Sindh government forms high-level ministerial committee to review Gul Plaza fire findings

Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah on Thursday reviewed a judicial commission’s report on the Gul Plaza fire tragedy and ordered the formation of a high-level ministerial committee to examine the findings and ensure effective implementation of its recommendations. In mid-January, a devastating fire broke out at Gul Plaza, Karachi, claiming 79 lives and leaving dozens missing. According to the Sindh government’s investigation report, the inferno was triggered by a matchstick at a shop selling artificial flowers. In a meeting today, the chief minister was informed that the fire broke out at Gul Plaza shopping centre on January 17, 2026, following which a cabinet subcommittee was constituted to frame the Terms of Reference (ToRs). Read More: Gul Plaza fire causes Rs100 billion in losses, 1,000 shops destroyed The ToRs were subsequently shared with the Sindh High Court, and a formal notification for a one-member Commission of Inquiry was issued on February 4. The commission, headed by Justice Agha Faisal, conducted site visits and hearings from February 16 to March 25, and submitted its report to the Sindh government on April 7. According to the report, the building lacked an effective firefighting system, proper alarm and communication mechanisms, and adequate evacuation arrangements. It also highlighted delays in informing the fire brigade and noted that the emergency response remained significantly below the prescribed standards. The report held multiple stakeholders responsible for the lapses. In light of the findings, the government constituted a high-level implementation committee to oversee the execution of the inquiry report and ensure accountability. Home and Law Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar was appointed as convener of the committee, while Local Government, Housing and Town Planning Minister Nasir Hussain Shah and Industries and Commerce Minister Ikramullah Dharejo will serve as members. Additional Chief Secretary Home Iqbal Memon will act as member/secretary. Under the ToRs, the committee has been tasked with formulating a comprehensive strategy for the implementation of the commission’s recommendations, proposing corrective measures in view of the identified causes and shortcomings, and ensuring effective coordination among all relevant departments. The body will also monitor progress, regularly apprise the government of developments, and may co-opt experts or relevant officials as required. Also Read: Fire safety orders ignored despite Gul Plaza tragedy Speaking on the occasion, the home minister said the government was committed to undertaking institutional reforms, enforcing safety standards and fixing responsibility to prevent recurrence of such incidents. He warned that no negligence would be tolerated and strict legal action would be taken against those found responsible. He added that the formation of the implementation committee marked a significant step towards ensuring justice for the victims and reflected the government’s resolve to safeguard the lives and property of citizens in the future.

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PM Shehbaz thanks world leaders for appreciating Pakistan's role in US-Iran ceasefire

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday thanked world leaders for acknowledging and praising Pakistan’s role in helping broker the US‑Iran ceasefire, highlighting the country’s growing diplomatic influence on the global stage. French President Emmanuel Macron and Bahrain’s King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa appreciated Pakistan’s mediation efforts that led to a two-week ceasefire during a telephone call with PM Shehbaz. According to a statement issued by the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) on X, the premier received a telephone call from Macron. During the conversation, the French president congratulated the prime minister on Pakistan’s mediation efforts that resulted in the ceasefire and helped bring both sides to the negotiating table. "Macron also conveyed his good wishes for the success of the upcoming peace talks in Islamabad," the statement said. It added that PM Shehbaz thanked Macron for supporting Pakistan’s diplomatic efforts while reaffirming that Pakistan would continue to strive for peace and stability in the region. "Both leaders expressed serious concern over the ongoing aggression in Lebanon and stressed the urgent need to end the violence and killings to restore peace in the region. They agreed to remain in contact," the statement read. Islamabad: April 9, 2026 Prime Minister receives telephone call from the President of France This afternoon, Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif received a telephone call from H.E. Emmanuel Macron, President of the French Republic. During their warm and cordial… pic.twitter.com/Rne7Kf90Ka — Prime Minister's Office (@PakPMO) April 9, 2026 PM Shehbaz also held a telephone call with Bahrain's King Hamad. "King Hamad conveyed his deep appreciation to the prime minister for Pakistan’s success in bringing about a ceasefire between Iran and the US that has created the prospects for lasting peace in the region," the PMO statement said. According to the statement, the premier appreciated the exemplary restraint demonstrated by the Bahraini leadership in the wake of attacks over the past six weeks. It added that the prime minister also offered condolences over the loss of lives in Bahrain during the recent hostilities and prayed for the swift recovery of the injured. "Both leaders agreed to continue working together for regional peace and stability," the statement said. Islamabad : 9 April 2026. Telephone Call between the Prime Minister and the King of Bahrain. Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif held a telephone call with His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al-Khalifa of Bahrain. During their warm conversation, His Majesty King Hamad conveyed… pic.twitter.com/JTqW1AAVgi — Prime Minister's Office (@PakPMO) April 9, 2026 Earlier, PM Shehbaz thanked his Australian counterpart, Anthony Albanese, for endorsing Pakistan’s sincere efforts for peace. In a post on his X account, the prime minister said Pakistan would continue to work tirelessly with its friends and partners in the shared pursuit of lasting peace in the region. Thank you Prime Minister @AlboMP for your endorsement of Pakistan’s sincere efforts for peace. We will continue to work tirelessly with our friends and partners in our shared pursuit of lasting peace in the region. https://t.co/LZkCBslKuq — Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) April 9, 2026 PM Shehbaz expressed gratitude to UK counterpart Keir Starmer for supporting Pakistan's sincere peace efforts. 'We are committed to collaborating with our friends and partners, including the United Kingdom, to achieve lasting peace in the region and beyond,' said PM Shehbaz in a post on X." I appreciate Prime Minister @Keir_Starmer for his endorsement of Pakistan’s sincere efforts for peace. We remain committed to working closely with our friends and partners including the United Kingdom, in our collective pursuit of enduring peace in the region and beyond. https://t.co/QzvSGuZvts — Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) April 9, 2026 The prime minister also thanked German Chancellor Friedrich Merz for acknowledging Pakistan’s sincere efforts for peace, stating that Pakistan would continue to work closely with its friends and partners to advance dialogue and achieve a durable and lasting resolution. Thank you Chancellor @bundeskanzler for your acknowledgment of Pakistan’s sincere efforts for peace. Pakistan will continue to work closely with friends and partners to advance dialogue and achieve a durable and lasting resolution. https://t.co/ebkSF8pcBL — Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) April 9, 2026 PM Shehbaz expressed his gratitude to UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres in a statement on X for endorsing Pakistan's sincere efforts towards peace.   Thank you Secretary General @antonioguterres for your kind endorsement of Pakistan’s sincere efforts for peace. https://t.co/8nfsh9mKLO — Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) April 9, 2026 PM Shehbaz, in a statement thanking the President of Kazakhstan, Qasym-Jomart Toqayev, said, "I deeply appreciate your kind words of endorsement and support for Pakistan’s sincere efforts for peace. Pakistan will continue to work tirelessly alongside its friends and partners, including Kazakhstan, in our common quest to secure lasting peace in the region." My dear brother President @TokayevKZ , I deeply appreciate your kind words of endorsement and support for Pakistan’s sincere efforts for peace. Pakistan shall continue to work tirelessly alongside its friends and partners, including Kazakhstan, in our common quest for securing… https://t.co/Cx9aM4OaB5 — Shehbaz Sharif (@CMShehbaz) April 9, 2026  

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Diplomatic breakthrough earns global praise

The world leaders on Wednesday praised Pakistan after Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced that the United States and Iran had reached a two-week ceasefire, marking a temporary but significant halt to the ongoing Middle Eastern conflict. In a post on X, Shehbaz wrote, "With the greatest humility, I am pleased to announce that the Islamic Republic of Iran and the United States of America, along with their allies, have agreed to an immediate ceasefire everywhere, including Lebanon and elsewhere, EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY." UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres The secretary-general expressed his support for the ceasefire in a statement delivered by his spokesperson, Stephane Dujarric. According to a post on X, Guterres called for all parties involved in the conflict to adhere to international law and the ceasefire's terms, expressing "sincere appreciation for the efforts of Pakistan and other countries involved in facilitating the ceasefire." OIC The Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) has welcomed the temporary ceasefire. In a statement, the OIC termed it "a positive step towards de-escalation in the region and an opportunity that must be seized to move towards a serious negotiation process capable of addressing the root causes of the crisis and leading to a permanent and comprehensive cessation of hostilities". It called for "adhering to the provisions of international law, respect for state sovereignty and good-neighbourly relations, guarantees freedom of navigation, prevents the resurgence of tension, and strengthens the pillars of regional security and stability". The OIC General Secretariat commended the valuable efforts made by the OIC member states to de-escalate the situation and appreciated the "effective role" played by Pakistan, in particular PM Shehbaz Sharif's efforts, to reach the agreement. EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen Leyen posted on X, supporting the "two-week ceasefire the US and Iran agreed last night," adding that it brought "much-needed de-escalation." She also thanked Pakistan for its mediation. EU Foreign Policy Chief Kaja Kallas Kallas also took to X to voice her support for the ceasefire, terming it a "step back from the brink after weeks of escalation." She added that the development "creates a much-needed chance to tone down threats, stop missiles, restart shipping, and create space for diplomacy towards a lasting agreement." "The Strait of Hormuz must be open for passage again," Kallas wrote. She noted that she also spoke to Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, thanking him for securing the deal. "The door to mediation must remain open, as the underlying causes of the war remain unresolved," the chief stated. EU Council President António Costa Costa has also posted on X in favour of the temporary ceasefire, urging "all parties to uphold its terms in order to achieve sustainable peace in the region." He vouched for the EU's support for the cause. He also thanked Pakistan's intervention, saying, "I thank Pakistan and all other parties involved in facilitating this agreement." Chinese ambassador Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong appreciated Pakistan's constructive role in advancing peace and security in the Middle East and the Gulf region during a meeting with Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar. According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) on X, Ambassador Zaidong conveyed China's deep appreciation for Pakistan's efforts in promoting peace and security in the Middle East and the Gulf region. The statement further noted that FM Dar reaffirmed Pakistan's sustained commitment to promoting dialogue and diplomacy as essential tools for achieving lasting peace and stability in the Middle East and West Asia. "Both sides expressed the hope that ongoing efforts would lead to durable peace and security in the region, for the benefit of all parties," the statement read. UK High Commissioner Jane Marriott British High Commissioner to Pakistan Jane Marriott praised Pakistan's "quiet, effective" diplomacy in a post on X, expressing gratitude for its role in bringing about "this vital ceasefire." United Kingdom Prime Minister Keir Starmer welcomed the ceasefire agreement, saying it will "bring a moment of relief to the region and the world." The premier added that the ceasefire must be sustained through collective effort, writing, "Together with our partners we must do all we can to support and sustain this ceasefire, turn it into a lasting agreement and re-open the Strait of Hormuz." Germany Chancellor Friedrich Merz welcomed the ceasefire, calling it an opportunity to pursue a lasting end to the conflict. "We thank Pakistan for its mediation," Merz wrote on X. He added that, "The aim now is to negotiate a lasting end to the war," adding that Germany is in "close coordination with our partners on this matter." Kingdom of Saudi Arabia The Ministry of Foreign Affairs supported the announcement by President Trump and PM Shehbaz, regarding the USA and Iran having reached an agreement to cease fire, "noting in this context the fruitful efforts made by Pakistan and General Asim Munir, Commander of the Defence Forces and Chief of Staff of the Pakistani Army, in reaching this agreement." Turkey The foreign ministry of Turkey posted a statement on X in favour of the ceasefire, emphasising the "necessity of the full implementation of the temporary ceasefire on the ground and express our expectation that all parties will adhere to the agreement reached." The ministry also added that, "We will continue to extend all necessary support for the successful conclusion of the negotiations to be held in Islamabad." It thanked Pakistan for its mediation, saying, "We congratulate brotherly Pakistan for its role throughout this process and express our wish for the continuation of all initiatives that contribute to peace." Russia Dmitry Medvedev, the Deputy Chair of Russia's Security Council said the ceasefire showed that common sense has prevailed, but that "there'll be no cheap oil". Ukraine Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha expressed his support for the ceasefire, writing on X that "We welcome the agreement between President Trump and the Iranian regime to unblock the Hormuz strait and cease fire, as well as Pakistan's mediation efforts." The minister added, "American decisiveness works," adding that Ukraine believes "it is time for sufficient decisiveness to force Moscow to cease fire and end its war against Ukraine." South Korea South Korea welcomed the ceasefire and hoped it would bring about the safe passage of all vessels, including its own, through the Hormuz Strait. "The South Korean government hopes that negotiations between the two sides will be successfully concluded and that peace and stability in the Middle East will be restored at an early date," South Korea's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement. "The South Korean government hopes that the free and safe navigation of all vessels, including those of South Korea, through the Strait of Hormuz will be swiftly ensured, and will continue to engage in communication and consultations with relevant countries to this end," it added. Japan Japan said that "concrete steps" are needed to de-escalate the crisis, including ensuring the safe passage of vessels through the Strait of Hormuz. The world's fourth-largest economy is the fifth biggest importer of oil, with around 70 per cent coming through the vital waterway before the war. "The most important thing is that concrete steps will be taken to de-escalate the situation, including ensuring the safety of navigation through the Strait of Hormuz," Japanese government spokesman Minoru Kihara said. "We hope the final agreement will be reached through diplomacy at an early date," he added. Malaysia Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim took to X to express his wholehearted welcome of the ceasefire "in respect of the ten-point plan as proposed by Iran and positively received by the US." He also commended Pakistan's diplomatic efforts, calling them "tireless and courageous." The prime minister added that "Pakistan's willingness to speak to all sides, without fear or favour, reflects the highest traditions of Muslim solidarity and international responsibility," affirming Malaysia's readiness to "support and complement all efforts in this regard." In his post on X, Ibrahim added that the proposal "augurs well for the restoration of peace and stability, not only to the region but also the rest of the world," voicing hope that "the negotiation process will be conducted in good faith, with a firm resolve to seeking lasting resolution to the issues currently facing the region." However, the premier noted, "Peace talks cannot succeed if the proceedings are cloaked in deception and double-dealing," terming it imperative that "the ten-point plan be translated into a comprehensive peace deal, not just for Iran, but also for Iraq, Lebanon and Yemen." Ibrahim also called for the concerned parties "to ensure the end of the genocide and dispossession of the people of Palestine, not least in Gaza." He concluded his post by urging: "Let this be a turning point towards lasting peace. The world cannot afford for it to be anything less." New Zealand Foreign Minister Winston Peters joined in praising Pakistan's diplomatic intervention, writing on X, "We are grateful for the work of Pakistan, and others such as Turkiye and Egypt, to seek to find a solution to the crisis." Peters welcomed the development but noted, "While this is encouraging news, there remains significant important work to be done in the coming days to secure a lasting ceasefire." He added that the conflict has had "wide-ranging impacts and disruptions - for both those in the Middle East and further afield including in New Zealand and the Pacific region," affirming New Zealand's "support of all efforts to bring about a lasting, durable end to this conflict." Iraq Iraq's Foreign Ministry expressed its welcome for the ceasefire but called for "serious and sustainable dialogue" between the US and Iran to address the root causes of the conflict. "As the ministry asserts its support for regional and international efforts to contain crises and prioritise the language of dialogue and diplomacy, it stresses the need for full commitment to the ceasefire and refraining from any escalations," the ministry said, according to Al Jazeera. Oman Oman welcomed the ceasefire between the US and Iran, appreciating "the efforts "exerted by the Islamic Republic of Pakistan in this regard and all parties calling for an end to the war." Further, the ministry affirmed the "importance of intensifying efforts now to find solutions capable of ending the crisis at its roots and achieving a permanent cessation of the state of war and hostile acts in the region." Australia Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese highlighted the de-escalation achieved by the ceasefire as a significant step towards resolving the conflict. He added, "We thank and support the work of negotiators, including Pakistan, Egypt, Turkiye and Saudi Arabia, in advancing de-escalation efforts." "Australia wants to see the ceasefire upheld and a resolution to the conflict," Albanese added in his statement. Australia's High Commissioner to Pakistan, Timothy Kane, congratulated Pakistan for its "effective diplomacy and efforts to bring peace!" He also affirmed Australia's desire to see the ceasefire upheld and the conflict resolved. Italy Italy's former premier Paolo Gentiloni posted on X, saying Pakistan deserves the Noble Peace award. Bangladesh Bangladesh's Ministry of Foreign Affairs posted on X, Bangladesh appreciates all parties involved in the diplomatic efforts in facilitating the ceasefire. Kazakhstan President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev lauded the diplomatic efforts of Pakistan, attributing the ceasefire agreement to the mediation of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir. Tokayev's office expressed hope that the truce would contribute to global trade and economic prosperity. Tokayev's office noted that the "agreement became possible due to the goodwill and wisdom of the President of the United States, Donald Trump, and the senior leadership of Iran, as well as all countries involved in the military conflict." Portugal The foreign ministry posted on X welcoming the ceasefire agreement and reopening the Strait of Hormuz. The ministry also thanked Pakistan for its mediation "and, likewise, the efforts of all its partners in the negotiations." It added, "This is a decisive first step toward a lasting and sustainable diplomatic solution to the conflict. Portugal has supported and continues to support this diplomatic path with all its commitment, as it made clear in the contacts over the past two days with the Foreign Ministers of Pakistan and Egypt." Azerbaijan The Ministry of Foreign Affairs published a statement regarding the ceasefire in its support. The ministry said, "We hope that this ceasefire will contribute to reducing tensions in the region, as well as to establishing lasting peace and stability. We call on the parties to engage in a productive dialogue aimed at resolving existing issues and building mutual trust." Egypt Egypt calls on all parties to engage seriously in negotiations, leading to lasting peace and peaceful coexistence among the peoples of the region and the world, the Egypt's president posted on X. Kuwait The State of Kuwait reaffirms its support for all mediation efforts and endeavors aimed at restoring calm, expressing hope that this announcement will lead to a comprehensive and sustainable settlement that enhances security and stability in the region, stated the Ministry of Foreign Affairs on X. Sweden Minister of Foreign Affairs Maria M Stenergard said that they welcomed the ceasefire, "following important mediation efforts by, among others, Pakistan. " The ceasefire could "create conditions for restoring free passage through the Strait of Hormuz," she posted on X. She highlighted dampening Iran's nuclear program, saying, "It is also important now to build on this toward a long-term sustainable solution that prevents Iran from developing nuclear weapons, threatening regional security, and carrying out destabilising activities in the region and the West." She added that Sweden was participating in the talks led by the UK on reopening the Strait of Hormuz. "We are therefore participating in the format with some 30 countries initiated by the United Kingdom to discuss the conditions for reopening the Strait of Hormuz. Sweden is prepared to contribute to this in an appropriate manner, including toward political solutions," she said. Latvia Prime Minister Evika Silina posted on X saying that they are in favour of the ceasefire agreement between Iran and the United States, urging for the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. The PM said, "Latvia welcomes the ceasefire agreement reached by the US and Iran last night. Its implementation is key to achieving long-lasting peace in the region," adding that "Latvia appreciates the efforts of all countries involved in making the agreement possible." Spain Spain's Minister of Foreign Affairs Jose Manuel Albares posted on X, "Spain will not spare any efforts in supporting the Pakistani mediation efforts in the war in the Middle East and in paving the way for diplomacy." Romania Romania President Nicosur Dan posted on X, "I welcome the agreement between the United States and Iran to establish a ceasefire, and we are grateful to Pakistan and other regional mediators for their work. Weeks of conflict have pushed energy & food prices to painful levels for families and businesses across the world and in Europe." The General Secretariat of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) welcomed the announcement of the agreement on a temporary ceasefire. "It is a positive step towards de-escalation in the region and an opportunity that must be seized to move towards a serious negotiation process capable of addressing the root causes of the crisis and leading to a permanent and comprehensive cessation of hostilities, while adhering to the principles of international law, respect for state sovereignty, and peaceful, meaningful measures, guarantees, freedom of navigation, preventing the resurgence of tension, and strengthening the pillars of regional security and stability," it said. The OIC commended the valuable efforts made by the member states to de-escalate the situation, particularly the efforts of PM Shehbaz in reaching the agreement. The Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs of the United Kingdom, Yvette Cooper, in a statement, said, "This is a vital step towards establishing some security and stability in the region and getting international shipping and the global economy moving properly again. I also welcome the proposed talks between the US and Iran scheduled for later this week and thank Pakistan and all those involved for their continued work on the negotiations." She further added that the UK had been working internationally to support the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, the self-defence of Gulf countries, and to promote a swift resolution to this conflict. The Australian government appreciated Pakistan's efforts in advancing de-escalation, stating, "We have been clear that the longer the war goes on, the more significant the impact on the global economy will be, and the greater the human cost." It added that Australia had been working with international partners in support of diplomatic efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz so critical supplies could flow to those who need them, including the most vulnerable. In addition, the Australian government thanked Egypt, Türkiye, and Saudi Arabia for their role in the peace process, urging all parties to uphold international humanitarian law and protect civilian life.

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Relentless rain cripples civic services

Persistent heavy rainfall throughout the day and night brought life to a standstill across the city and its adjoining areas on Tuesday, severely disrupting traffic and routine activities. In the absence of traffic wardens, the traffic system collapsed, with ambulances stranded at major intersections. The Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA)'s claims of drain clearance proved hollow, as water accumulated widely. Markets remained deserted, with commercial activity effectively suspended, while daily wage labourers in wholesale markets were left without work. A total of 39mm of rainfall was recorded across the city. Continuous downpours led to leaks in Metro Bus stations and along the track, leaving motorcyclists travelling beneath exposed to the rain. Attendance in educational institutions and offices remained low due to the weather conditions. Low-lying areas were inundated, with up to one foot of water collecting in underpasses, including at Committee Chowk and Rahimabad. Ongoing work on the Kutchery Chowk overhead bridge and underpass project also came to a halt, with excavated areas filled with rainwater. The street lighting system was disrupted, while unannounced load-shedding of up to six hours during the day, coupled with suspension of gas supply from 9pm until pre-dawn, further hampered daily life and business activity. Roofs of old court buildings in the district courts also began to leak. Continuous rainfall has, however, led to rising water levels in Rawal, Simly and Khanpur dams, easing concerns over a potential summer water shortage. Several localities—including Dhoke Elahi Bakhsh, Arya Mohalla, Nadeem Colony, Javed Colony, Fazalabad, Chah Sultan, Shalley Valley, Peoples Colony and Millat Colony—remained waterlogged. While the weather turned pleasant, with greenery in parks and gardens refreshed, there are growing concerns that ongoing rains in the Potohar region may damage the ripened wheat crop, with harvesting already underway in some areas. The heavy rain also flushed debris through Nullah Lai and around 15 seasonal streams, providing a natural cleansing effect. However, sanitation work was disrupted, and accumulated waste in streets emitted foul odours as it mixed with rainwater. Traffic flow remained intermittently choked throughout the day as dark clouds and intense thunderstorms persisted. The spell of rain is expected to continue into Wednesday.

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Shops, markets in Islamabad begin shutting at 8pm as PM reviews austerity measures

The Islamabad administration began enforcing the federal government’s directive to close shopping centres and markets at 8pm from Tuesday as part of a nationwide austerity drive aimed at conserving energy and stabilising the economy. The move followed a decision taken a day earlier during a high-level review meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The policy applied across Punjab, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Balochistan, Islamabad Capital Territory, Gilgit-Baltistan and Azad Jammu and Kashmir, where implementation began today. Under the new regulations, general stores, department stores and all types of shopping malls must close by 8pm. However, bakeries, restaurants, tandoors and other food outlets are permitted to operate until 10pm. Marriage halls, marquees and commercial venues hosting events are also required to shut by 10pm. The Sindh government, meanwhile, remains in the consultation phase regarding revised market timings and operational hours. District Administration Islamabad has issued a revised notification (partial modification) under austerity measures. All shops, markets and shopping malls will close at 8:00 PM. Restaurants, hotels, food outlets, tandoors, grocery stores and karyana stores will close at 10:00 PM… pic.twitter.com/b0AjTIXarD — DC Islamabad (@dcislamabad) April 7, 2026 In a meeting today, officials briefed the prime minister on enforcement measures across the provinces and territories. The review focused on fuel conservation, energy efficiency and the broader implementation of austerity policies. Addressing participants, PM Shehbaz urged citizens to play their part in reducing fuel consumption, citing ongoing economic challenges and regional tensions. He warned that hoarding petroleum products would not be tolerated and that strict legal action would be taken against those involved. Read More: Soaring costs, fuel shortage fears drive Pakistan to electric motorbikes “Part of the country’s electricity generation depends on petroleum products,” he said, noting that early market closures were intended not only to conserve valuable foreign exchange but also to ensure an uninterrupted power supply. The meeting's members were further informed that discussions with the Sindh government on adopting the 8pm closure policy were ongoing. Officials also highlighted progress on a targeted subsidy programme. Provincial governments have begun submitting data on eligible beneficiaries, and following verification, subsidies are being distributed through a transparent digital system. The information ministry, in collaboration with the State Bank of Pakistan, has been providing continuous subsidies to freight vehicles, buses and trucks since April 4. اسلام آباد: 7 اپریل 2026 وزیراعظم محمد شہباز شریف کی زیر صدارت پیٹرولیم مصنوعات ، توانائی کی بچت اور کفایت شعاری کے اقدامات کے نفاذ کے حوالے سے اہم جائزہ اجلاس منعقد ہوا. اجلاس کو خطے میں موجودہ کشیدہ صورتحال کے پیش نظر معاشی استحکام کے لیے کفایت شعاری سے متعلق فیصلوں پر عمل… pic.twitter.com/M8cBbOY4ic — Prime Minister's Office (@PakPMO) April 7, 2026  

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Govt defends price hikes in NA

The government on Monday defended its handling of the fuel price surge, telling the National Assembly that emergency measures, including subsidies exceeding Rs100 billion, were rolled out to shield consumers after global oil markets were jolted by the Iran crisis and disruptions to key supply routes. Delivering a policy statement on the floor of the House, Petroleum Minister Ali Pervaiz Malik said the situation took a dramatic turn following the February 28 attack on Iran, which disrupted global energy flows, particularly through the Strait of Hormuz, which carries 25 to 30 per cent of the world's oil supply. He said crude prices, which had hovered around $70 per barrel, surged to as high as $170, while diesel prices spiked to $280 in global markets. "No one had prepared for such conditions," the minister said, adding that the government had to rapidly devise a response plan after the crisis unfolded. He said authorities opted against allowing shortages or chaos in fuel supply, noting that one option had been to freeze prices at the cost of long queues and public distress. Instead, the government absorbed the shock for two to three weeks, bearing the burden internally while ensuring uninterrupted availability. He said alternative supply routes were arranged after disruptions in Hormuz, with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the deputy prime minister and the army chief engaging Gulf countries to secure supplies. Malik thanked Saudi Arabia, the UAE and Oman for facilitating oil deliveries through special arrangements, while also acknowledging Iran for allowing Pakistani vessels to pass through the Strait of Hormuz despite tensions. The minister said Pakistan, which relies on Hormuz for around 90 per cent of its oil imports, faced cascading challenges as LNG supplies were also affected, rendering a long-term gas agreement ineffective. He said the government convened a broad national consultation, involving the president, prime minister, chief ministers of all four provinces, the prime minister of Azad Kashmir and the caretaker chief minister of Gilgit-Baltistan, to formulate a unified response. "All of us collectively ensured that people were not forced into queues," he said, adding that targeted relief mechanisms were designed for all segments, from motorcyclists to farmers. Detailing relief measures, Malik said subsidies were being delivered through a transparent, technology-driven system developed by the IT Ministry, with funds already reaching millions. A Rs100 per litre subsidy for motorcyclists has been introduced for three months, while intercity transport has also been subsidised. Bus owners are being provided Rs100,000 per month, and railway fares for the general public have not been increased. He added that government-run intercity transport services had been made free in some cases. Farmers are receiving support through Kisan Cards and other digital platforms, while uninterrupted gas supply has been ensured to 10 fertiliser plants to prevent a fertiliser crisis, keeping prices below Rs4,500. The minister said a committee of ministers is reviewing oil and fertiliser availability and pricing on a daily basis, while domestic gas supplies have been managed to ensure availability during peak cooking hours. He acknowledged that while consumers were facing price pressures, the government had prioritised uninterrupted supply over shortages. However, the opposition sharply criticised the government's approach. Speaking during the debate, Barrister Gohar Ali Khan questioned the rationale behind the price increases, saying the government had raised fuel prices more sharply than regional countries. He alleged that while global prices rose by around three per cent, Pakistan increased prices by up to 20 per cent, later raising them further from 42 to 54 per cent. He also criticised the imposition of higher levies and questioned why the government had not asked oil companies to reduce profits, as done in India. Gohar said the government had first increased the petroleum levy to Rs160 per litre before reducing it to Rs80, and called for the debate to continue in the next session. He also pointed to economic hardships, citing a case of a woman allegedly dying of hunger despite allocations under the Benazir Income Support Programme. He criticised the prime minister for not attending parliament, contrasting it with the previous PTI government. Responding to the criticism, Minister Malik said the opposition's concerns were not based on full information, suggesting that details had not been conveyed properly at the provincial level. He maintained that fuel prices had increased globally by as much as 80 per cent in some cases, and that Pakistan's response had focused on cushioning the public while ensuring supply continuity.

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Gas shortage halts transport, disrupts schools

Severe difficulties have gripped students, parents and daily commuters in Peshawar and across Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa after the closure of CNG stations due to acute natural gas shortage. Most school van and bus operators have decided to suspend their services because CNG is unavailable, while public transporters who have switched to petrol have sharply increased fares, adding to the financial burden on citizens. CNG filling stations remained shut for the second consecutive day in the provincial capital and other parts of the province on Sunday. In several areas, unannounced load-shedding of natural gas has further compounded the problems for domestic and commercial consumers. The closure of CNG stations has forced many vehicles to either stop operating or run on costlier petrol, resulting in a fresh hike in transport fares. School transporters are among the worst affected. Owners of Suzuki vans and buses say running vehicles on petrol is beyond their financial capacity, leaving them with no option but to park their fleets. Parents have expressed deep concern over the disruption in school transportation, fearing it will affect their children's education and daily routine. Public transport operators are also facing serious challenges. Those who have started using petrol instead of CNG have already raised fares. They warned that if CNG stations are not reopened soon, they will be forced to suspend services entirely, which could bring public movement in the city to a virtual standstill. The prolonged gas crisis has once again highlighted the fragile energy situation in the province, leaving thousands of citizens struggling with both mobility and household needs. Residents have appealed to the authorities concerned to resolve the issue on an urgent basis and ensure uninterrupted supply of CNG and natural gas.

from Pakistan News, Latest News Pakistan, Pakistan Headline | The Express Tribune https://ift.tt/GIR47WP