According to a notification issued by the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) after federal government approval, the price of petrol has been reduced by Rs3.39 per litre, bringing the new ex-depot price down to Rs328.56 per litre.

The price of high-speed diesel (HSD) has been cut by Rs4.07 per litre, lowering its new ex-depot price to Rs385.86 per litre.

The revised prices will take effect from midnight and remain in force until August 5 under the government’s daily pricing mechanism.

Consecutive fuel price cuts

The latest reduction follows another cut announced on Monday, when the government lowered petrol prices by Rs4.08 per litre and HSD by Rs2.45 per litre.

Earlier, on August 1, petrol prices were reduced by 12 paise per litre, while HSD became cheaper by 66 paise per litre.

The successive reductions reflect fluctuations in international oil prices under Pakistan’s daily fuel pricing regime.

Global oil prices ease

The latest price revision comes as international oil prices fell to a three-week low after comments by Qatari and US officials raised hopes for a diplomatic resolution to the Iran conflict, potentially improving oil flows through the Strait of Hormuz.

Brent crude futures fell $3.30, or 3.9%, to $80.47 a barrel, while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude dropped $3.67, or 4.6%, to $76.67 a barrel. Both benchmark contracts had earlier fallen by more than 5% to their lowest levels since July 13.

Daily pricing mechanism

Pakistan replaced its weekly petroleum pricing system with a daily mechanism earlier this year.

Under the revised framework, OGRA calculates ex-depot prices using a rolling seven-day average of international oil prices, exchange rate movements and other cost components before submitting recommendations to the federal government for approval.

Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik has said the new pricing mechanism enables domestic fuel prices to reflect changes in global markets more quickly while improving transparency in petroleum pricing.

The latest reduction is consistent with softer international crude prices and lower import costs.

Dar is visiting the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan at the invitation of Jordanian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ayman Al Safadi.

The meeting will bring together foreign ministers from the Arab League and Islamic countries, including Pakistan, to formulate a unified position on the rapidly deteriorating situation in occupied Jerusalem.

The participating foreign ministers will also call on King Abdullah II of Jordan during the visit, according to the Foreign Office.

Dar is also expected to hold bilateral meetings with participating foreign ministers on the sidelines of the meeting to exchange views on regional developments, particularly the situation in Palestine, as well as other issues of mutual interest.

Pakistan’s participation in the ministerial meeting reflects its principled support for the Palestinian people and its commitment to the establishment of an independent, sovereign and contiguous State of Palestine based on the pre-1967 borders, with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital.

The sources said preparations for the prime minister’s visit are underway, with discussions expected to focus on strengthening Pakistan-Saudi Arabia relations and expanding cooperation across multiple sectors.

According to the sources, PM Shehbaz is expected to meet Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman during the visit.

The two leaders are likely to review the overall state of bilateral relations and discuss ways to further enhance cooperation in trade, investment, energy and regional affairs.

Pakistan and Saudi Arabia maintain longstanding strategic and economic ties, with the Kingdom remaining one of Pakistan’s key development and financial partners.

According to a notification issued by the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) after federal government approval, the price of petrol has been reduced by Rs4.08 per litre, bringing the new ex-depot price down to Rs331.95 per litre.

The price of high-speed diesel (HSD) has been cut by Rs2.45 per litre, lowering its new ex-depot price to Rs389.93 per litre.

The revised prices will take effect from midnight on August 4.

The latest reduction follows a marginal cut announced on Friday, when petrol prices were lowered by 12 paise per litre and HSD by 66 paise per litre under the government’s daily pricing mechanism.

Pakistan replaced its weekly petroleum pricing system with a daily mechanism earlier this year, under which the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) determines ex-depot prices using a rolling seven-day average of international oil prices and other cost factors.

Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik has said the new system enables domestic fuel prices to reflect changes in global markets more quickly while improving transparency in petroleum pricing.

The latest price cut comes as international oil prices fell sharply on Monday after US President Donald Trump held off on a fresh attack on Iran, raising hopes of renewed diplomacy that could increase oil supplies from the Gulf.

Oil prices fell about 5% to a three-week low on Monday after US President Donald Trump held off on a fresh ​attack on Iran in the hope of sealing a quick deal that could boost oil supplies from the Gulf.

Brent futures fell $4.19, or 4.8%, to $83.74 a barrel ‌at 12:40 p.m. ET (1640 GMT), while US West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude fell $4.92, or 5.8%, to $79.75.

The event marked the culmination of a 40-day mourning period after the 10th of Muharram, the martyrdom date of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) and his 72 companions in 680 AD.

Mourning processions with Alam, Tazia, and Zuljinah have been taken out in Karachi and other major cities to mark the day.

Strict security arrangements have been made to provide security to Chehlum processions.

The main Chehlum procession in Karachi commenced from Nishtar Park and is proceeding along its traditional route.

Participants offered Zohrain prayers on M.A. Jinnah Road in front of Imam Bargah Ali Raza during the procession.

Before the procession, a majlis was held at Nishtar Park, where Allama Shehenshah Hussain Naqvi addressed mourners.

Authorities have sealed roads leading to the procession route with containers as part of the security plan.

More than 5,000 police officers and personnel have been deployed to provide security from the beginning of the procession until its conclusion.

The administration has urged commuters to follow traffic advisories and use alternative routes to avoid inconvenience.

Karachi Police Chief Azad Khan visited Numaish Chowrangi to inspect the security arrangements, accompanied by the SSP East, DIG East and DIG Traffic.

Police said 4,994 security personnel have been deployed to protect the central procession and associated religious gatherings, while 139 police vehicles will remain on duty to support security operations.

CCTV control rooms and search-and-sweep teams have also been deployed, while snipers and rapid response teams have been posted at sensitive locations to ensure public safety.

In Karachi, authorities have placed containers at roads leading to the procession route to ensure security.

As part of the traffic plan, M.A. Jinnah Road will remain closed to vehicular traffic.

Authorities have advised commuters to use alternative routes and plan their travel accordingly to avoid inconvenience during the processions.

According to investigative officials in District East Police, the case has been “largely resolved” and a detailed press conference is expected within the next 24 to 48 hours after obtaining approval from senior authorities.

Police lean towards suicide

Senior investigators said they are around “90 per cent” confident that Mir Raza died by suicide, adding that the evidence collected so far does not support the murder theory.

Officials said senior police officers are also satisfied with the direction of the investigation, although the probe has not yet been formally concluded.

The development comes despite the victim’s father, Hussain Raza, repeatedly maintaining that his son was murdered and rejecting earlier medical findings.

Financial distress emerges as key factor

According to investigators, Mir Raza had been under severe financial stress and was burdened with substantial debt.

Police said they recovered a text message allegedly sent by the businessman to a well-known Karachi builder, in which he sought a loan of Rs30 million.

In the message, Mir Raza reportedly wrote: “This is a matter of life and death for me.”

Investigators believe the message reflects the financial pressure the businessman was facing before his death.

Police sources further claimed that creditors had been exerting pressure on Mir Raza over outstanding liabilities.

Officials also alleged that the victim’s family had previously experienced financial difficulties, claiming his father had faced heavy debts in the past and that some liabilities had earlier been settled before the parents separated. Police, however, have not suggested that these claims are directly linked to the death.

CCTV footage and missing pistol

Investigators have obtained additional CCTV footage recorded at around 8am on July 29, nearly three hours before police were informed about the body.

According to police, the footage shows a garbage collector near the body before it was discovered.

Investigators suspect the individual may have picked up the victim’s pistol from the scene and are attempting to trace and identify him.

Police earlier said Mir Raza’s body was reported to authorities at around 11am on July 29.

Apple Watch unlocked

In another breakthrough, investigators said the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) Sindh successfully unlocked Mir Raza’s Apple Watch, allowing police to retrieve important digital evidence.

According to officials, the recovered data includes financial records and transaction-related information that could help investigators establish the victim’s financial condition and activities before his death.

Police said Mir Raza’s mobile phone and smartwatch had been recovered during the investigation. While data had reportedly been deleted from both devices, investigators have so far been unable to crack the passcode of his iPhone.

Investigation continues

Police have detained 19 individuals, including the victim’s business partner, friends and people who were seen near the crime scene, as part of the investigation.

Earlier, investigators also obtained the call detail records of Mir Raza’s last 15 phone contacts, carried out geofencing around the crime scene and collected multiple CCTV recordings to reconstruct his final movements.

Preliminary post-mortem findings estimated that the body was 24 to 36 hours old at the time of examination.

The report documented a close-range gunshot wound to the chest, with the bullet exiting through the upper back, along with other injuries that investigators have been examining alongside forensic and digital evidence.

Police said the investigation remains open until the final findings are formally announced, with a detailed briefing expected in the coming days.

The Punjab government has put in place extensive security measures for mourning processions and religious gatherings.

Inspector General (IG) of Punjab Police Abdul Karim said that security arrangements had been finalised for 730 majalis and over 400 mourning processions being held across the province.

More than 42,000 police officers and personnel have been deployed to ensure law and order.

In Lahore alone, over 10,000 police officers and personnel have been assigned to secure 44 majalis and 17 mourning processions, sources said.

Authorities have installed 390 walkthrough gates and 6,427 metal detectors for security screening, while the Safe City Authority is monitoring processions and gatherings through its surveillance camera network.

Elite Force personnel, traffic police and volunteers have also been deployed to assist with security and traffic management.

The Punjab police chief directed Capital City Police Officers (CCPOs), Regional Police Officers (RPOs) and District Police Officers (DPOs) to personally supervise security arrangements.

Snipers have been deployed on rooftops along procession routes, while female police personnel have been assigned to frisk women mourners.

Special security arrangements have also been made for devotees attending the annual Urs of Data Ganj Bakhsh at Data Darbar.

Dedicated control rooms are monitoring both Chehlum and Urs-related activities around the clock.

IG Abdul Karim also instructed field officers to maintain close coordination with peace committees and civil society representatives to ensure the peaceful observance of the occasion.

Meanwhile, Lahore’s main Chehlum procession began from Haveli Alif Shah inside Delhi Gate under stringent security arrangements and is following its traditional route.

The procession will pass through Wazir Khan Mosque, Chowk Mufti Baqar, Mochi Gate, Rang Mahal and Bhati Gate before concluding at Karbala Gamay Shah.

More than 10,000 police officers and personnel have been deployed to secure the procession.

Authorities have sealed adjoining streets and roads with barbed wire and barricades, while the entire route is being monitored through CCTV cameras.

Police said participants are being allowed to join the procession only after passing through a three-tier security screening process.

Walkthrough gates, metal detectors and electronic barriers have been installed along the route, while adjoining streets and alleys have been sealed with barbed wire and temporary barricades.

Dolphin Squad teams are conducting continuous patrols around the procession to ensure comprehensive security.

Snipers have also been stationed on rooftops overlooking the procession route.

The Punjab Safe City Authority said processions across the province are being monitored through 43 Smart Safe City centres, while more than 800 surveillance cameras are monitoring processions, majalis and other sensitive locations in Lahore.

Additional portable smart cameras have also been installed at sensitive points, while drone surveillance is being carried out to enhance security.

Monitoring teams have been set up in the control room to oversee security arrangements for 44 majalis and 17 processions in Lahore.

Rawalpindi

The main Chehlum procession in Rawalpindi began from Imam Bargah Ashiq Hussain under strict security arrangements.

Quetta

Chehlum processions are also being held in Quetta to commemorate the martyrs of Karbala.

According to SSP Operations Quetta Zia-ul-Haq Mandokhail, a comprehensive security plan has been put in place with more than 1,700 police personnel deployed.

Two major processions were taken out in the city — the central procession from Alamdar Road and another from Hazara Town.

The Hazara Town procession began from Imam Bargah Wali-e-Asr at 11am and is scheduled to conclude around Maghrib prayers after passing through its designated route.

The central Alam and Tazia procession started from Rehmatullah Chowk on Alamdar Road under the leadership of Ashiq Hazara and will conclude at Behesht-e-Zainab graveyard around sunset.

Police said strict security arrangements have been put in place, with procession routes in Hazara Town sealed and security being jointly provided by police and the Frontier Corps (FC).

Security officials said CCTV cameras are monitoring the procession routes, while stringent checking is being carried out at all entry and exit points.

A rapid response force has also been deployed at eight locations across the city.

Authorities have suspended mobile phone and internet services in parts of Quetta as a precautionary security measure during the Chehlum processions.

Voting was held in LA-27 Muzaffarabad-I (Kutla) and at the remaining polling stations in LA-28 Muzaffarabad-II (Lachhrat) after roads blocked by landslides prevented polling on the scheduled date of August 2.

AJK Election Commission Secretary said polling ended at 5pm and voting hours were not extended.

He said voters already present inside polling station premises by the deadline were allowed to cast their ballots.

LA-27 and LA-28 contests

In LA-27 Muzaffarabad-I (Kutla), 26 candidates contested the seat.

The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) fielded Noreen Arif, while the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) nominated Sardar Javed Ayub. The Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party (IPP) was represented by Sardar Tabarak Ali.

The constituency has 197 polling stations and 107,061 registered voters, including 56,809 men and 50,252 women.

In LA-28 Muzaffarabad-II (Lachhrat), polling was held at the remaining polling stations that could not operate on August 2 because of weather-related disruptions.

The constituency comprises 174 polling stations and 99,973 registered voters, including 52,887 men and 47,086 women.

A total of 24 candidates contested the seat, including Chaudhry Shehzad Mahmood of the PML-N, Syed Bazil Naqvi of the PPP and Kausar Taqdees Gillani of the IPP.

Unofficial results

According to unofficial, unverified and provisional results from three polling stations in LA-28 Muzaffarabad-II, PPP candidate Syed Bazil Naqvi was leading with 735 votes, while PML-N candidate Chaudhry Shehzad Mahmood had secured 309 votes.

In LA-27 Muzaffarabad-I, unofficial results from three polling stations showed IPP candidate Sardar Tabarak Ali in the lead with 1,648 votes, followed by PPP’s Sardar Javed Ayub with 315 votes.

The results are preliminary and unofficial, with the Election Commission yet to announce the final outcome.

Three-phase election

The AJK Legislative Assembly elections are being held in three phases due to security considerations.

Polling in the second phase was conducted on Sunday for seven constituencies in the Muzaffarabad division and 12 refugee seats reserved for refugees from Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).

The first phase, held in the Mirpur division on July 27, saw the PML-N win nine of the 13 seats, while the PPP secured the remaining four.

The third and final phase of polling is scheduled for August 10, when voters in 11 constituencies of the Poonch division will cast their ballots.

Chairing a meeting on private investment and sustainable economic development, the prime minister instructed officials to submit a comprehensive plan for developing both the country’s public equity market and the proposed private equity fund.

He said the initiative would improve businesses’ access to capital and help attract greater foreign investment.

PM Shehbaz said private sector investment was critical to sustaining economic growth, adding that private equity funds could play a key role in mobilising capital, expanding businesses and creating jobs.

He said sectors including minerals, agriculture, livestock, energy and information technology (IT) had the potential to become major engines of economic growth, stressing that a stronger public equity market would help channel investment into these industries.

The prime minister also noted that financing from the banking sector remained limited, highlighting the need to develop alternative funding mechanisms to meet the country’s growing investment needs.

Reaffirming the government’s economic agenda, PM Shehbaz said Pakistan was focusing on private sector-led investment, industrial expansion and export growth to build a stronger and more sustainable economy.

The meeting was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, Minister of State for Finance Bilal Azhar Kayani, Special Assistant to the Prime Minister Haroon Akhtar, and senior officials from relevant ministries and institutions.

The commitment was voiced by Iran’s Minister of Industry, Mine and Trade, Mohammad Atabak, during the 10th session of the Pakistan-Iran Joint Trade Committee in Islamabad, which he co-chaired with Pakistan’s Commerce Minister Jam Kamal Khan.

Atabak said Iran places the highest priority on expanding comprehensive cooperation with Pakistan, describing it as a brotherly nation.

He said negotiations on the proposed Pakistan-Iran Free Trade Agreement (FTA) were progressing steadily and expressed confidence that the talks would conclude successfully in the near future.

Speaking at the meeting, Jam Kamal Khan stressed the importance of operationalising joint border markets to boost trade and improve livelihoods in border regions.

He said the private sectors of both countries have confidence in each other and are ready to expand trade, adding that governments must provide a seamless, structured and predictable business environment.

The commerce minister also underscored the need to finalise practical roadmaps to elevate economic partnership between Pakistan and Iran to a new level.

The roadmap was prepared during a meeting on gas sector reforms chaired by Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik and attended by the World Bank’s country director.

According to an official statement, the reform plan includes the reorganisation and unbundling of the Sui gas companies by separating their transmission, distribution and energy businesses.

The government also plans to gradually move towards market-based gas pricing while introducing a stronger regulatory framework to oversee the transition.

Under the proposed reforms, the gas subsidy system will be restructured to ensure that only deserving consumers receive targeted financial support.

The roadmap will be presented to the prime minister for approval later this month. Following approval, the reforms will be implemented in phases.

Speaking at the meeting, Ali Pervaiz Malik said the reforms would strengthen Pakistan’s energy security, improve pricing transparency and enhance the financial sustainability of the Sui companies.

He said the government was committed to establishing a competitive, transparent and efficient gas market while creating new opportunities for private sector investment and participation.

The minister added that the role of the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) would be further strengthened to ensure effective oversight of the competitive gas market.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the army chief received a detailed briefing on the country’s disaster management framework, the prevailing monsoon situation and coordinated response mechanisms for dealing with emergencies.

NDMA Chairman briefed the COAS on the operational capabilities of the NEOC and its technology-enabled response systems, including Disaster Lens 2026, which provides real-time monitoring of the monsoon situation and multiple disaster risks across the country.

The briefing also covered the centre’s multi-hazard monitoring mechanisms and efforts to improve coordination among relevant institutions during emergencies.

Field Marshal Asim Munir praised the NDMA’s efforts to strengthen Pakistan’s national disaster management capacity.

He stressed the importance of preparedness, effective inter-agency coordination and swift response to safeguard human lives and critical infrastructure during natural disasters.

The army chief reaffirmed that the Pakistan Armed Forces remain fully prepared to assist the civil administration and the NDMA in relief, rescue and rehabilitation operations whenever required.

The incident allegedly occurred on August 2 at Ghaziabad police station, where ASI Imran, attached to the investigation wing, is accused of forcibly taking the woman from a roadside market to the police station on his motorcycle.

According to police sources, a constable stationed at the entrance questioned the officer after seeing the woman.

The ASI allegedly told him he had brought her in for questioning before taking her to a room inside the station, where he allegedly sexually assaulted her.

The victim’s mother said her daughter had left home around 1pm on August 2 and did not return. After family members searched for her, a man identified as Faisal Yousaf informed them that a plainclothes police officer had taken the woman away on a motorcycle.

The mother said she went to Ghaziabad police station to report her daughter’s disappearance. While she was there, she received a phone call informing her that her daughter had returned home.

Upon reaching home, she found her daughter in tears. The woman alleged that ASI Imran had sexually assaulted her inside Room No. 4 of the police station after forcibly taking her from the market.

She further claimed that the officer kept her daughter at the station until around 9pm before sending her home in a rickshaw.

Following the allegations, the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Investigation ordered the registration of a criminal case against the ASI. The suspect was arrested and placed in police custody.

Police authorities also suspended the investigation in-charge of the station over alleged negligence and poor supervision.

Separately, the DIG Operations suspended the station house officer (SHO), front desk staff and the entire strength of 78 officers and personnel posted at Ghaziabad police station pending the outcome of the inquiry.

Police said investigations into the case are underway.

The tragedy occurred in Jabori, where the three girls were returning home from school when they attempted to cross a seasonal stream flowing from Chattu to Saran, according to local and rescue officials.

The strong current swept the girls away. Rescue teams recovered the bodies of two girls near the NADRA office in Jabori, while the third was rescued safely.

The deceased girls, aged between seven and eight years, were identified as the daughters of Qari Shafiq, son of Muhammad Ashraf, and Ashiq Hussain, son of Abdul Jalil, both residents of Karak. Rescue workers and local residents took part in the search operation.

The incident came as monsoon rains continued to batter Rawalpindi, Islamabad, Lahore and several districts of Punjab, disrupting daily life and causing widespread urban flooding.

Low-lying areas inundated

Heavy rain submerged several low-lying neighbourhoods in Rawalpindi, including Dhoke Khaba, Chaklala, Kutchery and Liaquat Bagh, with rainwater entering homes and shops.

A six-year-old boy was also swept away by a rainwater drain on Gorja Road. Rescue teams were continuing search operations at the time of filing this report.

The Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) said emergency drainage operations were under way using water pumps and heavy machinery to clear flooded areas.

In Islamabad, persistent rainfall disrupted traffic and affected normal life in several parts of the federal capital.

Lahore and several other districts of Punjab also received heavy rain accompanied by thunderstorms and strong winds, bringing relief from hot and humid weather but causing traffic congestion and waterlogging.

According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), the highest rainfall in Lahore was recorded in Shadman and Shadipura (55mm), followed by Gulberg (54mm), Mughalpura (50mm) and Tajpura (34mm).

Heavy rain was also reported in Farooqabad, Renala Khurd, Sheikhupura, Chak Jhumra, Kamoke, Nankana Sahib, Sharqpur Sharif, Dina and Bahawalnagar.

In Kamoke, water accumulated on the service road, GT Road and underpasses, severely disrupting traffic. Rain also caused power outages in several cities after multiple electricity feeders tripped.

More rain forecast

The PMD has forecast more heavy rainfall on Tuesday in upper Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Islamabad, Azad Kashmir and Gilgit-Baltistan.

It also warned of urban flooding and landslides in Murree and Galiyat, while southern Punjab, Sindh and most parts of Balochistan are expected to remain hot and humid.

Authorities have also opened the spillways of Tarbela Dam, with water inflows expected to increase from 220,000 to 245,000 cusecs. Residents living along the Indus River have been advised to avoid riverbanks and waterways due to the expected rise in water levels.

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has directed all relevant agencies to remain on high alert and urged the public to take precautionary measures.

Rain-related death toll reaches 136

According to the NDMA, 10 people were killed and two others injured in rain-related incidents across Pakistan over the past 24 hours.

Five of the latest fatalities, including three children, were reported from Sindh, while Punjab recorded three deaths, including two children.

Since June 26, monsoon-related incidents have claimed at least 136 lives and injured 418 people nationwide. The fatalities include 63 children and 26 women.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa remains the worst-hit province, with 57 deaths, including 27 children, while mountainous areas continue to face landslides and flash flooding.

Punjab has recorded 50 deaths and 308 injuries, largely due to roof collapses and other rain-related incidents.

Sindh has reported 10 deaths and eight injuries, while 10 people have died and five others were injured in Azad Jammu and Kashmir.

Balochistan has recorded eight fatalities and 15 injuries, with flash floods continuing in streams across the Sulaiman Range and northern districts.

The NDMA said more than 1,150 houses had been partially or completely damaged, while 545 livestock had perished.

Floods have also damaged infrastructure, affecting 37 bridges and around 25 kilometres of roads nationwide.

Flooding persists at Ganda Singh Wala on the Sutlej River, while medium to high flood levels are expected at Balloki Headworks on the Ravi River. Authorities have issued alerts for villages around Lahore as well as Kasur, Okara and Pakpattan districts.

The NDMA and provincial disaster management authorities have established more than 75 relief camps in Punjab and other affected areas to accommodate displaced residents.

Rescue 1122, district administrations and other emergency services remain on high alert. Authorities have advised people to stay away from rivers, streams, electricity poles and unsafe buildings, and to avoid unnecessary travel during heavy rainfall.

According to the latest unofficial, unverified results, the PML-N has won 23 seats in the first two phases, as against the PPP, which has secured seven seats so far.

After securing a comfortable lead in the first phase, the PML-N achieved more success in the second round of polling, further strengthening its position to form the next government.

According to unofficial and provisional results, the party won four of the seven declared constituencies in the Muzaffarabad Division, while the PPP secured three seats.

In the 12 refugee constituencies, the PML-N recorded a commanding performance by winning 10 seats, with the remaining two going to the PPP.

The party had also dominated the first phase of polling in the Mirpur Division, where it won nine of the 13 constituencies, while the PPP secured the remaining four seats.

With 23 seats now in its tally, the PML-N has moved into a position to form the AJK government on its own, without relying on any alliance.

A total of 27 seats are required to form the government in the AJK Legislative Assembly.

The third and final phase of the AJK election will be held on August 10, when polling is scheduled to take place for 11 constituencies in the Poonch Division.

According to official documents available with Wealth Pakistan, the initiative marks a fundamental shift from isolated restoration projects to an integrated heritage management framework for the wider Taxila World Heritage Property, with major conservation interventions undertaken at the ancient sites of Mohra Moradu and Sirkap.

The programme aims to safeguard the authenticity, integrity and Outstanding Universal Value of Taxila while ensuring its sustainable preservation for future generations.

The World Heritage Property has suffered for decades from natural deterioration, incompatible restoration methods, moisture damage, uncontrolled vegetation, erosion and increasing environmental pressures.

Previous conservation efforts were often undertaken independently without an overarching management framework, while the use of reinforced concrete and cement in earlier repairs adversely affected the historic fabric of several monuments.

To address these challenges, the Punjab government commissioned The Urban Unit to prepare Taxila’s first comprehensive master plan, followed by an implementation programme developed by NESPAK.

The strategy integrates archaeological research, structural conservation, environmental management, museum development, visitor facilities, digital documentation, accessibility improvements and institutional capacity building within a multidisciplinary framework.

The conservation programme began at Mohra Moradu, one of the finest Buddhist monastic complexes of the Gandhara period, where reinforced concrete structures installed over the Main Votive Stupa were removed and replaced with a lightweight protective shelter designed in accordance with internationally recognised conservation principles.

The project also introduced accessibility measures by creating a discreet earthen ramp for persons with disabilities without disturbing the site’s original stone staircase.

Archaeological investigations uncovered the monastery’s original drainage system and rediscovered a historic sacred water well, improving site preservation while enhancing archaeological understanding.

At Sirkap, conservation teams removed extensive vegetation and accumulated debris that had concealed archaeological remains and accelerated structural deterioration.

Conservation work focused on stabilising vulnerable masonry using compatible materials and minimum-intervention techniques rather than speculative reconstruction.

For the first time, the conservation programme was supported by comprehensive scientific documentation, including archival research, archaeological investigations, Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping, three-dimensional laser scanning, structural condition surveys, Heritage Impact Assessments and material compatibility studies, providing a technical baseline for future monitoring and conservation.

The programme has also resulted in the preparation of Taxila’s first Conservation Management Plan, establishing long-term policies for conservation, maintenance, visitor management, disaster preparedness, environmental monitoring and institutional coordination.

The programme also strengthened legal and spatial protection through the delineation of buffer zones around component sites.

In addition, proposals were developed to improve visitor facilities, interpretation, site presentation and museum display facilities to better present the site’s historical significance.

“I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the successful candidates of the PML-N,” the prime minister said in a statement.

He said this continued success was the result of the hard work of the party’s Quaid Nawaz Sharif and the entire PML-N team.

“Under the leadership of the PML-N Quaid, the party’s team conducted a highly successful election campaign in Azad Jammu and Kashmir,” the prime minister added.

He said the victory of the PML-N was reflective of the confidence of the people of Azad Jammu and Kashmir in the party’s policies.

“The development and prosperity of Azad Jammu and Kashmir, along with the welfare and well-being of its people, remain among the foremost priorities of the PML-N,” the prime minister said and added that the active participation of political parties in the second phase of the Azad Kashmir elections will further strengthen the democratic process.

Addressing a press conference alongside Minister for Kashmir Affairs Amir Muqam, Rana Sanaullah said the electoral process had been completed in the AJK and that PML-N had won 23 seats overall.

He said the party secured victories in 13 constituencies in the Mirpur Division, seven in the Muzaffarabad Division and was also leading on refugee seats, putting it in a comfortable position to form the next government in the region.

Rana Sanaullah accused the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) of attempting to create a narrative of electoral rigging after its defeat.

He claimed the PPP had initially alleged rigging in 13 constituencies, but reduced its claims to four after being asked to provide evidence.

According to him, the party later narrowed its allegations to just two constituencies when further proof was sought.

“The elections in Azad Kashmir were free and fair,” Rana Sanaullah said.

He maintained that the next AJK government would be formed in line with the public mandate and said a PML-N administration would usher in a new phase of development in the region while fulfilling promises made by party leader Nawaz Sharif.

Rana Sanaullah also announced that the PML-N would start holding discussions for the formation of the new government once the election results are announced.

Speaking on the occasion, Minister for Kashmir Affairs Amir Muqam described the AJK elections as a victory for democracy.

He said the PML-N’s success was the result of coordinated teamwork and a focused campaign in every constituency.

“The people of Kashmir cast their votes after evaluating the past and present performance of political parties,” Muqam said.

Both PML-N leaders urged political parties to respect the public mandate and ensure the democratic process continues peacefully following the second phase of the Azad Jammu and Kashmir elections.

Rana Sanaullah rejected allegations of rigging, maintaining that the polling process had been conducted in a transparent and peaceful manner.

Amir Muqam called on all political parties to uphold democratic values and allow the electoral process to proceed without disruption.

He urged political stakeholders to focus on earning the confidence of the people rather than making allegations, saying election outcomes could not be changed through accusations.

The minister said all parties should accept the public’s verdict with political maturity, regardless of the outcome.

Referring to the Gilgit-Baltistan elections, Muqam said the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) had accepted the results despite political differences and expected other parties to demonstrate the same democratic spirit by respecting the AJK election results.

According to the sources, Rehman Bhola was taken into custody from North Nazimabad. CCTV footage circulating on social media shows police escorting him after the arrest.

Police sources said he was detained over allegations of involvement in the firing that erupted during Sunday’s confrontation between two groups of MQM-P workers at the party’s Bahadurabad headquarters.

Rehman Bhola was acquitted in the Baldia Town factory fire case only a few weeks ago.

The clash broke out after Anees Qaimkhani arrived at the party headquarters with his supporters while a meeting led by MQM-P Chairman Dr Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui was in progress.

According to reports, a heated exchange preceded a confrontation between supporters of the two groups after Siddiqui left the venue. The situation escalated into a physical altercation, and gunfire was also reported.

During the unrest, a cameraman from a private television channel was allegedly detained inside the party office, assaulted and stripped of his camera after recording footage of the firing. He was later released after allegedly being warned against making the video public.

Party sources also claimed that Sindh Assembly member Hafiz Ejazul Haq and National Assembly member Sabeen Ghori were subjected to abusive behaviour before the firing incident. The reported gunfire created panic in the area late into the night.

Following the incident, Siddiqui announced an emergency late-night press conference but cancelled it minutes later without addressing the media.

Police have yet to issue an official statement on the arrest or the charges against Rehman Bhola.

Chairing a meeting to review progress on the privatisation of state-owned enterprises (SOEs) in Islamabad, the prime minister said the programme should move forward without delays to improve efficiency and attract investment.

Shehbaz also instructed officials to structure the proposed privatisation of Zarai Taraqiati Bank Limited (ZTBL) in a way that preserves its core mandate of supporting the agriculture sector.

He said the bank must continue providing agricultural credit and financial services to small and medium-sized farmers after privatisation, adding that easier access to finance was essential to improving crop yields, strengthening food security and supporting economic growth.

Officials told the meeting that 27 state-owned enterprises had been placed on the privatisation agenda under three phases of the programme.

The meeting was informed that the financial closing process for the privatisation of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) and First Women Bank had been completed. The government also completed the first financial closing of PIA and transferred its management control on June 29, officials said.

The prime minister reviewed progress on the privatisation of Islamabad Electric Supply Company (IESCO), Faisalabad Electric Supply Company (FESCO) and Gujranwala Electric Power Company (GEPCO).

Officials said expressions of interest had already been invited for all three power distribution companies. The deadlines for submitting qualification documents are August 7 for FESCO, August 21 for GEPCO, and September 7 for IESCO.

The meeting was told that several international companies had expressed interest in the three transactions, while roadshows for prospective investors were under way.

The privatisation process for ZTBL was also reviewed, with officials briefing the prime minister that the transaction structure was being designed to safeguard the bank’s agricultural lending mandate.

The meeting further reviewed progress on the planned privatisation of Islamabad International Airport, Jinnah International Airport in Karachi, and Allama Iqbal International Airport in Lahore.

Concluding the meeting, PM Shehbaz directed the relevant authorities to closely monitor all ongoing privatisation initiatives and ensure that every milestone is achieved on schedule.

According to party sources, the incident occurred on Sunday night while a meeting led by Siddiqui’s group was underway at the Bahadurabad headquarters.

Former deputy convener Anees Qaimkhani later arrived at the venue with his supporters, leading to a heated exchange between members of the two groups.

After Siddiqui left the premises, workers from both sides confronted each other, resulting in a physical altercation that escalated tensions.

During the incident, a cameraman from a private television channel was allegedly detained inside the party office, assaulted and had his camera confiscated after filming footage of the reported firing.

According to the allegations, the cameraman was later released after being warned against making the video public.

Party sources also claimed that Sindh Assembly member Hafiz Ejazul Haq and National Assembly member Sabeen Ghori were subjected to abusive behaviour during the confrontation. They further alleged that gunfire erupted during the incident, causing panic in the area late into the night.

Following the clash, Siddiqui announced an emergency late-night press conference but cancelled it around 10 to 15 minutes later without addressing the media.

Speaking a day later, the MQM-P chairman said the incident resulted from a misunderstanding and an argument between party workers.

“The party leadership has reviewed the matter, and the situation is now better,” Siddiqui said.

Addressing a press conference in Islamabad, Memon claimed the election followed the pattern of the 2024 general elections, describing it as a “Form 47 Plus” operation that undermined the mandate of the Kashmiri people.

He said the AJK polls were of critical importance for the PPP, but alleged that the party was defeated through coordinated efforts involving the federal government, the Punjab government, the Election Commission and the PML-N.

Memon said the ruling party should have prioritised the interests of the people of Kashmir over political gains, adding that the PPP would continue challenging the election results and the alleged irregularities “until the last stage.”

He further alleged that the Election Commission had acted as a facilitator for the PML-N rather than as an impartial institution.

Referring to the postponement of polling in LA-27, Memon claimed the Election Commission cited rainfall despite what he described as clear weather.

He alleged the electoral body failed to deliver polling materials on time and said it should explain the reasons if it was unable to conduct the process as scheduled.

The PPP leader also alleged that one party worker was shot dead during the election process, while a PPP member of the National Assembly came under gunfire.

He further claimed that supporters of the PML-N attacked the president of AJK, but no arrests were made despite complaints.

Memon alleged the AJK chief secretary and inspector general of police, appointed by the federal government, remained under Islamabad’s influence, while the AJK prime minister appeared powerless. He also claimed the AJK president was not provided adequate security.

Memon alleged that PPP leader Nayyar Bukhari had presented pre-stamped ballot papers before the media and claimed ballot papers had been provided to PML-N candidates two days before polling. He further alleged ballot papers were openly stamped in Lahore and Sialkot.

PPP AJK leader Chaudhry Yasin also questioned the credibility of the election process, alleging polling agents were locked inside rooms while fake stamping of ballot papers took place.

He claimed security was not provided despite repeated requests to the relevant authorities and alleged that nearly 90% voter turnout was recorded at around 40% of polling stations, describing it as highly unusual.

Yasin also alleged that polling agents were assaulted and criticised authorities for abandoning an earlier proposal to hold elections in phases due to security concerns.

The PML-N, the Election Commission and other relevant authorities had not issued any official response to the allegations at the time of filing this report.

Speaking at a press conference in Karachi, representatives of various transport associations warned that the movement of goods across the country will come to a complete halt if their demands were not met.

Speaking on the occasion, transport alliance president Malik Shahzad Awan said transporters would suspend the transportation of goods nationwide from August 8 to protest against rising fuel prices and “unsustainable operating costs.”

He said transporters could no longer continue their business due to the increasing prices of diesel and petrol, and demanded that the government abolish the daily fuel price adjustment mechanism and revert to fixing petroleum product prices on a monthly basis.

Awan also called on the government to reverse the recent increases in petrol and diesel prices, restore toll tax rates to their June 2024 level, and abolish the 7% withholding tax imposed on the goods transport sector.

The alliance warned that freight operations across Pakistan would remain suspended until their concerns were addressed.

The latest results show PML-N winning 11 seats, giving it a clear lead over its rivals, while the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) has secured four seats. Vote counting is continuing in the remaining constituencies.

Polling for eight constituencies in the Muzaffarabad Division was held from 8am to 5pm and was extended by one hour, while voting for the 12 refugee constituencies concluded at the scheduled time of 5pm.

Announcing the results, the Chief Election Commissioner of Azad Jammu and Kashmir said PML-N had won 11 seats, while the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) secured four seats.

According to the chief election commissioner, PML-N’s successful candidates include Raja Muhammad Farooq Haider, Mustafa Bashir Abbasi, Muhammad Yaseen Lone, Muhammad Ahmad Raza Qadri, Muhammad Amir Shah, Muhammad Ahsan Raza, Raja Muhammad Siddiq and Syed Shaukat Ali Shah.

The PPP’s winning candidates include Syed Bazil Ali, Diwan Ali Chughtai, Abdul Majeed Khan and Sardar Mukhtar Khan.

The election also saw an unusual trend in some cities, where no votes were cast at certain polling stations.

In Shikarpur, where four votes were registered, not a single ballot was cast.

Similarly, no votes were cast at a polling station in Chak Jhumra for LA-34 Jammu-I.

At the Mamoori polling station in Dera Ghazi Khan for LA-34 Jammu-I, only one vote was cast.

The lone ballot went to PML-N candidate Nasir Hussain Dar.

In the first phase of the AJK general elections, held across 13 constituencies in the Mirpur Division, the PML-N delivered a strong performance by winning nine seats, while PPP secured four. The Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party (IPP) failed to win any seat.

With the latest results, the PML-N has maintained its overall lead in the AJK Legislative Assembly elections.

Election officials said polling staff and election material would be dispatched to the polling stations on Monday evening to ensure voting begins on schedule.

The elections in the two constituencies were postponed during the second phase of elections after polling staff and election material could not reach 57 polling stations on time due to bad weather.

In LA-27, a total of 26 candidates are in the race, including Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) candidate Noreen Arif, Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) candidate Sardar Javed Ayub, and Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party (IPP) candidate Sardar Tabarak Ali.

Meanwhile, LA-28 is witnessing a contest among 24 candidates, including PPP’s Syed Bazil Ali Naqvi and PML-N’s Chaudhry Shehzad.

Authorities said comprehensive security measures have been put in place to ensure peaceful and orderly polling in both constituencies.

According to sources, a meeting of the group led by MQM-P Convener Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui was underway when senior party leader Anees Qaimkhani arrived at the venue accompanied by his supporters.

The sources said a heated exchange took place following Qaimkhani’s arrival.

After Khalid Maqbool Siddiqui left the meeting, workers from the two groups reportedly came face-to-face, leading to a physical altercation.

During the clash, several party workers were allegedly assaulted.

Sources claimed that the clothes of a member of the party’s Central Committee were torn, while Member of the Provincial Assembly Hafiz Ejaz-ul-Haq and Member of the National Assembly Sabeen Ghauri were also allegedly subjected to mistreatment.

The sources further claimed that gunfire was also reported during the incident.

However, there was no immediate official confirmation regarding the firing or any casualties.

Following the clash, a heavy police contingent was deployed to the MQM-P headquarters in Bahadurabad.

In view of the tense situation, the party’s central office was closed, while authorities continued to monitor the situation.

The development was confirmed by travel industry representatives and a UAE embassy official, who said family applications and those submitted through authorised travel agencies were now being processed more smoothly, according to a report by Arab News.

The UAE hosts around 1.8 million Pakistanis and is one of the country’s largest sources of workers’ remittances.

Although both Islamabad and Abu Dhabi had consistently maintained there was no official visa ban on Pakistani nationals, applicants had reported lengthy delays and increased scrutiny in recent months.

Muhammad Nadeem Sharif, chief executive of Aroma Travels and former chairman of the Travel Agents Association of Pakistan (TAAP), said visa issuance for tourists travelling with their families had resumed.

He said applications from families and Pakistanis visiting relatives already residing in the UAE were now receiving timely responses.

According to Sharif, tourism promotion campaigns have also resumed, while passenger traffic has gradually recovered after declining during recent regional tensions.

A senior Pakistani immigration official, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the number of passengers travelling daily from Pakistan to Dubai had increased from around 170 earlier this summer to approximately 400 by the end of July.

However, the official noted that the figure remained significantly lower than the nearly 1,000 daily passengers recorded two years ago.

TAAP office-bearer Muhammad Hanif Rinch also said the situation had improved in recent days, with more Pakistani families successfully obtaining visit visas after years of high rejection rates, particularly for individual applicants.

A UAE embassy official in Islamabad also confirmed that visit visas were being issued to holders of ordinary Pakistani passports applying through registered travel agencies.

The official, who requested anonymity, said earlier processing delays had been linked to safety and security considerations but added that applicants with complete documentation could now apply without difficulty.

The easing follows months of concern over visa processing for Pakistani nationals.

In April last year, Pakistan and the UAE agreed to take steps to facilitate visa issuance during a meeting between Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and his Emirati counterpart.

Pakistan’s Foreign Office later informed parliament that stricter scrutiny had been introduced after some applicants submitted forged educational and employment documents, while others faced legal action in the UAE over unauthorised political activities, criminal offences or misuse of social media, prompting tighter background checks and documentation requirements.

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The injured were shifted to Saidu Sharif Hospital for treatment.

District Police Officer (DPO) Swat Muhammad Umar Gandapur said the suicide bomber attempted to enter the Kabal police station but was stopped by police personnel on duty before detonating explosives near the gate.

He said a human head had been recovered from the blast site and could belong to the suspected suicide bomber.

DIG Malakand Syed Fida Hussain said local youths were holding a protest at the time of the explosion, resulting in a large gathering at the site.

According to rescue officials, rescue operations have been completed, while law enforcement agencies have cordoned off the area and begun collecting evidence. Authorities are investigating the nature of the incident and the identity of the attacker.

President Asif Ali Zardari condemned the suicide attack, expressing grief over the loss of lives, praying for the victims, and directing authorities to ensure the best medical treatment for the injured. He said terrorists would not succeed in undermining peace and national unity, and called for a thorough investigation to bring those responsible to justice.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the attack, expressed condolences to the families of those killed and prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured.

Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also condemned the suicide attack and expressed sympathy with the families of the victims.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi condemned the blast, sought a report on the incident and said anti-peace elements would not be allowed to succeed in their intentions. He directed that the injured receive medical treatment and expressed condolences to the families of the victims.

Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz had strongly condemned the act of terrorism, expressing her deep sorrow and regret over the death of innocent citizens. She expressed her best wishes for the speedy and complete recovery of the people injured in the attack and emphasised the need for the relevant institutions to provide the best medical facilities to the injured.

A spokesperson for Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI) also condemned the bombing during the Swat peace protest, prayed for those killed and called for immediate medical treatment for the injured.

Addressing a press conference in Islamabad, PPP leader Nadeem Afzal Chan said the party could not accept the polls as free and fair.

He said that the PPP had submitted around 15 complaints to the Election Commission, with the most serious concerning the failure to deliver polling material to several polling stations on time.

He alleged that the election process was being manipulated to benefit a particular political party, claiming that similar irregularities had also occurred during the first phase of polling.

“We cannot declare these elections free and fair,” Chan said, adding that the PPP was being treated unfairly despite its support for the electoral process across AJK.

He criticised the failure to deliver ballot papers on time in parts of Muzaffarabad and raised concerns over the law and order situation, urging the authorities to “come to their senses” and ensure the integrity of the election.

Chan also questioned the role of the AJK Election Commission, saying its performance was “before everyone to see.”

Bilawal alleges irregularities

Meanwhile, PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari said the party had already submitted several written complaints to the Election Commission regarding alleged irregularities during both phases of the election.

In a statement posted on X, Bilawal said the party accused of rigging had effectively acknowledged the allegations, yet the Election Commission had failed to act on complaints filed after the first phase of polling.

He said prompt action at that stage could have helped restore confidence in the second phase of the elections.

Bilawal alleged that fake votes were being used to stuff ballot boxes and claimed PPP polling agents had been unlawfully expelled from polling stations during Sunday’s voting.

He urged the Election Commission to take immediate action to ensure transparency and fairness, warning that the PPP reserved the right to stage protests and demand re-elections in constituencies where it believed rigging had occurred and the Election Commission failed to intervene.

Complaint with EC

Earlier in the day, the PPP lodged a formal complaint with the AJK Election Commission over delays in the arrival of polling staff at 71 polling stations in LA-28 Muzaffarabad, which prevented voting from starting at the scheduled time.

In a written complaint submitted by PPP AJK Election Cell in-charge Abdul Shakoor on behalf of party candidate Bazal Naqvi, the party called for disciplinary action against those responsible for what it described as serious administrative negligence and demanded an inquiry into the delays.