India’s import of Russian oil surged to a nine-month high as shipments resumed via non-sanctioned tankers operated by Russia’s leading shipping company, Sovcomflot, according to tanker data from shipping and trade sources. Indian refiners briefly halted the import of Russian oil in Sovcomflot tankers after the company’s vessels, along with its 14 tankers, were sanctioned by Washington in February for violating Western sanctions imposed due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. These sanctions include price caps on oil and oil products loaded at Russian ports aimed at cutting Moscow’s oil revenue used to fund the war. India, being the…
Author: WebDesk
The Pakistan Railways Department has announced a reduction in train fares across different classes in response to a decrease in diesel prices. An official notification has been issued, stating that the fare reduction will be implemented immediately. Passengers traveling shorter distances, ranging from one to 200 kilometers, across all classes of trains, will benefit from reduced fares, with the economy and AC classes experiencing the most significant decreases. As per the notification, economy class fares on certain routes have been reduced by up to 54 percent. For example, the minimum fare for the economy class on the Lahore to Rawalpindi…
The European Commission has announced a 12% increase in the Schengen visa fee worldwide, starting June 11, 2024. Confirming the news, Slovenia’s Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs stated, “The fee for adult applicants will rise from €80 to €90. Additionally, the fee for children aged six to 12 will increase from €40 to €45. Visa fees for countries not cooperating with the EU on the readmission of their irregularly staying citizens could surge to €135 or even €180.” The primary reasons cited for the price hike are inflation and civil servants’ salaries, as reported by Business Standard. According to…
Due to the escalating temperatures across the province, the Punjab government has introduced revised timings for both public and private colleges, effective from May 21 to May 31. In a notification issued on Monday, the province’s Higher Education Department (HED) cited the “severe hot weather” conditions as the reason behind this decision. As per the notification, colleges under the jurisdiction of the HED will adhere to the following schedule: – Monday to Thursday and Saturday: 07:30 am to 11:30 am – Friday: 07:30 am to 11 am – Monday to Saturday (evening second shift): 4 pm to 8 pm Earlier,…
The impending T20I series between England and Pakistan at Headingley Stadium in Leeds faces a significant threat of disruptions due to the typical UK weather. The first match scheduled for May 22 is at risk of being delayed or cancelled, with weather forecasts predicting a 75% probability of rain. These adverse conditions could heavily impact the pitch and playing surface, posing challenges for both teams. Anticipated high humidity levels around 82%, coupled with a dew point of 12°C, may affect the ball’s grip and movement, making the pitch damp and unpredictable. Such conditions could create additional difficulties for batsmen and…
Introducing the eagerly awaited vivo V30e 5G to Pakistan, a fusion of sophistication and cutting-edge technology. With its 3D Curved Screen boasting a 120Hz refresh rate, this smartphone promises a superior user experience. Capture stunning portraits with the Aura Light Portrait feature and explore endless possibilities with the V30e 5G. Its sleek design, highlighted by the 3D Curved Screen and narrow bezels, enhances visual immersion and elevates the phone’s aesthetics. Available in two captivating colors – Classy Brown and Sunny Green – each representing a unique blend of elegance and nature-inspired freshness. Inspired by high-end watches, the “Time Messenger” camera…
The federal government is seeking an additional Rs. 3.5 per unit in Fuel Cost Adjustment (FCA) for electricity consumed in April 2024. They have filed a petition with the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) to approve this measure, aiming to collect Rs. 29 billion despite 75 percent of April’s power supply being generated from cheaper local fuels. The increase in FCA is attributed to various factors including lower availability of hydropower, higher prices of domestic coal and gas, and increased utilization of LNG. According to the petition, the actual fuel cost for March was significantly higher than initially determined.…
The Overseas Investors Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OICCI) and Shell Pakistan Limited are collaborating to host the Pakistan Energy Symposium. This dynamic event, organized by Nutshell Group, is scheduled for May 22, 2024, at a local hotel in Islamabad. It aims to tackle the urgent energy challenges and opportunities facing Pakistan. The symposium, themed “Powering the Future,” will convene leading experts, policymakers, industry leaders, and stakeholders to discuss the trajectory of energy in Pakistan. It will encompass diverse topics such as sustainable energy solutions, energy security, innovation in the sector, and policy frameworks for supporting the energy transition. The…
CDA is contemplating involving a government-owned housing entity in the development of Kuri Enclave. Despite receiving proposals from renowned developers such as Defense Housing Authority, Bahria Town, Park View, ZM/Faisal Hills, New City Paradise, and AKD Group, the competitive selection process seems to have been largely abandoned. Sources indicate that the CDA has not issued a Request for Proposals (RFP) to these parties even after two months. Instead, it is considering awarding the project directly to a government-owned firm under clause 42-F of the Public Procurement Regulatory Authority rules, allowing for direct contracting without open competition. Covering 10,000 kanals, the…
Leeds: Pakistan’s cricket star Aliya Riaz reached a significant career milestone on Monday, surpassing 1,000 runs in T20 Internationals during the third T20 match against England in Leeds. Aliya’s consistent performance and dedication led her to this remarkable achievement, joining the elite ranks of Pakistani women cricketers such as Bismah Maroof, Javeria Khan, Nida Dar, and Muneeba Ali, who have previously achieved the same milestone.