Historic Jamia Mosque Rajgan battles decay

Old Khanpur, located along the scenic banks of Khanpur Dam, is witnessing growing alarm over the deteriorating condition of its historic Jamia Mosque Rajgan, a structure believed to be more than 150 years old. Once a proud symbol of the region's architectural heritage and spiritual life, the mosque is now rapidly falling into disrepair due to prolonged neglect and the absence of systematic conservation efforts. Locals, historians and visitors alike have raised serious concerns over the condition of the centuries-old mosque, urging immediate intervention from the relevant authorities. The structure, widely regarded as one of the most significant cultural landmarks of the area, is reportedly suffering from extensive weathering, structural fatigue and a lack of routine maintenance. Residents lament that despite its historical and religious importance, the mosque has been largely overlooked by heritage conservation bodies. Set against the once-celebrated natural beauty of Old Khanpur's valleys, the site continues to embody the cultural and spiritual identity of the region, even as visible cracks, eroding surfaces and weakening foundations threaten its survival. According to local elder Haji Saeed, the area was once renowned for its picturesque landscape, traditional settlements and vibrant cultural fabric. He expressed regret that many of its historic sites are now being left to decay. "The mosque's minarets, ancient graves and adjoining shrine all narrate the story of a glorious past," he said. "Unfortunately, the absence of effective conservation measures has placed this heritage at serious risk." Adjacent to the mosque lies an historic graveyard, containing generations of burial sites and weathered gravestones dating back centuries. Residents report deteriorating boundary walls, fading inscriptions and sinking graves, all of which have intensified calls for urgent restoration and protection of the entire complex. The site is also closely associated with the spiritual legacy of Hazrat Syed Sakhi Inayat Bukhari, whose shrine continues to attract devotees and visitors. Locals argue that the mosque, shrine and graveyard should be preserved as a unified heritage complex to safeguard the region's historical continuity and religious significance. There are also growing appeals directed towards the descendants of the Rajgan family, whose ancestral graves are located within the premises, urging them to take a more active role in preservation efforts. Tourists visiting Khanpur Dam have similarly expressed concern over the mosque's deteriorating condition, calling on both provincial and federal governments to declare it a protected heritage site and initiate immediate restoration measures before irreversible damage occurs. Historical accounts indicate that Jamia Mosque Rajgan was commissioned in 1872 by Sultan Raja Jehandad Khan, the great-grandfather of the current Gakhar chief, Sultan Raja Shiraz Haider Zaman. Constructed using traditional materials such as red brick, stone and lime mortar, the mosque reportedly took a decade to complete and was built by skilled artisans from across the subcontinent. For decades, it served as the principal centre of worship in the region, hosting daily prayers, Friday congregations and major religious gatherings attended by thousands. Although the adjoining palace was demolished during the development of Khanpur Dam, the mosque still stands as a powerful reminder of Old Khanpur's heritage. Local citizens continue to urge the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and federal governments, along with archaeological and tourism departments, to incorporate the site into a formal conservation programme. They further propose the development of a heritage village to promote cultural tourism. Officials from the district administration have reportedly acknowledged the concerns and assured residents that the matter will be forwarded to senior authorities for consideration. For the community, however, the message remains clear: preserving the mosque is not merely about saving a structure, but about safeguarding an irreplaceable legacy of identity, history and collective memory.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/skaPmLC

Sehat Sahulat Program relaunched

Federal Minister for National Health Syed Mustafa Kamal has announced the resumption of the Sehat Sahulat Health Facilitation Program after years of dormancy in the federal capital to provide quality care and free treatment for the people. The Sehat Sahulat Program has been launched in 42 hospitals of the twin cities, where deserving patients will be provided with free treatment. The programme has been revived initially for two years and in the third year, efforts will be made to provide OPD services free of charge. He also met patients during his visit to Akbar Niazi Teaching Hospital. Mustafa Kamal explained that real-time data of patients' treatment and expenses was being collected to ensure that the Sehat Sahulat Program was being implemented with fairness. He said that if any hospital was found to be violating the rules and regulations set under the programme or abetting corruption, it will be immediately delisted. He said that the population of the federation has crossed 3.5 million, while a large number of patients coming to Islamabad hospitals from Azad Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan, Rawalpindi and other neighbouring areas for treatment. He noted that the influx of patients from various cities was overwhelming available services in both public and private hospitals. He further said that according to a report by the World Health Organization (WHO), 13 million people in Pakistan now live below the poverty line, while Rs2 billion have been expended on the treatment of patients in the last five months alone. He also added that the total health budget of the federation and the provinces is Rs1,156 billion, but despite this, the patient satisfaction rate has remained below 10 per cent. He said that for these reasons and more, it had become necessary to lead an intervention in the health sector. He added that a comprehensive study on universal health coverage found that basic health facilities can be provided under a budget of Rs210 billion, however, this would require 5,000 more hospitals across the country. He said that universal health coverage is a system of the future and most countries are already following this model. During his announcement, Mustafa Kamal thanked Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif and said that he accepted the government's proposal in the public interest, as a result of which the Sehat Sahulat Program is being reactivated after many years. He expressed his determination by vowing that the government will continue to take all possible steps for reforms, transparency and provision of quality medical facilities for the public.

from Punjab News Updates and Insights - The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/6rd8RF4

FCC entertains POL levy, tariff pleas

The Federal Constitutional Court (FCC) has entertained two constitutional petitions against the imposition of a huge petroleum levy and the hike in petroleum product prices. The FCC registrar has allotted numbers to the petitions. In the petition, filed by JI chief Hafiz Naeemur Rehman, the FCC has been requested to issue directions for constituting an independent, expert-assisted mechanism or commission to examine the constitutional, fiscal, economic, and federal implications of the present petroleum levy structure. The government announced a petroleum and carbon levy under an iron-clad commitment with the International Monetary Fund (IMF). The petroleum levy on petrol currently stands at Rs117.41 per litre, while the levy on HSD is Rs42.60 per litre. Likewise, the FCC has also entertained a petition filed by advocate Zulfikar Ahmed Bhutta on May 1. The petitioner requested the FCC to direct the government to withdraw the recent price hike in petroleum products. Both petitions were filed directly in the FCC under Article 175E of the Constitution. Interestingly, the FCC registrar's office did not raise any objections to either petition. The court entertained the petitions weeks after they were filed. The FCC was established by the present regime through the 27th Constitutional Amendment. In the context of Pakistan, a petroleum levy is a federal tax imposed on petroleum products such as petrol (motor spirit), high-speed diesel (HSD), kerosene, and light diesel oil. It is one of the government's most important non-tax revenue sources. The petroleum levy is a fixed charge per litre that the government collects on fuel sales. Unlike sales tax which is percentage-based, the petroleum levy is a specific amount per unit. It is imposed under federal laws such as the Petroleum Products (Petroleum Levy) Ordinance, 1961, and subsequent finance laws. The federal government has the authority to adjust it through finance bills and statutory regulatory orders (SROs).

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/bfA70qJ

Rawalpindi Ring Road nears completion

Over 90 per cent of construction work on the Rawalpindi Ring Road route has been completed, and the project is now ready to become operational by June 15, officials said. According to details, the 38.6-kilometre route—considered a missing link for Rawalpindi's traffic network—has reached its final stage of completion, with full carpeting already done. All four interchanges at Baanth, Chak Beli Khan, Adiala, and Chakri have been completed, while remaining work is limited to minor sewerage and finishing touches, which are being expedited. Officials said the Ring Road will initially be opened for traffic from the GT Road Baanth interchange, while access to the motorway will be facilitated without the completion of the Thalian Interchange. The Thalian Interchange, part of Phase II and a broad-based interchange project, will be completed later. Sources in the Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA), the executing agency, confirmed that more than 90 percent of the project has been completed excluding the Thalian Interchange. The total project cost stands at Rs46.64 billion, which also includes funds for additional land acquisition for Phase II. They said the inauguration date will be formally approved by Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. Officials further stated that once completed, traffic will be able to enter the motorway through the Thalian side, while current entry will remain operational via Baanth interchange. Meanwhile, discussions are underway regarding the establishment of industrial estates along the Ring Road corridor. The PIEDMC has approved the proposal, though final approval from the Punjab Assembly is still awaited. Upon approval, land will be acquired and allotted to industrialists through the Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce at concessional rates. Business community leaders, including Malik Shahid Ghafoor Paracha, have welcomed the project, calling it a "game changer" for the region, expected to boost development, economic activity, and employment opportunities in Rawalpindi.

from Punjab News Updates and Insights - The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/BuK6nkv

Citywide drain cleaning drive launched ahead of monsoon

Mayor Murtaza Wahab has said that the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation (KMC) has decided to launch a comprehensive cleaning and desilting campaign of major stormwater drains across the metropolis in view of the upcoming monsoon season, in order to ensure smooth flow of rainwater and reduce the risk of urban flooding. The decision was taken in a high-level meeting chaired by the mayor, which reviewed ongoing development projects and the overall performance of municipal services. The meeting held detailed discussions on monsoon preparedness, urban infrastructure, and measures to improve the city's drainage system. During the briefing, KMC Municipal Commissioner Abrar Jafar informed the meeting that tenders for the cleaning and desilting of major drains have already been issued, while bids will be opened on Monday. He added that work on the campaign will begin immediately after the procurement process is completed, ensuring that all major drains are cleared before the onset of monsoon rains. He further stated that KMC has allocated Rs6 billion for the citywide drain cleaning and desilting operation, terming it a reflection of the civic body's commitment to safeguarding citizens and infrastructure during the rainy season. Mayor Wahab directed that third-party consultants be engaged to ensure transparent monitoring, quality assurance, and timely completion of the cleaning work. He stressed the need for strict supervision throughout the process to ensure effective use of public funds and adherence to high standards. KMC Financial Advisor Gulzar Abro presented district-wise details of the allocated funds. According to the plan, Rs680 million have been allocated for District Central, Rs700 million each for District West and Keamari, Rs560 million for District South-I, Rs650 million for South-II after bifurcation of the district, Rs730 million for District East, Rs700 million for District Korangi, and Rs580 million for District Malir. In addition, Rs740 million and Rs630 million have been allocated for various critical citywide drainage points requiring special attention.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/lSY3xUQ

Shehbaz calls for safe, resilient food system

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called upon the federal and provincial governments, farmers, universities, research institutions and every citizen to play their part in building a safe, resilient, and nutritious food system. In a message on World Food Safety Day observed on June 7, he said, "Pakistan joins the international community in reaffirming its commitment to the shared and meaningful goal of ensuring access to safe, nutritious, and wholesome food." "Every individual should play a vital role in safeguarding food safety," he added.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/H0SqrZf

PTI and TTAP slam AJK govt's ban on JAAC, call for dialogue

The Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI) and the Tehreek-i-Tahaffuz-i-Aaeen-i-Pakistan (TTAP) on Saturday criticised the decision to declare the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) a proscribed organisation, urging authorities to resolve political disputes through dialogue and constitutional means rather than coercive measures. The statements came a day after the Azad Jammu and Kashmir government declared JAAC a proscribed organisation, accusing it of involvement in terrorism, promoting hatred and creating anarchy in the state. In a statement issued by PTI Information Secretary Sheikh Waqas Akram on his X account, PTI expressed concern over the AJK government's decision and over the violence reported in Rawalakot, in which, it said, one person had been killed and several others injured. “Political, social and constitutional grievances must be addressed through democratic engagement, meaningful dialogue and constitutional means — not through bans, coercion or the use of force,” the party said. Press Release Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) expresses its profound concern and disappointment over the Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) government’s sudden decision to declare the Jammu Kashmir Joint Awami Action Committee (JAAC) a proscribed organization, as well as the tragic… — Sheikh Waqas Akram (@SheikhWaqqas) June 6, 2026 Questioning the government's decision, PTI said authorities had engaged with the committee for months before declaring it a proscribed organisation. “If JAAC was truly a terrorist organisation, why did the government spend months negotiating with it, signing agreements with it, implementing its demands, holding meetings with its leadership and treating it as a legitimate stakeholder until yesterday?” the statement asked. Read: AJK govt bans Joint Awami Action Committee as tensions rise ahead of June 9 protest call The party said the strike call had been issued after what it described as a violation of an agreement between the government and the committee. It also said the JAAC comprised people from various political parties and civil society groups and had emerged in response to what it called poor governance. Drawing parallels with its own experience, PTI said the decision reflected a broader pattern of suppressing political dissent. “This is the same failed model that has been used against PTI. Suppress peaceful protest, block roads, suspend communication, intimidate citizens and then call every democratic demand a threat to the state,” it said. The party maintained that disputes relating to refugee seats, electoral representation and the powers of the legislative assembly should be addressed through “open debate, judicial review and political engagement” rather than by declaring citizens' platforms terrorist organisations. PTI also warned that unrest in AJK could have wider implications for Pakistan's position on the Kashmir issue. “Any internal unrest in Azad Jammu and Kashmir must be handled with extreme care, because India is always looking for opportunities to distort facts, spread propaganda and weaken Pakistan's moral and diplomatic position on Kashmir,” the statement said. Calling for a review of the decision, PTI demanded that the government restore communication services, protect peaceful assembly, avoid collective punishment and initiate dialogue with all stakeholders. “History proves that the use of force has never produced lasting political solutions,” the party said, adding that political problems required political solutions. TTAP condemns ban Separately, TTAP, an alliance of opposition parties, condemned the decision to designate the JAAC a terrorist organisation and ban its activities. In a statement, the alliance said associating a public and political rights movement with terrorism was contrary to facts and democratic principles. “Associating a public, political and constitutional rights-struggling organisation with terrorism is not only contrary to facts but also an assault on fundamental democratic principles, civil liberties and the right to vote,” it said. تحریک تحفظ آئین پاکستان جموں و کشمیر جوائنٹ عوامی ایکشن کمیٹی کو دہشت گرد تنظیم قرار دے کر اس پر پابندی عائد کرنے کے اقدام کی شدید ترین الفاظ میں مذمت کرتی ہے۔ ایک عوامی، سیاسی اور آئینی حقوق کے لیے جدوجہد کرنے والی تنظیم کو دہشت گردی سے جوڑنا نہ صرف حقائق کے منافی بلکہ بنیادی… — Hussain Ahmad yousafzai (@YousafzaiHusain) June 6, 2026 The alliance accused the AJK government and federal authorities of relying on force and coercive measures rather than political engagement. “Instead of listening to dissenting voices and seeking political solutions to political issues, the government of Azad Kashmir and the federal authorities are resorting to the path of force, bans and state coercion,” the statement said. It argued that labelling public demands as terrorism amounted to an admission of political failure and would deepen the divide between the state and the people. Also Read: 72 held in AJK crackdown as govt defends JAAC ban The alliance demanded the immediate withdrawal of the decision, lifting of the ban on the committee and the initiation of “broad, meaningful and result-oriented negotiations” involving political parties, civil society, traders, lawyers and other stakeholders in AJK. “The solution to problems lies not in bans, legal cases and the use of force, but in dialogue, public participation and democratic processes,” it said. The alliance further warned that criminalising political dissent and branding public movements as terrorism was neither in the interest of democracy nor beneficial for national unity and Pakistan's position on the Kashmir issue. Meanwhile, former senator Mushahid Hussain Sayed described the move as a “wrong decision at the wrong time” in a post on X, saying it repeated past mistakes in dealing with dissent and questioned the use of anti-terror laws against political opponents. Wrong decision at wrong time, repeating past mistakes of mishandling dissent: at a time when India is totally on the run in the region, isolated diplomatically because of their failed & flawed policies on Pakistan & Indian Occupied Kashmir, Pakistan’s Officialdom creates new… pic.twitter.com/dAlItc9GUl — Mushahid Hussain Sayed (@Mushahid) June 6, 2026 Former senator Afrasiab Khattak called the ban “a gross violation of all the fundamental rights in the Constitution”. Banning the Jammu Kashmir Awami Action Committee, a non-violent voice of the people, under anti-terrorist act is a gross violation of all the fundamental rights in the Constitution. “Conquering” Kashmir by force instead of winning hearts & minds will have dangerous consequences. — Afrasiab Khattak (@a_siab) June 6, 2026 In a post on X, he said: “Banning the Jammu Kashmir Awami Action Committee, a non-violent voice of the people, under the anti-terrorist act is a gross violation of all the fundamental rights in the Constitution.” The leader of the Haqooq-i-Khalq Party, Ammar Ali Jan, also criticised the decision, arguing that repression during elections would increase resentment and instability. After blatant pre-poll rigging in Gilgit-Baltistan where PTI was not allowed to campaign, the state has banned Awami Action Committee in Kashmir. Repression during elections will only fuel resentment & create further instability. Reverse this suicidal policy before its too late. — Ammar Ali Jan (@ammaralijan) June 6, 2026

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/GLNTKFd