News Update Times

Karachi (Nut Desk) KE ensured uninterrupted power supply to major parts of the city during the ongoing monsoon spells in Karachi. Per KE spokesperson, maximum number of feeders affected due to rain were less than 150 of more than 1900 in KE’s network, the majority of which were temporarily powered down due to prevalence of kundas or waterlogging which could pose a safety hazard. These areas were also immediately restored upon receiving clearance from ground teams.

Heavy rains causing waterlogging at Gulshan-e-Hadeed and Gadap areas affected operations, and the utility requested civic agencies for support in draining water to safe levels to begin restoration efforts.

Amid forecast of more rains, spokesperson further added, “Citizens are advised to continue observing precautionary measures and continue to maintain a safe distance from all electricity infrastructure. Avoid using electrical appliances exposed to rains such as water motors as well. With Eid-ul-Azha approaching, we urge citizens to take special care of their sacrificial animals and avoid tethering them to any electrical infrastructure.”

Expressing sympathies and condolences with families over unfortunate incidents across Karachi, KE also categorically stated that no utility infrastructure was involved in any of the incidents reported. A report of exposed cables in Jacob Lines Area was acted upon swiftly by KE teams who have safely transferred the cables underground. Spokesperson KE advised use of call center 118 for electricity emergency complaints which are tackled on priority basis.

For guidance on other queries and complaints, the utility company remains available for consumers 24/7 for any queries or complaints via its WhatsApp number +92-348-0000118, 118 call center, SMS service 8119, KE Live App, and social media platforms.

realme unveils Sajal Aly in yet another avatar as the face of realme 9 4G– its latest offering in the realme 9 Series line-up Building on their previous collaboration with her for the realme 9 Pro+, realme has just announced that Sajal Aly will carry forward the 9 series legacy as the brand ambassador for the upcoming realme 9 4G. The actress has stunned everyone in the past with her incredible performances in every facet of her career, locally as well as in the international sphere. With a versatile and unique sense of style, the talented actress exudes effortless charisma just like the realme 9 4G. Every time a new generation of number series phones is released, realme aims to innovate in the market it serves. The majority of these products include cutting-edge technology that makes them stand out from rivals because they are the first in their category. As the fastest-growing smartphone brand, realme has been committed to bringing nothing but the best to the market since its arrival. The tech democratizer always wants to give its users the opportunity to experience flagship features in their phones at an economical price. This commitment to performance and desire to live up to the expectations of their fans is shared by Sajal and realme. Sajal Aly has the extraordinary ability to light up the screen whenever she appears on it, captivating your gaze and keeping you hooked to her mesmerizing performance. Active in the industry since 2009, Sajal made her debut with Nadaaniyaan, which was followed by an impressive role in Mehmoodabad Ki Malkain. From playing Dr. Zubia in Yaqeen Ka Safar, to the chirpy and confident Sasi in O Rangreza and then across the border with her big Bollywood debut with Mom, Sajal has proved that she is one of our industry’s finest actresses. More recently, Sajal took on challenging roles in Ishq-e-Laa where she played character of a fearless journalist who strives to tell the truth no matter what, as well as Sinf-e-Aahan where she was part of a brigade of girls from diverse backgrounds who join the Pakistan Army and rise in the ranks, becoming the eponymous ‘women of steel.’ She is now all set to make her Hollywood debut in Shekhar Kapur’s What’s Love Got to do with it? She is indeed an exceptional dynamo with unique talent who is diversifying in an effort to stray from playing just one type of role. This spirit is shared with the realme 9 series which always bring new innovation with its launch, including the latest realme 9 4G. The realme 9 4G is coming to Pakistan very soon with a launch event on the horizon in the near future. The new smartphone will be available in three stunning colors: Stargaze White, Meteor Black, and Sunburst Gold. With a unique Holographic Ripple Design, the realme 9 4G is built for aesthetics as well as performance. Sajal’s presence in the cultural zeitgeist of Pakistan is undeniable. Her status as a household name in Pakistan will be highly beneficial in drawing attention to the new, next-level realme 9 4G so that it can have a more sustained impact in the Pakistani market. Stay on the lookout for more exciting details about the upcoming realme 9 4G. 

Karachi (Muhammad Yasir) Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL) is set to provide ICT services to Defense Housing Authority (DHA) Phase-VIII in Karachi through its state-of-the-art Flash Fiber; Optic Fiber Cable (OFC) service. The premium service will provide uninterrupted high-speed internet to the residents and business community of the society to fulfill their connectivity needs. Head of Fixed & Wireless Access Technical South, PTCL Group, Ashar Hayat Siddiqui, and Brigadier Hafeez Ullah Khan (Retired) Secretary DHA Karachi, signed the agreement in presence of Shehzad Yousuf,Chief Business Operations Officer, PTCL, Mr Khurram Noor Chief Financial Officer DHA Karachi and other senior officials from both organizations. Speaking at the event, Shehzad Yousuf, Chief Business Operations Officer, PTCL, thanked DHA for their continued trust in PTCL. He said: “PTCL is the pioneer and backbone of Pakistan’s ICT landscape, supporting theoperations, expansion and services of a number of sectors within the country. We continue to scale-up and transform our infrastructure and service delivery system, to meet the growing demands of our individual and enterprise customers. Through such partnerships, we endeavor to further strengthen the communication network across the country, and be able to better serve our valued customers.” Also sharing his thoughts at the occasion, Brigadier Hafeez Ullah Khan (Retired) Secretary DHA Karachi, said: “We are glad to partner up with PTCL for provision of high-quality ICT services to DHA Phase-8 community. Over these years, a reliable internet connection has gained importance at par with other crucial commodities; therefore, our focus remains on the evolving needs of our community members. We commit to delivering the highest quality of service in every domain. I am positive that PTCL’s high speed connectivity will effectively fulfill the needs of residents and the business community.” PTCL Flash Fiber is Pakistan’s premium Fiber-To-The-Home (FTTH)service with speeds clocking at upto 1GBps. The OFC has various packages tailored to meet the varying needs and demands of individual and business customers. PTCL Flash Fiber network is undergoing fast paced expansion and will soon be available nationwide.

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir) In order to promote inclusivity and diversity in sports in the country, the National Bank of Pakistan (NBP) presented a cheque of Rs. 1.5 million to Pakistan Blind Cricket Council (PBCC). Mr. Rehmat Ali Hasnie, President (A) presented the cheque to Mr. Salman Tariq Bukhari, Director Operations, PBCC. Ms. Naushaba Shahzad, EVP & (A) Group Head, Inclusive Development Group and Mr. Mirza Babur Baig EVP & Divisional Head CSR also graced the occasion.

Pakistan Blind Cricket Council is the governing body of blind cricket in Pakistan and is a founding member of the World Blind Cricket Council. Since its establishment in 1997, the Council has been actively organizing national and international tours for talented and visually impaired cricketers in the country.

Sharing his thoughts on the occasion, Mr. Rehmat Ali Hasnie said ‘NBP, as the Nation’s Bank, has always believed in reaching out and supporting talent across all segments of society, including differently-abled athletes. We are proud of our 12-year association with the T-20 Blind Cricket Tournament in Pakistan which has brought out some of the best-talented sportsmen. It is quite admirable that PBCC is now focusing on team creation for female players. We are optimistic that other organizations will also step forward and help differently-abled players to play a positive role in society and set an example for all.’

Thanking NBP for the support, Salman Tariq Bukhari said ‘We are grateful to NBP for the constant and regular backing over the years. Our recent 12th Edition of Blind Cricket Tournament T-20 was a national success with participation by about 250 visually impaired players.’

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir) BankIslami, Pakistan’s first Islamic commercial bank, proudly partnered with College of Business Management Model United Nations (CBMUN) event as a Ruby Sponsor. Organised by the Literary and Public Speaking Society at Institute of Business Management, the event took place on July 1st, 2nd and 3rd.

In its sixth instalment, CBMUN opened its doors to a national audience of over 600 delegates with an aim to educate participants on aspects that have an impact on the world such as international relations, world affairs, globalization as well as civic sense. The participants were encouraged to make use of their intellectual abilities and derive solutions to world problems.

Commenting on the event, BankIslami representative said, “We believe in encouraging the youth to develop an understanding of world affairs and want to play our role in helping to produce the leaders of tomorrow. BankIslami shares the vision of promoting authentic and innovative voices in their commitment to excellence. I congratulate the management of CBMUN for ensuring a highly professional and stimulating experience for the participants from across Pakistan”.

Also commenting on this development, Gohar Irfan, Conference Manager, CBMUN shared, “We plan to create awareness of the current world issues by allowing active engagement from participants of all institutions regardless of their background. We are grateful for the partnership with such a valuable sponsor, BankIslami, in executing a dream conference and, in turn, becoming one of the leading Model United Nation conferences in the country”.

Karachi (Muhammad Yasir) Engro Polymer & Chemicals (EPCL), a subsidiary of Engro Corporation, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the prestigious University of Engineering & Technology (UET), Lahore, to strengthen industry-academia linkage through cooperation in research and innovation along with professional development opportunities for students.

The MoU was signed by Jahangir Piracha (CEO of EPCL) and Professor Dr. Syed Mansoor Sarwar (Vice Chancellor, UET Lahore), in the presence of officials of both institutions, and Pakistan Chemical Manufacturers Association representatives Haroon Ali Khan (Sr. Vice Chairman) and Abrar Ahmed (Vice President).

Under the agreement, EPCL and UET will jointly undertake research and development initiatives at the well-equipped testing facilities of the institute’s Polymer & Process engineering faculty. This partnership will enable quantitative advancements to EPCL’s PVC production process and the Quality function. It will also enhance the  knowledge base and availability of technical experts for EPCL’s Techno-Commercial functions. Using these facilities, EPCL may also provide technical and management consultancy, and advisory services, to PVC finished goods manufacturers for optimized performance and innovative solutions.

For capability enhancement of UET students and faculty, EPCL will also assist students with pragmatic final year projects, will collaborate with the UET to develop and improve its curriculum, including subject matter specific to polymer industries, to ensure its alignment with the industry needs.

According to Jahangir Piracha, CEO of EPCL, “We are continuously striving to introduce new market development and awareness initiatives that enhance sustainability in the construction sector. This strategic alliance with the UET has been envisioned to promote research and development in Pakistan so that the polymer sector can evolve with innovation. Moreover, we aspire to enhance the skills of our talented youth, support their learning and development, and make them more marketable for the industry.”

Professor Dr. Syed Mansoor Sarwar, Vice Chancellor, UET Lahore, added that, “The students and faculty of UET are very excited about this partnership with EPCL. With our focus on research at the UET, I am confident that the industry will also benefit from our modern testing labs to support new product development. I hope that other players in the chemical industry also step up their efforts to bridge the industry-academia gap in Pakistan.”

As part of a Sustainable Development Initiative, the UET students will also be able to participate in EPCL’s community impact projects and gain valuable experience by solving real-world problems.

Telenor Pakistan, Tabadlab and the GSMA jointly unveil the report to carve out the future of agriculture in the country

Lahore (Muhammad Yasir) Advancing its ambition to further innovation and empower the agriculture sector, Telenor Pakistan, in collaboration with Tabadlab and the GSMA, has unveiled a report, ‘AgriTech: Crafting Pakistan’s Journey to Impact’. The report identifies existing challenges to the sector and evaluates the impact that AgriTech will have on accelerating growth. The authors find that adopting modern agricultural techniques and targeted AgriTech interventions can boost national outputs and improve socioeconomic outcomes.

The report launch event was held at Telenor Pakistan’s 345 Campus in Islamabad. Mr Ahsan Iqbal, Federal Minister for Planning and Development, attended the event as the chief guest, while management and participants from Telenor Pakistan, the GSMA and Tabadlab were also present.

The AgriTech report combines study and insights from the GSMA and Tabadlab’s Centre for Digital Transformation to carve the ideal path forward for Pakistan’s agricultural sector. It highlights how technology and digitalisation boost the nation’s crop yields. The report highlights the importance of aligning public and private sector approaches towards agritech for increased adoption. In addition, the report shows how agritech operates at the intersection of the technology and agriculture ecosystems, making it essential to understand and analyse drivers and trends of digital technologies as means to unpack agritech in Pakistan.

Delivering his keynote at the launch, Ahsan Iqbal, Federal Minister for Planning and Development, commented, “In this age, technology and innovation are the most significant game-changers that are redefining the dynamics of the agriculture sector. Technology enables farmers to become more knowledgeable and competitive, transforming Pakistan’s agricultural landscape. This report will further empower the farmers of Pakistan in breaking barriers and revolutionising the Agri sector. Telenor Pakistan is a critical stakeholder in bringing innovation and learning on digitalisation from Norway, and I look forward to its talented workforce playing a pivotal role in a brighter Pakistan”.

Speaking at the report launch, Telenor Pakistan CEO Irfan Wahab Khan stated, “The report presents the blueprint for a better-performing agriculture sector that can result in higher yields for farmers and have an impact of up to USD 10 billion on the nation’s GDP. We know there is an eagerness to make the digital shift, thanks to the immense success of Khushaal Zamindaar in guiding farmers with data-driven best practices in farming. There is also an opportunity for agritech services to become entry points for farmers to become financially included, given that currently, they constitute less than 30%. So, the next step should be to further improve Agritech adoption throughout the county and fortify an industry that employs 40% of the nation’s labour force.”

Umar Nadeem, a founding partner at Tabadlab, said: “To meet the needs of the agriculture sector, Agritech services must grow. Despite positive trends, significant opportunities exist for the ecosystem to grow and support existing and new entrants. The private sector has been a crucial player in expanding Pakistan’s AgriTech footprint and integrating technology into the farmer’s everyday life, but to successfully address challenges in the agriculture value chain through technology, private agriculture solutions need to be cultivated through increased capital, government support, and innovation cycles.”

Agriculture is a crucial sector for Pakistan’s economy as the highest employer of the labour force, with approximately 25 million Pakistanis earning their livelihoods from it. However, the country’s crop yields are lower than comparable international benchmarks despite a quarter of Pakistan’s landmass being cultivated and used for agricultural production. This has presented the right opportunity to focus on the sector’s digital transformation through connectivity, data, artificial intelligence (AI), IoT, and innovation. Agritech holds the potential to produce efficient farming mechanisms while enhancing livelihoods and giving farmers greater control over their yields.

Since 2015, Telenor Pakistan has been empowering Pakistani farmers to push forward the agriculture industry with digitalisation solutions. Through interventions like Khushaal Zamindaar and Khushaal Angaan, the portfolio has also targeted tailored solutions for women farmers, which has been a source of socioeconomic uplift for millions of Pakistani agricultural communities.

Bank Alfalah to offer more cardholders e-commerce capabilities through solution powered by Mastercard Payment Gateway Services.

 Collaboration will connect more consumers and merchants to the digital economy.

Karachi (Muhammad Yasir)  Mastercard has announced a strategic partnership with Bank Alfalah, which will see the bank’s online payment gateway infrastructure accept a wider array of cards, including the ability to make China Union Pay online payments in the market for the first time.

The technology leader will power more than 13 million cards across Pakistan through the capabilities of its Mastercard Payment Gateway Services.

The collaboration between Mastercard and Bank Alfalah, one of the largest private banks in Pakistan, will offer enhanced value for merchants and consumers, and provide greater opportunities for people across Pakistan to benefit from the digital economy.
 
J.K. Khalil, Cluster General Manager, MENA East, Mastercard, said: “We are committed to driving financial inclusion by harnessing the power of technology. Mastercard Payment Gateway Services connects more people and merchants to the endless possibilities offered by the digital economy. We are delighted to build on our longstanding partnership with Bank Alfalah to accelerate Pakistan’s digital journey and create a more connected world as we unlock the potential of online payments for millions of people.”

According to Statista, the e-commerce market in Pakistan is expected to reach $7.6 billion in 2022 and should reach $9.1 billion by 2025.
 
Mehreen Ahmed, Group Head Retail Banking at Bank Alfalah commented on the occasion, "Online payments are vital for building the payment ecosystem in the country. We are delighted to be partnering with MasterCard to create yet another avenue for accelerating e-commerce in Pakistan. This initiative will not only add convenience to consumers for conducting e-commerce transactions, but more importantly, enlarge the market for SME and large merchants through acceptance of another form of payment.”

Mastercard continues to partner and innovate as part of its quest to build a growing digital economy that works for everyone, everywhere. The company has made a worldwide commitment to financial inclusion to bring a total of 1 billion people, and 50 million micro and small businesses into the digital economy by 2025.