Pakistan

Pakistan to Launch Homegrown “Beep Pakistan” Messaging App
Pakistan, Sci-Tech

Pakistan to Launch Homegrown “Beep Pakistan” Messaging App

The Pakistani government plans to introduce "Beep Pakistan," a domestically developed messaging application. Local engineers specifically designed the app for secure communication among government officials to enhance data privacy and security within government circles. Pakistan is preparing to introduce its first locally developed messaging app, "Beep Pakistan," for official use by government employees. Baber Majid Bhatti, the head of the National Information Technology Board (NITB), announced that they are currently testing the app within the Ministry of Information Technology and will soon launch it for wider government use. "Beep Pakistan" is designed to ensure secure communication and data protection among government officials. Unlike commercial apps like WhatsApp, which collec...
Internet Services Reportedly Disrupted Nationwide
Global, Pakistan, Sci-Tech

Internet Services Reportedly Disrupted Nationwide

There have been widespread reports of internet disruptions across Pakistan. The exact cause of the internet services outage is still under investigation. Still, initial reports suggest it might be related to issues with international internet traffic rather than a local network problem. Internet services are reportedly down across the country, with the exact cause of the disruption yet to be identified. According to media reports, authorities are actively assessing the situation to determine the source of the issue. Social media platforms, online banking, and communication services were among those disrupted during the incident. Preliminary reports suggest that the disruption is likely linked to international traffic rather than the local network. Interestingly, Meta platforms, incl...
Pakistan’s Credit Rating Upgraded by Fitch Ratings
Business, Pakistan

Pakistan’s Credit Rating Upgraded by Fitch Ratings

Fitch Ratings, a global credit rating agency, upgraded Pakistan's long-term foreign-currency issuer default rating (IDR) from CCC to CCC+. The upgraded rating is seen as a vote of confidence in Pakistan's economic management and reform efforts. Fitch Ratings has upgraded Pakistan's credit rating from 'CCC' to 'CCC+'. This positive change is largely due to a new agreement with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), which has provided Pakistan with $7 billion in funding for the next 37 months. The IMF agreement has helped improve Pakistan's financial situation by increasing its foreign exchange reserves and reducing fiscal deficits. The deal also aims to address issues in Pakistan's tax system, energy sector, and state-owned enterprises. In the past year, Pakistan has shown strong ...
Punjab Approves Garbage Tax for Homes and Businesses
Business, Pakistan

Punjab Approves Garbage Tax for Homes and Businesses

The Punjab government has introduced a new garbage tax for both residential and commercial properties across the province. Moreover, a formal notification has been issued outlining the tax rates for different property sizes and types in both rural and urban areas. This year's budget came with lots of surprises, especially for middle-class and poor people. The newest bomb is the new tax imposed on the garbage! Yes, The Punjab cabinet has decided to introduce a garbage tax for all homes and businesses in the province. Moreover, this tax will help manage and outsource waste collection services. Tax Rates The proposed tax rates are as follows Rural Areas: Small Houses (5 marlas): Rs200 per month Medium Houses (10 marlas to 1 kanal): Rs400 per month Small Businesses and S...
Lahore Weather: Monsoon Rains to Continue Until August 4
Pakistan

Lahore Weather: Monsoon Rains to Continue Until August 4

Lahore is experiencing a significant spell of monsoon rains, with more rain expected to continue until August 4. The ongoing rainfall has already brought a refreshing change to the weather, making it cooler and more comfortable compared to the usual summer heat. The Lahore Electric Supply Company (LESCO) has reported some issues caused by the heavy rains, including power outages in different parts of the city. The rainfall has led to water accumulating in various streets and neighborhoods, causing temporary inconvenience for residents. According to weather experts, the monsoon season is expected to keep Lahore under cloudy skies with intermittent rain throughout the week. Senior Meteorologist Zahid Hussain confirmed that the weather would remain unsettled, providing a mix of relief ...