Contact Us

Pakistan

Pakistan Petroleum Prices Cut January 2026: New Year Relief for Consumers and Businesses
Pakistan

Pakistan Petroleum Prices Cut January 2026: New Year Relief for Consumers and Businesses

/

Pakistan petroleum prices cut January 2026 has brought much-needed relief for consumers as the federal government announced a reduction in fuel prices for the first fortnight of the new year. Effective from January 1, 2026, the revised prices are expected to ease inflationary pressure on households, commuters, and key economic sectors across the country. The decision, notified by the Petroleum Division, follows recommendations from the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) and reflects declining trends in international oil markets. The move signals a positive start to 2026 amid persistent concerns over the cost of living. Petrol Price Reduction Under Pakistan Petroleum Prices Cut January 2026 Under the Pakistan petroleum prices cut January 2026, the government has reduced the price of petrol by Rs10.28 per litre. As a result, the new ex-depot petrol price stands at Rs253.17 per litre, effective until January 15, 2026. Petrol is the primary fuel for motorcycles, rickshaws, and small private vehicles, making it a crucial component of daily household expenses. Any reduction in petrol prices directly benefits urban commuters, salaried individuals, and lower- to middle-income households, who rely heavily on affordable transport for work and education. This price cut is expected to provide immediate financial relief, especially in major cities where fuel expenses make up a significant portion of monthly budgets. High-Speed Diesel Prices Reduced: Economic Impact Explained Alongside petrol, high-speed diesel (HSD) prices have also been lowered as part of the Pakistan petroleum prices cut January 2026. The government reduced HSD rates by Rs8.57 per litre, bringing the new price to Rs257.08 per litre. High-speed diesel plays a critical role in Pakistan’s transport and agricultural sectors. It is widely used in trucks, buses, trains, tractors, tube-wells, and threshers, making it one of the most inflation-sensitive fuels in the economy. A reduction in diesel prices helps lower the cost of transporting goods, particularly essential food items such as vegetables and grains. This, in turn, can contribute to easing food inflation, which remains a major concern for policymakers and consumers alike. Comparison With the Previous Fortnightly Review In the previous fortnightly price adjustment, the government had reduced diesel prices by Rs14 per litre, while keeping petrol prices unchanged. The latest revision reflects continued responsiveness to global oil price movements and domestic economic conditions. By cutting both petrol and diesel prices simultaneously, the government aims to create a broader economic impact, supporting consumers as well as supply-chain operators. Government Levies Despite Zero GST on Fuel Despite a zero general sales tax (GST) on petroleum products, consumers continue to bear significant government-imposed charges. These include petroleum levies and other duties, which make up a large portion of the final retail price. While the Pakistan petroleum prices cut January 2026 provides short-term relief, analysts argue that structural reforms in fuel taxation could offer more sustainable benefits for consumers and businesses in the long run. Economic Outlook After Pakistan Petroleum Prices Cut January 2026 The fuel price reduction is likely to have a positive ripple effect across the economy. Lower transport and production costs may support price stability, improve consumer confidence, and help businesses manage operating expenses more effectively at the start of the year. However, experts caution that global oil price volatility remains a key risk, and future adjustments will depend on international market trends and exchange rate stability.

OGDCL Oil and Gas Discovery Signals Major Boost for Pakistan’s Energy Sector
Pakistan

OGDCL Oil and Gas Discovery Signals Major Boost for Pakistan’s Energy Sector

/

OGDCL oil and gas discovery at the Baragzai X-01 (Slant) exploratory well marks a significant milestone for Pakistan’s upstream energy sector, reinforcing the country’s efforts to reduce reliance on imported fuel and strengthen indigenous hydrocarbon production. The Oil and Gas Development Company Limited (PSX: OGDC), Pakistan’s largest exploration and production company, announced a successful oil and gas discovery in the Nashpa Exploration License area, located in District Kohat, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. OGDCL operates the block with a 65% working interest, alongside Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL) holding 30% and Government Holdings (Private) Limited (GHPL) with a 5% stake. OGDCL Oil and Gas Discovery Delivers Strong Production Results The discovery was confirmed following a cased-hole Drill Stem Test (DST-02) conducted in the Jurassic-age Datta Formation, a proven hydrocarbon-bearing zone in the region. During testing, the Baragzai X-01 (Slant) well achieved impressive flow rates, producing 4,100 barrels of oil per day (BOPD) and 10.5 million standard cubic feet of gas per day (MMSCFD) at a 32/64-inch choke size. The well recorded a wellhead flowing pressure of 3,880 psig, reflecting strong reservoir energy and commercial viability. Instead of presenting raw production figures in tabular form, it is important to note that these output levels position the discovery among the more impactful onshore finds in recent years, particularly at a time when Pakistan is actively seeking domestic energy solutions. Baragzai X-01 Well Drilling and Geological Insights Drilling operations for the Baragzai X-01 (Slant) well commenced on December 30, 2024, and the well was drilled to a total depth of 5,170 meters, penetrating down to the Triassic-age Kingriali Formation. During drilling, approximately 187 meters of the Datta Formation were encountered. The presence of strong hydrocarbon shows, supported by petrophysical evaluations from open-hole wireline logs, indicated favorable reservoir characteristics. Additionally, fracture indications identified through advanced image logging techniques further enhanced confidence in the formation’s productivity. These encouraging indicators led to the decision to conduct a cased-hole drill stem test, which ultimately confirmed commercial quantities of oil and gas. OGDCL Oil and Gas Discovery Builds on Earlier Success Prior to the Datta Formation test, the well had already demonstrated hydrocarbon potential through successful cased-hole testing (CHDST-01) in the Kingriali Formation. This earlier success suggested the presence of a multi-zone petroleum system, enhancing the overall prospectivity of the Nashpa block. Such stacked pay potential not only improves project economics but also increases the long-term reserve base for OGDCL and its joint venture partners. Strategic Importance for Pakistan’s Energy Security The latest OGDCL oil and gas discovery is expected to play a meaningful role in narrowing Pakistan’s energy supply-demand gap. By adding new indigenous production, the discovery helps reduce pressure on foreign exchange reserves that are otherwise spent on importing oil and LNG. From a broader perspective, this discovery strengthens OGDCL’s reserve portfolio, enhances investor confidence in Pakistan’s upstream sector, and supports the government’s long-standing objective of maximizing domestic resource utilization. Conclusion: A Positive Signal for Investors and the Economy In conclusion, the Baragzai X-01 (Slant) discovery represents more than just another successful well, it is a strategic win for Pakistan’s energy landscape. With robust oil and gas flow rates, favorable geology, and strong partnerships between OGDCL, PPL, and GHPL, the project underscores the untapped potential of Pakistan’s onshore basins. As exploration activity continues and further appraisal work is undertaken, the OGDCL oil and gas discovery at Baragzai is poised to contribute meaningfully to national energy security, economic stability, and long-term hydrocarbon sustainability.

FBR Launches Scrutiny of Top Exporters' Tax Records Amid Regime Shift
Pakistan

FBR Launches Scrutiny of Top Exporters’ Tax Records Amid Regime Shift

/

The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has initiated a major scrutiny drive targeting over 480 leading exporters in Pakistan. This action follows amendments introduced through the Finance Act 2024, which altered Section 154 of the Income Tax Ordinance 2001. Previously, export proceeds were subject to a final tax regime, but the change converted it into a minimum tax system for Tax Year 2025. FBR analysis revealed that many exporters significantly reduced their declared taxable income after this shift, prompting concerns over potential inconsistencies or unjustified reductions. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/fbr-corruption-case-highlights-governments-zero-tolerance-policy/ Exporters’ Concerns and Potential Impact The directive, issued on December 30, 2025, instructs field formations to examine declarations closely and initiate actions under sections 177 (audit), 122(5A) (case reopening), and 175C (posting officers on premises) where abnormalities are found. Exporters and business councils, including the Pakistan Business Council, have voiced strong opposition, describing the move as creating panic and harassment. They argue it contradicts the government’s repeated pledges for export-led growth, highlighted by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and ministers like Muhammad Aurangzeb and Ahsan Iqbal, who advocate shifting to an export-driven economy to achieve targets like a $1 trillion GDP by 2035. Critics, including tax experts, warn that high energy costs, stuck refunds, and now potential audits could discourage investment in the export sector. The FBR has demanded detailed reports on actions taken, including revenue recovered, by January 1, 2025 (extended contextually). While the FBR aims to ensure compliance and prevent revenue leakage, the timing has sparked debate on balancing enforcement with facilitation for a vital sector contributing significantly to foreign exchange.This development underscores ongoing tensions between revenue collection goals and business ease in Pakistan’s tax landscape.

JazzCash Reaches 57 Million Customers, Processes Massive PKR 15 Trillion in 2025
Pakistan

JazzCash Reaches 57 Million Customers, Processes Massive PKR 15 Trillion in 2025

/

Karachi, Dec 31 — JazzCash has crossed 57 million customers, underscoring the rapid adoption of digital payments in Pakistan as the government accelerates its push toward a cashless economy. The digital financial services platform said its expanding merchant ecosystem, now comprising more than 850,000 Raast-enabled QR merchants, has emerged as a key enabler of the Prime Minister’s cashless economy initiative by bringing interoperable digital payments to small retailers and micro-businesses across the country. JazzCash processed gross transaction value of more than PKR 15 trillion during the year, reflecting rising consumer and merchant preference for mobile wallet-based transactions over cash. Read More:https://theboardroompk.com/jazz-confirms-acquisition-of-tpl-insurance-as-tpl-corp-grants-final-approval/ Pakistan’s central bank has reported that growth in retail payment transactions is being driven largely by mobile app-based payments and instant transfers, creating momentum for large-scale platforms operating at national reach. JazzCash’s QR-based merchant acceptance network has played a critical role in translating policy initiatives such as Raast Person-to-Merchant payments into everyday usage, allowing customers to make instant, low-cost payments at neighbourhood stores without cash or cards. Beyond in-store payments, the platform processed PKR 527 billion through its payment gateway, supporting the continued growth of e-commerce and digital business payments, while PKR 138 billion in international remittances flowed through its regulated channels, contributing to efforts to formalise cross-border inflows. The company said it also supported government-led digitisation of social protection, disbursing more than PKR 100 billion in welfare payments digitally, improving transparency and speed of delivery to beneficiaries. Digital financial products expanded alongside payments. JazzCash issued more than 200,000 digital loans on average per day in the fourth quarter of 2025, targeting short-term liquidity needs of consumers and micro-entrepreneurs, while facilitating the issuance of approximately 750,000 insurance policies daily, helping broaden access to basic coverage. “The Prime Minister’s cashless economy initiative is a game changer for Pakistan’s economic transformation,” said Aamir Ibrahim, Chairman of JazzCash International. “Jazz, JazzCash and Mobilink Microfinance Bank are fully committed to leading this shift by expanding digital access, deepening merchant acceptance and driving financial inclusion.” Murtaza Ali, CEO of JazzCash, said platforms with large merchant and user bases are increasingly central to Pakistan’s transition away from cash, as scale and interoperability help embed digital payments into routine economic activity. JazzCash plans to further expand its merchant acceptance network and deepen collaboration with regulators and ecosystem partners in 2026, as Pakistan seeks to accelerate digital adoption and reduce reliance on cash. suggest headlines

Pakistan Stock Exchange 2025 Performance Signals a Historic Turning Point
Pakistan

Pakistan Stock Exchange 2025 Performance Signals a Historic Turning Point

/

Pakistan Stock Exchange 2025 performance marked one of the most extraordinary years in the country’s capital market history, positioning the PSX among the world’s top-performing stock exchanges. Driven by improved macroeconomic indicators, fiscal discipline, and consistent investor-friendly policies, the benchmark KSE-100 Index delivered a remarkable 51 percent annual return, reflecting renewed confidence in Pakistan’s economic direction. By the close of trading on December 31, 2025, the KSE-100 Index reached an all-time historic high of 175,233 points, up sharply from 115,126 points at the end of 2024. Over the course of the year, the index gained more than 60,000 points, a performance widely seen by analysts as a clear sign of economic stabilization and capital market revival. KSE-100 Index Growth Highlights Pakistan Stock Exchange 2025 Performance The KSE-100 Index consistently set new records throughout the year, making Pakistan Stock Exchange 2025 performance a benchmark story in global equity markets. September emerged as a defining month, with the index posting its highest-ever monthly gain of 16,876 points. On September 1, 2025, the PSX crossed the symbolic 150,000-point level for the first time in history. Market momentum continued toward the year-end, with December alone contributing nearly 5,900 points within just 19 trading sessions, underlining strong institutional and retail participation. Analysts noted that the market’s steady advance toward the 200,000-point psychological milestone reflects strong long-term expectations tied to economic reforms and external account stability. Volatility Underscores Market Depth and Resilience Despite the strong bullish trend, Pakistan Stock Exchange 2025 performance was not without volatility. During periods of global uncertainty and profit-taking, the market experienced its largest single-day decline of nearly 8,000 points. However, these corrections were met with swift recoveries. Investor enthusiasm also drove the highest single-day gain in PSX history, exceeding 10,000 points, showcasing the market’s depth, liquidity, and resilience. These sharp swings demonstrated that while sentiment remained strong, investors actively responded to both domestic and global developments. Market Corrections and Recovery Trends April 2025 marked the steepest monthly decline, with the index shedding 6,480 points amid external pressures and short-term economic concerns. However, confidence rebounded quickly as macroeconomic indicators improved. Inflation showed signs of easing, foreign exchange stability strengthened, and policy continuity reassured investors, setting the stage for a strong recovery in the second half of the year. IPO Activity Strengthens Pakistan Stock Exchange 2025 Performance Primary market activity also gained momentum during the year. Six new companies were listed through Initial Public Offerings (IPOs), signaling growing confidence among corporates in Pakistan’s equity markets. Analysts believe this trend reflects improved valuation prospects, stronger regulatory oversight, and increasing appetite for capital raising through the PSX. Market Capitalization Expansion Reflects Structural Growth One of the most significant indicators of Pakistan Stock Exchange 2025 performance was the sharp expansion in market capitalization. Over the year, total market value increased by Rs5,566 billion, rising from Rs14,126 billion to Rs19,692 billion. This growth was also reflected in the rising number of large-cap companies. The count of firms with a market valuation exceeding $1 billion surged to 18, compared to only three such companies in 2023, highlighting the deepening and diversification of Pakistan’s equity market. Rising Investor Participation Strengthens Market Confidence Investor participation increased substantially in 2025, reinforcing the sustainability of market gains. The total number of investors grew by 37 percent, with 120,000 new investors entering the market during the year. As a result, the overall investor base surpassed 450,000, driven largely by strong returns, improved digital access, and greater financial awareness. Dollar-Based Growth Enhances Global Appeal In dollar terms, Pakistan Stock Exchange 2025 performance also stood out. The dollar value of the market increased by 42 percent, adding nearly $11 billion in value. Overall market capitalization rose from $55 billion to $66 billion, while rupee-based valuation expanded by 48 percent, making PSX increasingly attractive to foreign investors. Outlook: Can PSX Sustain Its Momentum? Market experts attribute the record-breaking performance to macroeconomic reforms, declining inflationary pressures, external account stabilization, and progress under international financial programs. If policy continuity is maintained and economic reforms deepen, analysts believe Pakistan’s capital markets could sustain their upward trajectory in the coming years. The Pakistan Stock Exchange 2025 performance represents a defining chapter in Pakistan’s financial history. With record index levels, expanding market capitalization, rising investor participation, and strong dollar-based growth, the PSX has reaffirmed its role as a key indicator of economic recovery and a vital platform for long-term investment and capital formation.

Pakistan Railways Sanitation Upgrade Marks a Turning Point
Pakistan

Pakistan Railways Sanitation Upgrade Marks a Turning Point

/

Pakistan Railways sanitation upgrade has emerged as a significant step toward improving passenger experience and modernizing public transport infrastructure across the country. In a move aligned with global best practices, Pakistan Railways has signed formal agreements with five major waste management organizations to enhance cleanliness and hygiene standards at some of the busiest railway stations nationwide. This initiative reflects Pakistan Railways’ growing focus on passenger comfort, public health, and operational efficiency, especially at stations that serve thousands of travelers daily. Pakistan Railways Sanitation Upgrade Through Strategic Partnerships As part of the Pakistan Railways sanitation upgrade, agreements have been finalized with the following waste management authorities: • Sindh Solid Waste Management Board• Rawalpindi Waste Management Company• Lahore Waste Management Company• Faisalabad Waste Management Company• Multan Waste Management Company Under these arrangements, each organization will manage sanitation operations at major railway stations located in Karachi, Rawalpindi, Lahore, Faisalabad, and Multan. Instead of listing responsibilities in isolation, the sanitation scope can be explained as a comprehensive cleanliness framework. The contracted firms will oversee hygiene across platforms, parking areas, washrooms, washing lines, platform sheds, ceiling fans, and waiting lounges. In addition, they will ensure the timely removal of stagnant water to prevent foul odors, mosquito breeding, and health hazards. Why the Pakistan Railways Sanitation Upgrade Matters A senior Pakistan Railways official stated that the Pakistan Railways sanitation upgrade is designed to create a healthier, safer, and more pleasant environment for commuters. Cleaner platforms, well-maintained waiting areas, and hygienic washrooms are expected to significantly improve passenger satisfaction and enhance the overall image of rail travel in Pakistan. This improvement becomes even more critical during the monsoon season, when poor drainage and unmanaged waste can lead to waterlogging and the spread of diseases. Proper waste disposal systems and effective sanitation practices will play a key role in minimizing these risks. Operational Efficiency Through Outsourcing Sanitation Services The Pakistan Railways sanitation upgrade also represents a strategic operational shift. By outsourcing cleanliness services to specialized waste management companies, Pakistan Railways can leverage trained manpower, modern equipment, and established operational systems without adding administrative burden. This approach allows the railways department to redirect its focus toward core priorities such as train safety, punctuality, service quality, and infrastructure upgrades. The move is expected to streamline internal processes while delivering visible improvements at station premises. Economic and Environmental Impact of the Sanitation Upgrade Improved sanitation under the Pakistan Railways sanitation upgrade is expected to deliver both economic and environmental benefits. Cleaner stations can attract more passengers, increase ridership, and enhance revenue generation for Pakistan Railways. From an environmental perspective, organized waste disposal and proper drainage systems support sustainable urban practices and reduce pollution around railway premises. This aligns with the government’s broader agenda of promoting environmentally responsible public transport systems. Pakistan Railways Sanitation Upgrade and the Future of Rail Travel The Pakistan Railways sanitation upgrade is more than a cleanliness initiative, it is a foundational step toward rebuilding public trust in rail travel. As stations become cleaner and more passenger-friendly, railways can reclaim their position as a reliable and affordable mode of transport. With continued focus on hygiene, modernization, and service quality, Pakistan Railways is gradually reshaping the travel experience, ensuring that public transport meets the expectations of today’s commuters while supporting long-term sustainability goals.

Pakistan Polio Eradication Campaign Records Sharp Decline in 2025
Pakistan

Pakistan Polio Eradication Campaign Records Sharp Decline in 2025

/

Pakistan Polio Eradication Campaign outcomes in 2025 indicate significant progress in the country’s decades-long fight against the virus, with reported cases falling by more than half compared to the previous year. The latest data underscores improved vaccination coverage and operational efficiency, even as frontline health workers continue to face severe security threats. According to the government-run Polio Eradication Initiative, Pakistan reported 30 confirmed polio cases in 2025, a steep decline from 74 cases recorded in 2024. The announcement followed the country’s final nationwide vaccination drive of the year, which targeted approximately 45 million children across all provinces. Pakistan Polio Eradication Campaign: Key 2025 Performance Indicators The Pakistan Polio Eradication Campaign has demonstrated measurable gains across multiple performance metrics in 2025. In simple explanatory terms, national surveillance data shows that total polio cases dropped by nearly 60 percent year-on-year, while vaccination reach exceeded 98 percent of the intended child population during the most recent immunization round. Health officials attribute this improvement to consistent nationwide campaigns, improved planning, and enhanced coordination between federal and provincial health authorities. Notably, no new polio infections have been reported since September 2025, a milestone that reflects the effectiveness of sustained immunization efforts throughout the year. Operational Gains and Vaccination Coverage Improvements Anwarul Haq, Coordinator of Pakistan’s National Emergency Operations Centre for Polio Eradication, confirmed that vaccination drives carried out in 2025 were instrumental in suppressing virus transmission. He noted that the country is preparing to launch its first anti-polio campaign of 2026 in the first week of February, signaling continuity in the eradication strategy. In explanatory terms, vaccination performance data reveals that nearly all targeted districts achieved coverage rates above international benchmarks. These results highlight stronger logistical execution, better community engagement, and improved monitoring mechanisms across most regions of the country. Security Challenges Remain a Major Risk to Pakistan Polio Eradication Campaign Despite progress, the Pakistan Polio Eradication Campaign continues to face serious security challenges, particularly in parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Health workers in these regions encounter resistance fueled by misinformation and militant propaganda, which falsely portrays vaccination efforts as foreign-backed conspiracies. Since the 1990s, officials estimate that more than 200 polio workers and police personnel assigned to protect them have been killed in targeted attacks. As a result, authorities now deploy thousands of police officers during each vaccination drive, following intelligence warnings of potential threats. From a risk-management perspective, these security constraints remain one of the biggest structural vulnerabilities in Pakistan’s eradication effort, increasing operational costs and limiting access to hard-to-reach populations. Pakistan and Global Polio Eradication Landscape Globally, Pakistan and Afghanistan remain the only two countries where polio has not been eradicated, according to the World Health Organization. Pakistan’s latest figures, however, suggest growing momentum toward elimination, provided immunization efforts are sustained without interruption. Experts caution that even limited virus transmission in isolated areas could reverse gains if vaccination campaigns slow down or security conditions deteriorate. Continuous funding, community engagement, and protection for frontline workers remain critical success factors. Outlook for Pakistan Polio Eradication Campaign in 2026 Looking ahead, health authorities remain cautiously optimistic. The sharp reduction in cases during 2025 positions Pakistan closer than ever to interrupting transmission entirely. However, officials emphasize that eradication is only achieved when zero cases are sustained over time. The Pakistan Polio Eradication Campaign enters 2026 with improved infrastructure, higher vaccination compliance, and renewed international confidence, yet the final mile will require unwavering political commitment and public trust.

DG Khan Cement to Build Pakistan's Largest 11,000 tpd Clinker Line
Pakistan

DG Khan Cement to Build Pakistan’s Largest 11,000 tpd Clinker Line

/

DG Khan Cement Company Limited (DGKC), one of Pakistan’s leading cement producers, announced on December 31, 2025, the establishment of a Letter of Credit for a groundbreaking brownfield project: the country’s largest single clinker production line with a capacity of 11,000 tons per day. The new line will be installed at Mauza Khofli Sattai, Dera Ghazi Khan site, further strengthening the company’s presence in southern Punjab. This development, disclosed via a notice to the Pakistan Stock Exchange, marks a significant step toward enhancing production efficiency and capacity. Boosting Capacity Amid Market Challenges Currently operating with a total clinker capacity of around 22,400 tons per day across its plants in Dera Ghazi Khan, Khairpur, and Hub, DGKC aims to solidify its position as a top player in the industry. The 11,000 tpd line surpasses previous records, including the company’s own 9,000 tpd facility at Hub. Established in 1978, DGKC supplies domestic markets through over 2,200 dealers and exports to regions like Bangladesh, Afghanistan, and Central Africa. Despite a 26.53% year-on-year decline in national cement exports in November 2025, this expansion signals confidence in long-term demand recovery, driven by infrastructure needs and modest domestic resilience. The project underscores DGKC’s commitment to scaling operations and leveraging its Nishat Group backing for sustained growth in a competitive sector.

Double-Decker Buses in Karachi Mark a New Era of Urban Mobility
Pakistan

Double-Decker Buses in Karachi Mark a New Era of Urban Mobility

/

Double-decker buses in Karachi have officially made a comeback, signaling a major milestone in the city’s long-overdue public transport transformation. The Sindh government formally inaugurated the service on December 31, with operations opening to the general public from January 1, aiming to ease congestion and modernize commuting for Pakistan’s largest metropolis. The initiative was launched by Sindh Senior Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon, who also oversees the transport portfolio, alongside Sindh Local Government Minister Syed Nasir Hussain Shah. The launch fulfills a promise made by the Sindh government in October 2024 to reintroduce double-decker buses in a city of over 23 million residents struggling with chronic mobility challenges. Double-Decker Buses in Karachi: Routes, Timelines, and Vision Speaking at the inauguration, Sharjeel Inam Memon highlighted that the launch aligns perfectly with the government’s deadline. He recalled that the Sindh government had committed to introducing double-decker buses in Karachi by December 2025, noting that the promise had been delivered right on December 31. Initially, the double-decker buses in Karachi will operate on high-demand corridors. According to official statements, the primary routes include: • Malir to Shahrah-e-Faisal, one of Karachi’s busiest arteries• Zainab Market (Saddar) to Model Colony, covering commercial and residential hubs These routes have been strategically selected to maximize ridership, ease daily commuting pressure, and support economic activity. A Historic Return After 65 Years According to a handout issued by the Sindh transport department, double-decker buses are being introduced again in Karachi after 65 years, making the initiative both symbolic and strategic. The return of this iconic mode of transport reflects a broader urban planning approach moving more passengers with fewer vehicles, thereby reducing traffic congestion and emissions. Expanding Public Transport Beyond Karachi Double-Decker Buses in Karachi and Province-Wide Plans The Sindh government’s transport vision extends well beyond Karachi. Minister Memon confirmed that new routes for electric buses (e-buses) will also be designated across Sindh, including Karachi, starting next week. He emphasized that public transport services are being offered at subsidized fares, with the provincial government absorbing operational costs to ensure affordability. Currently, more than 125,000 commuters use the People’s Bus Service daily in Karachi, highlighting strong demand for reliable mass transit solutions. Infrastructure Investment to Support Transport Growth Addressing concerns over road conditions, the minister revealed that the Sindh cabinet has allocated over Rs9 billion specifically for roads in industrial areas. Major infrastructure projects, including the Shahrah-e-Bhutto Expressway, are already underway to complement the expanded transport network. Improved roads are expected to enhance the efficiency, safety, and sustainability of the double-decker buses in Karachi, especially on high-traffic corridors. Covering Tourist Spots and Every Major Road When asked whether double-decker buses would also serve tourist destinations, the response was unequivocal. “Yes, definitely. We aim to cover not just tourist spots but every road,” Memon said. This approach positions the buses not only as a transport solution but also as a tool for promoting tourism and projecting a positive image of Sindh’s urban development. ‘A Gift from the Chief Minister’ In a separate statement, the Sindh Chief Minister’s Office described the launch of double-decker buses in Karachi as a “gift” to the city’s residents. Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah stated that Karachiites deserve modern, efficient transport and that the new service reflects tangible progress rather than political promises. “The city is now not just running, it’s progressing. Better transport facilities for Karachi are no longer a promise they are becoming a reality,” the CM was quoted as saying. Why Double-Decker Buses Matter for Karachi’s Future Instead of listing data in tables, the impact can be explained simply: • More passengers per bus means fewer vehicles on roads• Reduced congestion leads to shorter commute times• Subsidized fares support inclusive economic growth• Modern transport improves Karachi’s global city image The launch of double-decker buses in Karachi represents a critical step toward sustainable urban mobility. With clear timelines, expanding routes, heavy infrastructure investment, and strong political backing, the initiative has the potential to reshape how Karachi moves—today and in the years ahead. As Sindh targets province-wide transport expansion in 2026, Karachi’s double-decker buses may well become the symbol of a city finally catching up with modern urban standards.

Gold Heads for Best Year Since 1979 with 66% Surge
Pakistan

Gold Heads for Best Year Since 1979 with 66% Surge

/

As 2025 draws to a close, gold is poised for its strongest annual gain in nearly half a century, climbing approximately 66% year-to-date. Spot gold traded steady at around $4,345 per ounce on December 31, after reaching a record high of $4,549 earlier. This remarkable rally, the best since 1979’s geopolitical turmoil, has been fueled by US Federal Reserve interest rate cuts, expectations of further easing, robust central bank purchases, and surging ETF holdings. Geopolitical tensions, including ongoing conflicts, have further bolstered gold’s safe-haven appeal in a low-yield environment. Read More: https://theboardroompk.com/gold-price-in-pakistan-declines-sharply-amid-market-volatility/ Broader Precious Metals Rally Silver has stolen the spotlight with gains exceeding 150%, heading for its largest annual increase ever, driven by its critical mineral status, supply shortages, low inventories, and booming industrial demand. Spot silver dipped to $73 per ounce after a record $83 high. Platinum surged over 120%—its best ever—while palladium rose 65%, its strongest in 15 years. Analysts attribute recent volatility to thin holiday trading and margin hikes on futures. Looking ahead, experts like Ilya Spivak foresee gold potentially testing $5,000 in early 2026, as underlying catalysts remain self-sustaining amid persistent global risks and monetary policy support.

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.

Facebook Instagram X-twitter Linkedin Youtube
News
Categories
Company
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Services
  • Sitemap
  • Contact Us

© 2025 theboardroom. All rights reserved.

Scroll to Top