Federal Minister Ali Pervez Malik has underscored the significant challenge of managing national financial losses, particularly concerning the energy sector. During an appearance on ‘Geo News’ program ‘Naya Pakistan,’ Malik stated that the country has approximately 10 million domestic gas consumers. He indicated that an increase in the petroleum levy is an option being considered to reduce the burden on lower-income segments, though no final decision has been reached.
Malik deferred to the Energy Minister for details on the decreased gas consumption within the electricity sector, emphasizing the urgent need to resolve circular debt in the energy sector and recover historical system losses. He revealed that 1800 billion rupees worth of fuel has been consumed, with its payment status yet to be determined. The electricity sector’s gas consumption has seen a drastic reduction from 800 MMCF to 400 MMCF, with projections to further drop to 200 MMCF. Malik affirmed that solutions for the gas sector would be sought under the guidance of the Prime Minister and cabinet, noting that approximately 20,000 megawatts of electricity are currently being generated through solar power.
In a move towards financial reform, Bilal bin Saqib announced a historic initiative, establishing a systematic, transparent, and internationally compliant pathway for global exchanges, reflecting a commitment to innovative thinking and institutional change.
Crime statistics from ‘One Five data’ indicate a 28 percent reduction in crime-related calls. Meanwhile, Rangers spokespersons reported apprehending suspects involved in smuggling mobile phones from Balochistan, which were concealed in secret compartments. Elsewhere, police reported dacoits looting 600,000 rupees from a citizen before fleeing towards Kot Sabama. Karachi Police arrested Jawad Qadri, Shahzeb Mullah, and several others on charges of involvement in an extortion ring. A body was discovered at a foreign airline’s office within Karachi Airport’s Jinnah Terminal, identified as the airline’s station manager. Police officials also confirmed the recovery of a missing woman’s body from Orangi Town Sector 11.5. A leopard, caught five days ago with local assistance in the Galiyat region, has reportedly become a significant challenge for wildlife authorities.
Traffic disruptions are anticipated on mountainous routes due to snowfall, with potential road closures in certain areas. Separately, Motorway M1 from Peshawar to Rashkai was closed, according to a Motorway Police spokesperson.
Politically, polling is underway without interruption until 5 PM, with 84 out of 178 polling stations declared sensitive and 54 highly sensitive. Jamaat-e-Islami Karachi is continuing its protest sit-in at Numaish Chowrangi. Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab stated that police took action regarding incidents that occurred on Sindhi Cultural Day. Federal Minister Rana Tanveer Hussain asserted that Nawaz Sharif’s ideology continues to champion civilian supremacy. In a related statement, Rana Sanaullah alleged that national affairs are still being dictated by the will of Faiz Hameed, General Bajwa, and the founder of PTI.
The National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) unequivocally rejected specific political elements’ propaganda. An Islamabad court issued a written settlement order in the tragic case of two girls, Samreen Hussain and Tabinda Batool, who died in a scooty accident involving a car collision.
In entertainment news, wrestler John Cena symbolically left his shoes, armbands, and wristbands in the wrestling ring. The Pakistani reality show ‘LaZawal Ishq’, likened to the British show ‘Love Island’, has been removed from YouTube in Pakistan after airing 50 episodes. Foreign media reported altercations between England’s security staff and local media representatives in Brisbane and Adelaide. Actress Hania Aamir has garnered attention in recent years for alleged cosmetic procedures, despite her natural beauty.
