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ARY NEWS

Anjum Wahab

  • Sindh relaxes biometric rule for vehicle ownership transfers

    Sindh relaxes biometric rule for vehicle ownership transfers

    KARACHI: The Sindh Excise and Taxation Department announced the relaxation in biometric requirements for vehicle ownership transfers.

    According to a notification issued here, ownership transfers for vehicles registered in Sindh can be processed using the seller’s CNIC till August 14.

    According to a spokesperson for Sindh Excise, a two-month relaxation has been granted, allowing vehicle sellers to transfer ownership without biometric verification during the period.

    Meanwhile, authorities in Karachi have mandated the use of original or standard-sized number plates for motorcycles and vehicles.

    A crackdown on fancy or non-compliant number plates has led to the seizure of numerous motorcycles, with police station compounds now filled with confiscated vehicles.

    DIG Traffic Pir Muhammad Shah said that clear, government-approved number plates are mandatory, and vehicles with illegible plates are being impounded.

    He said that this operation is the initial phase of the e-challan system, set to be fully implemented next month. Starting in July 2025, cameras will be used to issue e-challans for traffic violations, enhancing enforcement across the city.

  • In a first, PSX crosses 125,000 point-mark

    In a first, PSX crosses 125,000 point-mark

    The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) Thursday set a new record as the benchmark KSE-100 Index surged past the 125,000 level for the first time in its history.

    The index gained 1,095 points in intraday trading, reaching 125,448 points.

    This milestone reflects strong investor confidence, positive market sentiment, and favorable economic indicators, including optimism surrounding the upcoming federal budget.

    On Wednesday, the 100-Index of the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) continued with bullish trend and gained 2,328.24 points.

    The index closed at 124,352.68 points as compared to 122,024.44 points on the last trading day.

    A total of 1,041,129,574 shares were traded during the day as compared to 592,952,761 shares the previous trading day, whereas the price of shares stood at Rs 46.707 billion against Rs 21.827 billion on the last trading day.

    Read more: PSX hits record high as KSE-100 surges post-budget announcement

    As many as 478 companies transacted their shares in the stock market, 283 of them recorded gains and 157 sustained losses, whereas the share price of 38 companies remained unchanged.

    The three top trading companies were Pervez Ahmed Company with 78,292,186 shares at Rs 2.00 per share, WorldCall Telecom with 55,140,713 shares at Rs 1.45 per share and Sui South Gas with 45,087,896 shares at Rs 41.14 per share.

    Rafhan Maize Products Company Limited witnessed a maximum increase of Rs 117.58 per share closing at Rs9,830.52 whereas runner-up was Hoechst Pakistan Limited with Rs96.07 rise in its share price to close at Rs3,307.07.

  • Cement sales go up in May 2025

    Cement sales go up in May 2025

    Cement sales in Pakistan in May 2025 rose by 8.57 per cent year-on-year to 4.651 million tonnes, up from 4.284 million tonnes in May 2024.

    According to data released by All Pakistan Cement Manufacturers Association, domestic cement sales declined by 1.94 per cent during the first eleven months of the current fiscal year, according to data released by the All Pakistan Cement Manufacturers Association (APCMA).

    Local consumption fell from 35.1 million tonnes between July 2023 and May 2024 to 34.4 million tonnes during the same period of the current fiscal year. However, a 25.73 per cent surge in exports helped the sector post a marginal overall growth of 2.46 per cent during this period.

    Export volumes also rose by 7.27 per cent to 0.989 million tonnes, up from 0.922 million tonnes.

    Cement mills in the northern region dispatched 3.261 million tonnes in May 2025, up 11.87 per cent from 2.915 million tonnes a year earlier. Mills in the southern region dispatched 1.39 million tonnes, reflecting a modest 1.54 per cent increase compared to 1.379 million tonnes in May 2024.

    In terms of local dispatches, northern mills supplied 3.02 million tonnes to the domestic market, a 9.71 per cent year-on-year increase from 2.753 million tonnes. Southern mills dispatched 641,894 tonnes locally in May 2025, marking a 5.37 per cent increase over 609,174 tonnes in May 2024.

    Northern region exports grew by 48.27 per cent, rising from 162,929 tonnes in May 2024 to 241,578 tonnes in May 2025. In contrast, exports from the southern region declined by 1.53 per cent to 747,856 tonnes, compared to 759,456 tonnes in the same month last year.

    Cumulatively, total cement dispatches (local and exports) for July 2024 to May 2025 reached 42.764 million tonnes — 2.46 per cent higher than 41.739 million tonnes recorded in the same period last year. Domestic dispatches stood at 34.419 million tonnes, down from 35.102 million tonnes last year, while exports rose sharply to 8.345 million tonnes from 6.637 million tonnes.

    Read more: Cement prices in Pakistan; May 2025

    In the northern region, domestic dispatches during the eleven-month period fell by 1.53 per cent to 28.489 million tonnes from 28.931 million tonnes. Exports rose by 9.47 per cent to 1.476 million tonnes, compared to 1.348 million tonnes last year. Total dispatches from the north dipped by 1.04 per cent to 29.965 million tonnes from 30.279 million tonnes.

    In the southern region, domestic sales dropped by 3.9 per cent to 5.93 million tonnes from 6.171 million tonnes. Exports, however, surged by 29.88 per cent to 6.868 million tonnes, up from 5.288 million tonnes. Total dispatches from the south rose by 11.69 per cent to 12.799 million tonnes compared to 11.459 million tonnes in the previous fiscal year.

    A spokesperson for the APCMA said the 1.94 per cent decline in domestic cement consumption during the review period was concerning and warranted close attention. “Domestic demand is vital for utilising the industry’s idle capacity and for broader economic development,” he said, adding that the cement sector supports several allied industries including steel, paint and electrical goods.

    He expressed hope that the government would address the industry’s concerns in the upcoming federal budget and introduce measures to reduce duties and taxes on cement, thereby making it more affordable for consumers.

  • FIA registers case against ex-NADRA chief, others

    FIA registers case against ex-NADRA chief, others

    The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) has registered a case against former National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) chief Tariq Malik over alleged financial irregularities and corruption worth $25 million.

    According to details, the case has been filed against former NADRA Chairman Tariq Malik, former Chief Project Director Gohar Ahmed Khan, and 11 other officials.

    The action was taken on the Interior Ministry’s directives following a report by Transparency International highlighting major discrepancies in the procurement process.

    The accused officials are alleged to have violated Public Procurement Regulatory Authority (PPRA) rules, received kickbacks and commissions, and caused significant losses to the national treasury.

    Read more: Tariq Malik to resign as Nadra chairman: sources

    FIA sources confirmed that several other officials, including the Chief Project Officer, have also been named in the case. Charges include corruption, misuse of authority, and criminal breach of trust.

    According to the FIA, NADRA purchased smart cards at highly inflated prices—while the market rate was 3 cents per card, NADRA procured them for 99 cents each.

    In 2020, the price per card was 68 cents, which surged to 99 cents in 2022 without clear justification.

    The agency further revealed that tendering procedures were deliberately altered to favor a specific company. Investigations are still ongoing, and more NADRA officials may be implicated as further revelations of multi-billion rupee corruption are expected.

  • Pakistan Express derails near Mubarakpur

    Pakistan Express derails near Mubarakpur

    Pakistan Express, en route to Rawalpindi, encountered a derailment near Mubarakpur Railway Station, resulting in the suspension of rail traffic on both up and down tracks, according to Pakistan Railways officials.

    As per details, two coaches — an AC Standard and the Dining Car of Pakistan Express— derailed during the incident.

    The dining car reportedly fell into the embankment due to a detached wheel assembly, officials confirmed.

    As a result of the derailment, multiple trains were halted at various stations for safety reasons and to prevent congestion on the affected line

    In response, a relief train was promptly dispatched from Multan to the site to assist with recovery operations.

    No injuries or casualties have been reported so far. An inquiry has been ordered to determine the cause of the derailment and assess safety protocols.

    Read more: At least 25 injured as train derails near Faisalabad

    Earlier on May 21, as many as 25 passengers including the train driver and his assistant sustained multiple injuries in collision with the tractor-trolley in the area of Sahianwala police station.

    Police spokesman said here on Wednesday that the passenger train, Shalimar Express, was en route from Faisalabad to Lahore around 4 a.m. when it collided with a bricks-loaded tractor-trolley stranded at an unmanned railway crossing near Chak No.142-RB Chuti Ghartal.

    The trolley had reportedly run out of fuel and was stuck on the tracks. The accident caused the train to derail with two coaches, veering off the track and coming to rest approximately one kilometer away from the collision site.

  • Pakistan Railways records Rs83bn revenue in 11 months

    Pakistan Railways records Rs83bn revenue in 11 months

    ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Railways has achieved a record revenue of approximately Rs 83 billion over the past 11 months, representing an increase of almost Rs 6 billion compared to the same period last year, officials stated.

    Out of the total revenue, passenger trains contributed Rs42 billion, while freight trains generated Rs29 billion. According to Pakistan Railways officials, an additional Rs12 billion was earned through other sources.

    Giving breakup, the officials said that Karachi Division led with Rs13 billion from passenger trains and Rs25 billion from freight trains.

    Lahore Division stood second, earning Rs10 billion revenue from passenger trains and Rs0.75 billion from freight trains. Both Rawalpindi and Multan Divisions recorded around Rs4 billion each from the passenger sector.

    The Pakistan Railways witnessed an improvement as compared to the same period last year, when it earned around Rs77 billion.

    Railway Minister Hanif Abbasi said that Pakistan Railways will be put back on its feet with hard work and dedication.

    Earlier, the Pakistan Railways has inducted 30 new high-speed and high-capacity freight wagons into its network to modernize Pakistan’s freight transport system and support the business community.

    Read More: Eidul Adha 2025: Pakistan Railways to run special trains

    The inauguration ceremony was held at the Lahore Cantt Railway Station on Friday, where Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Railways, Aamir Ali Baloch, announced that the new wagons have been designed to meet international standards and cater to the growing demands of the trading sector.

    Each wagon has the capacity to carry 60 tons of cargo, a development hailed as revolutionary for the country’s freight operations.

    “This is a significant leap forward in making our freight system more efficient and competitive,” Baloch said. “The wagons are entirely manufactured in Pakistan, reflecting a strong boost for the local industry.”

    He stated that Pakistan Railways aims to induct a total of 850 new freight wagons by the end of this year. Of these, 250 wagons have already been integrated into the system, with the remaining expected to be operational by December 31.

    Highlighting the economic advantages of rail transport, the PR CEO added that freight charges via railway remain lower than those of road transport, offering a cost-effective and reliable solution for traders.

  • ‘Karachi’s K-IV water project to be operational in June 2026’

    ‘Karachi’s K-IV water project to be operational in June 2026’

    KARACHI: Chairman WAPDA, Engineer Lt. Gen. Sajjad Ghani (Retd.) visited the main construction sites to check the K-IV Water Project, ARY News reported.

    During his visit, Chairman WAPDA, Engineer Lt. Gen. Sajjad Ghani (Retd.), briefed that the first phase of the project is likely to be operational by June 2026, aiming to supply 260 million gallons per day (MGD) of water. He also lauded the importance of timely funding to make sure the project is completed on schedule.

    Chairman WAPDA also emphasised the Sindh government’s role and efforts in supplying electricity for pumping stations and the Karachi Water & Sewerage Corporation (KWSC) in increasing distribution pipelines

    The project is making a major step forward, with completion of 63% of construction. It includes the intake facility at Keenjhar Lake, pumping stations, and pressurised pipelines spreading to Karachi.

    The K-IV Water Project is divided into two phases, with the second phase likely to give an addition of 390 MGD, bringing the total water supply to 650 MGD.

    According to the official reports, Rs 75.21 billion has already been spent, while the approved budget is Rs 126.40 billion.

    In recent testings, the first 15 km of the pipeline with water pressure was checked. While another pipeline of 25 km is set to be tested in June.

    The installation of sleeve pipes under railway tracks has also been completed by the project team, confirming smooth water transportation.

    As per the directives of Chairman WAPDA, consultants and contractors are advised to expedite construction to meet the deadline.

    The K-IV Water Project is likely to reduce Karachi’s shortage concerns, providing a maintainable solution for the city’s growing population.

    Read More: NEPRA approves 270-megawatt solar projects for Karachi

    The National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) has approved Sindh government’s two solar power projects with a combined capacity of 270-megawatt, the provincial energy department said.

    A spokesperson said that a 120 megawatts solar project will be established in Deh Halkani, while a 150 megawatts solar project is planned for Deh Methagar. 

  • Pakistan Railways inducts 30 freight wagons to boost trade

    Pakistan Railways inducts 30 freight wagons to boost trade

    LAHORE: The Pakistan Railways has inducted 30 new high-speed and high-capacity freight wagons into its network to modernize Pakistan’s freight transport system and support the business community.

    The inauguration ceremony was held at the Lahore Cantt Railway Station on Friday, where Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Railways, Aamir Ali Baloch, announced that the new wagons have been designed to meet international standards and cater to the growing demands of the trading sector.

    Each wagon has the capacity to carry 60 tons of cargo, a development hailed as revolutionary for the country’s freight operations.

    “This is a significant leap forward in making our freight system more efficient and competitive,” Baloch said. “The wagons are entirely manufactured in Pakistan, reflecting a strong boost for the local industry.”

    He stated that Pakistan Railways aims to induct a total of 850 new freight wagons by the end of this year. Of these, 250 wagons have already been integrated into the system, with the remaining expected to be operational by December 31.

    Highlighting the economic advantages of rail transport, the PR CEO added that freight charges via railway remain lower than those of road transport, offering a cost-effective and reliable solution for traders.

    Read More: Pakistan Railways to run special trains

    As the infrastructure and capacity of railway tracks continue to improve, he revealed plans to introduce more modern freight trains in the near future to further enhance cargo transport efficiency across the country.

    Project Director Ishaq Butt and other senior officials of Pakistan Railways also attended the ceremony.

  • Sindh govt imposes super tax on agricultural income

    Sindh govt imposes super tax on agricultural income

    KARACHI: The Sindh government has imposed a super tax on agricultural income under the Sindh Agricultural Income Tax Act 2025, ARY News reported.

    According to the Sindh Revenue Board (SRB), the super tax on agricultural income will be applicable from January 1, 2025, and will be collected on an annual basis.

    The super tax will not be applied to individuals earning less than Rs 150 million annually. As per the structure, a 1 percent super tax will be imposed on incomes between 150 million and 200 million rupees.

    Those who are earning Rs 200 million to Rs 250 million will have to pay 2 percent tax, while 3 percent super tax has been imposed on income of Rs 250 million to 300 million.

    Similarly, those who are earning Rs 300 million to 350 million will have to pay 4 percent tax. According to the SRB, a 6 percent tax is imposed on incomes between Rs 350 million and Rs 400 million, and for incomes ranging from Rs 400 million to Rs 500 million an 8% super tax will be applied.

    While agricultural incomes exceeding Rs 500 million rupees will face a 10% super tax, as confirmed by the SRB.

    Read More: Sindh Assembly passes Agriculture Income Tax bill 2025

    Earlier in February, the Sindh Assembly passed the Agriculture Income Tax Bill 2025.

    “We have been bluntly told that the IMF team will not arrive, and the country will default if the agriculture tax bill not passed into a law,” Sindh CM Murad Ali Shah, speaking at the floor of the house said.

    “When you point out a wrong path to the IMF, they will stick with it,” chief minister said.

    “They don’t know what the difference between a Hari (tiller) and a landholder is,” addressing the house Sindh CM said.

    Chief Minister said that that the FBR has been a hotbed of corruption. “We are told that the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) will collect this tax,” he said. “The FBR could not achieve its targets,” he said.

  • ABAD proposes tax reforms for construction sector in FY2025–26 budget

    ABAD proposes tax reforms for construction sector in FY2025–26 budget

    The Association of Builders and Developers of Pakistan (ABAD) has submitted key recommendations to the federal government for FY2025–26 budget, ARY News reported on Thursday.

    ABAD in its recommendations, has urged comprehensive tax relief and structural reforms for the construction and development sector.

    ABAD has called for a 15-year relaxation in tax rates specific to the real estate and construction industry, emphasizing long-term policy stability.

    In the FY2025-26 budget proposals, ABAD Chairman Hassan Bakhshi included several significant suggestions aimed at amending the Federal Board of Revenue’s (FBR) regulations.

    One of the core proposals is the elimination of Section 236C — which imposes advance tax on property transfers from builders to buyers — citing it as a hindrance to formal property transactions.

    Read more: Budget 2025: IMF suggests tax reforms, green projects funding

    The association further recommended that the maximum tax rate under Section 236K be capped at 0.5%, and demanded the complete abolition of the deemed income tax under Section 7E, which imposes a 1% tax on immovable property even in the absence of actual income, causing undue financial pressure.

    Additional proposals include removing the requirement for written approval in tax refund transfers, reducing withholding tax rates, and implementing standardized tax structures for better compliance.

    ABAD also raised concerns over the transfer tax imposed on properties purchased in US dollars by overseas Pakistanis, terming it unjustified and counterproductive to investment inflows.