Lahore: Husnain Aulakh, Special Correspondent
Director General of the Lahore Development Authority (LDA), Tahir Farooq conducted visits to various parts of the city to review ongoing development and upgradation initiatives. The DG carried out a detailed inspection of Ferozepur Road from Chungi Amar Sidhu to Kalma Chowk. He also reviewed development works underway under the sustainable development model along Khayaban-e-Jinnah in Johar Town. During the visit, Tahir Farooq directed the NESPAK team to prepare remodeling designs for the areas outside General Hospital, Children’s Hospital and Gulab Devi Hospital to improve traffic flow, pedestrian facilities and overall urban outlook. He further instructed authorities to remove encroachments in front of properties along Ferozepur Road and to ensure facade upgradation in accordance with approved urban design standards.
Speaking on the occasion, the DG LDA stated that work is in progress on upgrading footpaths and adjacent properties around key junctions on Khayaban-e-Jinnah under a sustainable urban development model. He directed that, in coordination with the district administration, encroachments and illegal parking be eliminated to ensure smooth traffic movement. A sample façade upgradation model for properties along Ferozepur Road was also ordered to be installed for review. Later, the DG LDA visited Main Boulevard Garden Town and Khurshid Kasuri Road to assess development conditions. The Project Director, Director Architecture and other concerned officials accompanied him during the inspections.

Karachi | ReNews Pakistan
A gas explosion caused a partial collapse of a residential building in Karachi’s Soldier Bazaar area, rescue officials confirmed, triggering serious concerns regarding structural safety, land use compliance, and the condition of aging urban housing stock. Emergency response teams promptly reached the site and secured the affected premises to prevent further risk to residents and neighboring properties.
Initial assessments indicated that the explosion compromised sections of the building’s structural framework, raising questions about the integrity of older residential constructions within densely populated urban zones. Authorities initiated a detailed structural evaluation to determine whether the remaining portions of the building are safe for continued occupancy or require evacuation and controlled demolition.
Urban management officials noted that such incidents underscore the urgent need for regular inspection of residential buildings, particularly those constructed decades ago without modern safety standards. Aging gas pipelines, unregulated internal modifications, and inadequate maintenance of utility infrastructure can significantly increase the risk of structural failures, affecting both property safety and surrounding land value.
The incident also prompted authorities to review compliance with building regulations, occupancy approvals, and utility safety protocols across similar residential clusters in the area. Officials emphasized that ensuring structural stability and proper utility management is essential to protect residents, preserve property integrity, and maintain confidence in urban real estate environments.
Monitoring teams continue to evaluate adjacent structures to ensure that nearby buildings have not suffered hidden structural damage, while relevant departments are expected to undertake broader inspections to strengthen safety enforcement across Karachi’s older residential districts.

Lahore: Husnain Aulakh, Special Correspondent | ReNews Pakistan
Following the directives of Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif, a key meeting was held under the chairmanship of Housing Secretary Punjab Noor-ul-Amin Mengal to ensure the uninterrupted supply of clean drinking water to citizens during the holy month of Ramadan. The meeting reviewed a comprehensive strategy to keep all water filtration plants under the Punjab Clean Water Authority fully operational.
The Housing Secretary instructed that the provision of safe and high-quality drinking water to citizens must not be disrupted under any circumstances. Relevant authorities were directed to remain on high alert and keep field teams fully mobilized. He emphasized that regular cleaning and maintenance of water filtration plants must be ensured to maintain the highest water quality standards.
During the meeting, the CEO of Punjab Clean Water Authority provided a briefing on the proposed plan and outlined arrangements to meet the increased water demand during Ramadan. The Housing Secretary further instructed that the monitoring system be strengthened to ensure the prompt resolution of any public complaints, and that any issues related to plant malfunctions be addressed immediately.
Secretary Housing Noor-ul-Amin Mengal made it clear that no negligence will be tolerated in the water supply system. He stressed that clean drinking water is a fundamental right of every citizen, and providing high-quality water is a core responsibility of the government. He added that ensuring the provision of safe water is the foundation of a healthy society, and all relevant departments must fully perform their responsibilities.

Pattoki | Sadaf Arshad District Reporter | ReNews Pakistan
Under the directives of Deputy Commissioner Kasur Asif Raza, Assistant Commissioner Pattoki Nishtar Rehman Lodhi conducted a detailed inspection of Ramadan Sahulat Bazaars and designated Nigahban Dastarkhwan locations across Pattoki during the holy month of Ramadan. The review aimed to ensure that all sites allocated for public use remain fully functional, well-equipped, and efficiently managed to provide maximum convenience to residents.
During the visit, Nishtar Rehman Lodhi assessed the available facilities, seating arrangements, hygiene standards, and lighting at the designated locations. Staff were instructed to maintain these areas meticulously and promptly address any shortcomings to ensure that citizens receive organized, reliable, and high-quality services.
Special attention was given to ensuring easy access, parking arrangements, and other basic amenities at designated sites. Additionally, areas associated with commercial activity, land use, and property were also reviewed to confirm that all operations comply with regulations and urban planning standards, preventing unauthorized or unplanned structures from disrupting public convenience and site functionality.
Nishtar Rehman Lodhi emphasized that maintaining fully operational and well-organized public spaces during Ramadan is a top priority for the district administration. He instructed staff to continuously monitor facilities, hygiene, and infrastructure so that citizens can access dignified and orderly services, while designated sites remain safe, clean, and fully functional throughout the holy month.

Kasur | District Reporter Sadaf Arshad | ReNews Pakistan
Pursuant to the explicit instructions of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, the Deputy Commissioner of Kasur Asif Raza led a detailed field inspection of the operational Sahulat Bazaars (facilitation markets) and specialized Ramadan Nigahban Camps throughout the district during the ongoing holy month of Ramadan-ul-Mubarak.
The inspection focused on delivering meaningful relief to citizens by ensuring price stability, superior product quality, and consistent availability of essential food items — core commitments of the Rs 40–47 billion Ramzan Nigehban Package 2026. This flagship provincial initiative supports 4–4.2 million low-income families with Rs 10,000 cash assistance each (via user-friendly Nigehban ATM cards with no fees or PIN requirements), subsidized shopping at Sahulat/Ramadan markets (now fully activated province-wide with items up to 15% below DC rates), daily Nigehban Dastarkhwan iftar arrangements (serving millions across tehsils), and enhanced monitoring to curb artificial price hikes.
The Deputy Commissioner examined numerous stalls and outlets firsthand, rigorously evaluating:
• Compliance with government-notified fixed prices
• Quality, hygiene, and freshness of commodities
• Adequate stock levels to avoid artificial shortages
He confirmed the mandatory prominent display of official rate charts at all points of sale and the exclusive use of calibrated, accurate weighing scales. Vendors, staff, and market operators received firm directives to maximize public convenience, adhere strictly to prescribed rates without exception, and prioritize transparent, hassle-free service.
A comprehensive daily monitoring framework remains active across the district (and province) throughout Ramadan to prevent inflation, hoarding, short-weighting, and unjust profiteering. This includes routine price audits, hygiene inspections, and administrative oversight to sustain an organized, clean, and equitable shopping environment for all citizens.
Reaffirming the administration's unwavering stance, the Deputy Commissioner stressed that ensuring high-quality essentials at subsidized, government-fixed prices is the absolute top priority. He issued a stern warning: indiscriminate and immediate enforcement actions — including heavy fines, stock seizures, FIRs, and legal proceedings — will be pursued against any violators, with no leniency for hoarding, under-weighing, substandard sales, or overcharging.
The district administration urges residents to report any irregularities promptly — such as price violations, poor-quality goods, or non-compliance — via local control rooms, designated helplines (including the provincial “Maryam Ko Batain” helpline 1000 for rapid redress), or other channels. Every credible complaint will trigger swift intervention.
These localized enforcement efforts align seamlessly with CM Maryam Nawaz's broader vision for Ramadan 2026: delivering relief directly to doorsteps (with over 4 lakh cards already distributed and full rollout progressing), eliminating long queues through digital transparency, providing iftar support via Nigehban Dastarkhwan, converting regular Sahulat Bazaars into enhanced Ramadan markets, and ensuring no family faces undue hardship amid rising costs. Similar inspections, price controls, and relief distribution are intensifying across all Punjab districts to uphold fairness, hygiene, public health, and compassion during the sacred month.
For complaints or inquiries: Use helpline 1000 (“Maryam Ko Batain”) or district-specific channels. The Punjab government remains committed to dignified, transparent welfare for every deserving household.

Chunian | Sadaf Arshad District Reporter | ReNews Pakistan
The local administration in Chunian has announced strict regulatory measures to ensure price stability and market discipline during the holy month of Ramadan. Assistant Commissioner Chunian, Ghulam Mustafa Jatt, stated during a press briefing that official price lists issued by the Punjab government will be strictly enforced, and no vendor will be allowed to exceed the approved rates.
According to the administration, essential food items, meat, fruits, and vegetables must be sold within the officially notified pricing framework. Dedicated monitoring teams have been formed to conduct daily inspections across commercial areas and wholesale markets. These teams will review the public display of official price lists, verify weighing standards, assess product quality, and ensure compliance with hygiene requirements.
Officials emphasized that market stability during Ramadan is essential to maintaining economic balance and protecting consumers from undue financial burden. The administration has adopted a zero-tolerance approach toward artificial price manipulation, stock hoarding, and exploitative commercial practices. Violators will face legal action, including fines, closure of business premises, and other enforcement measures under applicable regulations.
The Assistant Commissioner highlighted that transparent and fair commercial practices contribute to sustainable urban economic activity and strengthen investor and public confidence in regulated market environments. He urged the business community to cooperate with authorities and uphold ethical standards to ensure uninterrupted supply and fair access to essential goods during Ramadan.
Residents have also been encouraged to report overpricing or unfair practices to the relevant authorities, enabling timely intervention and ensuring a fair and orderly commercial environment across Chunian.

Kasur | Sadaf Arshad District Reporter | ReNews Pakistan
District Police Officer (DPO) Kasur, Muhammad Isa Khan, has announced the allocation of residential plots for the families of 20 police officials who were martyred prior to 2017. The initiative is part of an expanded welfare program aimed at providing long-term housing security and financial stability to the families of fallen personnel.
In this regard, a formal Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed with the Afira Zubair Foundation, ensuring structured support and transparent implementation of the housing distribution process. Officials stated that the initiative reflects the department’s commitment to honoring the sacrifices of police martyrs by securing dignified living arrangements for their families.
DPO Muhammad Isa Khan emphasized that the sacrifices made by police personnel in the line of duty remain a lasting legacy for the department. He stated that providing residential support is not only a welfare measure but also a recognition of the courage and dedication demonstrated by the martyrs. The housing allocation is expected to offer sustainable relief and social security to the affected families.
Additionally, as a gesture of respect and remembrance, the department has decided to renovate 12 graves of martyrs with white marble. The restoration work will enhance preservation, appearance, and long-term maintenance of the burial sites, symbolizing institutional respect for those who laid down their lives in service.
Police officials noted that such initiatives strengthen morale within the force and reaffirm the department’s resolve to stand by the families of its martyrs. Authorities have reiterated that further welfare-oriented measures will continue to be explored to ensure ongoing support for bereaved families across the district.

Karachi | ReNews Pakistan
A session of the Judicial Commission constituted to investigate the Gul Plaza fire incident was held in Karachi on Wednesday, bringing together senior officials and stakeholders associated with the commercial building’s operations and emergency response. Representatives present included the Director General of Rescue 1122, the President of the Gul Plaza Traders Association, and the Chief Executive Officer of K-Electric, among other relevant authorities.
The commission initiated a detailed review of operational, administrative, and safety-related aspects of the commercial structure, particularly examining compliance with fire safety protocols, electrical systems management, and emergency response readiness. Officials were asked to provide clarification on the availability and functionality of fire prevention mechanisms, evacuation routes, and overall infrastructure preparedness within the building.
Urban development observers note that incidents involving major commercial complexes highlight the importance of regulatory enforcement, infrastructure maintenance, and institutional oversight in densely occupied business centers. The condition and management of such structures directly influence commercial continuity, investor confidence, and the sustainability of organized business activity in metropolitan areas.
The commission emphasized the need for effective coordination among utility providers, emergency services, and building management to ensure structural safety and operational compliance. Authorities also underlined the importance of periodic inspections, adherence to safety codes, and administrative accountability to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The inquiry is expected to continue with further testimonies and technical evaluations. Findings and recommendations from the commission may contribute to strengthening regulatory frameworks governing commercial buildings, ensuring safer and more resilient urban business environments.

Islamabad: Husnain Aulakh, Special Correspondent | ReNews Pakistan
An important meeting was held on Wednesday at the CDA Headquarters regarding ensuring the improved law and order situation and security arrangements during the holy month of Ramadan in the Federal Capital Islamabad, chaired by Chairman Capital Development Authority (CDA) and Chief Commissioner Islamabad, Muhammad Ali Randhawa. The meeting was attended by Inspector General (IG) Islamabad Police, Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi, Member Engineering Syed Nafasat Raza, Deputy Commissioner (DC) Islamabad Irfan Nawaz Memon along with senior officers from CDA, district administration and Islamabad Police. Chairman CDA and Chief Commissioner Islamabad, Muhammad Ali Randhawa, said that all resources would be utilized to make the Federal Capital Islamabad the safest city in accordance with the vision of Prime Minister of Pakistan Shehbaz Sharif and Federal Minister for Interior Mohsin Naqvi.
During the meeting, IG Islamabad Syed Ali Nasir Rizvi apprised of the measures taken to improve the law and order situation in the city during Ramadan and for making foolproof arrangements. He said that strict security measures have been taken for the citizens coming to all mosques and Imam Bargahs during the holy month of Ramadan. He said that modern technology is being employed for the security and monitoring of all mosques and Imam Bargahs. Similarly, measures have been taken to ensure the protection of life and property of citizens in Ramdan Bazaars, markets and commercial marakiz. IG Islamabad said that police patrolling is also being enhanced across Islamabad city during Ramadan. He said that the protection of life, property and honor of the citizens of the Capital City Islamabad is our top priority and Islamabad Police is working day and night to ensure it. IG Islamabad said that Safe City has been developed in line with contemporary requirements and modern lines to make the Federal Capital Islamabad the safest city. He said that a mechanism has been established for monitoring all mosques, Imam Bargahs, main highways, marakiz and sectors of the City through Safe City cameras and modern technology in the Capital Islamabad.
Chairman CDA and Chief Commissioner Islamabad, Muhammad Ali Randhawa, directed that special monitoring of entry and exit points of all mosques, Imam Bargahs, markets, commercial marakiz and parks be ensured during Ramadan. He said that the installation of modern technology-based CCTV cameras at the entry and exit points of all mosques, Imam Bargahs, markets, commercial marakiz and parks should also be ensured. Chairman CDA directed that effective and coordinated liaison with all relevant institutions be enhanced to make security in the Federal Capital Islamabad more foolproof. He said that the overall law and order and security situation in Islamabad could be further improved through the joint efforts of all relevant departments. Chairman CDA said that providing a peaceful and secure environment to the citizens of the Capital City Islamabad is among our top priorities. He further directed that all resources be utilized to provide the best security to citizens not only during Ramadan but also throughout year.

Peshawar | ReNews Pakistan
The district administration of Khyber has confirmed that the first phase of relocating families from the Maidan area of Tirah in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa has been completed and the second phase is currently in progress. Officials said this is part of a planned, phased operation to move residents from certain parts of the area.
According to local authorities, the initial phase involved the movement of a set number of households who were relocated to alternative sites designated by the administration. Security and civic teams coordinated the process to ensure orderly movement and access to basic services for those participating in the relocation.
The district administration emphasized that the operation is being carried out in a structured manner, with clear communication to residents and support mechanisms in place to address immediate needs such as shelter, food, and health services. Officials have also set up monitoring points and assistance units along key routes to support families and coordinate logistics during the transition to new locations.
Authorities said the second phase will continue in the coming days, with additional families scheduled to move according to an established timeline. The administration highlighted that the phased approach is intended to maintain stability, avoid congestion, and ensure that necessary facilities are available before each group is relocated.
Local representatives and civic groups have been engaged to help coordinate support efforts and ensure that the concerns of relocated families are heard and addressed. Meanwhile, district officials stated that humanitarian considerations remain central to the operation, and that they are working to minimize disruption to daily routines for those affected.
No specific figures on the number of families involved in the second phase have been released yet, but the administration reiterated its commitment to transparent communication as the operation progresses.