Consumers across the country could face higher electricity bills as the Central Power Purchasing Agency (CPPA) has requested an increase of Rs1.64 per unit in electricity tariffs for February. This rise is part of the monthly fuel adjustment.
The request will be reviewed by the National Electric Power Regulatory Authority (NEPRA) on March 31. If approved, the tariff hike could add over Rs14 billion to the cost of electricity for consumers across Pakistan, including those in Karachi.
According to data from the CPPA, 7.696 billion units of electricity were generated in February, and 7.427 billion units were supplied to distribution companies at an average cost of Rs8.37 per unit. This is higher than the reference cost of Rs6.73 per unit, which has contributed to the need for the tariff adjustment.
As tensions in the Middle East escalate, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) announced on Wednesday that it would suspend flights to Fujairah in the UAE for 48 hours. The airline also decided to limit its operations in the UAE to Al Ain, an inland city on the border with Oman.
PIA officials said the situation is being closely monitored and further changes could be made if the unrest continues. Passengers are urged to keep an eye on flight schedules and stay in touch with the airline for updates.
The ongoing conflict in the Gulf region has already caused major disruptions to Pakistan's air travel, with 92 flights canceled across key airports. This has stranded passengers and forced airlines to reduce their services.
The cancellations have affected flights connecting Pakistan to important destinations in the Gulf and beyond. The impact of regional instability is now being felt across global aviation networks.
Lahore’s Allama Iqbal International Airport saw 18 flights canceled, including routes to Kuwait, Doha, and Bahrain.
Karachi’s Jinnah International Airport faced at least 20 flight cancellations to destinations like Doha, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Iran.
Islamabad International Airport was hit hardest, with 28 canceled flights to places like Dubai, Doha, Bahrain, and Muscat.
Peshawar Airport had 16 flights to Doha, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi canceled.
Smaller airports were also affected. Multan had four cancellations, and Sialkot saw six flights to cities like Dubai, Doha, and Riyadh suspended. However, Faisalabad Airport remained unaffected, with flights operating as scheduled.
A Wider Global Impact
The disruption in Pakistan is just one part of a larger ripple effect on global aviation. The Middle East is a key air travel hub, and the rising tensions have forced airlines to rethink their flight routes and safety measures.
Aviation experts warn that even small airspace restrictions can cause significant delays worldwide. As a result, many airlines are rerouting flights to avoid conflict zones, which increases flight times, fuel costs, and complicates scheduling for crews and aircraft.
Several major airlines have already adjusted their operations. Some have suspended routes, while others are taking longer, more expensive flight paths. Global aviation bodies, such as the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), have issued risk advisories, urging airlines to adjust their operations as the situation evolves.
Eid-ul-Fitr is here, and cinemas in Karachi are ready to offer a mix of exciting films for everyone to enjoy. Top 3 Pakistani Films Releasing on Eid-ul-Fitr. From action-packed thrillers to hilarious comedies, there’s something for everyone this Eid.
Where to Watch:
Karachi’s top cinemas, like Nueplex and Cinepax, are set to welcome movie lovers this festive season. Other cinemas like Arena Cinema 3D and Raiha Cinegold Plex also offer a great experience for families.
Arena Cinema 3D
Bahria Town Tower, Tariq Rd, Block 2 P.E.C.H.S.
Raiha Cinegold Plex
Midway Commercial B, Phase 1 Bahria Town
Ticket Prices:
Cinepax: Gold & Gold+ seating – Rs. 950
Nueplex: Cinema 1-4 – Rs. 1,000; Royal Cinema – Rs. 1,400
(Prices can change, so make sure to check with the cinemas)
Pakistani Films Releasing This Eid:
Aag Lagay Basti Mein
A dark comedy about a couple, Barkat and Almaas, who turn to crime to escape their financial struggles. Things quickly spiral out of control, leading to chaos and danger.
A couple’s vacation turns into a nightmare as they struggle to survive in a mysterious household.
Dasim
A woman named Salma faces strange occurrences that threaten her marriage.
Hoppers
A teenage girl becomes a robotic beaver to solve animal mysteries.
Conclusion
This Eid, cinemas in Karachi have something for everyone, whether you want a thrilling action film or a fun, heartwarming comedy. Don’t miss out on the chance to enjoy these exciting releases with your family and friends!
Pakistan has extended Airspace ban on Indian Flights using its airspace until April 24, according to a new aviation notice issued just before the previous deadline of March 23.
The Pakistan Airport Authority confirmed that the restriction will continue to apply to all aircraft registered in India. This also includes planes operated, owned, or leased by Indian airlines, as well as military flights.
Pakistan airspace will remain closed to Indian-registered aircraft and those operated, owned, or leased by Indian airlines/operators, including military flights, until early hours of 24 April 2026. #PAA
— Pakistan Airports Authority (@Pk_PAA_Official) March 18, 2026
The airspace has remained closed to Indian aircraft since April 2025, following rising tensions between the two countries after an incident in Pahalgam, located in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir. India had blamed Pakistan for the attack without providing evidence, while Pakistan denied the claims and offered support for an independent investigation.
The latest Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) states that the ban covers both major flight regions of Pakistan — Karachi and Lahore.
Due to this restriction, Indian airlines are facing financial challenges. Flights are now taking longer alternative routes, leading to increased travel time and higher fuel costs, especially for routes connecting India with Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia.
SindhChief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has approved the construction of a new bridge over the Indus River to improve travel between Sukkur and Rohri. The project aims to reduce heavy traffic on existing bridges.
The approval came during the 51st meeting of the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Policy Board at the Chief Minister’s House. Provincial ministers, officials, and other stakeholders attended the meeting.
The new bridge is planned to address growing traffic between Sukkur, Rohri, and nearby towns. Currently, residents rely on old and limited infrastructure. About 70% of people from Rohri, Salehpat, and Pano Aqil commute to Sukkur every day for work, school, healthcare, and business.
The historic Lansdowne Bridge, the main crossing, handles over 30,000 vehicles daily but is under heavy strain. Access via the Sukkur Barrage is closed for maintenance until at least 2027. The CM highlighted that traffic restrictions on the bridge often cause delays and affect emergency services.
The PPP Board approved a Project Development Facility to hire advisors for the new Sukkur–Rohri Bridge project. The Sindh Local Government Department will carry out the project under the PPP model.
The bridge will be about 1.5 kilometers long, built north of Bukkur Island. It will have multiple lanes for vehicles and separate walkways for pedestrians.
Local Government Minister Syed Nasir Hussain Shah welcomed the project, saying it will greatly reduce traffic congestion and improve connectivity for residents.
The PPP Board also reviewed other projects:
Shahrah-e-Bhutto Expressway: 39 km high-speed road is 88.2% complete. CM directed authorities to finish it by April 2026.
Solar Streetlights: Installation and 25-year maintenance approved for a 4.5 km elevated section at Sammo Goth.
Kathore Interchange: Feasibility study and design approved for smooth connection at the expressway’s end.
The board also introduced new rules to improve transparency and financial discipline in PPP projects:
Bids more than 15% higher or lower than estimated will be rejected.
Guidelines for unsolicited project proposals include a “Right of First Refusal,” allowing project initiators to match winning bids or get reimbursed for development costs within limits.
These reforms aim to make infrastructure development in Sindh more efficient, transparent, and investor-friendly.
Soha Fish also known as Argyrosomus regius, meagre, croaker, jewfish, shade-fish, Sowa, kir, corvina, salmon-bass, or stone bass, is a species of fish of the family Sciaenidae. Soha Fish Found in the Mediterranean Sea and along the eastern Atlantic coast. Here are some key details about this species:
The Soha Fish(Meagre) is characterized by its elongated body and silvery coloration. It has a streamlined shape with a slightly pointed snout. The scales are large, and its dorsal fin is continuous with a slight notch.
These fish inhabit coastal areas, estuaries, and deeper offshore waters. They are commonly found in the Mediterranean Sea and along the Atlantic coast from Portugal to Senegal. They prefer sandy or muddy bottoms. Soha Fish(Meagre) can grow to impressive sizes. Adults can reach lengths of over a meter and weigh several dozen kilograms. They are known for their rapid growth during the first years of life.
Soha Fish(Meagre) are carnivorous and primarily feed on fish and cephalopods. Their feeding habits may vary depending on their size and location.
Wiki Pedia Description of Soha Fish
Argyrosomus regius has a relatively large head with quite small eyes, the largemouth is at the terminal position and it has an elongated body. The lateral line is easily seen and extends all the way to the caudal fin. The rear dorsal fin is much longer than the first one which has nine rays. The first ray of the anal fin is short and spiny while the second is very thin. The swim bladder contains several branched appendages that are vibrated to make a grunting sound which can be heard from up to 30m away and this grunting is produced by the males during the spawning season. The body colour is pearly-silver, with bronze traits dorsally. The fin bases are reddish brown and mouth cavity is yellow-gold or salmon pink. The scales are large and every fourth scale is set at a different angle from the rest.[5][6] It can reach up to 2.3 m (7.5 ft) in total length and 103 kg (227 lb) in weight.[2]
Commercial Importance
Due to their size and culinary value, Soha Fish(Meagre) is a popular target for both commercial and recreational fishing. They are highly sought after in the fishing industry and are known for their firm, flavorful flesh.
The Soha Fish(Meagre) is appreciated for its mild flavor and firm texture. It is often prepared by grilling, baking, or pan-searing. The species has become a staple in Mediterranean and Atlantic cuisine, with various traditional recipes highlighting its qualities.
Due to their popularity in fisheries, there have been concerns about overfishing and the need for sustainable management practices to ensure the conservation of Soha Fish(Meagre) populations.
Researchers and conservationists are studying the biology and behavior of Argyrosomus regius to implement effective conservation measures. This includes monitoring population sizes, establishing fishing quotas, and promoting sustainable fishing practices.
Soha Fish(Argyrosomus regius), the Soha Fish(Meagre) or Croaker, plays a significant role in both ecological and culinary contexts. Its popularity in the fishing industry emphasizes the importance of sustainable practices to ensure the continued existence of this species in the wild.
Gold prices in Pakistan remained high on 16 March 2026. The price of 24-karat gold was recorded at Rs. 524,562 per tola, while the rate for 10 grams of 24k gold stood at Rs. 449,727.
For 22-karat gold, the price was Rs. 480,972 per tola, while 10 grams were priced at Rs. 412,250 in local markets.
Experts say that changes in gold prices are often connected to movements in the United States Dollar. When the dollar becomes stronger or weaker, it can influence gold rates in international and local markets.
It is also important to remember that gold prices in Pakistan can change several times during the day. These changes usually happen because of shifts in the global gold market and currency exchange rates.
Gold Prices in Major Cities
Gold rates were reported to be similar in several major cities of the country, including Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad.
City
24k Gold per Tola (PKR)
24k Gold 10 Grams (PKR)
22k Gold per Tola (PKR)
Lahore
524,562
449,727
480,972
Islamabad
524,562
449,727
480,972
Karachi
524,562
449,727
480,972
Gold traders say the market will continue to react to global economic conditions, currency movements, and international demand for precious metals.
Batting first, Bangladesh scored 290 runs for the loss of 5 wickets in 50 overs. Tanzid Hasan was the star for Bangladesh, scoring 107 runs. Litton Das added 41, Saif Hassan made 36, and captain Najmul Hossain Shanto scored 27. Rashid Hossain was dismissed without scoring.
For Pakistan, Haris Rauf was the best bowler, taking 3 wickets, while Shaheen Shah Afridi and Abrar Ahmed took 1 wicket each.
Now, Pakistan needs 291 runs to win the match and take the series.
In the second ODI on Friday, Pakistan had made a strong comeback, winning by 128 runs under the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern method after rain interrupted the match.
Batting first, Pakistan scored 274 runs in 47.3 overs. Bangladesh’s innings was reduced to 32 overs, and they needed 243 runs to win. However, Pakistan’s bowlers dominated, and Bangladesh was bowled out for 114 runs in 23.3 overs, giving Pakistan a comfortable victory and leveling the series.
Iran launches New three waves missile attacks on Tel Aviv, Israel on Sunday, hitting areas in the central part of the country and triggering air raid sirens in several regions, according to reports shared on social media and statements cited by Drop Site News.
The missile barrage reportedly targeted multiple locations. Some missiles struck areas in central Israel, while another wave was aimed at the southern part of the country.
Early reports suggested that the strikes caused damage in some places, but the full number of casualties or the total level of destruction was not immediately clear.Videos and eyewitness accounts shared online showed explosions and attempts by Israeli air defence systems to intercept the incoming missiles. Authorities warned people in affected areas to take shelter while emergency teams checked possible impact sites.
The attacks come at a time of rising tensions between Iran, Israel, and the United States, as the ongoing conflict continues to involve several countries across the Middle East.
Images shared on social media showed damage to buildings and infrastructure in Holon, located south of Tel Aviv. However, the scale of the damage and any possible casualties could not be independently confirmed.
Earlier missile attacks during the conflict have targeted major cities and infrastructure across Israel. Some of these strikes caused injuries and property damage despite interception attempts by air defence systems.
Israeli authorities did not immediately release an official statement about the extent of the damage from the latest attacks. Iranian officials have previously described such missile launches as retaliation for Israeli and US military actions in the region.
The government has officially announced public holidays for Eidul Fitr. According to a notification issued by the Cabinet Division of Pakistan on Sunday, March 20 and March 21 will be observed as public holidays across the country.
The notification stated that all government offices will remain closed on Friday, March 20, and Saturday, March 21. These holidays will apply to institutions that follow both five-day and six-day working schedules.
March 22, which falls on Sunday, will remain the regular weekly holiday. In addition, March 23 is already a national public holiday in Pakistan to celebrate Pakistan Day. Because of these dates, many government employees are expected to enjoy a longer break during the Eid period.
Earlier, Express News had reported that four holidays were likely to be announced. The government later confirmed the holidays through an official notification.
Meanwhile, the Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission had predicted that Eidul Fitr would probably fall on March 21. According to the commission, the chances of seeing the Shawwal moon on March 19 were very low.
SUPARCO explained that at sunset on March 19, the new moon would be around 12 hours and 41 minutes old. There would also be about a 28-minute gap between sunset and moonset along Pakistan’s coastal areas.
However, the commission clarified that its forecast is based only on scientific calculations and observations. The final announcement about the sighting of the Shawwal moon will be made by the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee.
The committee is the official body responsible for confirming the beginning of Islamic months in Pakistan based on verified moon-sighting reports from across the country.Government Announces Eidul Fitr Holidays.
.jpg "Soha Fish | Description of Soha Fish | From Ocean Depths")
