approves

IMF board approves $1.1bn loan tranche for Pakistan

The IMF board approved a $1.1 billion loan tranche for Pakistan, marking the completion of the second bailout package. The funding is the third and final tranche of a $3 billion standby arrangement to avert a sovereign default. Pakistan is aiming for a new, larger IMF loan to support macroeconomic stability and structural reforms.

CM Balochistan approves transfer of five deputy commissioners

Chief Minister of Balochistan approved the transfer of five Deputy Commissioners and instructed them to report to the Services & General Administration Department. A new Deputy Commissioner was appointed for Sibbi, while Deputy Commissioners of Qila Abdullah and Ziarat were reassigned to Panjgur and Gwadar, respectively. Additionally, a parliamentary committee will be formed to address violence and insurgency in Balochistan.

Court approves Hammad Azhar’s transit bail

Peshawar High Court approves transit bail for PTI leader Hammad Azhar in 51 cases related to the May 09 riots, directing him to appear in the concerned courts within a month. The lawyer revealed the possibility of more undisclosed cases filed in various cities, while the court emphasized the importance of due process.

CM Maryam Nawaz approves 657 passenger buses for Punjab

Punjab CM Maryam Nawaz approves 657 environment-friendly buses for the province to ease commuters' travel in big cities. The project also includes provision of 20,000 electric bikes. The initiative, aimed at addressing public issues, will be launched on May 9, with a focus on rehabilitating roads across Punjab within 6 months.

Cabinet approves works on Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline

The federal cabinet has approved initial works on the Iran-Pakistan gas pipeline, involving the laying of an 80-km segment from Gwadar to the Iran border. Estimated at $150.8 million, the project will be funded by Gas Infrastructure Development Cess. It is anticipated to address Pakistan's energy needs and boost economic activity.

Cabinet approves Ramzan Relief Package

The federal cabinet approved a Ramzan relief package for 2024 worth Rs7.49 billion to provide subsidies to targeted beneficiaries of the Benazir Income Support Programme. The Economic Coordination Committee also approved proposals for wheat imports and export facilitation schemes, as well as tariff rationalization and the commissioning of a thermal power plant.

Court approves interim bail of Sheikh Rasheed in May 09 riots case

Former Federal Minister Sheikh Rasheed and 25 others were granted interim bail by the Anti-Terrorism Court in a case related to the May 09 riots. The bail was approved in connection with the vandalism of the RA Bazar police station and GHQ attack case. Sheikh Rasheed condemned the riots last year.

NEPRA approves hike in electricity tariff

NEPRA has approved an increase in electricity tariff for Karachi, following K-electric's plea. The hike of Rs 2.87 per unit is in response to quarterly fuel adjustment. This translates to a total burden of Rs 4.12 on consumers, effective from January to March 2023. The decision has been forwarded to the federal government for notification.

Pakistan approves first-ever National Space Policy

Pakistan's interim cabinet approved the country's inaugural "National Space Policy," permitting international firms to offer communication and coordination services to users. Information Technology Minister Dr. Umar Saif emphasized the significance of the policy, which enables advanced satellite technology to enhance communication capabilities and is expected to elevate telecommunications services and information dissemination in Pakistan. The policy also includes plans for a Space Regulatory regime and research funds for SUPARCO. - Khabristan.PK