Author name: Web Desk

Top Saudi backed Fitness Brand - TriFit Expands to Islamabad with a New Wellness Facility
Pakistan

Top Saudi backed Fitness Brand – TriFit Expands to Islamabad with a New Wellness Facility

Karachi, June 3, 2026: TriFit, a Saudi backed fitness brand, has expanded its footprint beyond Karachi with the launch of TriFit Plus in Islamabad. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/pakistans-pine-nut-chilgoza-exports-to-china-nearly-double-in-two-years/ TriFit presently operates six clubs that offer fitness regimes in its world class facilities, and highly qualified trainers, and is planning to open 8 more facilities nationwide. The excellence and standards maintained at the outlets has positively contributed to preventive healthcare, fitness, and personal wellbeing, particularly among Pakistan’s urban population. The exciting launch event was attended by industry leaders, media personalities, fitness enthusiasts, social media influencers, students, and members of the business community. Prominent among the guests were former Judge of the Supreme Court of Pakistan, Justice (R) Athar Minallah; Senator Sarmad Ali, President of the All Pakistan Newspapers Society (APNS); renowned television actress Laila Zuberi; senior journalist and anchorperson Fahd Hussain; and President of the Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Usman Shaukat. Other notable attendees included Maj. Gen. Najam-us-Saqib, Commodore Nasir Mehmood, TriFit Board Members Shafqat Khan and Zafarullah Khan representing Saudi investors, renowned businessmen Zia Ansari, Jamal Ansari, Amer Hashmi and Nadeem Ansari, as well as Zia-ul-Rasheed, Director General, President House. They were joined by a distinguished gathering of corporate executives, media professionals, and prominent personalities from various walks of life at the launch of TriFit Islamabad. The Islamabad facility – TriFit Plus – represents the brand’s maiden presence in the federal capital and reflects its commitment to making modern fitness and wellness services more accessible. Speaking at the occasion, Ahmar Azam, Founder & CEO of TriFit, said the expansion aligns with the company’s vision of building healthier communities and encouraging long-term wellness through structured fitness programs and modern facilities: “Mental wellbeing is one of the top challenges facing young people today. The pressures of a fast-paced, constantly evolving world can often take a toll on emotional and psychological health. Regular physical activity is not only one of the most effective ways to manage stress, but also a powerful tool for building resilience, confidence, and a positive mindset. I hope this initiative encourages more people to embrace fitness as a lifestyle choice and recognize the profound impact it can have on both mental and physical wellbeing.” TriFit Plus has been designed as a comprehensive fitness and premium wellness destination, offering modern training equipment, group exercise programs, recovery facilities, wellness services, and dedicated workout spaces for men and women.

FBR Immediately Pay Billions in Refunds to Ghee and Oil Industry, Sheikh Umer Rehan
Pakistan

FBR Immediately Pay Billions in Refunds to Ghee and Oil Industry, Sheikh Umer Rehan

Long-Pending Refunds Must Be Cleared, Proposed in Budget to Increase Input Tax Adjustment Under Sales Tax Section 8B from 90% to 95%, PVMA Chairman Karachi: Chairman of the Pakistan Vanaspati Manufacturers Association (PVMA), Sheikh Umer Rehan, has strongly urged the federal government and the Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) to immediately release billions of rupees in long-pending sales tax refunds owed to the ghee and edible oil industry. He warned that the continued delay in refund payments has created a severe financial and liquidity crisis for the sector, making it increasingly difficult for manufacturers to manage routine business operations and maintain imports of essential raw materials. Sheikh Umer Rehan stated that billions of rupees in refunds due to the ghee and oil industry under Section 8-B of the Sales Tax Act remain outstanding with the FBR. He said these payments have been pending for an extended period, and the government’s failure to release the funds is placing significant pressure on manufacturers. He emphasized that the refunds represent the industry’s own money, already deposited with the government in the form of taxes. Therefore, he said, the government should ensure their immediate disbursement to support industrial activity and keep the economic wheel moving. Referring to the upcoming federal budget, the PVMA chairman proposed increasing the input tax adjustment limit under Section 8B of the Sales Tax Act from 90 to 95 percent. He called on the government and the Ministry of Finance to formally incorporate the proposal into the budget and ensure its prompt implementation to support the industry’s sustainability and improve the ease of doing business. Sheikh Umer Rehan further noted that the ghee and edible oil industry plays a crucial role in Pakistan’s food security and employment generation. He cautioned that failure to address the industry’s concerns, including the immediate release of refunds and relaxation of tax regulations, would increase production costs, which would not be in the interest of either the economy or the industry. He expressed hope that the Prime Minister and the Finance Minister would take immediate notice of the issue and direct the FBR to expedite the payment of all outstanding refunds.

Pakistan's Finance Professionals Are Among the Most Ambitious in the World, and They Are Telling Employers Exactly What They Want
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Pakistan’s Finance Professionals Are Among the Most Ambitious in the World, and They Are Telling Employers Exactly What They Want

ACCA’s Global Talent Trends 2026 reveals a Pakistani finance workforce defined by extraordinary entrepreneurial drive, deep social purpose, and acute economic pressure – and employers who fail to respond risk losing some of the most motivated talent in the region. Karachi: 03 June, 2026: If there is one word that captures Pakistan’s finance workforce in 2026, it is ambition. New research from ACCA (the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) finds that 86% of Pakistani finance professionals aspire to become entrepreneurs or business owners at some point in their careers, one of the highest rates recorded anywhere in the world, and a figure that speaks to both the dynamism of Pakistan’s economy and the scale of opportunity that finance professionals see within it. The Global Talent Trends 2026 report, drawing on responses from over 11,000 professionals in 160 countries, including 536 in Pakistan, paints a picture of a workforce that is purpose-driven, technically confident and under significant financial pressure. The combination creates both an opportunity and an urgency for employers operating in the Pakistani market. Social impact is not a trend, it is a deciding factor The survey’s findings on social purpose are among the most striking in the entire global dataset. Eighty-eight percent of Pakistani respondents say an organisation’s reputation on social and human rights issues is a key factor in deciding where to work, far above the global average of 75%, and one of the highest figures recorded across all 160 countries surveyed. Eighty-one percent want to pursue finance roles focused on social impact in the future, and 75% are drawn to careers with an environmental and climate remit. This is not idealism disconnected from economic reality. The report consistently finds that in emerging and developing markets, where social challenges are most visible and most acute, finance professionals see their skills as a direct instrument of change. In Pakistan, that connection is particularly powerful. Assad Hameed Khan, Head of Pakistan at ACCA, said: ‘Pakistan’s finance professionals are not just looking for a job. They are looking for a role in which their skills can contribute to something larger than themselves, whether through the organisation they work for or, increasingly, through building their own. The employers who understand this will find Pakistan an exceptional source of motivated, capable talent. Those who treat it as a cost centre will find retention a persistent and expensive problem.’ Compensation pressure is reaching a tipping point The cost-of-living picture in Pakistan is a defining feature of the data. Nearly two thirds of respondents (65%) are dissatisfied with their current pay, one of the highest rates of pay dissatisfaction in the global survey. An extraordinary 84% say they intend to ask for a pay rise in the next 12 months, compared to a global average of 62%. These are not abstract aspirations: they reflect the sustained economic pressures that Pakistan’s workforce has navigated over recent years, including the impact of inflation on real wages. Critically, the report finds that pay dissatisfaction alone does not fully explain flight risk. Employees who feel engaged and valued are more likely to pursue internal moves. But where organisations are seen to be falling short on pay, purpose or leadership transparency, the risk of departure increases sharply. AI confidence is high but governance questions linger On artificial intelligence, Pakistan’s finance professionals are notably confident. Eighty-eight percent say they feel confident in their ability to learn and apply AI-related skills, above the global average of 82%. More than half (57%) are already regularly using AI tools in their roles. But confidence in how AI is being deployed in recruitment is more measured: 43% say they trust AI algorithms to support fair hiring decisions, with concerns about bias and transparency running through qualitative responses. The conclusion mirrors the global picture: AI in hiring is inevitable, but the profession is demanding that it be governed responsibly. On office attendance, Pakistani respondents are among the most supportive of return-to-office mandates: 77% agree that organisations should require a set number of days in the office each week, and 71% believe office presence positively impacts career progression, notably above the global average of 58%. This reflects both the practical realities of certain roles in Pakistan and a cultural orientation toward visible professional commitment. Mental health remains a concern: 55% of Pakistani respondents say their mental health suffers because of work pressures, in line with the global average. The report identifies a clear link between organisations that fail to support employee wellbeing and higher rates of both disengagement and turnover. ‘The data from Pakistan should be read as a message to employers: the talent is here, the ambition is extraordinary, and the commitment to social purpose is among the strongest anywhere in the world. The question is whether employers are willing to meet that ambition with the investment (in pay, in purpose and in people) that it deserves,’ added Assad.

New Business Closing Timings Announced as Govt Revives Energy Conservation Measures
Pakistan

New Business Closing Timings Announced as Govt Revives Energy Conservation Measures

The federal government has officially notified new business closing timings across the country as part of its fuel conservation and austerity measures aimed at reducing energy consumption. Under the revised schedule, shops, markets, shopping malls, and general retail outlets will be required to close at 9pm. Restaurants, cafes, and other eateries will be allowed to continue operations until 11pm. The new timings were announced through an official notification issued on Wednesday and have been communicated to provincial governments for implementation. Decision Taken at High-Level Meeting The decision was made during a meeting of the Committee for Monitoring and Implementation of Austerity Measures. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar chaired the meeting on Tuesday. The committee reviewed ongoing energy conservation efforts and discussed measures to curb fuel consumption amid economic challenges. Following the meeting, authorities finalized the revised operating hours for commercial activities across the country. The government believes the restrictions will help reduce electricity and fuel consumption while supporting broader fiscal discipline measures. Takeaway and Delivery Services Exempt While the government has imposed new restrictions on physical business operations, several services will remain exempt. According to the notification, takeaway and delivery services will continue without any time restrictions. Restaurants and food outlets can therefore continue serving customers through delivery channels even after the specified closing hours. Officials say the exemption aims to balance energy conservation goals with business continuity and consumer convenience. Marriage Halls to Continue Existing Schedule The notification clarified that marriage halls and event venues will continue to follow their current operating schedule. These facilities will close at 10pm, and no further changes have been introduced for the wedding industry. The government has maintained the existing timings to ensure consistency in event management and enforcement. Essential Services Excluded from Restrictions Several sectors have been exempted from the revised regulations due to their critical role in daily life. Pharmacies, hospitals, fuel stations, and emergency medical services will continue to operate without restrictions. The government has also exempted information technology and telecommunications services from the new closing-hour requirements. Officials stressed that essential public services must remain fully operational regardless of energy conservation measures. Provinces Asked to Ensure Implementation The federal government has directed provincial administrations to coordinate with relevant authorities and ensure effective enforcement of the revised timings. The committee instructed provincial governments to implement the measures uniformly and monitor compliance in their respective jurisdictions. However, uncertainty remains regarding how quickly provinces will formally notify the new timings. As of Wednesday, provincial governments had not yet issued separate notifications outlining their implementation plans. Restrictions Originally Introduced Amid Fuel Price Surge The latest announcement marks the return of business-hour restrictions that were first introduced in April. At that time, federal and provincial governments imposed operating-hour limits as part of a nationwide energy conservation campaign. The move came after domestic fuel prices increased sharply following geopolitical tensions in the Middle East, which affected global energy markets. Authorities argued that reducing commercial operating hours would help lower electricity consumption and fuel demand across the country. The restrictions became a central component of the government’s broader austerity strategy. Eid Relaxation Had Temporarily Ended Restrictions The government temporarily eased the restrictions ahead of Eid ul Adha to facilitate shopping activity and support businesses during the festive season. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif approved a nationwide exemption from business closing-hour restrictions until May 31. The decision allowed commercial centers, shopping markets, and businesses to operate without mandatory closing times during the holiday period. The relaxation was welcomed by traders and business owners who had expressed concerns about the impact of earlier restrictions on commercial activity. Provinces Previously Lifted Operating-Hour Limits Several provincial governments had also relaxed business-hour restrictions before Eid. In Punjab, authorities suspended the mandatory 8pm market closure requirement and extended operating hours until June 1. The Sindh government announced a similar exemption on May 16. It removed fixed closing hours for markets, shopping malls, restaurants, hotels, and marriage halls. Meanwhile, the governments of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan also lifted restrictions on business operations, effectively ending the energy-saving measures in their provinces. Traders and Businesses Await Provincial Notifications With the federal government once again introducing operating-hour limits, traders and business owners are now waiting for detailed provincial notifications. Business associations are expected to closely monitor implementation plans and assess the impact on commercial activity. The government maintains that the measures are necessary to conserve energy and reduce fuel consumption during a period of economic pressure. Whether provinces adopt the revised schedule immediately remains to be seen, but the announcement signals a renewed focus on austerity and energy-saving efforts across Pakistan.

Oil Prices Climb for Third Day as Gulf Tensions Escalate and Dollar Nears Key Yen Milestone
Pakistan

Oil Prices Climb for Third Day as Gulf Tensions Escalate and Dollar Nears Key Yen Milestone

Oil prices climbed for a third straight session on Wednesday as renewed hostilities in the Gulf heightened concerns over global energy supplies. US crude futures rose nearly 2 percent to reach $95.40 per barrel after peace talks between the United States and Iran stalled, raising fears of further disruptions in one of the world’s most important oil-producing regions. The latest increase reflects growing market anxiety over the security of oil shipments through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical maritime route for global energy trade. US-Iran Conflict Raises Supply Concerns Market sentiment turned cautious after fresh military exchanges between Washington and Tehran. According to the US Central Command, Iran launched missiles toward Kuwait and Bahrain. The attacks were reportedly intercepted or failed to reach their targets. In response, US forces struck Iran’s Qeshm Island, located near the Strait of Hormuz. Meanwhile, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards claimed responsibility for attacks targeting the headquarters of the US Fifth Fleet. The escalation came only days after both countries signaled progress toward a potential agreement aimed at ending hostilities. However, the absence of a formal deal has revived concerns that tensions could continue to threaten regional stability and global energy supplies. Strait of Hormuz Remains Under Pressure Analysts say the Strait of Hormuz remains a major source of concern for oil markets. ANZ Bank Senior Commodity Strategist Daniel Hynes noted that efforts to fully reopen the waterway face significant challenges. He said Iran has reportedly mined large areas of the strategic passage, making commercial shipping operations difficult. Although some vessels have resumed transit, shipping volumes remain significantly below pre-conflict levels. The Strait of Hormuz handles a substantial portion of the world’s crude oil exports, making any disruption a key driver of oil prices. US Oil Inventories Continue to Fall Adding further support to oil prices, US crude stockpiles declined for a seventh consecutive week. Market sources citing data from the American Petroleum Institute reported that crude inventories fell by 6.8 million barrels during the week ending May 29. The sustained decline in stockpiles suggests strong demand and tighter supply conditions in the world’s largest economy. Investors are now awaiting official inventory figures from the US government for additional market direction. Dollar Approaches 160 Yen Level Currency markets also reacted to the evolving geopolitical situation. The US dollar briefly touched the 160-yen level before retreating slightly as traders became cautious about potential intervention by Japanese authorities. The dollar later traded near 159.86 yen. The 160-yen mark remains a closely watched level because previous moves beyond it have prompted action from Japanese policymakers seeking to stabilize their currency. The euro remained relatively stable at $1.1627. AI Boom Continues to Support Global Stocks Despite rising geopolitical risks, artificial intelligence-related stocks continued to drive gains in equity markets. Stock indexes in Japan and Taiwan reached record highs as investors maintained confidence in AI-driven growth opportunities. Wall Street also recorded modest gains overnight, supported by strong performance in the technology sector. Shares of chipmaker Marvell Technology surged 32.5 percent to a record high after Nvidia Chief Executive Jensen Huang described the company as a potential trillion-dollar business during the Computex technology conference in Taipei. The AI sector has largely remained resilient despite growing uncertainty in global markets. Bitcoin Falls to Two-Month Low Cryptocurrency markets moved sharply lower as investors reduced exposure to riskier assets. Bitcoin dropped nearly 10 percent over three trading sessions and fell to a two-month low of $66,123. Analysts said geopolitical uncertainty and changing interest rate expectations contributed to the decline. The broader cryptocurrency market also experienced significant losses as traders shifted toward safer investments. Investors Reassess Interest Rate Outlook Fresh US economic data added another layer of complexity to financial markets. Job openings in the United States recorded their largest increase in five years during April, signaling continued strength in the labor market. The data reduced expectations that the US Federal Reserve would cut interest rates in the near future. Instead, markets have started pricing in the possibility of rate increases later this year. Analysts believe stronger-than-expected employment data could further support the US dollar and reinforce expectations of tighter monetary policy. Markets Brace for More Volatility Investors are now closely watching upcoming US economic reports, including services sector data and employment figures due later this week. At the same time, developments in the Gulf remain a major source of uncertainty. With oil supplies under pressure, geopolitical tensions rising, and central banks reassessing interest rate paths, financial markets could face continued volatility in the days ahead. The combination of higher oil prices, military tensions, and shifting monetary policy expectations is likely to keep investors on edge as global markets navigate an increasingly uncertain environment.

US Forced Labour Tariffs Could Hit Pakistan as Washington Targets 60 Economies
Pakistan

US Forced Labour Tariffs Could Hit Pakistan as Washington Targets 60 Economies

The United States Trade Representative (USTR) has proposed new tariffs on imports from 60 economies, including Pakistan and India, over what Washington describes as inadequate action against goods produced through forced labour. The proposed duties range from 10% to 12.5% and are part of a broader effort by the Trump administration to reshape its trade policy following recent legal setbacks. According to a government filing, the proposed measures will undergo a public consultation process before any final decision is made. Pakistan Among Countries Facing Proposed Duties The USTR divided the targeted economies into two categories based on its findings. According to the agency, 54 economies failed to impose and effectively enforce bans on imports linked to forced labour. This group includes major trading partners such as China, Vietnam, Taiwan, and the United Kingdom. Another six economies, including Pakistan, Canada, Mexico, Indonesia, Ecuador, and the European Union, were found to have imposed such prohibitions but allegedly failed to enforce them effectively. The inclusion of Pakistan on the list could raise concerns among exporters if the proposed duties move forward. Washington Cites Concerns Over Forced Labour The latest action follows investigations launched by the United States into several trading partners earlier this year. The probes examined whether countries had taken meaningful steps to prevent the import of products made with forced labour and whether such imports affected American businesses and workers. US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer said the findings revealed significant shortcomings among key trading partners. “The failure of our most important trading partners to address the importation of goods made with forced labour is unacceptable,” Greer said in an official statement. He argued that the issue creates unfair competition for American workers and businesses. According to US officials, countries that do not adequately restrict forced labour products gain an economic advantage by allowing lower-cost goods to enter global markets. Tariffs Part of Broader Trade Strategy The proposed duties are part of a wider trade agenda being pursued by the Trump administration. Earlier this year, the US Supreme Court struck down a significant portion of President Donald Trump’s tariff framework, creating legal challenges for several trade measures. In response, US officials launched new investigations under different legal authorities to support the introduction of more durable trade restrictions. Apart from the forced labour investigations, the USTR has also opened inquiries into excess industrial capacity and other trade-related concerns. Analysts view the latest move as an attempt by Washington to rebuild its tariff strategy using findings from targeted investigations. Several Products Could Be Exempt Despite the broad scope of the proposed tariffs, the USTR has outlined several exemptions. Products such as beef, coffee, and certain fruits and nuts would not be subject to the additional duties. Imports from Canada and Mexico that comply with the North American free trade agreement would also remain exempt. In addition, some textile and apparel products are expected to avoid the proposed tariffs. These exemptions suggest that the United States is attempting to balance trade enforcement with the need to avoid major disruptions to supply chains and consumer markets. Potential Impact on Pakistan Pakistan’s exports to the United States include textiles, apparel, leather products, sporting goods, surgical instruments, and other manufactured items. Although the proposed duties have not yet been finalized, exporters will closely monitor developments in Washington. Any increase in tariffs could affect the competitiveness of Pakistani products in one of the country’s most important export destinations. Trade experts say the final impact will depend on the scope of the measures, the products covered, and any exemptions that may apply to Pakistani exports. At this stage, the proposal remains under review and no immediate changes have been announced. Public Consultation Process Begins The USTR has invited stakeholders, businesses, industry groups, and members of the public to submit written comments on the proposal. The deadline for comments is July 6. Following the consultation period, the agency will conduct hearings before making a final determination. The review process could lead to changes in the proposed tariff rates, exemptions, or implementation timeline. Global Trade Partners Watch Closely The proposal has drawn attention from governments and businesses around the world because it affects a large number of economies. If approved, the measures could reshape trade relationships between the United States and several key partners. For Pakistan, the development highlights the growing importance of labour standards and trade compliance in international markets. As the consultation process moves forward, exporters and policymakers will be watching closely to see whether the proposed US forced labour tariffs become a permanent part of Washington’s evolving trade policy.

Karachi Traffic Police Issue E-Challans for Lane Violations on Sharea Faisal
Pakistan

Karachi Traffic Police Issue E-Challans for Lane Violations on Sharea Faisal

The Karachi Traffic Police continued issuing electronic challans for lane violations on Sharea Faisal for a second consecutive day as authorities gradually implement a new traffic management system. The initiative aims to improve lane discipline and traffic flow on one of Karachi’s busiest roads through electronic monitoring and surveillance technology. Officials say the enforcement campaign is currently being carried out in phases to help motorists adjust to the new regulations. Hundreds of Violations Recorded Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Traffic Karachi Pir Muhammad Shah said the electronic monitoring system detected hundreds of violations during the first day of enforcement. According to the traffic police, 96 challans were issued on the second day for various violations, including speeding, lane misuse, and unauthorized use of the fast-track lane. Authorities also fined rickshaw drivers, commercial vehicle operators, and helmetless motorcyclists found violating traffic regulations. The violations were detected through an existing network of surveillance cameras installed along Sharea Faisal. Leniency Granted During Initial Phase The traffic police have introduced a transition period to help commuters become familiar with the new lane discipline system. DIG Shah said authorities are currently exercising limited leniency and issuing challans only during morning and evening peak traffic hours. He explained that the phased approach is intended to educate road users and encourage voluntary compliance before stricter enforcement begins. Officials hope the gradual implementation will reduce confusion among motorists and improve adherence to traffic rules. Fast-Track Lane Restricted for Certain Vehicles Traffic authorities have strictly prohibited motorcycles, rickshaws, and commercial vehicles from using the fast-track lane. DIG Shah urged drivers and riders to follow designated lane allocations to ensure smoother traffic movement on Sharea Faisal. He said motorcyclists and commercial vehicles should use the third and fourth lanes instead of entering restricted areas. The traffic police believe proper lane discipline will reduce congestion and improve road safety. Second Right Lane Under Observation Authorities revealed that motorcyclists entering the second lane from the right are not currently being fined. However, the exemption is temporary. DIG Shah warned that stricter enforcement will begin in the coming days once the awareness phase concludes. Motorcyclists and other road users violating lane rules will then face penalties without warning. The traffic police aim to complete the transition period before fully implementing the new regulations. Fines Fixed According to Vehicle Category The Karachi Traffic Police have established specific penalties for different vehicle categories. Under the new policy: Motorcycles and rickshaws face fines of Rs2,500.Buses and larger commercial vehicles face fines of Rs7,500. Officials say the penalties are designed to discourage repeated violations and improve compliance with traffic laws. The fines are automatically generated through the e-challan system based on footage captured by surveillance cameras. New Traffic Management Plan Takes Effect The e-challan system for lane violations officially came into effect on June 1. The initiative forms part of a broader traffic management strategy introduced by the Karachi Traffic Police to improve road discipline and reduce congestion on major roads. Earlier, DIG Traffic Pir Muhammad Shah announced plans to use the city’s existing surveillance infrastructure to enforce structured lane discipline on Sharea Faisal. Authorities consider the corridor one of Karachi’s most important traffic routes, carrying thousands of vehicles daily. Traffic Police Aim for Compliance, Not Revenue Despite the increased enforcement, traffic authorities insist that their primary objective is improving road behavior rather than collecting fines. “Our aim is to keep fines to a minimum while maximising compliance with traffic regulations,” DIG Shah said. Officials believe that better lane discipline will lead to smoother traffic flow, fewer accidents, and a safer commuting experience for Karachi residents. As the transition period continues, motorists are being urged to familiarize themselves with the new lane rules to avoid penalties when stricter enforcement begins.

Police Trace Bank Accounts Allegedly Used in Anmol Pinky Drug Network
Pakistan

Police Trace Bank Accounts Allegedly Used in Anmol Pinky Drug Network

Investigators have submitted details of bank accounts allegedly connected to the financial network of Anmol alias Pinky in an ongoing narcotics case. According to a police report presented before the court, proceeds from the alleged sale of narcotics were transferred through several bank accounts operated by the accused’s alleged facilitators. The report forms part of the broader investigation into suspected drug trafficking activities and related financial transactions. Multiple Bank Accounts Under Investigation Police told the court that two suspects, identified as Zeeshan and Sohail, allegedly managed several bank accounts used for financial transactions linked to the narcotics trade. According to investigators, Zeeshan operates five bank accounts across three different banks, while Sohail maintains two accounts in two separate banking institutions. Authorities claim these accounts were used to receive and transfer funds generated through the alleged sale of narcotics in Karachi. Investigators are now examining transaction records and account activity as part of the ongoing probe. Millions of Rupees Allegedly Generated Through Drug Sales The police report alleges that Anmol, also known as Pinky, was involved in the sale of narcotics worth millions of rupees across various parts of Karachi. According to investigators, all financial dealings related to the alleged narcotics business were conducted through the bank accounts under scrutiny. Police claim the accounts contain records of incoming transactions, including details about the individuals who transferred funds and the sources from which the money originated. Authorities believe the financial records could help identify additional individuals linked to the alleged network. Investigators Probe Financial Trail Law enforcement officials are focusing on the financial aspect of the case to determine the scale of the alleged operation. Investigators say tracing the movement of funds could provide key evidence regarding the suspected narcotics network and its operations. The report submitted to the court indicates that authorities are reviewing transaction histories and banking records to establish links between the accused and the alleged proceeds from drug sales. Officials have not yet disclosed the total amount of money that passed through the accounts. Anmol Pinky Arrested Earlier This Month Anmol alias Pinky was arrested earlier this month during a joint operation conducted by police and a civilian intelligence agency. Authorities carried out the raid at her apartment in Karachi’s Garden area. The arrest was made in connection with two separate cases involving the alleged possession of narcotics and an unlicensed weapon. Following the arrest, investigators expanded the inquiry to examine financial transactions and possible facilitators linked to the case. Investigation Continues Police say the investigation remains ongoing and additional evidence is being collected. Authorities are continuing to analyze banking records and financial data submitted before the court. Further developments are expected as investigators seek to determine the extent of the alleged narcotics operation and identify any additional suspects connected to the case. The court is expected to review the evidence presented by investigators as legal proceedings move forward.

Is Karachi Becoming a Nocturnal City? Why Thousands Sleep at Dawn and Start Their Day at Noon
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Is Karachi Becoming a Nocturnal City? Why Thousands Sleep at Dawn and Start Their Day at Noon

Karachi is often described as Pakistan’s economic engine, a city that never stops moving. While discussions about Karachi usually focus on traffic congestion, water shortages, crime, pollution, and infrastructure challenges, another transformation is quietly taking place. Increasingly, thousands of Karachi residents are sleeping at dawn and waking up around noon. From freelancers serving international clients to university students studying late into the night, a growing segment of the city’s population now operates on a schedule that differs dramatically from traditional working hours. The shift raises an important question: Is Karachi gradually becoming a nocturnal city? The Rise of the Night Shift Economy For many Karachiites, nighttime is no longer a period of rest. Instead, it has become the most productive part of the day. The growth of remote work and freelancing has connected Karachi’s workforce to clients across the United States, Europe, Canada, and Australia. Since these markets operate in different time zones, many professionals adjust their schedules accordingly. A freelance graphic designer based in Gulshan-e-Iqbal may begin work at 8 p.m. and continue until 4 a.m. to attend meetings with clients in New York or London. Software developers, digital marketers, virtual assistants, and content creators often follow similar routines. The expanding digital economy has effectively created a workforce that earns during Pakistan’s nighttime hours. Call Centers Keep Thousands Awake Another major factor behind Karachi’s changing sleep patterns is the call center industry. Many customer support companies operate throughout the night to serve overseas customers. Employees frequently begin shifts after sunset and return home when most people are preparing for work. For these workers, sleeping after sunrise is not a lifestyle choice but a professional necessity. As the outsourcing industry continues to expand, more young professionals are entering occupations that require them to remain awake during conventional sleeping hours. Students Turn Night Into Study Time University students are also contributing to the city’s changing routine. Academic pressure, examinations, assignments, and online learning resources have encouraged many students to study late into the night. Some believe they can concentrate better when traffic noise decreases and family activities slow down. Many students report sleeping between 3 a.m. and 6 a.m., especially during examination periods. The widespread availability of high-speed internet has further enabled overnight study sessions, allowing students to access lectures, research materials, and educational content at any hour. Content Creators and Gamers Embrace Nightlife The creator economy has also played a role in reshaping daily schedules. YouTubers, streamers, podcasters, video editors, and social media influencers often spend late-night hours creating and uploading content. Some schedule livestreams to reach international audiences, while others edit videos during quieter hours when interruptions are minimal. Similarly, online gaming communities remain active well into the early morning. Multiplayer gaming sessions frequently continue until sunrise, particularly among younger users. The combination of entertainment, social interaction, and digital competition has contributed to delayed sleeping habits among many urban residents. Karachi’s Late-Night Markets The city’s commercial culture further supports nocturnal lifestyles. In many parts of Karachi, business activity continues long after midnight. Areas such as Burns Road, Boat Basin, Bahadurabad, and several commercial districts remain crowded until the early hours of the morning. Restaurants, tea cafés, roadside eateries, and food stalls attract customers throughout the night. For delivery riders, restaurant workers, and transportation providers, these late-night businesses create employment opportunities that extend far beyond traditional working hours. As a result, entire segments of the urban workforce remain active while much of the country sleeps. Heat and Electricity Challenges Influence Sleep Climate conditions may also be affecting sleeping patterns. Karachi’s summers have become increasingly intense. During periods of extreme heat, many residents find it difficult to sleep comfortably before midnight. Some individuals prefer staying awake during the hottest hours and sleeping later in the morning when temperatures are relatively manageable. Electricity disruptions and inconsistent power supply in certain neighborhoods can further disrupt normal sleep cycles. When residents experience uncomfortable indoor conditions during the night, they often delay sleep until cooler hours. The Health Cost of a Nocturnal Lifestyle While nighttime productivity offers economic advantages, health experts warn that irregular sleep schedules can carry risks. Research around the world has linked chronic sleep disruption to fatigue, reduced concentration, stress, anxiety, obesity, and cardiovascular problems. Individuals who routinely sleep during daylight hours may also face difficulties maintaining family relationships and social connections because their schedules differ from those of relatives and friends. Many workers report feeling disconnected from daytime activities, public services, and family gatherings. The phenomenon remains largely undocumented in Pakistan. A New Urban Reality Karachi has always adapted to economic and social change. Today, globalization, digital employment, climate pressures, and evolving lifestyles appear to be reshaping something far more personal: the city’s biological clock. While millions still follow traditional schedules, a growing number of residents now begin their most productive hours after sunset and end their day at sunrise. The question is no longer whether some Karachiites are living this way. The real question is how many. As remote work expands, digital industries grow, and the city’s nighttime economy continues to flourish, Karachi may be moving toward a future where dawn signals bedtime for thousands and noon marks the start of their day. Such a transformation could make Karachi one of South Asia’s most active nocturnal urban centers, redefining what it means to live and work in Pakistan’s largest city.

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