Scorching Heatwave Brings Trading to a Standstill in Rawalpindi Markets deserted, birds perish, and citizens pray for rain amid 47°C temperatures

Heat-wave

RAWALPINDI – A crippling heatwave swept across Rawalpindi on Sunday, halting commercial activity in wholesale markets, trading centres, grain markets, and bazaars, while tourist spots and public parks remained eerily deserted. From mid-morning until sunset, business slowed to a crawl as temperatures soared between 45°C and 47°C. Shopkeepers, drenched in sweat and seated under fans blowing hot air, waited in vain for customers. The heat kept most residents indoors, with only a trickle of activity occurring after dark. The Citizen Action Council issued an appeal urging residents to place water…

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Fuel Crisis Worsens in Balochistan Amid Iran-Israel Tensions Border closures, smuggling clampdown, and global oil volatility deepen local woes

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QUETTA – The fuel crisis in Balochistan has taken a critical turn as escalating tensions between Iran and Israel disrupt the supply of Iranian oil into Pakistan. The smuggling routes through Makran, Rakhshan, and Chagai have been badly affected, leading to the closure of 60–70% of petrol pumps in the province’s border districts, including Turbat, Gwadar, Panjgur, Washuk, Chagai, and Mashkail. The crisis has triggered black market activity, with smuggled petrol being sold at Rs280–300 per litre—significantly above the official rate of Rs254. Additionally, food shortages are emerging in areas…

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Petrol price likely to rise for next 15 days

New prices will be implemented once approved Petroleum prices in Pakistan are expected to rise by up to Rs5.50 per litre for the next 15 days, owing to an increase in global oil prices, sources revealed on Sunday. According to reports, the Oil Companies Advisory Council (OCAC) has completed a working paper based on recent international market trends.The Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) is expected to send its summary to the federal government today.The final decision will rest with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who will approve any changes to…

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Sindh CM Opposes 18% GST on Solar Panels, Allocates Rs25 Billion for Solar Projects

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KARACHI – June 14, 2025: Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah, in a detailed post-budget press conference, strongly opposed the federal government’s proposed 18% General Sales Tax (GST) on imported solar panels, calling it unjust and counterproductive to the nation’s clean energy goals. Highlighting Sindh’s commitment to renewable energy, the Chief Minister announced a significant allocation of Rs25 billion for solar projects, which will also contribute to climate change mitigation. He acknowledged the rising poverty linked to the stringent IMF fiscal constraints but emphasized that the provincial government is…

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PSO Eyes Rs732bn Receivables as Profit Climbs 14% Despite Market Pressures

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KARACHI: Pakistan State Oil (PSO) has reported a 14% year-on-year rise in profit, reaching Rs15 billion during the first nine months of FY2024–25, despite persistent circular debt challenges and market share pressures. In a corporate briefing held Friday, PSO revealed that total receivables had ballooned to Rs732 billion by the end of March, including Rs325 billion in principal from SNGPL alone. Efforts to recover outstanding dues—especially the Rs200 billion in Late Payment Surcharges—remain a top priority, although a definitive debt resolution plan is still awaited. Since February 2024, SNGPL has…

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