HomepageArticles by: Saleha Ali

Author: Saleha Ali

CategoriesNews

FBR extends income tax filing deadline to October 31, 2025

ISLAMABAD: The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) has extended the deadline for filing income tax returns for Tax Year 2025. The new deadline, originally set for October 15, 2025, will now be October 31, 2025. This extension comes after repeated requests from trade bodies and tax bar associations, seeking more time for taxpayers to complete their filings.

The notification issued by the FBR confirms that the deadline has been extended in accordance with Section 214A of the 2001 Income Tax Ordinance. The decision marks the second time that the FBR has revised the deadline, having previously extended it from September 30, 2025, to October 15, 2025. Despite earlier affirmations that no further extension would be granted, the FBR chose to extend the date again following additional requests from concerned parties.

The FBR’s decision to revise the deadline reflects the pressure exerted by various stakeholders, including the business community and legal professionals, who emphasized the need for more time to meet the filing requirements. Taxpayers who were initially required to submit their returns by September 30 now have until October 31, 2025, to do so.

This announcement is seen as a major relief for taxpayers, allowing them more flexibility in meeting their obligations. However, it also underscores the challenges faced by the tax authority in balancing compliance requirements with the practical realities of the filing process.

CategoriesCitadel 7

Chakor Foundation Bridges Education Gap in Mardan with Scholarships and Enhanced Facilities 

Mardan, Pakistan – The Chakor Foundation is proud to announce its commitment to bridging the education gap in Mardan, a city where the need for quality educational infrastructure is critical. Despite the growing demand for education, local schools and colleges struggle with inadequate facilities, leaving many students with potential but limited access to opportunities. 

In response to this pressing issue, Chakor Foundation is offering scholarships and improving educational facilities to ensure that young minds in Mardan can access the resources and opportunities they deserve.

Education in Pakistan is facing a significant crisis, with 62% of children lacking access to quality education, which prevents millions of young individuals from realizing their full potential. Statistics from 2022 reveal that only 1.96 million students were enrolled in universities across a population of 243.7 million, illustrating the severe shortage of access to higher education, particularly in underprivileged areas. 

Mardan, located in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, faces an even greater challenge due to inadequate educational infrastructure, leaving students from disadvantaged backgrounds with few opportunities to succeed. This gap between those with access to education and those without continues to widen, exacerbating the issue.

To address this challenge, Chakor Foundation is dedicated to transforming the educational landscape in Mardan. Recognizing the urgent need for quality education and improved infrastructure, the Foundation has launched initiatives to provide students with scholarships and educational facilities. 

Through its work, Chakor Foundation aims to uplift the entire educational ecosystem in the region, ensuring that all students—regardless of their financial situation—have the opportunity to pursue their dreams.

Chakor Ventures CEO Muhammad Abbas Khan handing over prize to a student

At the heart of this effort is the Chakor Scholarship Program, a need-based initiative designed to assist talented but financially disadvantaged students in Mardan. This program provides essential financial support for tuition fees, educational materials, and mentorship, ensuring that students can continue their education without financial barriers. 

By offering this comprehensive assistance, Chakor Foundation is helping students from underserved communities access the quality education they deserve.

The Chakor Scholarship Program has set an annual funding goal of $20,000, with a target of $500 per student to cover essential educational expenses. The program aims to support 40 students annually, ensuring that each one receives the financial support necessary to succeed in their academic endeavors. This funding will cover tuition, books, transport, and mentorship, ensuring that students receive the holistic support they need to thrive.

The Foundation invites donors to support this initiative by contributing to the scholarship fund. Sponsors can choose to fully or partially fund a student’s education, with the option to support one or more students. Donors will receive regular progress reports on the students they sponsor, allowing them to track academic progress and see the direct impact of their contributions. Transparency is a key focus of the program, with real-time updates available via the Chakor Foundation’s donor portal, ensuring that all contributions are used effectively to support students.

Chakor Foundation believes that every donation—no matter the size—can make a meaningful difference in the lives of students in Mardan. Your support will provide them with the resources to continue their education and ultimately build a brighter future for themselves and their communities. To donate and help achieve the Foundation’s goal, simply visit the Chakor Foundation’s donation page.

Chakor Foundation is more than just a scholarship provider. It is committed to transforming the lives of underprivileged communities across Pakistan through a range of initiatives, including school uniform drives, virtual health clinics, and youth employment programs. 

The Foundation’s holistic approach ensures that families and students receive the support they need to thrive, regardless of their background or financial situation. Through its work, Chakor Foundation is striving to create a more equitable and empowered society.

CategoriesNews

Punjab to digitize all toll plazas to improve efficiency and transparency

LAHORE: The Punjab government has unveiled plans to digitize all toll plazas across the province in a move to improve efficiency, transparency, and the overall experience for commuters.

During a high-level meeting chaired by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, the government approved the replacement of the manual receipt system with a fully digital toll collection mechanism.

The initiative, named ‘One App, One System’, will be implemented at 38 toll plazas in Punjab, operating similarly to the existing system on national motorways.

This digital transition aims to eliminate manual irregularities, reduce congestion at entry and exit points, and enhance transparency in revenue management. The Chief Minister emphasized that the new system would offer greater convenience to travelers while ensuring more efficient toll collection.

The meeting also covered progress on several development projects, with the approval of five major road projects to be developed through public-private partnerships. These projects are expected to reduce costs and accelerate completion timelines.

Additionally, the Punjab government reported saving PKR 40 billion through e-tendering, which has strengthened procurement transparency. The Chief Minister also directed the installation of solar-powered streetlights along new roads to promote sustainability and energy efficiency.

In urban development, the government approved beautification initiatives in Lahore, including the installation of a decorative fountain and a miniature train for children near the railway station park. New roads and pedestrian pathways in the area will enhance accessibility and the city’s visual appeal.

Finally, progress was shared on the restoration of flood-affected infrastructure, with repairs completed on 54 major bridges, 142 small bridges, and 858 damaged roads, while rehabilitation in Murree, Chakwal, and Sahiwal has been finalized.

The toll digitization project marks a significant step toward modernizing Punjab’s infrastructure, integrating technology into public management systems, and improving service delivery for residents and travelers alike.

CategoriesNews

Islamabad authorities launch measures to curb smog and pollution

ISLAMABAD: Authorities in Islamabad have announced a series of measures to curb smog, reduce air pollution, and protect the environment in the capital. The directives were issued during a high-level meeting at CDA Headquarters, jointly chaired by CDA Chairman and Chief Commissioner Muhammad Ali Randhawa and Pak-EPA Director General Nazia Zeb Ali.

Officials said a comprehensive joint strategy will be implemented to tackle pollution, focusing on the transport, industrial, and brick kiln sectors. Vehicle emission tests are being conducted across the city, with real-time data monitored through an integrated digital dashboard. Additional checkpoints will be established to strengthen monitoring.

All brick kilns and industrial units in Islamabad have been directed to adopt modern, eco-friendly technology, with a deadline of 20 October 2025 for kilns to switch to the zigzag system. Repeat violators contributing to air pollution may face legal action or the dismantling of their facilities. The ICT administration will also coordinate with Rawalpindi authorities to manage kilns located near the boundary areas.

To expand air quality monitoring, one station is already functional in Sector H-8, with more stations planned across the city. Open-air waste burning has been banned, and legal action will be taken against violators. All ongoing construction projects are required to implement water sprinkling systems and adhere to mitigation measures outlined in their Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs).

Chairman Randhawa emphasized that these initiatives, in line with directives from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, aim to maintain a cleaner, healthier, and safer environment for residents of Islamabad.

CategoriesArchitecture Construction

Stock Exchange Tower Islamabad: An Iconic Landmark of Pakistan’s Finance Sector

Standing tall in the bustling Blue Area, the Stock Exchange Tower Islamabad, is hard to miss. This iconic high-rise has witnessed Pakistan’s financial evolution firsthand, evolving from the headquarters of the Stock Exchange Tower Islamabad to a modern office hub for multinational corporations. Its impressive architecture, advanced facilities, and prime location make it a landmark for business and design enthusiasts alike. In this guide, we take you through the tower’s history, architectural features, financial significance, and everything you need to know about this centerpiece of Islamabad’s skyline.

Key Information

Here’s a comprehensive table of key information about the ISE Tower:

Attribute Details
Name ISE Tower (Stock Exchange Tower Islamabad )
Location 55, Jinnah Avenue, Blue Area, Islamabad, Pakistan
Height 22 stories (Second-tallest building in Islamabad)
Total Area 562,629 sq. ft. (52,269.9 m²)
Basements 3 levels, parking capacity of 300 cars
Construction Cost PKR 2.5 billion
Construction Period Completed in under 4 years; inaugurated in 2009
Architect NESPAK Pvt. Ltd.
Main Contractor Habib Rafiq Pvt. Ltd.
Building Type Office building; formerly stock exchange headquarters
Trading Hall None (Digital trading system implemented)
Key Features Bronze bull statue, largest electronic screen in Pakistan (15 ft × 10 ft), state-of-the-art HVAC system, 6 passenger lifts per floor, 1 cargo lift, 3 stairwells
Connectivity 5,000 telephone lines, optic fiber internet, no copper connections
Fire Safety Advanced firefighting system installed (cost ~PKR 300 million)
Notable Tenants Air China Pakistan, Etihad Airlines Pakistan, OMV Pakistan, NEC Worldwide (Pakistan), Air Blue Head Office, Turkish Airlines Pakistan
Current Function Office building, REIT asset managed by stock exchange tower Islamabad REIT Management Company Limited
Opening Date 31 July 2009

History of the ISE Tower 

stock exchange tower Islamabad

The stock exchange tower Islamabad was originally designed to serve as the headquarters of the Islamabad Stock Exchange (ISE), reflecting Pakistan’s growing financial ambitions. The Islamabad Stock Exchange itself was incorporated on 25 October 1989 as a guarantee-limited company to develop a modern trading infrastructure in the capital city.

  • Licensed as a stock exchange on 7 January 1992
  • Commenced trading operations in July 1992
  • Introduced computerized trading systems over time, starting with ISE-CTS in 1997, followed by ULTRA TRADE in 2002, and remote/internet trading in 2003
  • Joined Lahore Stock Exchange on 30 April 2007 to create a unified trading platform

Construction of the Stock Exchange Tower Islamabad

To accommodate the growing needs of the stock exchange, the ISE Tower was planned and executed as a state-of-the-art high-rise office building in Islamabad’s Blue Area.

  • Construction commenced in 2006 and was completed in April 2009
  • Inaugurated by then Prime Minister Yusuf Raza Gilani on 31 July 2009
  • Built at a cost of PKR 2.5 billion, independently funded by ISE management
  • Constructed in under four years, demonstrating efficient project execution

Transition and Repurposing

With the merger of the Islamabad Stock Exchange into the Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) in 2016, the building was repurposed from a stock exchange headquarters to a modern office tower:

  • Integrated with Karachi Stock Exchange and Lahore Stock Exchange under the Stock Exchanges (Corporatization, Demutualization, and Integration) Act 2012
  • Renamed ISE Towers REIT Management Company Limited, now functioning as a corporate office building and REIT asset
  • Hosts multiple multinational companies, airlines, and corporate offices, becoming a hub of Islamabad’s financial and business activities

Key Milestones | Stock Exchange Tower Islamabad

  • 1989: ISE incorporation
  • 1992: Trading commenced
  • 1997-2003: Transition to computerized and remote trading systems
  • 2006-2009: Construction of ISE Tower
  • 2009: Tower inauguration
  • 2016: Integration into the Pakistan Stock Exchange and transformation into a REIT-managed office building

How to Reach Stock Exchange Tower Islamabad

map of stock exchange tower islamabad

The stock exchange tower Islamabad is located in the heart of Islamabad’s business district, the Blue Area, making it highly accessible via multiple modes of transport.

Location of Stock Exchange Tower Islamabad

  • Address: 55, Jinnah Avenue, Blue Area, Islamabad, Pakistan
  • Situated near prominent landmarks like The Centaurus Mall, Ufone Tower, and Shaheed-e-Millat Metro Station

By Car or Taxi

  • Easily reachable from all parts of Islamabad via Jinnah Avenue, the Blue Area, and nearby arterial roads
  • Ample on-site parking available in three basement levels, accommodating up to 300 vehicles

Public Transport

  • Close to Metro Bus stations: Shaheed-e-Millat Station South and 7th Avenue Metro Station
  • Local buses and ride-hailing services such as Careem and Uber provide convenient access

Walking & Cycling

For locals working or staying in the Blue Area, the tower is within walking or short cycling distance from nearby commercial and residential zones.

Accessibility Tips

  • Arrive early in the morning to avoid traffic congestion, particularly during peak office hours
  • The tower is fully equipped with lifts, stairwells, and security protocols for smooth visitor access

Visiting the ISE Tower is straightforward, whether you’re coming for business, a tour, or to explore its architectural prominence in Islamabad’s skyline.

Architectural & Design Features of Stock Exchange Tower Islamabad

stock exchange tower Islamabad

The Stock Exchange Tower Islamabad was designed by NESPAK Pvt. Ltd. and constructed by Habib Rafiq Pvt. Ltd., showcasing a modern approach to high-rise architecture in Islamabad’s Blue Area.

The building features asymmetrical twin towers, which give it a unique skyline presence while maintaining a professional and corporate aesthetic.

The exterior combines blue-tinted glass with a robust grey structural framework, creating a sleek and contemporary look that contrasts yet complements the surrounding commercial district.

Special Features

The Stock Exchange Tower Islamabad is not just visually striking but also technologically advanced. Key highlights include:

  • Bronze bull statue, symbolizing financial growth and prosperity
  • Largest electronic screen in Pakistan, measuring 15 feet high by 10 feet wide
  • First building in Islamabad to feature an LCD screen mounted on its façade

Basements and Parking

The stock exchange tower Islamabad includes three basement levels, each spanning 50,000 sq. ft., primarily allocated for employee parking with a capacity of 300 cars. These levels also house critical plant rooms for the building’s HVAC and electrical systems.

Interior Amenities

Designed for efficiency and comfort, the interior of the Stock Exchange Tower Islamabad, includes:

  • Six passenger lifts per floor and one cargo lift
  • Three stairwells per tower for accessibility and safety
  • Centralized HVAC system ensuring optimal temperature control
  • High-speed internet infrastructure, supported by a 5,000-line PTCL hub connected via fiber optics for fast and reliable connectivity

Fire Safety | Stock Exchange Tower Islamabad

fire safety at stock exchange tower islamabad

Safety is a major focus of the building’s design. A state-of-the-art firefighting system was installed at a cost of approximately Rs 300 million, ensuring high standards of emergency preparedness for tenants and visitors.

Ground Floor for Banks

The ground floor of the Stock Exchange Tower Islamabad, is dedicated to banking facilities, providing easy access for tenants and visitors to essential financial services. This strategic allocation ensures convenience for daily operations and financial transactions within the building.

Corporate Tenants

Stock exchange tower Islamabad hosts a diverse range of corporate tenants from multiple industries, including aviation, energy, technology, and financial services. Notable offices include:

  • Air China Pakistan Office
  • British Airways Pakistan Office (11th floor)
  • Etihad Airways Pakistan Office
  • OMV Pakistan Office (17th floor)
  • NEC Worldwide Pakistan (ground floor)
  • Airblue (12th floor)
  • MOL Pakistan (17th–19th floors)
  • Emirates Pakistan Office
  • Turkish Airlines Pakistan Office

These multinational corporations and local enterprises contribute to stock exchange tower Islamabad’s status as a premier corporate hub in Islamabad’s Blue Area.

Office Features & Infrastructure | Stock Exchange Tower Islamabad

The stock exchange tower Islamabad is designed to provide modern office amenities that meet the needs of contemporary businesses:

  • State-of-the-art office spaces with flexible layouts
  • Fully-equipped meeting rooms and conference halls for corporate events
  • Dining and cafeteria facilities for employees and visitors
  • Reception and administrative support, ensuring smooth operations
  • Advanced security systems with 24/7 building access
  • Robust ICT infrastructure supporting high-speed internet, telecommunication lines, and digital connectivity

Work Environment and Convenience

Stock exchange tower Islamabad offers a professional and fully functional workspace, combining comfort, technology, and efficiency. With modern amenities, corporate tenants can conduct business seamlessly, while visitors and employees benefit from the convenience of integrated facilities.

Technological and Infrastructure Highlights

The stock exchange tower Islamabad integrates advanced infrastructure to support corporate and financial operations efficiently. Key features include:

  • Connectivity: Fiber-optic network with no copper connections; added cost of Rs 250 million to ensure high-speed, uninterrupted communication.
  • Communication & IT: Centralized hub of 5,000 telephone lines and integrated data systems for robust internal and external connectivity.
  • Safety & Security: State-of-the-art firefighting system, multiple emergency exits, and CCTV surveillance throughout the building.
  • Sustainability: Centralized HVAC system that efficiently manages energy use and ensures comfort for tenants and visitors.

These features make stock exchange tower Islamabad a model for modern, secure, and technologically advanced office buildings in Pakistan.

Significance

The stock exchange tower Islamabad is more than an office building; it is a symbol of Pakistan’s financial modernization:

  • Symbolism: Represents the country’s growing economic strength and aspirations for global financial integration.
  • Economic Hub: Hosts multinational offices, airlines, energy firms, and financial institutions, fostering business collaboration.
  • Strategic Location: Situated in Islamabad’s Blue Area, close to Metro stations and major business centers, ensuring easy accessibility.

Visitor Information

Visitors can access the tower for guided tours, gaining insights into office layouts, trading setups, and corporate operations.

Accessibility highlights:

  • Metro stations (Shaheed-e-Millat and 7th Avenue) are 2–4 minutes away on foot.
  • Gandhara International Airport is approximately 40 minutes by car.
  • Tours offer a unique perspective on Pakistan’s financial architecture and corporate environment.

Conclusion

The stock exchange tower Islamabad stands as a modern landmark, blending architectural elegance with Pakistan’s financial growth and development. Its advanced infrastructure, strategic location, and corporate significance make it a symbol of economic progress and innovation. For more information on the architectural marvels of Pakistan, visit Chakor blogs.

CategoriesNews

New Convention Hall planned next to Jinnah Centre to host international events

ISLAMABAD: The federal government has approved the construction of a new Convention Centre in Islamabad ahead of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit 2027, officials confirmed. The proposed facility will be located adjacent to the existing Jinnah Convention Centre and is intended to meet international standards for hosting major global conferences.

The decision was announced following a meeting chaired by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi at CDA Headquarters, which was attended by Minister of State Talal Chaudhry, Interior Secretary Mohammad Khurram Agha, and senior officials from the district administration and CDA. The new centre will feature a spacious convention hall, along with multiple large conference and meeting rooms, with design work to be handled by both international and local architects.

The move comes after it was observed that the current Jinnah Convention Centre, covering 7.59 acres with 4.13 acres of built-up space, is insufficient to host large-scale international events. Earlier plans to privatise the existing centre were reconsidered in light of this need.

During the meeting, the interior minister also reviewed ongoing infrastructure projects, including the construction of six new police stations in Islamabad, which have been given a 45-day completion deadline. 

CDA Chairman Muhammad Ali Randhawa briefed officials that tenders for 10 additional police stations have been issued, the new block of Parliament Lodges will be finished on schedule, and all piles for the T-Chowk Flyover Project have been completed, with the foundation stone for Shaheen Chowk to be laid shortly.

Additionally, restoration work on the R-Block of the Pak Secretariat is nearing completion, and plans for the commercialisation of the Islamabad Expressway are being prepared.

CategoriesArchitecture

Mohatta Palace Karachi | Complete Guide (2025)

Step into one of Karachi’s most stunning landmarks, where history, art, and architecture come alive, welcome to Mohatta Palace Museum. Built almost a century ago, this palace has transformed from a luxurious summer residence into a vibrant museum showcasing Pakistan’s rich culture and heritage. Its grand domes, intricate carvings, and beautiful gardens make it a must-visit spot for tourists and locals alike. In this guide, we’ll take you through the history, architecture, and visitor tips of the Mohatta Palace Museum, helping you plan a perfect cultural visit.

Mohatta Palace Karachi | Location & How to Reach 

mohatta palace location map

Finding the Mohatta Palace location in Karachi is easy, whether you’re a local or a visitor exploring the city for the first time. 

  • Mohatta Palace Address: The palace is situated at 7 Hatim Ali Road, Clifton, Karachi, Pakistan, in one of the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods.
  • By Car or Taxi: You can reach the palace quickly from major roads like Shahrah-e-Faisal, M.T. Khan Road, or the main Clifton roads. Taxis and ride-hailing services also drop you right at the entrance.
  • Public Transport: Bus No. 20, Minibusses N and W30, and local coach services, such as Super Hasan Zai and Khan Coach, have stops nearby, making it convenient for those relying on public transport.
  • Walking & Cycling: If you’re already in central Clifton, the palace is within walking or short cycling distance, perfect for a leisurely stroll through the area.
  • Nearby Landmarks: While visiting, you can also explore nearby attractions, such as the Abdullah Shah Ghazi Shrine, the iconic Do Talwar monument, and Clifton Beach.
  • Parking: For those driving, there’s on-site parking available for private vehicles, ensuring a hassle-free visit.

Whether you’re coming for the architecture, the museum exhibitions, or just a day out, reaching the Mohatta Palace Museum is convenient and straightforward.

Mohatta Palace History

The Mohatta Palace Pakistan was built in 1927 by Shivratan Chandraratan Mohatta, a successful Marwari businessman from Rajasthan. Known for his wealth in trade and real estate, Mohatta envisioned the palace as a luxurious summer residence for his family.

The palace was designed to provide comfort and relaxation, particularly for his ailing wife, allowing her to enjoy the cool sea breeze and the scenic surroundings of Clifton.

Architectural Genius

dome of mohatta palace karachi

 

The palace was designed by Agha Ahmed Hussain, one of the pioneering Muslim architects of the Indian subcontinent. Hussain skillfully fused Mughal, Rajput, and Gothic elements, resulting in a structure that is both grand and functional.

Key features include intricate carvings, sweeping staircases, and beautifully landscaped gardens, all of which reflect the era’s opulence and elegance.

Transition After Independence

Following the partition of India in 1947, the Mohatta Palace was repurposed for governmental functions, including offices and official gatherings. Recognizing its historical and architectural significance, the government converted the palace into the Mohatta Palace Museum in 1995. It was opened to the public as a center for art, culture, and heritage.

Cultural and Historical Significance

Today, Mohatta Palace stands as a symbol of Karachi’s colonial past and cultural richness. It offers visitors a glimpse into the lifestyle of the city’s elite in the early 20th century while preserving exquisite craftsmanship and architectural brilliance. Hence, it is a must-visit landmark for both locals and tourists.

Architectural Marvel of Mohatta Palace

Mohatta Palace is a striking example of Indo-Saracenic architecture, a style that beautifully blends Mughal, Rajput, and Gothic influences. This fusion gives the building a unique character, combining the grandeur and symmetry of Mughal design.

It’s boldness and ornamentation of Rajput architecture, and the verticality and arches of the Gothic style. The result is a palace that is both elegant and imposing, capturing the essence of early 20th-century architectural innovation in South Asia.

Materials and Construction

The palace’s construction reflects careful selection of materials to ensure durability and visual appeal:

  • Pink Jodhpur Stone: Used extensively for the exterior, giving the palace a warm and majestic hue.
  • Local Yellow Gizri Stone: Complements the pink stone, creating a beautiful contrast while incorporating local building resources.

Mohatta Palace Inside | Architectural Features

night view of mohatta palace pakistan building

The interiors and exteriors of Mohatta Palace showcase meticulous craftsmanship and artistic detailing:

  • Domes: The palace has nine domes, with the central dome being the largest, providing a dramatic focal point for the structure.
  • Ornate Carvings: Walls, arches, and pillars feature intricate carvings of peacocks, hibiscus flowers, and marigolds, symbolizing beauty and prosperity.
  • Staircases and Interiors: Elegant spiral staircases, polished teak wood interiors, and balustrades with floral motifs add to the palace’s luxurious yet functional design.

Mohatta Palace Museum Inside | Symbolism and Aesthetic Appeal

collage of carved floral patterns on mohatta palace walls

Every element of Mohatta Palace, from the carved floral patterns to the combination of domes and arches, was designed to convey elegance, power, and cultural richness.

The blend of regional and colonial architectural features makes it not just a residence but a visual celebration of artistry and design, drawing visitors and historians alike.

Museum Collections and Exhibitions at Mohatta Palace

Mohatta palace interior

The Mohatta Palace Museum houses an impressive array of permanent collections that reflect Pakistan’s rich cultural and artistic heritage. Visitors can explore:

  • Fine and Decorative Arts: Including paintings, sculptures, and intricate decorative objects.
  • Portraits: Historical and contemporary portraits of prominent figures, capturing Pakistan’s evolving history.
  • Traditional Crafts: Handcrafted textiles, pottery, and artifacts showcasing regional craftsmanship and cultural diversity.

These collections offer a comprehensive glimpse into the artistic traditions and cultural heritage of Pakistan, making the museum a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Notable Exhibitions

exhibition at mohatta palace karachi

Over the years, the Mohatta Palace Museum has hosted remarkable exhibitions that highlight both historical and contemporary art forms:

  • Treasures of the Talpurs – Showcasing the legacy and artifacts of the Talpur dynasty.
  • Visions of Divinity – The Arts of Gandhara – Exploring Buddhist art and heritage from the Gandhara region.
  • Sadequain, The Holy Sinner – Celebrating the works of the legendary Pakistani artist Sadequain.
  • The Tale of the Tile – The Ceramic Tradition of Pakistan – Highlighting Pakistan’s traditional tile-making craft.
  • Rebel Angel: Asim Butt 1978–2010 – A contemporary art exhibition honoring the life and work of Asim Butt.
  • A Flower from Every Meadow – Displaying botanical-inspired art and installations.

These exhibitions not only educate visitors but also celebrate the diversity and depth of Pakistan’s art and cultural history, reinforcing the Mohatta Palace Museum’s role as a dynamic cultural hub.

Visitor Information

Visiting the Mohatta Palace Museum is a seamless and enriching experience for both locals and tourists.

  • Mohatta Palace Timings: The museum is open Tuesday to Sunday, from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM. It remains closed on Mondays and public holidays. On Fridays, the museum observes a prayer break from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM.
  • Mohatta Palace Tickets: Mohatta Palace ticket price is Rs. 30 for adults, while children under 12 enter for free.
  • Facilities: The museum offers guided tours, educational programs, and workshops. Visitors can also enjoy photography in designated areas, ensuring everyone can capture memories without disturbing exhibits.

These attractions make Mohatta Palace an excellent starting point for a cultural and historical tour of Karachi.

Preservation and Conservation Efforts

night view of mohatta palace museum building

Preserving Mohatta Palace’s grandeur and historical value has been a priority for heritage authorities:

  • Structural Maintenance: Continuous restoration ensures that architectural elements, including domes, arches, and stonework, remain intact.
  • Cultural Programs: The museum regularly hosts art exhibitions, workshops, and events to keep the space vibrant and engaging.
  • Heritage Protection: Policies are in place to protect the palace’s original design, ensure visitor safety, and maintain accessibility for future generations.

Conclusion

Mohatta Palace Museum remains one of Karachi’s must-visit landmarks, offering a perfect blend of history, architecture, and cultural immersion. Visitors can marvel at its Indo-Saracenic design, explore permanent and temporary exhibitions. Also, enjoy nearby attractions for a full day of cultural discovery. Whether you are a tourist, student, or art lover, Mohatta Palace provides a memorable and enriching experience in the heart of Karachi.

For more information on historic buildings of Pakistan, like Badshahi Masjid Lahore, visit Chakor blogs.

CategoriesCitadel 7

WASA plans filtration plant and new water supply from Daducha dam

RAWALPINDI: The Water and Sanitation Agency (WASA) has launched a PKR 43 million feasibility study to bring 35 million gallons per day (MGD) of water from Daducha Dam to Rawalpindi, officials announced. The study, expected to be completed within two months, will include surveys, technical designs, land acquisition, and environmental and social assessments.

WASA Managing Director Saleem Ashraf said a consultant has been engaged to prepare the PC-I for the project, which also involves setting up a filtration plant at the dam site. The initiative aims to reduce Rawalpindi’s reliance on groundwater and aging reservoirs, such as the 56-year-old Rawal Dam, while securing a long-term water supply for the city.

Currently, Rawalpindi draws 23 MGD from Rawal Dam, 6 MGD from Khanpur Dam, and 35 MGD from 480 tube wells, with over 60 percent of the city’s water coming from groundwater—a source now considered unsustainable.

Officials highlighted that the Daducha Dam project will not only provide a consistent water supply but also help recharge groundwater, reduce contamination risks, and lower pumping costs. The project is expected to meet the needs of the growing population and improve access to reliable drinking water for low-income communities.

CategoriesNews

KP PDWP approves 45 development projects worth over Rs. 66 billion

PESHAWAR: The Provincial Development Working Party (PDWP) has sanctioned 45 major development projects, valued at over PKR 66 billion, across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, spanning key sectors including agriculture, livestock, transport, infrastructure, irrigation, health, and population welfare.

The approval was given during the PDWP’s fourth meeting, chaired by Additional Chief Secretary (Planning and Development) Ikramullah Khan, with senior officials from the relevant departments in attendance. The projects aim to strengthen public welfare, enhance connectivity, and stimulate provincial economic growth.

In line with directives from Chief Minister Ali Amin Khan Gandapur, the PDWP also endorsed a PKR 1 billion beautification project for Peshawar, which will focus on upgrading road networks, rehabilitating streetlights, expanding green belts, and installing modern urban amenities to improve the city’s aesthetic and functional appeal.

In the agriculture sector, initiatives were approved to promote dryland farming in southern districts, expand sunflower cultivation, and introduce advanced mechanization. For livestock development, the body approved schemes for genetic improvement through artificial insemination and cross-breeding with high-quality foreign breeds, with a particular focus on enhancing livelihoods in the merged districts.

A significant portion of the development budget has been allocated to road and infrastructure improvement, including feasibility studies and construction of new bypass routes such as Kurram Pul–Miranshah (via Kot Brara and Hashni Kala), the dualization of Provincial Highway S-8 in Dera Ismail Khan, and the rehabilitation of the Zafarabad irrigation channel from Dakhan Bypass.

Officials emphasized that these projects reflect the provincial government’s commitment to balanced regional development, improved service delivery, and the creation of sustainable economic opportunities across both settled and merged districts.

CategoriesNews

Federal minister Abdul Aleem Khan unveils reform plan for NHA

ISLAMABAD: Federal Minister for Communications Abdul Aleem Khan has unveiled a comprehensive reform plan for the National Highway Authority (NHA), focusing on removing encroachments and standardizing land use policies along motorways and highways.

Speaking at a high-level meeting at NHA headquarters, Aleem Khan said the reforms aim to make the authority self-sustaining and profitable, targeting annual revenues of PKR 500 billion. He noted that the NHA had already achieved a historic increase of PKR 50 billion in its own resources over the past year.

The minister directed that funds previously allocated for patchwork and road repairs be redirected toward new road construction, calling the former practice a source of corruption. He also emphasized restructuring the NHA along corporate lines by involving private-sector experts, implementing performance-based evaluations, and rewarding officers who meet targets with cash incentives.

Aleem Khan further instructed the strict enforcement of encroachment removal, the timely completion of projects, and the outsourcing of commercial rights on NHA land, with quarterly reviews to ensure transparency and efficiency. The meeting was attended by the Federal Secretary for Communications, the NHA Chairman, and senior officials who updated the minister on the progress of these directives.