ISLAMABAD: City managers have decided to strictly enforce energy-efficient building codes in the capital, making adherence to the National Energy Conservation Building Codes 2023 mandatory for all upcoming construction projects.

At a meeting held at CDA Headquarters on Tuesday, chaired by CDA Chairman Muhammad Ali Randhawa and attended by National Energy Efficiency and Conservation Authority (NEECA) Managing Director Sardar Moazzam along with CDA board members, officials reviewed the adoption and implementation of the new codes and by-laws of the Pakistan Engineering Council.

Under the plan, building owners will be required to use energy-efficient materials and install low-voltage, energy-saving electrical systems. New building plans will not receive approval unless they comply with the updated standards. CDA has already issued a notification for their enforcement.

Officials noted that compliance will not only improve energy conservation but also reduce electricity costs for citizens. The meeting also discussed the establishment of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations across the city, including at petrol pumps, government facilities, and commercial areas.

NEECA informed participants that it has developed software tools such as the Building Performance Database, ECBC Compliance Tool, and Residential Load Factor Tool to monitor implementation. Training programmes are also being conducted in relevant institutions.

CDA has directed the creation of a financial model to gradually bring older residential and commercial buildings into compliance, with phased implementation after financial reviews. Meanwhile, NEECA announced that electricity would be supplied to registered EV charging stations at subsidised rates, and CDA’s electric feeder buses would be registered with NEECA.

The meeting concluded with consensus on energy conservation, strict enforcement of energy-efficient building codes, and expanding EV charging infrastructure in Islamabad, in line with the prime minister’s vision of sustainable urban development.

RAWALPINDI: The Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA) has launched a large-scale crackdown against illegal housing schemes and unauthorized constructions on the instructions of its Director General, Kinza Murtaza.

During the operation, the Task Force targeted several unapproved projects. At Islamabad City Housing in Katarian, near Shinwari Hotel on Main Airport Avenue, officials demolished the boundary wall, removed manhole pipes, sealed the site office, and lodged an FIR against the scheme’s owners, Qasim Bhatti and Nasir Bhatti.

At Waddia Homes in Mouza Morgha near Askari 14, the boundary wall, guard room, main gate, and barrier were demolished, while in Wazir Town Housing Scheme, 40 illegally under-construction shops in commercial markets were taken down.

An RDA spokesperson said the drive, supervised directly by DG Kinza Murtaza, will continue to curb fraudulent schemes and protect citizens from exploitation. She stressed that strict action will be taken against land grabbers and owners of illegal projects.

The authority also advised the public to avoid investing in unauthorized housing societies and to verify approvals through the official RDA website before making transactions.

ISLAMABAD: CDA and SNGPL have agreed to fast-track replacement of old gas pipelines in G-6 and Blue Area, aiming to complete work before winter. The new network will prevent leakages, improve pressure, and ensure uninterrupted supply, with strict action against illegal connections.

Chairman CDA  and Chief Commissioner Islamabad, Muhammad Ali Randhawa, met with Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL) General Manager Adnan Ahmed on Monday to review progress on the new gas pipeline network in the capital.

The meeting, attended by senior CDA officials, discussed ongoing replacement of deteriorated pipelines in Sector G-6 and Blue Area. It was agreed that installation work would resume without delay to ensure uninterrupted gas supply before winter.

Randhawa directed that the project be completed ahead of the cold season to prevent shortages, while ensuring consumers face no inconvenience during the replacement process. He also instructed SNGPL to provide early gas connections to the Gandhara Citizen Center in F-9 and to halt supply to illegal and unauthorized constructions.

SNGPL officials said a strategy was being implemented to improve gas pressure across the city, with all measures to be finalized before winter. Both CDA and SNGPL reaffirmed their commitment to working together for improved public services.

RAWALPINDI: The Rawalpindi Development Authority (RDA) announced that more than 70 percent of work on the Rawalpindi Ring Road (RRR) project has been completed, marking a major milestone in one of the region’s most significant infrastructure schemes.

The project is designed to serve as an economic corridor, with plans to establish logistics and education centres, a health city, a dry port, business hubs, industrial zones, transport terminals, wholesale markets, recreational parks, and residential communities along both sides of the route.

At a recent meeting on the Ring Road Economic Zones chaired by RDA Director General Kinza Murtaza, officials reviewed progress and upcoming development prospects. Speaking at the session, Murtaza said the project would not only ease traffic congestion in Rawalpindi and Islamabad but also deliver a cleaner, healthier, and safer urban environment.

She further noted that the initiative is expected to stimulate regional economic growth, generate employment, and improve civic facilities, assuring stakeholders that construction would be completed on an accelerated timeline.

KARACHI: Pakistan’s mining sector could see its revenues triple to $6–8 billion annually by 2030 if the country harnesses its vast mineral wealth, industry leaders said at the Natural Resources and Energy Summit 2025 on Wednesday.

Delivering the keynote, Shamsuddin A. Shaikh, CEO of National Resources Ltd (NRL), noted that Pakistan contributes only 0.15 percent to global mineral output and around 2–3 percent to its own GDP, despite being located on one of the richest mineral belts in the world. He said of the 92 known minerals in the country, nearly 90 percent remain unexplored.

Shaikh warned that delaying action would allow foreign companies to take the lead, urging Pakistani investors to form joint ventures and partnerships to capture opportunities. “This is the time for local companies to create wealth and jobs at home,” he stressed.

He outlined key projects already in motion, including Reko Diq, which is projected to generate $4–5 billion annually, Siah Diq ($1–2 billion), Thar coal expansion ($200 million), and barite, lead, and zinc projects ($100 million). Additional copper and gold exploration in Balochistan’s Chagai region, he said, could bring in $5–10 billion more annually after 2030.

Highlighting the social dimension, Shaikh said responsible mining could transform communities through job creation, better housing, and improved access to healthcare and education. “Mining is not just about minerals—it’s about uplifting lives and eradicating poverty,” he remarked.

Experts at the summit cautioned that the sector’s growth depends on stronger governance, regulatory consistency, and skilled human resources. They also pointed to climate challenges and policy uncertainty as risks, stressing that technology and innovation, including artificial intelligence, will be key enablers.

Bringing together policymakers, investors, and international experts, the summit positioned mining and energy as critical to Pakistan’s economic future. Concluding his address, Shaikh urged decisive action from both government and industry: “This is Pakistan’s moment. With the right policies and investments, mining can become a $10 billion-plus industry, driving growth, stability, and national pride.

ISLAMABAD: The Punjab government has initiated feasibility studies to promote tourism in the hill tehsils of Murree and Kotli Sattian, with a focus on introducing innovative projects aimed at enhancing the region’s appeal.

Backed by an allocation of Rs150 million, the studies will be completed within three months and cover developments such as two new chairlifts, Pakistan’s first sky glass bridge in Murree, glamping pod villages, and a modern jungle theme park.

As part of the plan, Kotli Sattian is being designated Punjab’s model tourism tehsil. A chairlift is proposed for the scenic Panj Peer mountain range, while another will be installed at a newly identified tourist spot in Murree. The proposed sky glass bridge in Murree will mark the country’s first of its kind.

Glamping pod villages, currently limited in number, are also set for expansion, with two to three additional sites under consideration. Meanwhile, jungle theme parks are envisaged in both tehsils with the private sector expected to play a significant role in development.

Speaking to the media, Asim Raza, Managing Director of the Tourism Development Corporation Punjab (TDCP), said that Kotli Sattian is the principal focus of these initiatives. “It is emerging as a new tourist destination, blessed with green forests, rugged mountains, waterfalls, and natural springs,” he remarked.

The involvement of Boy Scouts and Girl Guides is also being planned to engage youth in the promotion and preservation of eco-tourism.

ISLAMABAD: The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved an additional $80.75 million (Rs 22.47 billion) for the Sindh Emergency Flood Assistance Project (EFAP), raising total project funding to $280.47 million (Rs 78.04 billion).

Launched after the 2022 floods, EFAP focuses on rebuilding irrigation, drainage, and flood protection systems while strengthening disaster resilience. Of the new funding, $54.42 million will go to civil works, with overall project progress reported at 43.9%.

So far, $135.33 million has been disbursed, though officials note delays due to contract disputes, land issues, and material shortages. ADB says the fresh allocation will speed up work in flood-prone districts and enhance Sindh’s long-term preparedness against climate-related risks.

ISLAMABAD: The federal government has given the green light to a high-speed rail project aimed at connecting Islamabad and Rawalpindi, cutting travel time between the twin cities to just 20 minutes.

The initiative is designed to provide commuters with a fast and affordable transport option while reducing fuel consumption and easing traffic congestion. Officials say the project will also support economic activity and environmental sustainability.

The decision was taken at a high-level meeting on Monday, jointly chaired by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi. Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry, the Federal Interior Secretary, Secretary Railways, CDA Chairman, Rawalpindi Commissioner, Islamabad Police Inspector General, and representatives of the Frontier Corps were also present.

According to the plan, the Ministry of Railways will develop the track infrastructure, while the Capital Development Authority (CDA) will manage the service. The framework agreement for the project is expected to be signed next week. The government has also decided to import modern trains to ensure efficient, safe, and comfortable travel.

Railways Minister Hanif Abbasi hailed the upcoming service as a landmark project for public welfare, saying it will make daily commuting between the two cities quick and convenient. Minister of State Talal Chaudhry added that the service would be a low-cost, high-speed solution that will ease the burden on existing road networks.

Officials emphasised that the rail link represents a transformative step in urban transportation, setting the stage for modernised, sustainable travel in the Islamabad-Rawalpindi region.

ISLAMABAD: The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has intensified efforts to turn Islamabad into Pakistan’s first cashless city by rolling out the State Bank of Pakistan’s (SBP) Raast QR code system across markets and public spaces.

The decision was taken at a high-level meeting held at CDA Headquarters on Thursday, chaired by Member Administration and Estate Talat Mehmood on the instructions of CDA Chairman and Chief Commissioner Islamabad Muhammad Ali Randhawa. The session was attended by officials from commercial banks, the SBP, and the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) administration.

Officials briefed participants that the Raast QR code, already operational at weekly bazaars, will now be introduced at Class III markets, shopping centres, and major commercial hubs. CDA Member Finance Tahir Naeem said strong measures were being implemented to ensure that one unified QR code is displayed for all categories of transactions throughout the capital.

To monitor the rollout, a digital dashboard has been created to gather real-time data from banks. The meeting also underlined the need for awareness campaigns to encourage citizens and traders to embrace Raast as a secure and transparent digital payment solution.

CDA officials noted that the Raast system would play a central role in Islamabad’s transition to a digital economy, ensuring faster, safer, and more reliable transactions. Talat Mehmood said the CDA was coordinating efforts through a steering committee comprising CDA, MCI, ICT, and partner banks.

Once again, the two traditional rivals and giants of cricket; India and Pakistan collide on the grand stage of Dubai for Asia Cup 2025. Rivalries are common in sport, but this one transcends the field, it’s culture, history, and passion rolled into one. 

On Sunday, September 14, 2025, the cricketing world will once again tune in as the two neighbors square off in the Asia Cup.

Time, Ticket, Date, Location

The Group A encounter has already set pulses racing. Scheduled for 6:30 PM local time (14:30 GMT) at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, the match is expected to attract not only sell-out crowds but also millions of viewers worldwide. 

Online tickets are available exclusively through Platinumlist.net, while offline tickets can be purchased from box offices in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. As expected, demand is feverish, after all, who wouldn’t want to say they watched India and Pakistan live under the lights of Dubai?

Pakistan’s Winning Start | 93-Run Win Against Oman

Pakistan come into the clash high on confidence, having cruised past Oman in their opening game. A 93-run win sent a clear message: even without their biggest names, this team means business. 

Fakhar Zaman’s aggressive knock at the top set the tone, while Shaheen Afridi reminded everyone why he is among the most feared new-ball bowlers in the world. Captain Salman Agha led from the front, earning praise for a calm yet attacking approach. 

Analysts say the decisive factor was Pakistan’s bowling depth, with multiple options to squeeze the opposition.

Coach Mike Hesson echoed that view and explained Pakistan’s selection strategy after the controversial omission of Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan:

“Being honest about your assessment of players is pretty important. Looking at things objectively is important. What I have alluded to is the way the modern game is played and the strike rates required, particularly in good conditions.”

Hesson also fired a quiet warning to India, highlighting Pakistan’s spin options:

“I guess the beauty of our side is we’ve got five spinners. We’ve got Mohammed Nawaz, who’s the best spin bowler in the world at the moment… and obviously we’ve had Abrar Ahmed and Sufiyan Muqeem doing as well as they have.”

India vs Pakistan Stats – Past Asia Cup Matches 

Whenever India and Pakistan meet, statistics are dusted off like old family albums. In 19 Asia Cup encounters, India has the edge with 10 wins, while Pakistan has claimed 6, and 3 matches ended without a result. 

The last time these two sides met earlier this year, India clinched victory in a tight finish, once again proving why this matchup is rarely one-sided.

Add to that the fact that India are the defending Asia Cup champions, having dismantled Sri Lanka in the 2023 final, and the storyline becomes even juicier. Numbers say India usually hold the upper hand, but Pakistan’s habit of springing surprises makes every clash unpredictable.

Squads & Selection | Who’s in Who’s Out

Both teams arrive in Dubai with lineups that have stirred plenty of chatter.

For India, captain Suryakumar Yadav and vice-captain Shubman Gill headline a youthful but balanced squad. Exciting names like Abhishek Sharma and Tilak Varma are in, alongside experienced campaigners Hardik Pandya, Jasprit Bumrah, and Kuldeep Yadav. Yet, several established players are missing: Shreyas Iyer and KL Rahul were left out, Rishabh Pant continues his recovery, and Mohammed Siraj didn’t make the cut. 

It’s a bold approach by selectors, prioritizing form and flexibility over reputation.

After India’s comfortable win over UAE in their opener, Surya Kumar Yadav praised the team’s clinical approach:

“Wanted to see how the wicket was playing. It was the same in the second innings. Clinical performance from the boys, we wanted good attitude and energy on the field and that’s what we got.”

He also underlined the importance of spinners in Dubai’s heat:

“The wicket looked good but it was on the slower side and the spinners have a role. Here it is very hot right now and Kuldeep did well, got good support from Hardik, Dube and Bumrah.”

Looking ahead to Sunday’s clash, the Indian skipper kept it simple but exciting:

“Everyone is excited for the game against Pakistan.”

Pakistan’s squad selection stole even bigger headlines. Longtime batting pillars Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan were both dropped, a decision that raised eyebrows across cricketing circles. 

Stepping in as captain is Salman Agha, with Fakhar Zaman, Saim Ayub, Shaheen Afridi, and Haris Rauf carrying the responsibility. 

Former greats have weighed in: Wasim Akram called the decision to drop Babar “a brave gamble,” while Harbhajan Singh suggested India’s squad was “refreshingly balanced, with youth and experience in harmony.”

Views of General Public and Analysts

While fans are hyped, politics has added its usual layer of noise. Some voices in India have called for boycotts of cricketing ties with Pakistan, especially after tensions spiked between the two nations in May 2025. 

To sidestep complications, the Asian Cricket Council settled on Dubai as the neutral venue, a city that has long hosted this high-stakes rivalry with relative ease.

Former Pakistan wicketkeeper Kamran Akmal also reminded both sides that while aggression is natural, it must stay in check:

“Aggression is the beauty of an India-Pakistan match. How to take that aggression is the key. Respect should be there. Players will have to remember cricket is a gentleman’s game. If they keep that in mind, I am sure Sunday’s match will go untroubled.”

Weather & Pitch Report

Fortunately for the organizers and fans, Sunday’s forecast is clear skies and pleasant conditions, no rain clouds to spoil the party. The Dubai pitch is traditionally friendly to batsmen, though the dew factor in the second innings often makes chasing easier. 

Expect spinners to come into play during the middle overs, while fast bowlers like Bumrah and Shaheen will look to make early inroads with the new ball.

The Final Word

India vs Pakistan is never just another cricket match. It’s a spectacle, a carnival, sometimes even a stress test for fans’ heart rates. Both sides come armed with new lineups, bold strategies, and points to prove. 

India wants to defend its crown, Pakistan wants to show that life after Babar and Rizwan can still sparkle.

Whatever happens on Sunday, one thing is certain: when these two teams collide, cricket takes center stage. Politics can wait, calculators can rest, and fans can simply enjoy the drama. 

Because India–Pakistan matches are not just contests, they’re chapters in a never-ending story, and the next one is about to be written under the Dubai lights.

For more informative and interesting articles e.g Flash Floods in Punjab 2025, visit Chakor blogs!

This is the 17th edition of the Asia Cup, first held in 1983 as an ODI tournament. Since 2016, the event has alternated between the ODI and T20I formats. The 2025 edition returns to the 20-over format as a lead-up to the T20 World Cup next year.