioning the credibility of the very UN institutions tasked with monitoring, reporting, and upholding international norms, maintaining that these established reports provided clear documentation of the threats originating from Afghan territory.

Karachi and Islamabad airports were the most affected, with 22 bilateral flights cancelled due to the air strikes.

Lahore Airport saw six cancellations, Peshawar eight, and Multan two. Airlines affected include PIA, Airblue, Air Arabia, Iran Air, and Qatar Airways.

In total, 2,706 flights from Pakistan to the Middle East have been cancelled in the last 35 days.

Under the package, motorcycle registration and transfer fees have been fully waived across Punjab. Additionally, registered bike owners will receive a monthly subsidy of Rs2,000, including support on 20 litres of petrol at Rs100 per litre.

Citizens can access subsidy details and registration through a dedicated helpline and mobile application introduced by the provincial government.

For the agriculture sector, the chief minister announced financial assistance for wheat farmers owning up to 25 acres of land. The support includes a subsidy of Rs150 per litre on 10 litres of diesel per acre.

CM Maryam said the initiative aims to ease economic hardship for the public while strengthening the agricultural backbone of the province, adding that farmers’ welfare remains a top government priority.

So far, nine people have died, and eight have been injured due to lightning strikes and wall collapses during the rains.

Rain was reported in several areas including Township, Johar Town, Green Town, and the Quaid-e-Azam Industrial Estate, along with surrounding localities. Cool winds accompanied the showers, making the weather pleasant.

The city’s temperature dropped to 23°C, with wind speeds recorded at 10 km/h and humidity at 55%. The air quality index improved to 75, reflecting a reduction in pollution levels.

The Meteorological Department forecast intermittent rain over the next 24 hours, with temperatures expected to range between 16°C and 27°C.

The Provincial Disaster Management Authority Punjab (PDMA) has issued a province-wide alert, warning of rain and possible hailstorms from April 6 to 8.

Cities including Rawalpindi, Murree, Gujranwala, Lahore, Faisalabad, and Sialkot are expected to receive rainfall.

Authorities have advised citizens to remain cautious during thunderstorms, avoid unnecessary travel, and stay away from electric poles, weak structures, and trees. In case of emergencies, the public has been directed to contact the PDMA helpline.

Meanwhile, rain in Islamabad and Rawalpindi also turned the weather cooler, with intermittent showers expected to continue through the weekend.

The Meteorological Department has forecast widespread rain, strong winds, and thunderstorms across the country between April 5 and 9.

Heavy downpours are expected in parts of Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Gilgit-Baltistan, with risks of urban flooding in low-lying areas and landslides in mountainous regions.

According to sources in the Ministry of Energy, provincial governments are seeking input from chambers of commerce and trade bodies, while data is also being collected from power distribution companies (DISCOs).

As part of the proposed measures, authorities are considering limiting business hours for markets, shops, and commercial zones from 9am to 6pm.

The proposal may be implemented across the country for a period of one to two months.

Officials said a final decision on measures to reduce fuel consumption is expected next week.

The consultations come amid broader government efforts to protect the economy amid a rise in oil prices due to the Iran war and closure of the Strait of Hormuz.

Last month, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced a 14-point austerity plan in response to the evolving security situation in the Middle East.

The plan includes reducing government expenditures, limiting privileges for the elite, and promoting energy conservation and simplicity.

In a statement posted on X, the Foreign Office said recent commentary suggesting otherwise was baseless.

It emphasised that the deposits were made under bilateral commercial agreements and reflected the UAE’s strong support for Pakistan’s economic stability.

“The repayment of matured deposits is being carried out in line with agreed terms. It is a routine financial operation, and any attempt to portray it otherwise is erroneous and misleading,” the statement said.

The Foreign Office underscored that Pakistan and the UAE share longstanding, fraternal relations spanning trade, investment, defence and people-to-people ties. It added that the partnership continues to expand across multiple sectors.

Pakistan also acknowledged the pivotal role of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan in fostering enduring ties between the two countries, describing the relationship as one built on mutual trust and cooperation.

Reaffirming its commitment to further strengthening bilateral relations, the government said it remains focused on deepening strategic cooperation with the UAE for a shared and prosperous future.

Separately, the Ministry of Finance said it is closely monitoring and managing external financial flows to maintain stable foreign exchange reserves.

In a statement, it reiterated that Pakistan remains committed to meeting all external obligations and dismissed speculation regarding the country’s financial position.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Admiral Ashraf made the remarks during the induction ceremony of the second PN MILGEM-Class Corvette, PNS KHAIBAR, into the Pakistan Navy’s fleet.

Addressing the gathering, Admiral Naveed Ashraf highlighted that Pakistan’s strategic location along vital maritime trade and energy corridors demands a potent naval force to safeguard national interests and ensure secure Sea Lines of Communications (SLOCs).

The Naval Chief underscored that during Marka-e-Haq, Pakistan Navy was poised to sink the Indian navy’s aircraft carrier, which forced the Indian navy to remain confined to its safe havens.

The mastery and conduct of naval operations during Marka-e-Haq delivers an unequivocal message that any attempt to challenge Pakistan’s maritime interests will be met with an appropriate response, he added.

The Naval Chief emphasised that Pakistan Navy is being equipped with state-of-the-art platforms and niche technologies enabling it to target critical infrastructure/ vulnerabilities and the naval assets of the adversary.

Inductions of advanced platforms like PNS KHAIBAR and the forthcoming HANGOR Class Submarines mark a milestone in PN’s modernisation; enhancing operational flexibility, combat power and the strategic reach.

Concluding his address, the Naval Chief extended best wishes to the PNS KHAIBAR crew while reaffirming Pakistan Navy’s resolve to defend sovereign seas and uphold its responsibility as guardian of the maritime frontiers.

Sources said one of the slain militants was identified as Amir Hamza Haqqyar, while another was identified as Amir Abdul Rahim, son of Zarwali, who hailed from Afghanistan’s Paktia province.

According to security officials, all the militants were killed while attempting to infiltrate the area, following a timely response by security forces.

Authorities said further details about the incident are being gathered, while security in the area has been tightened.

The reduction comes a day after the government raised petrol and high-speed diesel (HSD) prices by 43 per cent and 55 per cent, respectively, pushing petrol to Rs458 per litre before the latest relief.

In a televised address to the nation, the prime minister said the revised price would remain in place for one month and apply nationwide.

He said the surge in global oil prices, driven by the ongoing war in the Middle East, had severely impacted economies worldwide, including Pakistan.

The premier said the government had tried to shield citizens from the inflationary shock, adding that over the past three weeks it had not passed on the full impact of international price increases to consumers.

According to the prime minister, the government absorbed the burden by spending Rs129 billion from the national exchequer to stabilise petroleum prices.

He also announced targeted relief measures for key sectors. Goods transport vehicles will receive a subsidy of Rs100 per litre, while small trucks will get Rs70,000 per month and large trucks Rs80,000 per month.

Public transport buses will be provided a monthly subsidy of Rs100,000 to prevent fare hikes.

For the agriculture sector, the government will provide Rs1,500 per acre to small farmers to ease input costs.

The prime minister further announced that fares for economy-class travel on Pakistan Railways would not be increased.

He assured that the federal and provincial governments would continue coordinated efforts to ease public hardship during what he described as a “critical time”.

Responding to media queries regarding reports on developments in the ongoing conflict in the region, Foreign Office spokesperson Tahir Andrabi, in a press statement, said that they had noted several reports in the media, including on social media, citing so-called official government sources regarding the ongoing conflict in the region and Pakistan’s efforts to promote peace and dialogue.

“Any attribution to official sources in this regard is incorrect. It is a matter of concern that the briefing held on Friday at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has been misrepresented, with references to issues that were neither discussed nor alluded to,” it was asserted.

At a time of heightened regional sensitivity, the spokesperson said, diplomacy required both discretion and responsibility, urging all media platforms to exercise due diligence, avoid speculation, and rely exclusively on officially issued statements and media readouts for accurate and timely information.

According to seismic data, the quake originated at a depth of 190 kilometres, causing widespread shaking across urban and mountainous regions.

Residents in Islamabad and Rawalpindi reported noticeable tremors, while stronger jolts were felt in Peshawar, Swat, Shangla, Nowshera and Hangu.

The quake was also felt in Lower Dir, Mardan, Haripur, Mansehra and Abbottabad, as well as in several Punjab cities including Faisalabad, Sargodha, Attock, Okara, Kasur and Chiniot.

Tremors extended to Muzaffarabad, Skardu and Ghizer, along with other areas such as Sheikhupura, Wazirabad and Murree.

In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, areas including Bannu, Karak, Malakand and Landi Kotal also reported shaking.

There were no immediate reports of casualties or major damage, though authorities continue to monitor the situation.

In Haripur, three days of persistent rain led to roof collapses, uprooted trees, and flooding in low-lying areas.

In Tehsil Khanpur, multiple homes were damaged, while one person was killed after a wall collapsed in an Afghan refugee camp. Another fatality occurred when a falling tree struck a resident, leaving four others injured.

Flooded streets resembled ponds, while landslides blocked key roads. Water inflows into the Tarbela Dam have also increased due to continuous rainfall.

In Kurram District, heavy rains disrupted daily life, injuring at least 15 people in separate incidents, including house collapses. Floodwaters swept away link roads, and a key bridge on the route connecting Peshawar to Parachinar partially collapsed, suspending traffic.

Local authorities said restoration work has begun, but is being hampered by strong water flows. Officials added that full rehabilitation would begin once water levels receded.