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Rs348.97 Billion Released Under PSDP: Provinces, Water, Highways Top Recipients
Pakistan

Rs348.97 Billion Released Under PSDP: Provinces, Water, Highways Top Recipients

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ISLAMABAD, Dec 29: The federal government has authorized the utilization of Rs348.97 billion in development funds under the Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) during the first five months (July–November) of fiscal year 2025-26. This represents approximately 34.9% of the total federal PSDP allocation of Rs1,000 billion for the year, aimed at supporting ongoing and new infrastructure, social sector, and economic uplift projects across ministries, divisions, and corporations. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/ahsan-iqbal-reviews-massive-rs1-trillion-power-hydel-project/ According to the latest data released by the Ministry of Planning, Development and Special Initiatives, the federal PSDP comprises Rs770.50 billion for ministries and divisions, and Rs229.50 billion for corporations. In the period under review, federal ministries and divisions received authorization for Rs237.76 billion, with actual expenditure reaching Rs68.41 billion. Corporations were authorized Rs111.20 billion, against which Rs23.49 billion was spent. Top Sectors Lead with Provinces, Water Resources, and Infrastructure Among federal ministries and divisions, the highest authorizations went to Provinces and Special Areas (Rs68.03 billion), followed by the Water Resources Division (Rs45.11 billion) and Cabinet Division (Rs43.17 billion). Other notable recipients included the Higher Education Commission (Rs15.74 billion), Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Division (Rs8.14 billion), Railways Division (Rs7.84 billion), and Federal Education and Professional Training Division (Rs6.50 billion). For corporations, the National Highway Authority (NHA) topped the list with Rs79.44 billion authorized, while Power Division entities (NTDC and PEPCO) received Rs31.76 billion. Additional authorizations covered sectors like Interior (Rs6.46 billion), IT and Telecommunication (Rs5.67 billion), National Health Services (Rs5.02 billion), Defence (Rs4.16 billion), and Revenue (Rs3.99 billion). The releases underscore the government’s focus on accelerating infrastructure, water management, education, and transport projects to drive sustainable economic growth.

Ahsan Iqbal Reviews Massive Rs1 Trillion Power & Hydel Project
Pakistan

Ahsan Iqbal Reviews Massive Rs1 Trillion Power & Hydel Project

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ISLAMABAD, Dec 29: Federal Minister for Planning, Development and Special Initiatives Professor Ahsan Iqbal chaired a high-level review meeting to evaluate progress on critical Public Sector Development Programme (PSDP) projects in the Power and Water Resources Divisions. The meeting highlighted a substantial financial throw-forward exceeding Rs1 trillion for ongoing power and hydel initiatives, against a modest PSDP allocation of Rs122 billion for fiscal year 2025-26. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/historical-milestone-pakistan-targets-permanent-imf-exit-with-63bn-export-goal-by-2029/ The minister expressed serious concern over extremely low fund utilization rates—only 10% for Power Division projects and 6% for hydel projects under the Water Resources Division. He stressed that these sectors consume a major portion of the development budget and urged immediate acceleration to prevent cost overruns, fiscal strain, and delays in delivering essential energy infrastructure. Prioritize Advanced Projects, Resolve Funding Bottlenecks Ahsan Iqbal directed officials to shift focus toward completing ongoing projects in advanced stages rather than starting new ones with zero progress, except in highly essential cases. The Power Division was instructed to identify priority critical projects and submit a detailed three-year funding proposal, including year-wise breakdowns of the minimum required allocation. Key projects reviewed included the 2x660MW Jamshoro coal-fired plant (Rs177 billion), the 500kV Matiari–Moro–Rahim Yar Khan transmission line (Rs188.5 billion), advanced metering infrastructure, distribution efficiency improvements in MEPCO and HESCO, Dasu transmission lines, Ghazi-Barotha Hydropower Project, NTDC SCADA upgrades, and power evacuation from the 2,160MW Dasu Hydropower Project (Stage-I). The Secretary Power Division was tasked with coordinating closely with Finance and Planning secretaries to address utilization issues. Officials emphasized translating public investments into operational assets for enhanced energy security and sustainable development.

KSE-100 Index Extends Rally as PSX Closes at Record Highs
Pakistan

KSE-100 Index Extends Rally as PSX Closes at Record Highs

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The KSE-100 Index continued its remarkable upward momentum on Monday, closing at 173,896.34, after gaining 1,495.61 points, or 0.87%, reflecting sustained investor confidence in Pakistan’s equity market. The latest surge reinforces the Pakistan Stock Exchange’s position as one of the best-performing markets in Asia during 2025. The benchmark KSE-100 Index remained firmly positive throughout the trading session, touching an intraday high of 174,411.72 points, while the day’s low stood at 173,200.41 points. Trading activity remained strong, with 360.62 million shares exchanged in KSE-100 constituents alone. KSE-100 Index Performance Highlights Market breadth remained balanced, indicating selective buying across sectors rather than speculative excess. • Advancing stocks: 52• Declining stocks: 47• Unchanged: 1 This healthy distribution underscores disciplined investor participation rather than one-sided momentum. Top Gainers and Losers in the KSE-100 Index Leading Gainers Several heavyweight and mid-cap stocks powered the KSE-100 Index higher: • Fauji Fertilizer Company (FFL) surged over 10%, reflecting renewed optimism in fertilizer sector earnings.• Pakistan Telecommunication Company (PTC) gained 10%, buoyed by strong volumes and sector-wide momentum.• Fauji Cement Company (FCCL) advanced nearly 5%, supported by construction sector optimism.• Askari Bank (AKBL) and The Searle Company (SEARL) also posted solid gains. Top Decliners Profit-taking was observed in select names: • Bank of Punjab (BOP) slipped nearly 3%• JDW Sugar Mills, Mehmood Textile, Habib Glass, and Cherat Cement also closed lower Despite these declines, the overall impact on the KSE-100 Index remained limited due to broad-based gains elsewhere. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/m-tag-islamabad-enforcement-vehicle-registration-deadline/ KSE-100 Index Point Contribution: Key Movers The rally was led by major index heavyweights: • Fauji Fertilizer Company (FFC) added over 470 points• United Bank Limited (UBL) contributed 170 points• PTC, Engro Fertilizers (EFERT), and Systems Limited (SYS) together added more than 300 points Conversely, downward pressure came mainly from BOP, Bank Al Habib (BAHL), Pakistan Oilfields (POL), and select cement stocks, though their combined drag was modest compared to gains. Sector-Wise Breakdown of the KSE-100 Index The KSE-100 Index received strong support from cyclical and growth-oriented sectors: • Fertilizer sector emerged as the top contributor, adding over 590 points• Commercial Banks added 335 points, reflecting improved macroeconomic stability• Technology & Communication stocks contributed 230 points• Oil & Gas Exploration and Marketing Companies also supported the index Meanwhile, limited weakness was seen in Textile Composite, Power Generation, Automobile Parts, and Sugar & Allied Industries, largely due to selective profit-taking. Broader Market Performance: All-Share Index The broader market mirrored the bullish trend: • All-Share Index closed at 104,139.24, up 655.29 points (+0.63%)• Total market volume: 858.05 million shares• Total traded value: Rs42.87 billion, up Rs4.81 billion from the previous session• Total trades: Over 402,000, across 484 companies Out of these, 176 stocks closed higher, 272 declined, and 36 remained unchanged, indicating active rotation across sectors. High-Volume Stocks Driving Market Liquidity Trading activity remained elevated, led by telecom, banking, and fertilizer names. Notable volume leaders included WTL, PTC, BOP, and FFL, reflecting sustained retail and institutional participation. High volumes alongside rising prices suggest strong accumulation rather than speculative churn. PSX Momentum Supported by Macroeconomic Stability The rally in the KSE-100 Index aligns with improving macroeconomic indicators. Since January 2025, the Pakistan Stock Exchange has delivered returns exceeding 50% in US dollar terms, ranking it among Asia’s top equity markets. Investor confidence is further reflected in a rapidly expanding investor base, which has now crossed 450,000 investors, marking a 37% increase in just 18 months. This expansion highlights growing financial inclusion and renewed trust in capital markets. KSE-100 Index Year-to-Date Performance • Fiscal Year Gain: 48,269 points (+38.42%)• Calendar Year Gain: 58,769 points (+51.05%) These gains underscore the depth and sustainability of the ongoing bull market. Outlook: What Lies Ahead for the KSE-100 Index With macroeconomic reforms gaining traction, easing inflationary pressures, and stronger corporate earnings visibility, analysts expect the KSE-100 Index to remain well-supported in the near term. While short-term volatility may emerge, the broader trend continues to favor long-term investors, particularly in banking, fertilizer, technology, and energy sectors.

Pakistan Railways Transports 8.2 Million Tonnes Freight in FY 2024–25
Pakistan

Pakistan Railways Transports 8.2 Million Tonnes Freight in FY 2024–25

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ISLAMABAD, Dec 29: Pakistan Railways achieved a significant milestone by transporting 8.2 million tonnes of freight during the fiscal year 2024–25, underscoring its vital role in the country’s logistics and supply chain. The freight volume included a wide range of essential commodities such as petroleum products, containers, coal, rock phosphate, fertilizer, wheat, and various other bulk items critical for industry, agriculture, and energy sectors. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/m-tag-islamabad-enforcement-vehicle-registration-deadline/ As per the National Transport Policy 2018, Pakistan Railways is positioned as the primary mode for long-haul freight movement between industrial zones and seaports. Despite this strategic importance, the department continues to face longstanding constraints including ageing infrastructure, limited line capacity, and shortages of rolling stock, which have historically limited operational efficiency. Fleet Expansion and Infrastructure Projects to Boost Capacity To overcome these challenges and enhance freight capabilities, Pakistan Railways has launched several key initiatives. The department has already inducted 200 high-capacity freight wagons into its fleet, with an additional 620 wagons currently under indigenous manufacturing for future induction. These additions are expected to increase load-carrying ability and operational flexibility. A major ongoing project includes the construction of a 105-kilometre railway line in collaboration with the Sindh government to connect Thar coal mines directly to the main network, facilitating domestic coal transportation and helping reduce reliance on imported coal. Further enhancements are planned, with work scheduled to begin next year on the Karachi–Rohri section (480 km) of Main Line-1 and the Rohri–Nokandi section (884 km) of Main Line-3. These upgrades aim to support increased freight from projects like Reko Diq and Thar coal fields, paving the way for greater efficiency and economic impact.

Punjab Closes 12 Canals for Annual Desilting: Mangla Command Shutdown Begins
Uncategorized

Punjab Closes 12 Canals for Annual Desilting: Mangla Command Shutdown Begins

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LAHORE, Dec 29: The Punjab Irrigation Department has initiated its routine annual canal closure programme amid reduced inflows in the Indus and Jhelum rivers due to limited snowmelt and low rainfall in catchment areas. This essential maintenance exercise focuses on desilting, repairs, and rehabilitation to enhance the efficiency of the province’s vast irrigation network. Twelve canals under the Mangla Command have been closed starting December 26, with water supply suspended for two weeks on a rotational basis. Desilting operations commence once the canals are fully emptied, allowing engineers to inspect and repair embankments, structures, and other infrastructure components. No Major Impact on Rabi Crops Assured The closures form part of a two-phase plan, with the remaining nine canals of the Tarbela Command scheduled to shut down within the next two weeks for a similar two-week period. The entire programme is expected to conclude by January 31, ensuring canals are ready for increased demand in February. Irrigation experts highlight that Punjab’s extensive canal system spans over 36,000 kilometres, with nearly 18,000 kilometres of main canals closed annually for desilting. Officials, including Chief Engineer Engr Rashid Minhas and Director Punjab Irrigation Research Institute Dr Ghulam Zakir Hassan Sial, emphasize that the shutdown provides a critical window to identify damages and carry out necessary improvements. Agriculture consultants, such as Dr Anjum Ali, reassure farmers that the timing poses no significant threat to Rabi crops like wheat, as irrigation needs remain low in January. Farmers can rely on tubewell water during this period, with canal supplies resuming fully in February to support peak requirements.

Rs2.8 Billion Approved for Multan Avenue Expansion: 9km Road to Get 3 Lanes, Green Corridors
Pakistan

Rs2.8 Billion Approved for Multan Avenue Expansion: 9km Road to Get 3 Lanes, Green Corridors

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MULTAN, Dec 29: The Multan Divisional Development Working Party (DDWP) has approved a major Rs2.8 billion scheme for the expansion and modernization of Multan Avenue, a key nine-kilometre corridor from Saidanwala Chowk to Sahu Chowk. This initiative, part of the Annual Development Programme, aims to convert the existing dual carriageway into a state-of-the-art urban boulevard, significantly easing traffic congestion and enhancing the city’s aesthetic and environmental appeal. The project follows the successful awarding of contracts in the second tender round, which yielded savings of approximately Rs900 million after the initial process was cancelled due to temporary funding constraints. All packages have been vetted under standard technical and financial procedures, with construction supervised by NESPAK and closely monitored by the Divisional Commissioner and senior officials. Eco-Friendly Features and Swift Timeline Set for Completion The expansion will widen the road from two to three lanes in each direction, complemented by 16-foot-wide service roads on both sides to separate local and through traffic. Key highlights include tuff pavers to control dust, 260 LED streetlights (a first for the corridor), landscaped green corridors spanning 18 kilometres, pedestrian walkways, safe crossings, off-street parking for 1,890 vehicles, paved medians, and repositioned electricity poles for improved safety. Additional amenities feature multi-use green parkways with benches, walking tracks, open-air gyms, gazebos, fountains, and artistic installations to promote recreation while preventing encroachments. Officials target completion within four months, promising a modern, sustainable landmark that boosts civic convenience, economic activity, and environmental quality in Multan.

M-Tag, Islamabad enforcement, vehicle registration deadline
Pakistan

M-Tag, Islamabad enforcement, vehicle registration deadline

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ISLAMABAD, Dec 29: With only two days remaining before full enforcement, the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) administration is witnessing a significant rush for M-Tag installations as authorities prepare to bar vehicles without the electronic tags from entering the federal capital starting January 1, 2026. The M-Tag, an RFID-based system linked to vehicle registration, aims to enhance security, streamline traffic monitoring, and reduce manual checks at entry points. Deputy Commissioner Islamabad Irfan Nawaz Memon has confirmed that M-Tag readers will be activated at all designated main entry points, with no extensions planned. Vehicles lacking the tag will face automatic restrictions, marking a major shift toward digital traffic management in the capital. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/pakistan-textile-council-calls-for-export-emergency-amid-sharp-decline-in-shipments/ Record-Breaking Daily Registrations Signal Public Response In the last 24 hours, 1,379 vehicles were fitted with M-Tags, pushing the total number of registered vehicles beyond 98,000 since the campaign intensified in mid-November. The administration has deployed extra staff and counters at 16 registration centers across the city to manage the growing crowds and minimize waiting times. Officials emphasized that the initiative will improve overall traffic flow, strengthen record-keeping, and support quicker emergency responses. Deputy Commissioner Memon urged residents not to delay, warning that last-minute rushes could lead to inconvenience once enforcement begins. Citizens are advised to visit only authorized centers and ensure accurate vehicle details during registration. The ICT administration has appealed for public cooperation, highlighting that timely compliance will prevent congestion and delays at entry points. As the January 1 deadline looms, authorities expect further spikes in registrations, reinforcing the system’s role in modernizing Islamabad’s urban mobility and security framework.

ABAD Former Chairman Arif Jeeva Passes Away
Pakistan

ABAD Former Chairman Arif Jeeva Passes Away

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ABAD Former Chairman Arif Jeeva has passed away, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, reform, and unwavering commitment to Pakistan’s construction and real estate sector. Members of the Association of Builders and Developers (ABAD) have expressed profound grief and sorrow over the demise of one of the industry’s most respected figures. According to ABAD officials, Arif Jeeva’s contributions to the construction ecosystem will be remembered for generations. His vision helped transform ABAD into a stable, influential, and proactive platform representing builders and developers across Pakistan. ABAD Former Chairman Arif Jeeva’s Lasting Contributions to the Construction Sector During his tenure, ABAD Former Chairman Arif Jeeva played a pivotal role in strengthening institutional advocacy for the construction and housing industry. ABAD members highlighted that his leadership enabled meaningful dialogue between the private sector and policymakers, particularly during times when the industry faced regulatory and economic challenges. His efforts were focused on: • Resolving long-standing industry issues• Promoting transparency and professional standards• Encouraging sustainable urban development• Supporting policy reforms to boost housing and construction growth ABAD officials stated that under Arif Jeeva’s leadership, the association made remarkable progress, emerging as a united and dynamic voice for builders and developers nationwide. ABAD Former Chairman Arif Jeeva’s Leadership Era Marked by Progress Industry peers recall that ABAD Former Chairman Arif Jeeva was known for his inclusive leadership style and pragmatic approach. He consistently worked to bridge gaps between stakeholders, ensuring that concerns of developers were effectively communicated to relevant authorities. ABAD members described his services in addressing construction-sector bottlenecks as unforgettable, noting that many policy-level improvements were achieved due to his persistent advocacy. Funeral Details of ABAD Former Chairman Arif Jeeva According to an official ABAD spokesperson, the funeral prayer of ABAD Former Chairman Arif Jeeva will be held in Karachi. The spokesperson confirmed that: • Funeral prayer timing: Tonight at 11:00 PM• Location: Rehman Mosque, Navy Housing Scheme, Karsaz, Karachi It was also disclosed that Arif Jeeva had been battling cancer for a prolonged period and passed away after a courageous fight with the illness. ABAD Expresses Solidarity with the Bereaved Family ABAD members collectively expressed their heartfelt condolences to the grieving family, emphasizing that the association stands shoulder to shoulder with them during this difficult time. Prayers were offered for the elevation of the departed soul’s ranks and for patience and strength for his loved ones. “May Allah Almighty grant the departed eternal peace and bestow courage upon the bereaved family,” ABAD stated in its official message. Why ABAD Former Chairman Arif Jeeva’s Legacy Matters The passing of ABAD Former Chairman Arif Jeeva marks the loss of a guiding force in Pakistan’s real estate and construction landscape. His leadership helped shape industry discourse at a national level and laid the groundwork for future reforms. As Pakistan continues to navigate economic recovery and housing sector growth, the principles championed by Arif Jeeva collaboration, stability, and industry unity remain more relevant than ever.

Gold Price in Pakistan Drops Amid Domestic and Global Pressure
Pakistan

Gold Price in Pakistan Drops Amid Domestic and Global Pressure

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Gold price in Pakistan witnessed a notable decline on Monday, reflecting weaker domestic demand and a pullback in international bullion markets. According to the All-Pakistan Gems and Jewelers Sarafa Association (APGJSA), prices of both gold and silver moved lower, marking one of the sharpest single-day drops in recent weeks. The decline comes at a time when investors are closely tracking global gold movements, currency fluctuations, and expectations around international interest rate trends. Gold Price in Pakistan Today: Latest Rates The gold price in Pakistan for 24-karat gold fell by Rs5,500 per tola, bringing the new rate down to Rs470,162 per tola compared to Rs475,662 recorded in the previous trading session. On a gram basis, 24-karat gold per 10 grams was sold at Rs403,088, reflecting a decrease of Rs4,715. Meanwhile, 22-karat gold also recorded a decline and was quoted at Rs369,510 per 10 grams. These price adjustments highlight short-term volatility in the domestic bullion market, influenced largely by international price corrections. Gold Price in Pakistan: Day-on-Day, Monthly, and Year-to-Date Trend From a broader perspective, despite the daily decline, gold price in Pakistan continues to show strong performance over longer timeframes. On a day-on-day basis, gold prices dropped by Rs5,500 per tola. However, over the past one month, gold prices have still increased by approximately Rs26,000 per tola, reflecting strong investor demand during recent weeks. Looking at fiscal performance, gold prices have surged by nearly Rs119,962 per tola so far in the current fiscal year, while calendar year-to-date gains stand at an impressive Rs197,562 per tola. This reinforces gold’s role as a hedge against inflation, currency depreciation, and economic uncertainty in Pakistan. Silver Prices in Pakistan Also Record Decline Alongside gold, silver prices in Pakistan also moved lower during the session. The price of 24-karat silver per tola declined by Rs332, settling at Rs8,075, compared to Rs8,407 previously. Similarly, silver per 10 grams fell by Rs284 and was quoted at Rs6,923. Despite the daily drop, silver has still posted gains of Rs2,166 over the past month, while fiscal year-to-date and calendar year-to-date increases stand at Rs4,293 and Rs4,725, respectively. Global Gold Prices Weigh on Gold Price in Pakistan The decline in gold price in Pakistan closely mirrors global trends. In international markets, spot gold traded near $4,475 per ounce, down by $51.3 or 1.13% from the previous session. This drop in global prices was driven by profit-taking, shifts in investor sentiment, and cautious positioning ahead of key economic indicators and central bank signals. Since Pakistan’s bullion market is directly linked to international gold prices and exchange rate movements, global weakness tends to transmit quickly into domestic rates. Market Outlook: What’s Next for Gold Price in Pakistan? Market analysts believe that while short-term corrections are possible, the medium-to-long-term outlook for gold price in Pakistan remains supportive. Persistent inflationary pressures, currency volatility, and geopolitical risks continue to strengthen gold’s appeal as a safe-haven asset. However, investors are advised to monitor global interest rate expectations, movements in the US dollar, and international gold demand trends, as these factors will play a decisive role in shaping prices going forward.

Pakistan Banks Association Elects Zafar Masud as Chairman and Constitutes 16-Member Executive Committee
Pakistan

Pakistan Banks Association Elects Zafar Masud as Chairman and Constitutes 16-Member Executive Committee

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Karachi, December 28, 2025: The Pakistan Banks Association (PBA) elected and constituted a new 16-member Executive Committee, including two female members and eight newly inducted member banks, marking a strategic shift toward greater inclusivity and broader industry representation. Following the elections, the Executive Committee unanimously elected Mr. Zafar Masud, President and Chief Executive Officer of The Bank of Punjab, as Chairman of the PBA. Commenting on his election, Mr. Masud said the newly constituted Executive Committee represents an important evolution in the Association’s governance. He noted that the expanded and more diverse membership strengthens the PBA’s ability to advance a National Economic Agenda, with a focus on bridging credit gaps in priority sectors, accelerating financial inclusion through digital channels, and supporting Pakistan’s sustainable economic recovery. The leadership team also includes Mr. Nassir Salim, President and Chief Executive Officer of Habib Bank Limited, as Senior Vice Chairman, and Mr. Yousaf Hussain, President and Chief Executive Officer of Faysal Bank Limited, as Vice Chairman. Mr. Nassir Salim emphasized the importance of resilience and strong compliance frameworks amid global headwinds, while Mr. Yousaf Hussain highlighted modernization, technology adoption, and agility as key priorities to ensure the banking sector remains innovative and regionally competitive. Commenting on the milestone, Mr. Muneer Kamal, Chief Executive Officer and Secretary General of the PBA, said that the expansion of the Executive Committee, including the historic inclusion of female representation, reflects the Association’s commitment to diversity and modern governance. Under the new leadership, the PBA aims to deepen collaboration with the State Bank of Pakistan, the Ministry of Finance, and the Federal Government to support infrastructure development, expand private sector credit for agriculture and SMEs, and advance the country’s digital transformation.

The Boardroom PK delivers trusted business news, analysis, and insights from Pakistan and beyond, keeping readers informed, inspired, and ahead in the evolving world of business and leadership.

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