Author: Faiza Liaquat
In a major step toward digitizing public services, Pakistan Railways has partnered with Allied Bank Limited to introduce cashless payment systems at 348 stations nationwide. Through this initiative, passengers will soon be able to purchase tickets and services using debit and credit cards, streamlining transactions and reducing reliance on cash. The collaboration, formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), aligns with the federal government’s “Digital Pakistan” vision. According to Railways Minister Muhammad Hanif Abbasi, the POS system rollout will be completed in 60 days. This upgrade is expected to shorten queues, improve transparency, and minimize manual errors and financial fraud…
In a key leadership transition, the World Bank has appointed Bolormaa Amgaabazar as its new Country Director for Pakistan, effective July 1, 2025. Her appointment comes at a crucial time as Pakistan faces significant economic and development challenges. Amgaabazar succeeds Najy Benhassine and brings over 20 years of global development experience, having worked across Africa, East Asia, Central Asia, and Eastern Europe. She has held senior roles in the Bank’s offices in the Kyrgyz Republic, Indonesia, and Timor-Leste, and has also contributed to international development in her home country, Mongolia. Expressing her commitment, Amgaabazar said, “The World Bank and Pakistan…
At a time when Pakistan’s national hockey team faces serious financial challenges, two respected businessmen have stepped forward to offer more than just aid — they’re reigniting hope for a sport long eclipsed by cricket. Anwar Khawaja of AK Industries and Khawaja Masood Akhtar of Forward Sports (globally known as a FIFA football supplier) have launched a direct sponsorship initiative for nine national hockey players. The players are divided into two tiers: For years, national hockey players have struggled — often funding their own training and travel, despite representing Pakistan on global platforms. This support marks a shift: not just…
In a significant milestone for its economic journey, Pakistan has been named the most improved emerging market in sovereign credit risk, according to Bloomberg Intelligence’s latest data. The report shows that Pakistan’s credit default risk has dropped from 59% to 47% over the last 12 months — marking the sharpest decline globally. This turnaround is credited to the country’s macroeconomic stabilization efforts, structural reforms, successful IMF engagement, and timely repayment of external debts, which have collectively restored investor confidence and enhanced Pakistan’s credibility in global financial markets. Financial Advisor Khurram Schehzad shared the news via social media, citing the data…
In a significant move toward digital transformation in public services, the Punjab Transport Company (PTC) has launched a new online route permit system aimed at making transportation more accessible, transparent, and user-friendly for both commuters and transport providers. Through the official Punjab Portal website and a newly introduced PTC mobile application, users can now apply for transport route permits and pay associated fees without the hassle of paperwork or in-person visits. This marks a pivotal moment in simplifying transport-related processes and enhancing the overall commuter experience in Punjab. This digital leap not only streamlines permit processing but also lays the…
In a landmark move toward transparency, digital innovation, and consumer empowerment, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has officially launched the ‘Apna Meter, Apni Reading’ mobile application, a groundbreaking initiative designed to revolutionize the way electricity billing is handled across Pakistan. As part of broader reforms in the power sector, this user-friendly app enables consumers to take full control of their electricity usage by allowing them to record and submit their own meter readings. This direct approach aims to eliminate long-standing complaints about overbilling, inaccurate meter readings, and dependency on third-party meter readers, which have often led to disputes and mistrust between…
In a groundbreaking effort to modernize public transport and tackle environmental challenges head-on, Punjab’s Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has officially launched 240 electric buses across 24 districts in South Punjab. This initiative marks the first phase of a much larger and visionary rollout aimed at reshaping mobility across the province — with 600 electric buses expected to be fully operational by the end of 2025. Designed to serve both rural communities and major urban centers, this transition to electric public transport is rooted in the idea of equal access, climate action, and development without discrimination. CM Maryam Nawaz emphasized…
The National Assembly has officially passed the Finance Bill 2025, approving a federal budget of Rs17.573 trillion for the fiscal year 2025–26. Presented by Finance Minister Senator Muhammad Aurangzeb, the budget outlines the government’s economic direction, focusing on fiscal discipline, development spending, and relief for low- and middle-income groups. All opposition amendments were rejected, while the Pakistan Peoples Party supported the bill after the government accommodated key recommendations, including increased funding for the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) and tax relief for salaried individuals. The budget sets a GDP growth target of 4.2%, inflation at 7.5%, and a fiscal deficit…
In a major step toward improving road safety in Pakistan, the Sindh Police Driving School has officially opened at the Police Training College, Saeedabad, Karachi. The initiative aims to professionally train citizens in operating cars, motorcycles, and both light and heavy vehicles. Launched as a pilot project, the school reflects the police department’s commitment to reducing traffic accidents by encouraging responsible, skill-based driving. Inspector General Ghulam Nabi Memon inspected the facility and announced plans to expand the program to Hyderabad, Larkana, and Khairpur. “Safe driving is our target,” said IG Memon, emphasizing that well-trained drivers are key to accident prevention.…
In a significant stride for regional digital collaboration, Federal IT Minister Shaza Fatima Khawaja met with Saudi Minister for Communications & IT, Eng. Abdullah Al-Swaha, to expand cooperation in emerging technologies, artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and digital infrastructure. The meeting underscored shared goals , from fostering AI and computing innovation to enhancing global connectivity via the Pakistan Digital Corridor to China and Central Asia. The Saudi Minister extended best wishes to Pakistan under PM Shehbaz Sharif’s leadership. Minister Shaza also announced a Rs. 4.8 billion PSDP-approved initiative to train 7,000+ Pakistani youth in semiconductor technologies, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s National Semiconductor…