Additionally, hospitals treated 3,359 asthma patients, 286 individuals with heart conditions, 60 stroke victims, and 627 cases of conjunctivitis. …reports Asian Lite News
Over 75,000 people in Pakistan’s Punjab province, sought medical assistance on Saturday due to respiratory issues caused by toxic smog and air pollution, according to sources from healthcare monitoring authorities, as reported by the Express Tribune.
Additionally, hospitals treated 3,359 asthma patients, 286 individuals with heart conditions, 60 stroke victims, and 627 cases of conjunctivitis.
Lahore recorded the highest number of air pollution-related cases, with 5,353 individuals seeking hospital treatment for respiratory issues, including 359 asthma patients, 171 with heart disease, 20 stroke victims, and 303 cases of conjunctivitis.
Sources indicated that major hospitals in Lahore and other densely populated cities were overwhelmed, as thousands of patients sought treatment for illnesses caused by pollution.
In response, the Pakistan Punjab government declared a health emergency in the Lahore and Multan divisions, implementing several restrictions over the past two weeks to manage the smog crisis.
In both divisions, schools, colleges, and universities were closed, and all outdoor public activities were prohibited. Parks were also closed, and market hours were limited to reduce citizens’ exposure to the smog.
Artificial rain was triggered, bringing some relief to certain areas, but the smog’s intensity has continued unabated. The ongoing air pollution crisis has stretched the capacity of hospitals in major cities to their limits. In response, authorities have cancelled the holidays of medical staff and made extra arrangements to accommodate the influx of patients in government hospitals.
However, the monitoring team from the Department of Primary and Secondary Healthcare has reported a concerning situation.
A senior official from the department’s monitoring wing stated that the number of patients in hospitals had reached its peak, and it may become increasingly difficult to manage the growing influx of patients in outpatient and emergency departments in the coming days.
The official revealed that over 1.91 million people with respiratory diseases had been admitted to government hospitals over the past 30 days, with 133,429 cases reported in Lahore alone. Additionally, 119,462 asthma patients had been registered, including 5,577 in Lahore.
During the smog-affected month, Lahore accounted for 5,455 of the 13,862 heart disease patients treated in hospitals across the province and 491 of the 5,141 stroke patients. A total of 11,913 people in the province were affected by conjunctivitis, with 1,945 cases reported in Lahore.
The official stated that the situation had deteriorated over the past week, with 449,045 people seeking treatment for respiratory issues, 30,146 for asthma, 2,225 for heart diseases, 1,400 for strokes, and 3,889 for conjunctivitis across hospitals in the province.
A spokesperson for the health department, Sayed Hamad Raza, acknowledged that the situation was critical but assured that authorities had made extensive arrangements in hospitals. He stated that all emergency leaves for medical staff had been cancelled and that treatment services were being provided around the clock. Health ministry officials are also closely monitoring the situation, he added. (ANI)
Over the past few weeks, Punjab has experienced hazardous smog levels, with Lahore and Multan among the worst-affected cities. Multan’s Air Quality Index (AQI) readings have crossed 2,000 twice, setting a new record for air pollution, while Lahore recently ranked as the world’s most polluted city, peaking at an AQI of 1,591.
Dense smog across Punjab has escalated into a full-blown health crisis, according to Senior Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb.
Speaking at a press conference in Lahore on Friday, the minister highlighted the severe impact of toxic air pollution on public health and outlined the government’s measures to combat the worsening situation, Dawn reported.
Over the past few weeks, Punjab has experienced hazardous smog levels, with Lahore and Multan among the worst-affected cities. Multan’s Air Quality Index (AQI) readings have crossed 2,000 twice, setting a new record for air pollution, while Lahore recently ranked as the world’s most polluted city, peaking at an AQI of 1,591.
This has led to nearly two million cases of respiratory and related diseases, including asthma, conjunctivitis, and heart conditions, with children and vulnerable groups particularly affected.
Aurangzeb stated, “At the moment, the smog [crisis] has turned into a health crisis,” linking the problem to climate change. She noted that the Punjab government has introduced a 10-year climate change policy addressing various environmental challenges, including smog, floods, and rehabilitation efforts.
“The Punjab chief minister has made a 10-year plan for smog, together with all sectors and departments, and the sectors were given targets,” she explained.
The government’s actions include distributing 1,000 super-seeders at subsidised rates to curb stubble burning, installing emission control systems in industries through a loan program, and demolishing over 800 brick kilns, reported Dawn.
Aurangzeb added that infrastructure for vehicle fitness certification and AQI monitoring has been established, while 30 gas analysers have been deployed to check vehicle emissions.
Addressing Lahore’s inadequate forest cover, which stands at just 3 per cent compared to the international standard of 36 per cent, the minister said the government is implementing the “Green Master Plan” to increase greenery. She also called on journalists and vloggers to help raise awareness about smog: “Criticise [us] but also use that mic to create awareness about smog.”
Meanwhile, Punjab Environment Protection and Climate Change Department (EPCCD) Secretary Raja Jahangir Anwar hinted at drastic measures, including a potential “complete lockdown” and school closures if smog levels persist. Electric buses are also slated to be introduced by June next year as part of long-term measures.
At a Lahore High Court hearing, Justice Shahid Karim emphasised the need for a comprehensive 10-year policy and urged the government to prevent agricultural land from being converted into housing societies. He also called for extensive tree-planting initiatives and the installation of water treatment plants in larger homes to address environmental concerns, Dawn reported.
As Punjab struggles with alarming pollution levels, Aurangzeb remains hopeful that collective action and long-term policies will mitigate the smog crisis over time. (ANI)
The city of Multan turned apocalyptic as the city crossed the 2000 mark on Air Quality Index reading on Friday morning
The smog situation continues to worsen in Pakistan’s Punjab. On Friday morning, the city of Multan turned apocalyptic as the city crossed the 2000 mark on Air Quality Index reading, as per Dawn.
The state government of Pakistan’s Punjab is on high alert and is implementing various measures to bring down the pollution levels.
The state closed parks and museums till November 17 as air quality worsened to record level in all major cities of Punjab.
According to Dawn, Multan, the largest city in south Punjab province of Pakistan, recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) reading of 2,135 between 8am and 9am, according to IQAir, a Swiss air quality monitor.
The concentration of PM2.5 — fine particulate matter in the air that causes the most damage to health — was 947 micrograms per cubic metre, which is 189.4 times above the WHO guideline, as per IQAir.
The global health body considers anything over five micrograms per cubic metre as hazardous.
The AQI in Multan reached 980 by 10pm, at least three times over the 300 mark considered “hazardous”.
Three air quality monitors in the city at the WWF-Pakistan Office, Shamsabad Colony and Multan Cantonment showed AQI readings of 2,316, 1,635 and 1,527, respectively, at 10pm, as per Dawn.
The smog situation in Multan’s surrounding districts of Bahawalpur, Muzaffargarh, and Khanewal was also the same, resulting in reduced visibility on roads. The state of affairs has led to Nishtar Hospital, Multan’s biggest medical facility, establishing two smog counters in the OPD and Emergency wards due to hazardous air quality.
However, these counters did not receive any patients until Pakistani media outlets raised the issue.
Multan’s Deputy Commissioner Waseem Hamid Sindhu on Friday imposed a ‘smart lockdown’ in the city. According to this, the markets have been directed to close by 8pm and the traffic police is to take strict action against vehicles emitting smoke.
The city administration has also directed a crackdown against stubble and waste burning and brick kilns operating without zig zag technology.
Residents of the city informed Dawn that the rules were being flouted as children were playing in the grounds and streets as the schools were closed. Citizens also complained of sore throat due to bad air quality.
Meanwhile, the AQI in Lahore was also reported above 1,000 at 12am, making it the most polluted city in the world.
According to Dawn, a “complete ban” has been imposed on the entry of people in parks, zoos, playgrounds, monuments, museums and play lands in cities like Lahore, Nankana Sahib, Gujranwala, Sialkot, Faisalabad, Chiniot and Jhang.
An official notification issued on Friday said the violators would face action under Section 188 of the Pakistan Penal Code, which criminalised disobedience of government orders.
Public and private schools in 18 districts of the province have already been shut.
Even though industrial and vehicular emissions and stubble burning were resulting in smog, this wind pool also had turned the situation worse, according to the EPCCD secretary.
Pakistan Punjab’s senior minister Marriyum Aurangzeb said steps were being taken to curb the smog. These include covering all cargo trucks with tarps, advising children to not go outdoors and imposing fines and penalties on those who flouted the rules.
Additionally, several food stalls and outlets have been closed for “violating environmental regulations”.
Several key roads were also closed in the south and central regions of Pakistan’s Punjab as the area was badly affected due to the thick smog. (ANI)
ATC judge Arshad Javed on Friday heard the bail pleas and approved the pleas filed by the former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan.
An Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) in Lahore granted bail to Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan in four May 9 riot cases, ARY News reported.
ATC judge Arshad Javed on Friday heard the bail pleas and approved the pleas filed by the former Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan.
The Prosecutor General of Punjab, Farhad Ali opposed the bail pleas and said that Imran Khan had informed his workers to attack important state buildings if he is arrested, ARY News reported.
Earlier, Khan on Tuesday moved Islamabad High Court (IHC) against the transfer of May 9 cases to military courts. He filed a plea through his lawyer Aziz Karamat Bhandari. He made the Law Secretary, Home Secretary, IG Islamabad, IG Punjab, IG Jails, DG FIA and the federal government as his respondents.
He pleaded with the court not to transfer May 9 cases for military court trials.
In a separate development, the Anti-Terrorism Court acquitted all 18 accused, including PTI workers, in the May 9 riots case due to lack of evidence. The defendants were accused of protesting in Landi Kotal on May 9, blocking the Torkham Road, damaging property, and damaging an Anti-Narcotics Force vehicle.
Judge Muhammad Iqbal of the Special Anti-Terrorism Court delivered the decision.
According to ARY News, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) administration had earlier written to Chief Justice Ishtiaq Ibrahim of the Peshawar High Court (PHC) to propose the creation of a judicial panel to look into the May 9 riots.
The letter stated that the commission should be headed by a sitting or retired judge of the Peshawar HC.
The arrest of Imran Khan on May 9 resulted in violent clashes across the nation. As a result, the protests were held in remote and major cities as the party workers were agitated due to their chairman’s arrest, with Balochistan, Punjab, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Islamabad summoning the armed forces to ensure law and order, ARY News reported. (ANI)
With unprecedented legal support, the Pakistan Army will now determine nearly all policies—economic, legal, political, telecommunication, and security—rendering civilian authorities ineffective and leaving the population at the mercy of the military, writes Dr Sakariya Kareem
In another development undermining democracy in Pakistan, the powerful military establishment pressured ruling coalition lawmakers to pass crucial bills in parliament without discussion. Demonstrating unprecedented haste, the government passed all six bills—seeking to extend the tenure of the chiefs of the country’s three armed forces and to increase the number of judges in the superior courts—from the National Assembly within 24 minutes and then from the Senate in just 16 minutes, without allowing any debate.
Among the six bills, the most controversial is the tenure extension of the three military chiefs from three to five years. In simple terms, Pakistan’s chief of army staff (COAS) can now legally serve for ten years, and the army chief can serve for two terms. This move further erodes democracy in Pakistan, and de facto military rule has taken hold. Moving forward, the army will not need to conduct a coup to gain power in Pakistan, as the new extension rule grants unprecedented control to future military chiefs.
The new bill guarantees that Army Chief General Syed Asim Munir, who has served for two years, will continue leading the country’s powerful military establishment until November 2027. He can also legally seek an additional five-year term after his initial five-year term ends in 2027. Munir’s extension could have severe consequences for opposition parties, particularly Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI). Experts believe that the ruling coalition, led by Shehbaz Sharif, pushed for the army chief’s tenure extension as a way to protect itself from political opposition and public discontent. In return, the military establishment is expected to keep Khan imprisoned, selectively target PTI supporters, and prevent large street protests against the ruling coalition. Notably, Sharif, in November 2022, selected General Munir for a three-year term as army chief, an appointment that was opposed by Imran Khan.
General Asim Munir Chief of Army Staff Pakistan
The bills passed by Parliament included the Supreme Court Number of Judges (Amendment) Bill 2024, the Supreme Court Practice and Procedure (Amendment) Bill 2024, the Islamabad High Court (Amendment) Bill 2024, the Pakistan Army (Amendment) Bill 2024, the Pakistan Air Force (Amendment) Bill 2024, and the Pakistan Navy (Amendment) Bill 2024. These bills were passed without prior discussion and silenced lawmakers from opposition parties. Furthermore, just hours after the new laws were passed, the government sent the documents to the acting President of Pakistan, Yusuf Raza Gilani, who signed them informally at his home. This demonstrates how non-serious the ruling coalition was about these crucial legislations and suggests they were under pressure from the military to pass them quickly.
Critics argue that the new legislation will create discontent within the three military branches, as many senior officers will lose the opportunity to become chiefs. Additionally, the armed forces, particularly the army, may become more politicized as senior generals seek to align themselves with major political parties in hopes of advancing to chief positions. Importantly, the prime minister of Pakistan has the authority to select the army, navy, and air force chiefs. Furthermore, the amendments eliminate previous age limits and expand tenure options, allowing the Chief of Army Staff and other military leaders to serve beyond the earlier prescribed age of 64 if national security or urgent needs arise.
The new rules have been heavily criticized by Pakistani politicians and policy experts. One expert commented on X/Twitter regarding the services extension issue: “Thanks to the bill the government rushed through parliament suddenly today, Pakistan’s army chief can now be in power for a full 10 years (because an extension is possible). The country’s authoritarian turn has been cemented today.” Another post claimed that “the most damaging aspect of this government is how it has undermined Parliament and democratic norms. 6 bills passed in the NA within 24 minutes. A constitutional amendment passed in a midnight session marred by coercion and abductions. No debates, no public drafts.”
Politicians and members of ethnic minorities, such as Pashtun and Baloch, are worried about the new rules because they will directly affect their safety and security. A former Pashtun senator, Afrasiab Khattak, stated on social media, “Aside from movements led by popular young leaders from oppressed communities and activists from the left, there are no opposition political parties in Pakistan. The ruling party and the main opposition see eye to eye on extending the tenure of the generals. Don’t blame the people.”
Under the current ruling coalition government in Islamabad and the army chief, General Munir, ethnic minorities are facing increasing state-sponsored violence and forced incarcerations based on unsubstantiated legal charges. With the recent amendment to the Anti-Terrorism Act of 1997 and the extension of the army chief’s tenure, people in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa will experience more instability due to selective counterterrorism and intelligence-led operations by the Punjabi-dominated armed forces in Pakistan.
On November 5, two major religio-political parties—the Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam (JUI-F) and Jamaat-i-Islami (JI)—criticized the coalition government for recent bills. JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman stated that the ruling parties were “gagging” democracy by empowering the military establishment. At a press conference in Islamabad, Rehman argued that the new bill to amend the anti-terrorism law would tarnish democratic institutions and that it “is tantamount to civil martial law and a slap in the face of democracy.”
The long-term consequences of these rules for the people of Pakistan, particularly ethnic minorities like the Baloch and Pashtun, will be significant as General Munir and other security agencies openly violate the constitution, transforming the country into an autocratic military state. With unprecedented legal support, the Pakistan Army will now determine nearly all policies—economic, legal, political, telecommunication, and security—rendering civilian authorities ineffective and leaving the population at the mercy of the military.
With its three decades of unmatched excellence, Lajwanti has played a pivotal role in shaping the codes of Pakistani fashion since its inception. A feature by lifestyle columnist Riccha Grrover
The brand’s journey dates back to 1995, where the industry of fashion was a mere idea, and the design force was limited to three artisans of fashion, at best. Over the course of 30 years, Lajwanti has become a prominent name in the fashion world, gracing catwalks and venues with trunk shows as well as year-long pop-up stores across the globe. Some of these notable locations include London, the United States, Spain, Dubai, Paris, and Delhi.
At the helm of Lajwanti, Ana Ali, the esteemed CEO, and the guiding force behind the brand, stands as the matriarch of innovation. She collaborates closely with her daughter, Dania Syed, who, as the Creative Director, infused the brand with her unique creative brilliance upon joining us in early 2019. Together they skilfully marry time-honored wisdom with a contemporary understanding, thereby ensuring that Lajwanti remains not only aligned with the ever-evolving demands of the industry but also kindles the flame of curiosity that defines the brand’s spirit.
Today, Lajwanti finds itself at an exciting juncture in its journey. In a stride that defied geographical constraints, our brand has attained the esteemed recognition of an official registration within the United States of America, while maintaining its strategic foothold in the cosmopolitan hub of Dubai. This leap signifies not only their expanding global presence but also the cultivation of a nexus where creative horizons converge with boundless possibilities.
Riccha Grrover in an exclusive interview with the brand’s creative director: DANIA SYED
RG-Can you tell us about your journey in the fashion industry and what inspired you to get to becoming a creative director?
DS-My journey in the fashion industry is deeply intertwined with the legacy of Lajwanti. The brand was established in 1995 by my parents as Pakistan’s first luxury bridal couture brand, with a focus on handcrafted garments that stood out in the market. Growing up, Lajwanti was more than just a brand to me—it was a lifestyle. I spent my childhood playing at the factory, observing my mother tirelessly working with her team, and engaging with our artisans out of sheer curiosity. This early exposure to the fashion world sparked a passion in me that only grew stronger over time.
After completing my degree in fashion marketing from the London College of Fashion, I returned to Lahore, Pakistan, with a vision. My goal was to collaborate with my mother to evolve the brand, blending her traditional expertise with the fresh perspectives of a new generation. This journey, from a curious child to a passionate fashion professional, inspired me to take on the role of Creative Director, determined to carry forward my mother’s legacy while bringing my own ideas to the table.
RG- Who are your biggest influences in fashion, both globally and within Pakistan?
DS- When it comes to fashion influences, Lajwanti has always been at the core of my journey, almost like a sibling I grew up with. However, stepping into my role at the forefront of Lajwanti allowed me to appreciate a variety of other artists that inspire me. Within Pakistan, I admire the work of designers like Rastah which lies beyond the bridal community however tells stories about Pakistans culture and roots through its craft. On the global stage, I find inspiration in the creations of artists and fashion designers alike and some of those include Zuhair Murad, Iris Van Herpen and Misha Japanwala, among others. These artisans, each in their own unique way, have influenced my perspective of fashion.
RG-How would you describe the unique identity and ethos of your brand?
DS- Lajwanti’s unique identity and ethos are built upon the inspiration drawn from a 150-year-old heirloom bridal ensemble that belonged to my great-great-grandmother. This piece showcased handwork techniques that were on the brink of extinction, which Lajwanti has revived and reintroduced into modern bridal silhouettes which are up to date with global trends and fashion forecasts. At Lajwanti, we offer garment customizations that have become increasingly rare in today’s fashion world, where “what you see is what you get” has become the norm. However, we believe that every garment should be tailored to the wearer, which is why we require a consultation appointment before placing an order. This personalized approach ensures a thorough collaboration between bride and brand, allowing us to bring your unique vision to life.
The brand’s vision reimagines the subcontinent as never having been colonized, allowing age-old design methods to influence our bridal collections. The intricate handwork, particularly embodied in our bridals, epitomizes the brand’s identity. These pieces take nearly six months to create, with six artisans dedicating 800 hours in rotational shifts, using the finest number 26 and 28 needles to produce handwork embroidery that is unparalleled in its intricacy.
RG-What key elements do you believe set your brand apart from other Pakistani fashion brands?
DS-The key elements that set Lajwanti apart from other Pakistani fashion brands are rooted in its history and commitment to craftsmanship. As the pioneers of bridal couture in Pakistan, established in 1995, Lajwanti has a legacy that few can match. While fast fashion has become increasingly common in Pakistan, Lajwanti remains steadfast in its dedication to handcrafted garments. This commitment to traditional handwork is our unique selling point, allowing us to stand out in an ever-evolving fashion landscape.
RG-How do you balance traditional Pakistani fashion elements with contemporary trends?
DS-Balancing traditional Pakistani fashion elements with contemporary trends at Lajwanti is achieved through our adaptive business model and bespoke couture pieces. Regardless of the garment, handcraft remains a signature staple in everything we create. The balance between tradition and modernity is mainly achieved through the silhouette and color scheme, while our handcrafted techniques seamlessly adapt to both traditional and contemporary designs.
RG-How do cultural heritage and local traditions influence your designs?
DS-Cultural heritage and local traditions deeply influence our designs at Lajwanti. Our bridals are often inspired by elements that carry a rich story, like in our “Laal Bahaar” collection. Each bridal piece in this collection draws inspiration from a specific historic architectural monument built by the Mughal Emperor Jehangir – from its structure to its inlays and interior motifs. These stories and cultural references serve as the foundation for our designs, allowing us to create pieces that resonate with the depth and beauty of our heritage.
RG- What innovative techniques or materials are you most excited about incorporating into your future collections?
DS-As a heritage brand, Lajwanti is committed to carrying forward the rich textile craft of Pakistani heritage. However, as we expand, we’re excited to incorporate historical textile methods from different parts of the world. For instance, if we open a store in China, we would integrate Lajwanti’s signature techniques with handcrafted textile methods that were practiced during historical periods in China. This approach allows us to blend our heritage with global influences, creating innovative designs that honor both our roots and the cultural richness of the places we reach.
RG-Where do you draw inspiration from when creating a new collection? (e.g., travel, art, nature)
DS- When creating a new collection at Lajwanti, we draw inspiration from a diverse range of sources. At a fundamental level, our collections are inspired by history and heritage. However, we also layer this with inspiration from the world around us, which includes everything from folktales and travel experiences to the fantastical elements of nature. With many creative minds involved in the ideation phase, our inspiration parameters are vast and varied, allowing us to craft collections that are rich in both tradition and imagination.
RG- What are your future goals for the brand in the next five years?
DS- Three decades ago, Lajwanti emerged as one of the pioneering brands to introduce fashion in Pakistan, setting the stage for a thriving industry. Today, we are committed to ensuring that Pakistan earns the global recognition it deserves, not just in sports, media, and music, but also through the art of fashion. Over the next five years, our goal for Lajwanti is to establish it as a global phenomenon, making it one of the most sought-after luxury labels around the world. Currently, Lajwanti is registered in the United States and has a store in Dubai, but we aim to expand further.
Our mission is to collaborate with international platforms and grace the catwalks of fashion capitals like Milan, New York, and Paris, bringing our beloved country to the forefront. After all, it is the handcrafted artistry of Pakistan that truly deserves global praise.
RG- How do you think the Pakistani fashion industry will evolve in the next decade?
DS-The Pakistani fashion industry is likely to continue its rapid growth over the next decade, driven by a surge of talented young professionals who are shaping both garments and mindsets. As the industry evolves, there’s hope that the appreciation for handcrafted garments will remain strong, maintaining the value of artisanal skills amidst increasing modernization and innovation.
RG- How do you stay motivated and creative in such a dynamic industry?
DS- Staying motivated and creative in a dynamic industry is facilitated by the constant presence of new stimuli and the growth of your brand. Surrounding yourself with the right people and maintaining a steadfast focus helps ensure that your motivation remains strong.
RG- What advice would you give to aspiring fashion designers and entrepreneurs?
DS-To aspiring fashion designers and entrepreneurs, I would advise you to stay focused on your dream and vision. Embrace failures as learning opportunities and motivation to keep going. Remember, if you don’t pursue your goals, someone else will. Take inspiration from a beetle’s determination; no matter how many times it falls off the wall, it keeps climbing until it reaches the top!
Each garment crafted by passionate third-generation artisans narrates a tale deeply rooted in pre-partition handcraft, Lajwanti endeavors to preserve and honor the rich heritage of Pakistani craftsmanship. Highly Recommend this handcrafted luxury label.
Pakistan Embassy in Oman played a major role to bring the business community closer to Oman, reports Vinod Raghavan
IN a first ever multi-sectoral Pakistan-Oman Business meet, attended by reputed Pakistani business houses, displayed a variety of products, to a well attended nationals and expatriates in a city hotel in Al Khuwair, Muscat.
The two-day event organized by Pakistan Embassy in the Sultanate of Oman at the Intercity Hotel Al Khuwair, Muscat, was inaugurated on Sunday by Faisal Bin Abdullah Al Rawas, Chairman, Oman Chambers of Commerce and Industry.
The unprecedented event represented by around 100 Pakistani business houses from 10 different categories including textiles, clothing, fashion apparel, agricultural products, surgical instruments, sports goods, pharmaceuticals, handicrafts, hotel investment, were present in the event for the first time in Oman under one roof.
The event was attended by Sayyid Juland Bin Jaifar Al Said, Chairman, Pakistan Oman Investment Company, Sayyida Hujaija Bint Jaifar Al Said, International Ambassador for Social Responsibility, Nouman Ali, CEO Oman Investment Authority, Saqib Fayyaz Magoon, Vice President, FPCCI and prominent Pakistani and Omani businesspersons.
Pakistan Ambassador taking a round with dignitaries at the stalls
The Forum is providing a platform for Pakistani businesses to showcase their high-quality products to the Omani market as well as an opportunity for Pakistani investors to look for investment opportunities in the brotherly country of Oman. The Forum facilitates direct interaction between Omani and Pakistani businesses which would result in future partnerships and collaborations, said, Imran Ali Chaudhary, Ambassador of Pakistan to Oman.
Separate sessions were held to apprise the Pakistani businesspersons about the legal mechanisms regarding opening and operating a company in Oman. Over 170 business delegates from top Pakistani companies are participating in the event, revealed Ishrat Hussein Bhatti, Commercial Counsellor at the Pakistan Embassy, who is one of the brains behind this get-together.
A visitor looking the fabric items
Speakers from both sides were of the view that the cordial relations that the two sides enjoy are not reflective of the true potential of the trade volume the two countries can have.
The Chairman of OCCI in his speech welcomed the exhibitors and business delegates from Pakistan and said that Pakistan and Oman can increase their trade manifold.
Ambassador Imran Ali Chaudhry expressed his gratitude to the Government of Oman in providing facilitation in organizing the Forum. He said this forum marks a new chapter in the economic partnership between Pakistan and Oman. Making the business and trade communities to meet each other frequently sparks new opportunities of trade and investment, he said. He expressed his resolve to make this expo a yearly feature.
Ambreen Liyaqat, Embassy official who stood like a pillar to see the first meet goes off well.
Many Pakistani companies viz. Latifia Dairies from Lahore, Karachi based Shahabi Trading dealing in Basmati rice and has a dealer in Mabellah, Muscat, Hamitex Group of Industries manufacturing textile fabrics from Faisalabad in Punjab region, Brothers Fabric from Karachi. Zainee Sports, specialized in manufacturing Horse race products, which are very rare says its owner Kaukab Iqbal, who took over from his father who managed for nearly half a century, are very much positive and looking forward for distributors to market their wares in Oman.
Also companies from Oman also participated viz. Purshottam Kanji Exchange who has a Pakistan Corridor, catering to the Pakistani expats. Also Joy Alukkas, Global Money Exchange and Sarooj water amongst others.
Ishrat Hussein Bhatti, Commercial CounsellorHorse Bit used in Horse race. Kaukab IQBAL, 40 year old company dealing in Horse racing materials
Zakir Naik’s comments ridiculing PIA for levying excess baggage charges while travelling to Pakistan last month did not go well with Pakistanis, including his radical followers, reports Asian Lite News
Zakir Naik, the fugitive Islamic preacher, on Friday apologised for his recent remarks on Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) even as his controversial statements during the ongoing tour of Pakistan continue to draw severe criticism from people all over the country.
Earlier this week, a video of Naik went viral on social media, in which he was seen ridiculing PIA for levying excess baggage charges while travelling to Pakistan last month.
“I was coming to Pakistan. Our luggage was 1000kg. I spoke to the PIA CEO. The station manager told me that he would do anything for me. I replied, ‘I have 500 kg to 600 kg extra luggage.’ He offered me a 50 per cent discount. I made it clear to him to give it for free or leave it,” Naik said during one of his lectures in Karachi.
“I am let off for free in India as they waive 1000-2000 kg on seeing me. And here, in Pakistan, where I am a guest of the government and ‘state guest’ is stamped on my visa, the CEO is offering me a 50 per cent discount. I felt so disappointed. I told them I do not want your discount… I feel bad but this is the truth, this is the state of affairs in Pakistan,” he had added.
Naik’s comments did not go down well with Pakistanis, including his radical followers.
“Whoever invited Zakir Naik, please don’t invite him again! PIA should’ve asked for FULL price though. No real Islamic preacher would ever ask for special treatment—or at the very least, they wouldn’t complain about it in public when they don’t get it!” a Pakistani content creator posted on X.
PIA domestic excess baggage charges = 250/kg, so for 300kg, the amount would be 75,000, which is less than $300. A 50% discount means 37,500, which means just $135 yet he's still crying on stage about it? Zakir naik the "Islamic scholar" wow! #ZakirNaik pic.twitter.com/9lbeIBM9q5
“This man Zakir Naik thinks 13-14 years old orphan girls are ‘khawateen’ (grown- ups) and he can’t share the stage with them. He publicly criticizes national airlines for denying luggage fee waiver, also says that women who choose to remain unmarried instead of becoming a second wife to someone are public property (bazaari). He also snubs a Pukhtun girl for asking a legit question about pedophilia. Despite all this, gained some more followers, and some brain dead people are defending him, clearly we as a nation are MAGNET for arrogant people & women haters. State should invite reasonable people, we already have plenty of these roaming on the streets. Yeh Wrong Number Hai!” wrote Absa Komal, a journalist and a fighter for gender equality in Pakistan.
Realising that his comments have sparked a major backlash, Naik issued a public apology while insisting he had almost forgotten about it as his ultimate goal is to attain a “passport to paradise” instead of focusing on such worldly matters.
“If my words have caused discomfort to my Pakistani brothers, I sincerely apologise,” he told the audience during an event.
However, Naik – wanted by India on charges for spreading religious hate and extremism along with alleged involvement in money laundering cases – continues to face flak in Pakistan for promoting his jihadist mentality.
He has been courting controversy ever since his arrival at the Islamabad International Airport on September 30 along with his son Sheikh Fariq Zakir on a comprehensive tour of Pakistan at the invitation of Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
“We truly don’t deserve someone like Zakir Naik, an ignorant, outdated, and extremist person who wouldn’t even fit in the Stone Age. If he’s your ideal, lock yourself up, or even a glance at a na-mahram will send you to hell,” a Pakistani social media influencer wrote on X Friday.
“I want to apologise that 15-20 years ago, due to my lack of knowledge and immaturity, I was very impressed by him. However, today I feel deeply ashamed, and I declare that Zakir Naik is just as vile and corrupt as other religious clerics,” he added.
The ongoing protests in Sarfaranga are just one facet of the widespread discontent brewing in PoGB. Across the region, citizens are rising up against what they perceive as systemic injustice and government repression, writes Dr Sakariya Kareem
In the remote region of Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan (PoGB), a wave of protests has gripped the Shigar district, exposing deep-seated frustrations with government policies and a lack of autonomy. For over two weeks, residents have staged a sit-in protest against a controversial court ruling that declared the Sarfaranga Cold Desert as state land, stripping local communities of their ancestral rights and livelihoods. The protests, which entered their 14th day on October 3, have drawn support from across PoGB, with men, women, and even schoolchildren joining the demonstrations. The unrest stems from a September 19 verdict by the Chief Court, which ruled that thousands of kanals of land in Sarfaranga – home to the world’s highest cold desert – are “khalisa sarkar” or state property. This decision has reignited long-standing disputes over land ownership between local residents, including emigrants from the 1947 and 1971 wars, and the provincial government.
The situation took a turn for the worse when the district administration deployed a large police force to enforce the court’s decision. On September 23, tensions escalated as authorities demolished structures built by local residents on the disputed land, further fueling anger and resentment among the populace. The Cold Desert dispute is emblematic of the broader historical and socio-economic challenges faced by Gilgit-Baltistan. The region’s complex history began when it was forcibly incorporated into the Kashmir dispute following Pakistan’s illegal occupation of part of Jammu and Kashmir in 1947. Since then, the people of PoGB have endured decades of political limbo, denied full constitutional rights and representation within Pakistan’s federal structure.
In 1949, without the consent of the local population, Gilgit-Baltistan was integrated into the Kashmir issue by the Pakistani government. From the outset, residents were deemed incapable of governing their own affairs, and the region was administered under the draconian Frontier Crimes Regulation (FCR) until the early 1970s. Despite the abolition of the FCR, the region continues to suffer from neglect, underdevelopment, and a lack of basic rights.
The ongoing protests in Sarfaranga are just one facet of the widespread discontent brewing in PoGB. Across the region, citizens are rising up against what they perceive as systemic injustice and government repression. In recent weeks, demonstrations have erupted over arbitrary arrests of political activists, baseless terrorism charges against locals, and inadequate healthcare facilities. In Gilgit, youth and members of the Awami Action Committee recently rallied outside the Central Press Club to demand the release of prominent youth activist Wazir Hasnain Raza and other political leaders detained in the region. Raza’s arrest has sparked outrage, with his family reporting being denied access to him since his detention. This incident has highlighted the government’s growing intolerance for political dissent and its use of intimidation tactics to silence opposition voices.
The crackdown on political dissent is accompanied by other pressing issues plaguing the region. In Chilas market, protesters recently voiced their anger over what they claim are baseless terrorism charges filed against local residents. The demonstrators accused the administration of using anti-terrorism laws to suppress legitimate political activism and demanded government intervention to release those unjustly imprisoned. Education, a crucial pathway for development and empowerment, has also become a flashpoint for controversy in PoGB. Students at Karakoram International University have taken to the streets to protest against fee hikes and administrative mismanagement. Despite previous agreements to gradually reduce fees, students claim that costs have suddenly increased by 20 to 25 percent. The protests turned violent when police allegedly used force against demonstrators who were simply trying to inquire about the situation.
The incident has raised questions about the priorities of the authorities and their commitment to fostering education in the region. The challenges facing PoGB extend beyond political and educational spheres to basic healthcare services. In the remote village of Raminji in Gojal Valley, residents recently protested the lack of health facilities in their area. The local dispensary, crucial for providing basic medical care, maternal services, and emergency treatment, has been left without staff since August 18. This neglect has forced retired health workers to step in, highlighting the severe shortage of medical professionals and resources in the region.
The ongoing unrest in Pakistan-occupied Gilgit-Baltistan reveals a region in crisis, grappling with a multitude of challenges that stem from decades of neglect, political manipulation, and suppression of local rights. From land disputes and political repression to inadequate education and healthcare services, the people of PoGB find themselves caught in a struggle for basic dignity and autonomy. As protests continue to erupt across the region, it is clear that the current state of affairs is untenable. The authorities’ heavy-handed responses and failure to address the root causes of discontent only serve to deepen the rift between the government and the people it claims to serve. Without significant changes in policy and a genuine commitment to addressing the grievances of PoGB’s residents, the region risks sliding further into instability and unrest.
The situation in PoGB serves as a reminder of the human cost of unresolved territorial disputes and the dangers of denying people their fundamental rights to self-governance and economic development. As the world watches, the voices of Gilgit-Baltistan’s people grow louder, demanding justice, representation, and a future free from the shackles of political limbo and systemic neglect.
While the country’s investigation agencies claimed to take action time and again, the fake degree business has mushroomed across Pakistan, writes Dr Sakariya Kareem
The former Pakistani Army Chief’s brother recently had to resign from the coveted post of deputy station manager of Pakistani International Airlines (PIA) after his education degree was found fake. The business of issuing counterfeit certificates and degrees is deep-rooted in Pakistan. It has links with global scammers. Many bureaucrats, advocates and politicians were found to possess fraudulent educational degrees.
Earlier this year, a group of fraudsters were busted in Pakistan. The scammers admitted that over 250 people were provided with fake marksheets and degrees. They charged between PKR 1 to 2 million for each bogus document. The fake degrees are being sold across Pakistan amid a lack of stringent rules and poor enforcement. Many high-profile people in Pakistan are suspected to have bought fake degrees.
Iqbal Javed Bajwa was deputy station manager of PIA in London before he was found to have submitted a fake degree. He is the brother of former Army Chief Qamar Javed Bajwa. In 2020, two PIA officials were arrested on similar charges as they failed to verify their educational qualifications. About 659 PIA employees were found to have been selected using fake degrees.
Supreme Court of Pakistan had a few years ago called the degree scams a global embarrassment for the country. However, even the court of law in Pakistan is not immune to fake degree scams. In the latest case, four advocates from Punjab were found to have received degrees from a fictitious university. Each degree cost PKR 1 million. “Hundreds of individuals with fake degrees are members of bar associations in Punjab, said the complainant Raja Sohail Shafique.
While the country’s investigation agencies claimed to take action time and again, the fake degree business has mushroomed across Pakistan. It is not just online institutes but proper academic schools are being built, that sell fake certificates and degrees. Modern Institute of Informatics, Johar Institute of Information Technology Islamabad and the International College of Education are some such fraudulent institutes that operated from the capital city of Islamabad.
Scammers from Pakistan have been fishing people from across the world. Center of Excellence in Technology and Artificial Engineering in Pakistan (CETQAP) was one such institute that claimed to have built the first quantum computer. It offered diplomas. However, it was exposed later after a researcher named M. Shaheer Niaji investigated the false information furnished by the course teacher about him on its website.
Interestingly, the provincial government in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa was linked with the fraud centre. “To make things worse, the fact that he got the KP government to sponsor his fraudulent activities under the KP nojawan quantum diploma is a very alarming situation and possibly the greatest education scam in development!!” said Niazi.
A writ petition has now been filed against a high court judge with allegations of his law degree being fake. The petitioner advocate has sought judicial intervention to address the forgery and its consequences. About a decade ago, a big degree scam rocked the country after a New York Times report revealed how a company named Axact sold fake diplomas and degrees online through hundreds of fictitious universities. The scandal had received protection from higher-ups. Even a high court judge lost his job for trying to protect the CEO of the company.
A few years ago, Pakistan’s Higher Education Commission (HEC) expressed concerns over fake degree scams mushrooming across the country under political patronage. “Degrees used to be issued like mobile SIMs, but the HEC has tried to control the menace and I can share the names of those influential people who are behind the institutions issuing such degrees and certificates,” said the then HEC Chairperson Dr Mukhtar Ahmed. “Such institutions are bringing a bad name to the country.”
