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  • Furious Chenab River flow crosses one mln cusecs at Khanki

    Furious Chenab River flow crosses one mln cusecs at Khanki

    LAHORE: The National Disaster Management Authority Wednesday said that the Chenab River’s flood flow has crossed one million cusecs at Khanki, well above the eight-lac designed water capacity of the headworks.

    The NDMA has apprehended that the extreme river flooding could damage hydraulic structure of the headworks. “All rescue operations are being monitored on the instructions of the prime minister.”

    Officials have said that Chenab River has been in extremely high flood at Qadirabad headworks with inflow and outflow of the river reached to 9,35,000 cusecs.

    Floodwater has entered in dozens of villages and crops at thousands of acres have been affected in flooding.

    The district administration Mandi Bahauddin decided to break the protective embankment and with a controlled blast the dyke has been broken near Qadirabad to divert the floodwater.

    Rescue sources have said that over 100 people have been evacuated to safer places, and five flood relief camps and nine boating points have been activated.

    Heavy monsoon rains in Punjab and release of water from India into Chenab, Sutlej and Ravi rivers have created grim flooding situation in Pakistan’s province.

  • Gwadar port to be powered by solar amid electricity, water crisis: minister

    Gwadar port to be powered by solar amid electricity, water crisis: minister

    ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Maritime Affairs Muhammad Junaid Anwar Chaudhry announced on Wednesday that the government is moving to power Gwadar Port through solar energy in a bid to improve efficiency and reduce reliance on external energy sources.

    The minister made the announcement during a meeting on Gwadar’s operationalization, attended by Chairman Gwadar Port Authority Noorul Haque Baloch, COPHCL Chairman My Yu Bo, Additional Secretary of Maritime Affairs Umer Zaffer Shaikh, and Technical Advisor Jawad Akhtar.

    Junaid Chaudhry said the initiative, taken under directives of the Prime Minister, is being coordinated with the Ministry of Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, the Ministry of Energy, and other stakeholders to address Gwadar’s challenges including electricity shortages and water scarcity.

    A dedicated sub-committee has been formed, comprising officials from the Ministry of Energy, Maritime Affairs, FBR, Gwadar Port Authority, Gwadar Development Authority, Quetta Electric Supply Company, and the PM’s Office. The committee will review technical requirements and devise a comprehensive solar power plan.

    The minister outlined the sub-committee’s key duties, which include devising an efficient solar panel utilization plan, recommending the installation of solar photovoltaic systems and battery storage solutions for Gwadar’s water facilities, and proposing measures to enhance the region’s power supply.

    Moreover, the committee will design solar power distribution systems integrated with storage options to ensure a dependable energy supply for critical infrastructure, including the Gwadar Port Authority, he noted.

    Junaid Chaudhry added that solar-based microgrids will be set up at strategic locations to supply power for water pumps and the 1.2 million gallons per day (MGD) desalination plant, with energy storage solutions also being considered.

    The initiative seeks to significantly reduce Gwadar’s reliance on external energy by making it self-sufficient through local power sources. The plan includes establishing macro solar grids with sufficient capacity to meet power demands throughout the year, he added.

    The minister stated that the Prime Minister’s Solar Initiative for Gwadar is expected to be fully functional soon, facilitating the establishment of new factories in the Gwadar free zone and providing power to the Gwadar International Airport.

    Water shortage in Gwadar is acute due to insufficient electricity to operate pumping and desalination plants. Gwadar has enough stored water for months if it can be pumped and distributed effectively, he added.

    The minister also pointed out that Gwadar’s fisheries sector could save over $1 million annually by switching from costly diesel and unreliable grid electricity to solar energy.

    Read More: Pakistan, Iraq agree to launch ferry service from Gwadar to Umm Qasr Port

    “Dependable solar energy is not just about lowering costs—it is critical to protecting Gwadar’s flagship fishing industry, supporting local livelihoods, and boosting exports,” he stressed.

  • Kris Jenner breaks silence on viral facelift

    Kris Jenner breaks silence on viral facelift

    Reality TV star and the Kardashian-Jenner momager, Kris Jenner, 69, confessed that she recently went under the knife again, for what she called her way of ‘ageing gracefully’.

    For the unversed, Kris Jenner recently left people wondering about the pleasant change in her appearance, as she debuted a more youthful and rejuvenated look at Amazon boss Jeff Bezos’ wedding with his fiancée Lauren Sanchez this June.

    Lifestyle News – Latest Entertainment News, Celebrity Gossip

    Addressing the same in her new cover interview, the Kardashian-Jenner matriarch admitted that she got a facelift before turning 70 in November, in order to refresh her 15-year-old procedure.

    “I had a facelift about 15 years ago, so it was time for a refresh,” the momager said and reasoned, “I decided to do this facelift because I want to be the best version of myself, and that makes me happy.”

    “Just because you get older, it doesn’t mean you should give up on yourself,” the ‘Kardashians’ star suggested further. “If you feel comfortable in your skin and you want to age gracefully – meaning you don’t want to do anything – then don’t do anything.”

    “But for me, this is ageing gracefully. It’s my version,” she maintained.

    “I decided to reveal some details because I feel it can be very ­inspirational to people who aren’t feeling so great about ­themselves. I have the conviction that sharing these things can be helpful,” Jenner explained.

  • Why Prince William and Kate Middleton are renting Forest Lodge instead of buying it?

    Why Prince William and Kate Middleton are renting Forest Lodge instead of buying it?

    Prince William and Kate Middleton are preparing to move from their current home, Adelaide Cottage, to a larger residence known as Forest Lodge. However, one question that arises with this royal move is: why are they renting it instead of buying it?

    The couple, along with their three children—Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis—will relocate to the eight-bedroom property later this year. This move reflects their long-term plans, as Forest Lodge has been described as their “forever home.”

    Despite this upgrade, Prince William and Kate Middleton will not be purchasing the property outright. Instead, they will rent Forest Lodge from the Crown Estate, which is under the ownership of King Charles.

    This arrangement is common for members of the royal family, and the couple is expected to pay a market-rate rent, although the exact figure will remain confidential. Historical records show that in 2001, the property was listed for £15,000 per month, and costs are likely higher today.

    Kate Middleton and Prince William’s decision to rent rather than buy is primarily due to the property being part of the Crown Estate, meaning it cannot be sold.

    The couple will therefore lease the home on a long-term basis. This mirrors similar arrangements within the royal family, such as Prince Edward and Duchess Sophie at Bagshot Park and Prince Andrew at Royal Lodge.

    Forest Lodge, once known as Holly Grove, is a Grade II listed building.

    The property underwent £1.5 million worth of restoration work over two decades ago, and it is currently being refurbished before the Wales family moves in. Renovations, both internal and external, have been approved by local authorities.

    Kate Middleton and Prince William’s decision to stay in Windsor underlines their commitment to family life and proximity to royal duties.

    Their children are settled at Lambrook School, and this move ensures they remain close to Windsor Castle for official engagements.

    For Kate Middleton, this transition also provides more space for her growing family while maintaining a sense of privacy away from the palace spotlight.

    Kate Middleton will oversee the upcoming move as the renovations near completion, ensuring the new family home meets modern standards while preserving its historic character.

    Prince William and Kate Middleton are expected to relocate to Forest Lodge later this year once all works are finished.

    Also Read: Prince William, Kate Middleton’s fresh start in Windsor comes with neighbour worries

    Earlier, Prince William and Kate Middleton’s decision to relocate to Forest Lodge sparked mixed reactions among their soon-to-be neighbours.

    The couple, who currently live at Adelaide Cottage, will shift into the eight-bedroom property later this year, marking what many believe will be their long-term residence.

    While some locals have expressed excitement about welcoming the royal family, others are concerned about privacy issues.

    Reports suggest that additional fencing, screens, and landscaping have been added around Forest Lodge to ensure security for Kate Middleton, Prince William, and their children—Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.

    New security measures are also expected before the family settles in.

    Daily Mail revealed that two nearby tenants were relocated earlier this summer due to the property’s proximity, though they were offered comparable or better Crown Estate homes.

     

  • Pakistan condemns Israeli airstrikes on Gaza hospital, Syria

    Pakistan condemns Israeli airstrikes on Gaza hospital, Syria

    ISLAMABAD: Pakistan on Wednesday strongly condemned the deadly Israeli airstrikes on Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, Gaza, which killed at least 21 people, including four journalists and a rescue worker.

    The Foreign Office Spokesperson described the attack on a medical facility, along with the continued targeting of civilians and journalists, as an “unconscionable and heinous act” and a grave violation of international humanitarian law, human rights, and press freedom.

    “We reiterate our call on the international community to hold Israel accountable for such heinous crimes and to take concrete steps towards ending Israel’s impunity,” the spokesperson said.

    Pakistan also condemned in the strongest possible terms the Israeli occupying forces’ incursion into the Syria, calling it a blatant violation of international law and the UN Charter.

    Read More: Israeli protesters demand hostage deal as cabinet meets

    Reaffirming its support for Syria’s sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity, Pakistan urged the international community to prevent Israel from destabilizing the region.

     

  • It’s a girl: Aiman Khan, Muneeb Butt blessed with third child

    It’s a girl: Aiman Khan, Muneeb Butt blessed with third child

    Aiman Khan and Muneeb Butt are proud parents to three daughters now, as the showbiz couple have welcomed their third child together.

    Congratulations are in order for one of the most loved celebrity couples of Pakistan’s showbiz industry, Aiman Khan and Muneeb Butt, who were blessed with a baby girl on Tuesday, August 26, the ‘Sar-e-Rah’ actor confirmed on social media.

    Lifestyle News – Latest Entertainment News, Celebrity Gossip

    “Welcome to the world, Naimal Muneeb,” the proud girl-dad announced via an Instagram story.

    The welcome note from the celebrity kid’s two elder sisters, Amal and Miral, read, “Dear Naimal, from the moment you arrived, you brought magic into our world. Your tiny hands, your sweet smile, everything about you is a gift we’ll forever treasure.”

    “You’ve made our family complete and our hearts so full. Welcome home, little sister,” it noted further.

     

    View this post on Instagram

     

    A post shared by Minal khan (@minalkhan.official)

    The announcement post was also shared by Aiman’s twin sister, Minal, on her Instagram feed and received numerous congratulatory messages and heartfelt wishes for the blessed parents and their newborn child.

    It is pertinent to mention here that showbiz A-listers, Aiman Khan and Muneeb Butt, who tied the knot in a grand wedding ceremony in November 2018, are proud parents to two elder daughters as well: Amal, 6, and Miral, 2.

  • Punjab imposes Section 144 as people flock to bridges for selfies amid floods

    Punjab imposes Section 144 as people flock to bridges for selfies amid floods

    VEHARI/SIALKOT: Authorities have imposed Section 144 in several Punjab districts to restrict public visits to bridges, rivers, and canal banks for recreational activities and selfies amid rising floodwaters.

    A large number of people, particularly youth, were reportedly flocking to bridges and canal sites despite the dangerous conditions. A viral picture showing crowds at Head Islam in Vehari raised concerns about possible incidents.

    Vehari Deputy Commissioner (DC) Imrana Tauqeer issued a notification banning swimming, tube swimming, bathing, and all types of recreational activities along rivers and canals, including Head Islam and Head Syphon Bridges.

    She said such activities during the ongoing monsoon and flood season have already caused tragic incidents of drowning and pose serious threats to public safety and peace. The order will remain in force until September 26, 2025.

    Similarly, DC Sialkot Saba Asghar Ali also enforced Section 144 in her district, prohibiting public gatherings and visits to bridges, rivers, canals, and nullahs for one month. The notification cited torrential rains and high-level flooding as the reason for the ban.

    According to the DC, many individuals were visiting flooded sites to take selfies and engage in recreational activities, creating risks to human life and law and order. She said violators would face legal action under Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure.

    May be an image of 3 people and text

    Meanwhile, the civil administration on Wednesday announced the closure of schools in several flood-hit districts of Punjab to ensure the safety of students and staff.

    According to officials, all public and private schools in Sialkot, Narowal, Gujrat, Pasrur will remain closed from August 27 until further review.

    Deputy Commissioner Sialkot Saba Asghar Ali issued a notification stating: “In order to ensure the safety of students, teachers, and staff amid torrential rains and the resulting flood situation, all public and private schools (Primary, Middle, High, and Higher Secondary) in District Sialkot shall remain closed on August 27, 2025. The closure will remain in effect until further review.”

    The notification directed heads of educational institutions to suspend all on-campus academic and co-curricular activities during this period.

    The order, issued in the public interest, stressed strict implementation by all concerned authorities. Residents were also advised to stay indoors, avoid unnecessary travel, and refrain from going near rivers and streams due to the heightened flood risk.

    Read More: Public holiday announced in flood-hit Gujrat, Sialkot

    The districts authorities have also declared public holiday on Wednesday as flooding intensifies in Gujrat and Sialkot districts of Punjab.

    Heavy inflows from India into the Sutlej and Chenab rivers have triggered a flood alert across Punjab. The National Disaster Management Authority’s (NDMA) National Emergency Operation Centre (NEOC) issued an urgent warning of extraordinary flooding in the Chenab, Ravi, and Sutlej rivers, urging immediate evacuation of residents from vulnerable areas.

    According to NDMA Chairman Lt Gen Inam Haider, more than 190,000 people have been evacuated from flood-affected areas of Punjab as rising water levels continue to threaten lives and property.

  • PM Shehbaz orders national-level coordination to tackle flood crisis

    PM Shehbaz orders national-level coordination to tackle flood crisis

    ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has assured that all issues caused by floods across the provinces will be addressed through full national coordination, as the country braces for rising water levels in Rivers Ravi, Sutlej, and Chenab.

    Chairing a high-level meeting in Islamabad on Tuesday, the prime minister praised the advance warnings issued by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), saying timely alerts helped avert major loss of life and property. He directed that the early-warning system should continue with greater effectiveness.

    Shehbaz Sharif noted that NDMA has already supplied tents to Punjab’s flood-hit areas and asserted that the provision of other essential relief items must not be interrupted.

    He instructed the authorities to take immediate administrative steps to prepare for possible urban flooding in Gujrat, Sialkot, and Lahore.

    The premier further directed officials to ensure uninterrupted power supply, restore communication networks, and repair damaged roads without delay.

    He ordered the Minister for Communications, Minister for Power, Secretary Power, and Chairman NHA to reach Lahore and provide practical support to Punjab’s government.

    Highlighting the federal government’s earlier assistance to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa during recent floods, Shehbaz Sharif assured that the same cooperation will be extended to Punjab and Sindh.

    Read more: Kartarpur Gurdwara Sahib submerged in floodwater

    He stressed the importance of timely evacuation, safe relocation, and close supervision of relief operations, urging elected representatives and institutions to remain actively engaged at the district and tehsil levels.

    Briefing the meeting, NDMA officials warned of high-level flooding risks at Head Marala and Khanki due to surging water in River Chenab. Heavy water discharge was also reported at Jassar and Shahdara in River Ravi, and Ganda Singh Wala and Sulemanki in River Sutlej.

    To facilitate evacuation, NDMA has deployed 2,000 trucks on standby.

    The prime minister directed that preventive measures be implemented under a comprehensive strategy to protect lives, property, crops, and livestock from flood damage.

  • Moldova Digital Nomad Visas for Pakistanis 2025: Check eligibility details

    Moldova Digital Nomad Visas for Pakistanis 2025: Check eligibility details

    Remote workers and freelancers from Pakistan will soon have a new option for living and working abroad as Moldova launches its Digital Nomad Visa by the end of September 2025.

    Visa, Immigration and Citizenship Acquisition- All Updates

    This new visa will allow people from all around the world, including Pakistan, to stay in Moldova for up to two years, with the possibility of an extension.

    The initiative aims to attract remote professionals, and Pakistan’s growing freelance community stands to benefit greatly from this opportunity. With thousands of Pakistanis already working online for global clients, Moldova could become an attractive base in Eastern Europe.

    Although official details are yet to be finalised, Pakistanis applying for the Moldova Digital Nomad Visa are expected to meet certain conditions, including:

    • A valid Pakistani passport
    • Proof of remote work for foreign clients or companies
    • Meeting a minimum income requirement
    • A clean criminal record from Pakistan
    • International health insurance
    • Confirmed accommodation in Moldova

    This development makes Moldova the latest country to join Eastern European nations such as Romania, Hungary, Montenegro, and Slovenia, which already offer similar options.

    For Pakistanis looking to relocate temporarily while continuing online work, Moldova provides a cost-effective and culturally rich destination.

    Experts believe that Pakistani freelancers, IT specialists, and entrepreneurs will find this visa appealing because it offers flexibility, affordability, and the chance to explore Europe while maintaining their remote income.

    Further information regarding application fees, eligibility for Pakistani citizens, and official income thresholds will be shared as Moldova issues its complete guidelines.

    Also Read: Spain introduces Digital Nomad Visa for Pakistanis at Rs21,500

    Earlier, Spain launched a low-cost Digital Nomad Visa aimed at attracting remote workers from around the world, including professionals from Pakistan. The visa, which costs around Rs21,500, is now one of the most affordable work visa options globally.

    The Digital Nomad Visa allows non-European nationals, including Pakistanis, to live and work in Spain for one year. It can later be extended for up to five years.

    Introduced under Spain’s Startup Act, the initiative is part of the country’s efforts to boost its digital economy by welcoming international talent.

    This visa offers an easy and cost-effective alternative to traditional work permits. It is particularly appealing for remote workers and freelancers from Pakistan looking to settle in a European country.

    Applicants can even bring eligible family members, making it a suitable option for relocation.

  • Punjab Rescue 1122 on high alert to evacuate stranded people

    Punjab Rescue 1122 on high alert to evacuate stranded people

    LAHORE: Rescue Punjab has declared a high alert in various districts of the province amid flooding in Sutlej, Chenab and Ravi rivers on Wednesday.

    A spokesman has said that high alert has been declared in Lahore, Kasur, Okara, Pakpattan, Bahawalnagar, Vehari, Bahawalpur, Lodhran, Narowal, Sialkot, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Mandi Bahauddin and Hafizabad districts.

    Rescue workers have evacuated 32,589 persons from the flood affected areas adjacent to rivers, to safer places. “Yesterday 5,970 people were evacuated from flood-hit areas to safety,” spokesperson said.

    Around 2,275 people evacuated from Kasur, 914 from Okara and 846 people from Pakpattan, 785 from Bahawalpur, 323 from Vehari, 270 from Bahawalnagar, 259 people from Narowal, 74 from Hafizabad, 27 from Lodhran and 15 people from Chiniot”, Rescue spokesman said.

    “Today 987 people have been rescued so far,” spokesman stated.

    Overall, 436 rescue boats have been operational in flooded areas, while 400 rescue boats and trained rescuers have been ready for backup, spokesman added.

    It is to be mentioned here that heavy rainfall as well as water released from India in rivers have caused flooding in several districts of Punjab.