Staff’s slackness cost PIA over Rs38b

The national flag carrier suffered a loss of over Rs38 billion just because of the slackness and inefficiency of its technical staff. The airlines engineering department took up to 905 days in completing maintenance jobs that were supposed to be completed in less than a month. According to the Auditor General of Pakistan’s report submitted to parliament, a total of five aircraft of the Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) were temporarily grounded in 2021 for scheduled maintenance. These airplanes comprised two Boeing 777, two Airbus A320 and an ATR 72. The PIA owned the Boeing planes while it had acquired the rest on lease. As per the maintenance plan, the management had allocated from 19 to 28 days for scheduled maintenance. However, the engineering department completed the work after an inordinate delay. The department took 520 and 250 days in completing maintenance jobs of the two Boeing aircraft—respectively bearing registration numbers AP-BID and AP-BMG. Read more: PIA ranks 5th in terms of punctuality: CAA report It took 905 days in completing maintenance of one of the Airbus aircraft and the ATR 72 plane while taking 540 days in doing maintenance of the second Airbus. Collectively, the department took 2,991 days in completing the task that resulted in per day loss of around Rs12.8m. According to Section 2.10.3.1 the PIA’s Engineering and Maintenance Manual, the department must respect minimum maintenance requirements and ensure that maintenance is carried out in conformity with the manufacturers’ documentation and instructions. The audit report highlighted that the matter was reported to the PIA management on December 16, 2022 and was discussed at the Departmental Audit Committee (DAC) meeting held on January 16, 2023. At the meeting, the management took the stance that reduced operations, financial constraints and requirement of new parts for the operating fleet “resulted in increased cannibalization from aircraft under heavy maintenance which caused delay in aircraft rollout”. “The DAC directed the management to provide relevant documents to the auditors reflecting efforts/justifications for extended delays. However, no record was produced by the management till finalization of this report,” it said. Scheduled maintenance in the context of aviation refers to routine, planned, and organized maintenance activities that are carried out on aircraft and their associated systems and components at predetermined intervals. The purpose of scheduled maintenance is to ensure the continued airworthiness, safety, and reliability of the aircraft. These maintenance tasks are typically based on manufacturer recommendations, regulatory requirements, and the aircraft's operational history. Scheduled maintenance includes various activities such as inspections, component replacements, system checks, and other tasks aimed at preventing or identifying issues before they become safety hazards. These maintenance intervals are often measured in flight hours, flight cycles, or calendar time, and they vary depending on the type of aircraft, its usage, and regulatory guidelines. Saudi aviation authority issues warning Meanwhile, Saudi Arabia’s General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA) has issued a warning to around 28 airlines including the PIA due to delay in arrival and departure of their planes. GACA has noted that if the PIA did not stick to its flight schedule then it would reduce the airlines’ slot during the summer season while also imposing a fine on it.

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Fact check: Is Pakistan at risk of a major earthquake?

Fuelled by X handles with thousands of followers, rumours circulating on social media and WhatsApp groups in Pakistan claim that a major earthquake is likely to hit the country in the next 48 hours. A post shared on the microblogging platform, citing Dutch Scientist Frank Hoogerbeets, member of Solar System Geometry Survey (SSGEOS), who in the past used planetary alignments to predict fatal earthquakes in Turkey and Syria, claimed that the scientist has once again predicted that in the next 48 hours, a strong earthquake was going to “rock Pakistan”. “Earthquake” is currently the top trend in the country on X as many people fearing for their lives seek guidance from the authorities. Planetary geometry is difficult to interpret with four conjunctions spread out over the next 10 days. As far as I can tell, 1-3 October will be more critical. https://t.co/Cao2VExGNB — Frank Hoogerbeets (@hogrbe) September 29, 2023 The scientist, in the post, based his assertion on a “massive surge of electric activity” along fault lines in Balochistan without mentioning the area. - Dutch Researcher Frank Hoogerbeets, researcher at Solar System Geometry Survey, has predicted a major #earthquake in #Pakistan's Balochistan region. - The latter raised alarms for a major earthquake in Pakistan, set to rock the nation within the next 48 hours. - According to… pic.twitter.com/HgoV3aZuAD — World Times (@WorldTimesWT) October 2, 2023 Director National Tsunami Centre Karachi Amir Haider Laghari said that where and when the earthquake would occur cannot be exactly predicted. He said that the boundaries of two major tectonic plates pass through Pakistan, stretching from Sonmiani to the northern region of Pakistan, adding that an earthquake could occur at any point within these boundary lines, which is not possible to predict. Read More: Fact check: Are Pakistan, India at risk of a major earthquake? Laghari recalled that in 1892, there was an earthquake of 9 to 10 magnitude on the Chaman fault line, while in 1935, there was a strong quake in the Chiltan range, in which thousands of people died. In February, the United States Geological Survey (USGS) had also dismissed the scientist’s prediction regarding a quake to hit India and Pakistan, which later proved to be hearsay. Read More: Atsu 'in debris' of Turkey, Syria earthquake It added that “neither the USGS nor any other scientists have ever predicted a major earthquake. We do not know how, and we do not expect to know how any time in the foreseeable future”. The USGS also added that they could only able to estimate the likelihood that a large earthquake would strike a particular location "within a certain number of years". Moreover, Weather Updates Pakistan also added its voice in negating the assertion and held that there was never an accurate prediction model which could exactly anticipate the possible hitting of the earthquake in any part of the world’s region. The Dutch scientist who predicted the earthquake in Turkey predicted the #earthquake in #Pakistan The Seismological Research Institute Solar System Geometry Survey (SSGS) has predicted an earthquake in the Chaman fault line in the next two days. The Seismological Research… pic.twitter.com/n6apDx0UbD — Weather Updates PK (@WeatherWupk) October 2, 2023 It argued that scientists could only predict quakes based on past patterns. One social media user did not look convinced with the Weather Updates Pakistan’s assertion, saying that most predictions by the said scientist later turned out to be true. She cited the scientist's exact prophecy about the impending quake to hit Turkey and Morocco then. Most predictions this scientist has made, have come true including the earthquake on Turkey and Morocco. So it's wise not to disregard it completely. We should be praying foe Allah's Mercy and have emergency bags ready — Javeria Farooqui (@javfarooqui) October 2, 2023 To which, the handle replied, "Once in a blue moon, only Turkiye’s prediction went correct that too with noticeable difference on day frame." Once in a blue moon , only trukey prediction went correct that too with noticable Difference on day frame — Weather Updates PK (@WeatherWupk) October 2, 2023 It is pertinent to mention the quake which hit Turkey, earlier this year, had claimed more than 50,000 lives.

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Eye doctors warn against steroids

Experts warned people to avoid the indiscriminate use of antibiotics and steroids to treat 'conjunctivitis', commonly known as pink eye, and advised them to avoid self-medication as it may complicate the ailment or even damage the cornea. Noted eye surgeon Dr Intizar Hussain Butt shared his recommendations with the media on Sunday, urging affected individuals to use prescribed eye drops, cold water and tissues for eye cleansing. Dr Butt explained that conjunctivitis is an inflammation or infection of the transparent membrane known as the conjunctiva, which lines the eyelid and covers the eyeball. He emphasized the importance of avoiding physical contact with infected individuals and refraining from sharing personal items such as handkerchiefs, pillows and makeup. Dr Butt also advised patients to wear sunglasses and take leave from their official or private duties until the infection heals. He additionally warned against self-medication and public gatherings and recommended frequent hand-washing with soap. Noted senior ophthalmologist and former vice chancellor of King Edward Medical University Prof Dr Asad Aslam said that symptoms of bacterial conjunctivitis include redness, streaking, swelling, itching or burning in the eyes. He added that precautionary measures are crucial to preventing the spread of the disease. Dr Aslam further lamented that due to a lack of awareness, thousands of cases of conjunctivitis are reported in hospitals across Pakistan annually. Read 56,000 Punjab schools shut over eye virus outbreak Replying to a query, Dr Asad Aslam said that steroids and homemade remedies sometimes provide immediate relief to patients, but could cause more damage in the long run. He urged people to avoid close contact with individuals who have conjunctivitis or any other eye infection. Meanwhile, the Punjab Health Department reported over 1,000 cases in outpatient departments in Lahore’s hospitals during the past 24 hours. Dr Bushra from Services Hospital stated that 50 percent of patients in the outpatient department were being treated for the infection. She emphasised the importance of precautionary measures and recommended the use of eye drops for relief. She further advised affected individuals to maintain stringent hygiene practices, including keeping their personal items separate from others. Provincial Minister for Primary and Secondary Healthcare Dr Jamal Nasir announced the establishment of special pink eye counters in the emergency wards of all government hospitals in a significant move to tackle the conjunctivitis outbreak. The initiative aims to separate pink eye patients from others, while ensuring they receive prompt medical attention. In a statement issued on Sunday, Dr Nasir emphasised the importance of not unnecessarily sending Pinkeye patients to the outpatient department (OPD) to protect other patients. Instead, complete medical care and necessary medications would be provided at dedicated counters, along with thorough instructions on precautionary measures. The Minister expressed optimism that the diligent implementation of the precautions by citizens would lead to eventual eradication of conjunctivitis. Notably, he attributed a major decrease in eye infections to the decision by Punjab Chief Minister Mohsin Naqvi to temporarily close schools in Punjab for four days. A decrease in conjunctivitis cases was observed in Punjab, but 1,134 new cases were still reported on Sunday. The Primary and Secondary Health Department of Punjab released a report confirming a decrease in the number of patients affected by conjunctivitis during the past 24 hours. Published in The Express Tribune, October 2nd, 2023.

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Nawaz to rescue nation once again: Maryam

PML-N Senior Vice President Maryam Nawaz Sharif on Sunday said that party supremo Nawaz Sharif has devised a comprehensive agenda to resolve the issues plaguing the country and its citizens as she lamented that the inflation currently burdening the people would not have befell had the former prime minister not been "unjustly punished." Maryam recalled that between 2013 and 2018, the growth rate stood at an impressive 6.1 per cent, while inflation was kept at a record low of 3.8 per cent. "Nawaz eliminated power outages and terrorism, and he will rescue the nation from these sufferings, with the grace of God." Read More: Conspirators against Nawaz ‘got what they deserved She hailed her father as a man of his word, asserting that his name is synonymous with delivering on promises, adding that "Nawaz Sharif doesn't just talk, he works. His name is engraved on every development project". The party’s chief organiser was virtually addressing a workers’ convention in Gilgit-Baltistan. She pointed out that the workers’ convention served as a referendum, showcasing the overwhelming support of the people of G-B for Nawaz Sharif. Read More: Minus-Nawaz formula has failed: Maryam Maryam assured the convention attendees that Nawaz valued the love and loyalty shown by the people and will reciprocate with extensive development initiatives for the region. "Gilgit-Baltistan and its resilient and devoted people are a source of pride for us." Drawing attention to the accomplishments during Nawaz's tenure, Maryam emphasised that the PML-N had effectively steered the nation towards progress and shielded the public from inflation. She reiterated that Nawaz has consistently worked towards the development of Pakistan, improving the lives of its citizens, and is dedicated to bringing peace to the entire country, including G-B, and eradicating terrorism. She assured that the former prime minister will unite the nation and present a comprehensive agenda for progress, asserting, "Nawaz Sharif has prepared an agenda to rescue the country and its people from the prevailing problems." The party’s senior vice president went on to lament that if Nawaz had not been unjustly punished, the people would not be burdened with inflation today. She also pledged to provide the youth of Pakistan, including G-B, with educational opportunities, employment, skill development programs, business prospects, laptops, and scholarships. Maryam concluded her address by announcing that a historic welcome awaited Nawaz Sharif on October 21, as he returns to the political forefront again after four years. ‘Nawaz’s ouster a cautionary tale’ In a separate address in Shahdara, the PML-N leader claimed that those responsible for Nawaz’s removal have become a cautionary tale. In an apparent reference to former prime minister and PTI Chairman Imran Khan, she said that “a party has been reduced to smithereens after its leader faced troubles. جب سے نوازشریف کو نکالا گیا پاکستان سے روشنی بھی چلی گئی اور ہمارے گھروں , شہروں اور گلی محلوں سے سکون بھی چلا گیا۔آپ کا سکون , آپکی روٹی , آپکی خوشیاں اور آپکا مستقبل چھین لیا گیا۔چیف آرگنائزر مسلم لیگ ن مریم نوازشریف pic.twitter.com/rUBolE1IOp — PMLN (@pmln_org) October 1, 2023 The one who ousted Nawaz and blocked progress “is today languishing in the trash," she added. Maryam further lamented the consequences faced by her father in times of trouble, saying he endured political revenge, false charges, imprisonment, and immeasurable political setbacks. She added that the individuals who played a role in expelling Nawaz Sharif from office have now become an example, and the Pakistani population is eagerly preparing to welcome their beloved leader. یہ پہلی بار نہیں ہے کہ نوازشریف کو نکالا گیا ہے اور یہ بھی پہلی بار نہیں کہ ہر بار کی طرح نوازشریف پہلے سے زیادہ طاقتور ہوکے واپس آیا ہے۔چیف آرگنائزر مسلم لیگ ن مریم نوازشریف pic.twitter.com/T3MFbPNg2u — PMLN (@pmln_org) October 1, 2023 She confidently announced that on October 21, Nawaz would make a "triumphant return", bringing an end to issues such as inflation, unemployment, and terrorism, while healing the nation's wounds. Asserting Nawaz Sharif's resilience, she stated that, once again, he would emerge even stronger than before, and October 21 would mark the resurgence of hope, development, peace, and employment while putting an end to inflationary pressures in the country.                      

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Video of motorcyclist exposing himself to female students sparks social media outrage

A distressing incident of indecency has surfaced in Karachi, as a man, captured in a viral video, exposed himself to female university students en route to their homes in a van, prompting Sindh Inspector General Rafat Mukhtar Raja to take notice of the incident. The incident unfolded on one of Karachi's busiest roads, Rashid Minhas Road, further unsettling the public. The viral video, widely condemned on social media, shows a man wearing a helmet engaging in an indecent act, in what appears to be a harassment bid. A case of harassment of university students. IG Sindh Rafat Mukhtar Raja sought details from the concerned SSP on media reports #igpsindh #Igsindh #instructions #security #sindhpolicesecurity #policeofficers pic.twitter.com/Vlr7SkD7Eo — Sindh Police (@SindhPoliceDMC) October 1, 2023 The video was captured by a student who later shared it on social media. Subsequently, Additional Inspector General Karachi Khadim Randh took notice of the incident and sought a report from the concerned officers. Upon contacting SSP Central (Karachi), Faisal Abdullah Chachar, it was revealed that the incident occurred opposite the well-known shopping centre near the sports complex on Rashid Minhas Road. Harrasment Incident: Motorcycle rider ma**urb**ing and chasing a van of female university students at Rashid Minhas Road. One of the girl sat in van made this video. #Karachi pic.twitter.com/cRdS15Te79 — waheed Falak sher (@HamdanWahe57839) October 1, 2023 Preliminary investigations indicate that the video is a few days old, with further inquiries underway. Efforts are being made to contact the students, urging them to come forward and register a formal complaint against the accused. SSP Chachar noted that if the victims do not express their willingness to file a complaint, the police will proceed to register a case on behalf of the state. Read More: Another harassment video goes viral It should be noted that earlier such incidents of harassment have been reported in North Karachi Sector 11-B, Federal B Area Block 17, Gulistan-e-Jauhar. Despite clear identification of the culprits, the police failed to apprehend them, with only two suspects involved in harassment cases in Baldia Town and Orangi Town being apprehended by law enforcement agencies.

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Clerics bar girls from playing cricket in Swat

Girls in Charbagh tehsil of Swat have been barred from playing cricket in the locality’s stadium by residents and clerics on the pretext that it is considered immodest and inappropriate for women to participate in sports. A cricket match had been arranged for girls from the Babuzai and Kabal tehsils of Swat at the Arena Cricket Ground Complex on Sunday. However, several clerics from nearby mosques and a group of elders reached the stadium and stopped them from playing. Charbagh Assistant Commissioner Muhammad Yar Khan, Charbagh tehsil Chairman Ihsanullah Kaki, scholars and match coach Ayaz Naik held talks in view of the current situation and the women's match was cancelled. Read also: Girls Cup: competition, spirit and talent all there at NSK Kaki said the girls were barred from playing due to security reasons. “The security conditions in the area are currently unstable as armed individuals are often spotted at various locations.” He said the match would have been arranged in a ground with boundary walls if they had been informed earlier.

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Killer gets 25 years in prison

A District and Sessions Court in the federal capital has sentenced a young man to 25 years in prison for killing a 24-year-old Christian woman for refusing his marriage proposal. District and Sessions Judge Azam Khan heard the case, which was prosecuted by Assistant District Public Prosecutor Rana Hassan Abbas. The tragic incident unfolded when the convict, Shehzad, sent his family to the victim, Sonia Bibi’s, parents with a marriage proposal. The girl's family declined the proposal, citing religious differences since Shehzad was a Muslim, and they were Christians. According to the prosecution, Shehzad began threatening Sonia in the months that followed. Eventually, on November 30, 2020, he chased and fatally shot her on an Islamabad highway. Following the incident, Sonia's body was taken to the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS) Hospital, where doctors confirmed her death. The court's verdict was based on the testimony of 14 witnesses and the prosecution's evidence, ultimately finding Shehzad guilty of the crime. In addition to the prison sentence, Shehzad was ordered to pay a fine of Rs1 million to the victim’s heirs. The court further ruled that failure to make this payment would result in an additional six months of imprisonment. Moreover, three other accused were acquitted in the case. The court found that the prosecution had failed to prove the case against co-accused Naghmana Shaheen and Saba Shehryar and, therefore, acquitted them due to reasonable doubt. The court also issued an order to return the belongings of the deceased girl, including her clothing, to her family. Shehzad alias Shani, the convicted criminal, is already in custody, and the court directed that he remain in jail to serve his sentence. Conversely, the acquitted accused, Faizan, was ordered to be released. The case was originally registered at Koral police station on November 30, 2020, under charges of murder and other applicable provisions. Soon after the incident, officers from the Koral police station had arrested the accused, Faizan, launching a manhunt for the arrest of the prime suspect, Shehzad. The accused and the victim were residents of the Old Airport area in Rawalpindi. Initial investigation at the time had revealed that Faizan had picked up Sonia and taken her to meet Shehzad who then turned on the girl. Sonia Bibi was a domestic cleaner and there were concerns for the welfare of her family for whom she was the main breadwinner. According to police, on the day of the incident, the girl was traveling with Faizan on a highway, when Shehzad opened fire on her. They said the murder appeared to have been carried out of personal resentment. However, the deputy inspector general (DIG) of the police had said the police were investigating all aspects. Published in The Express Tribune, October 1st, 2023.

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