Home Blog Page 127

Annual Urs of Hazrat Pira Shah Ghazi to Begin on February 13, Public Holiday Announced in Mirpur

    0

    Mirpur – The 291st annual Urs celebrations of Hazrat Baba Pira Shah Ghazi, also known as Damri Wali Sarkar, will commence on February 13, 2025 (14 Shaban 1446 Hijri) in Khari Sharif, Mirpur.

    On this occasion, the Deputy Commissioner (DC) of Mirpur has officially declared a public holiday in the district. A notification has been issued, confirming that all government offices, educational institutions, and public sector departments will remain closed on February 13. Copies of the notification have been sent to the DC Office, SSP Office, Municipal Corporation, and other administrative divisions.

    The two-day Urs celebrations will begin on the evening of February 12 with a ritual washing of the shrine (Ghusl) after Maghrib prayers. The final prayer ceremony will take place on February 13 at the Dargah in Khari Sharif, where attendees will pray collectively for peace, unity, and prosperity.

    To honor Hazrat Baba Pira Shah Ghazi’s contributions, various religious and cultural events will be organized. The Khari Sharif shrine has been a significant spiritual center for centuries, providing solace to visitors. His teachings on Islamic values and peaceful living continue to inspire generations.

    Considering the spiritual and cultural significance of the Urs, local authorities, along with the event management team, have made special security arrangements to ensure a safe and smooth celebration. The public holiday on February 13 in Mirpur aims to allow maximum participation in the Urs ceremonies.

    46-Year-Old Mentally Challenged Man from Khuiratta Arrested in Jammu Kashmir After Crossing LoC

    0

    Kotli, Khuiratta (Kashmir Digital) – A 46-year-old mentally challenged man, Abdul Rehman, son of Muhammad Shafi, a resident of Kanthi village, Seri, Khuiratta, accidentally crossed the Line of Control (LoC) and has been arrested by Indian authorities in Indian administered Kashmir.

    According to local sources, Abdul Rehman, also known as Papi, has a mental health condition. When he went missing from home, his family posted about it on social media, after which a resident of the Chattar border confirmed that he had crossed into Indian-administered territory. The eyewitness stated that he saw Abdul Rehman crossing the LoC, which devastated his family upon hearing the news.

    Abdul Rehman’s two sons and daughter have appealed to the President of Pakistan, the Prime Minister of Pakistan, and the Army Chief to take immediate steps for his safe return.

    Meanwhile, the police in administered Kashmir claimed that Abdul Rehman was arrested in Rajouri, near the LoC, and is being interrogated at the Rajouri police station. The authorities did not find anything objectionable in his possession but alleged that he was intoxicated when he crossed the border.

    According to the BBC, an Indian police officer who spoke on condition of anonymity stated that last year, there were multiple armed infiltration attempts in the Nowshera sector. Due to this, Abdul Rehman is being thoroughly questioned before any decision on repatriation is made.

    It is important to note that before the Partition, Nowshera was part of Bhimber Tehsil in Azad Kashmir’s Mirpur district, where Abdul Rehman was detained. Additionally, a young man had recently crossed into administered Kashmir from the Poonch sector but was later returned by Indian authorities after questioning.

    Azad Kashmir: Public Works Department Employees Begin Strike for Their Rights

    0

    Public Works Department (PWD) employees have taken to the streets in protest against the government, warning of a complete strike across Azad Kashmir if their demands are not met.

    According to details, protesting employees have launched a work stoppage strike, waving red flags as they raised their voices for their rights. They have demanded the regularization of contract and ad-hoc employees, upgradation of pay scales, and risk allowances for hazardous areas. The protestors emphasized that the government must fulfill these demands immediately.

    PWD Workers’ Union leaders stated that despite harsh weather conditions, including rain and snowfall, all operators, laborers, helpers, and other employees have halted road restoration work. Due to the strike, the repair of snow-affected roads has been delayed, causing significant difficulties for the public. The protestors further warned the government that if their charter of demands is not fulfilled, they will continue their strike indefinitely across Azad Kashmir.

    In Neelum Valley, PWD employees work in challenging mountainous terrain to restore roads, yet they remain unregularized and deprived of essential benefits. Protestors also alleged that vacant operator positions in Neelum were filled with employees from Muzaffarabad, who are now drawing salaries without actually working, while temporary ad-hoc workers are left to handle road clearance in extreme snowfall.

    Furthermore, despite the Prime Minister’s announcement of salary increments and additional benefits, the employees are still waiting for implementation.

    Landslides on Srinagar Highway Pose Deadly Risks, Authorities Remain Silent

    0

    Muzaffarabad: Due to the negligence and incompetence of the government and relevant authorities, the Srinagar Highway has become a death trap. Frequent landslides triggered by rainfall pose a constant threat to the public at various points along the highway.

    Last year, a motorcyclist lost his life after being buried under a landslide on the same road. Lack of action from the Highway Department and concerned authorities has resulted in significant human and financial losses for commuters, including students who use this route daily.

    According to a Kashmir Digital report, land grabbers and the construction mafia are actively operating in the area. Unregulated constructions within mountainous terrains have further worsened the landslide situation.

    Despite the evident risks, authorities have issued illegal NOCs (No Objection Certificates) for commercial plazas at landslide-prone locations. One department approves the NOC, while another revokes it, yet construction continues overnight.

    The local administration remains reluctant to take action against encroachments and illegal constructions along the Srinagar Highway. Frequent road closures due to these activities are disrupting students’ education.

    Public concerns highlight that if the government and local authorities take serious steps to halt illegal construction and address landslide hazards, future accidents and casualties could be prevented.

    Strong Winds & Rain: Heavy rainfall in Haveli, Mirpur, and other regions, accompanied by snowfall in the mountains, has intensified the cold wave.

    Largest Self-Funded Ground Constructed in Samahni, Bhimber

    0

    Bhimber: The largest sports ground in Tehsil Samahni has been constructed on a self-help basis at Government Boys High School Bahmla Bians. The ground has officially been inaugurated.

    To mark the occasion, the school administration organized an exhibition shooting volleyball match, featuring renowned players from across Pakistan, who entertained the audience with their impressive gameplay.

    The ground was built through community-funded efforts, providing youth with opportunities for healthy activities. The chief guest at the inauguration ceremony was Chaudhry Muhammad Razzaq, a candidate for the Legislative Assembly. A large number of spectators from across the district attended the event.

    Moreover, the winning team donated its ₹50,000 prize money to the school ground fund. Local residents present at the event also contributed funds for the biggest school ground in Tehsil Samahni.

    Latest Gold and Silver Rates Issued in Azad Kashmir’s Gold Market

    0

    Azad Kashmir’s Sarafa Market has released the latest gold and silver rates for today, February 10, 2025.

    According to the latest updates, the price of 24-karat gold per tola is Rs 299,000, while 10 grams of gold is priced at Rs 256,345. Meanwhile, silver per tola remains stable at Rs 3,200.

    Comparing today’s rates with February 9, 2025, the price of gold per tola has increased by Rs2,000, and 10 grams of gold has seen a Rs 514 rise. However, silver prices remain unchanged at Rs 3,200 per tola.

    Experts suggest that this increase in gold prices is due to global market trends and local demand, while the stability in silver prices provides a favorable opportunity for buyers.

    Azad Kashmir: Recruitment Orders Issued for 1,290 Doctors Across Various Cadres

    0

    The Prime Minister of Azad Kashmir and the Minister of Public Health have officially issued recruitment orders for 1,290 doctors across various cadres, recognizing the efforts of Director General of Public Health, Dr. Farooq Ahmad Noor.

    The persistent efforts of the Doctors’ Joint Action Committee in Azad Kashmir have borne fruit, resulting in the creation of 161 positions for Medical Officers, 70 for Specialist Doctors, and 11 for Dental Surgeons.

    According to details, the Government of Azad Kashmir has accelerated its revolutionary healthcare initiatives, following repeated requests from Dr. Farooq Ahmad Noor and demands from the Doctors’ Joint Action Committee, YDA Azad Kashmir / PMA Azad Kashmir. In response, a historic health package has been announced.

    A wave of congratulations poured in for the Prime Minister of Azad Kashmir, Minister of Public Health Anser Iqbal Abdali, and DG Health Dr. Farooq Ahmad Noor for this landmark initiative. While the Young Doctors Association (YDA) acknowledged some disparities in the distribution, they still appreciated the government’s commendable package and congratulated all those involved.

    Mega Civil Hospital Project in Sharda – Access to Advanced Healthcare Facilities

    0

    Sharda: Director General of Public Health Azad Kashmir, Farooq Noor, has announced that a mega civil hospital project for Sharda is under consideration and will soon be implemented.

    According to Farooq Noor, the project aims to provide state-of-the-art healthcare facilities in Sharda, a region located along the Line of Control (LoC) and known for its challenging weather conditions. He emphasized the urgent need to bring quality healthcare services to residents at their doorstep.

    He further stated that, under the special directives of the Prime Minister of Azad Kashmir, the Minister of Health, and the Secretary of Health, free medical camps are being set up in remote areas, including Sargan, following a successful initiative in Grace Valley. He stressed the importance of prioritizing women’s health and the need for awareness sessions to promote a healthier society.

    Highlighting the significance of healthcare, Farooq Noor said that rural health centers (RHCs) must ensure routine surgical procedures, while district hospitals will be upgraded into comprehensive treatment facilities equipped with modern medical machinery and specialist doctors.

    Speaking to the media, he mentioned that considering Neelum Valley’s year-round tourism activities, a dedicated medicine quota will be allocated for the region. Basic health units (BHUs) and district headquarters hospitals will be required to operate 24/7 emergency services. Additionally, government-level incentives will be provided to doctors serving in these remote areas.

    Farooq Noor also emphasized that Sharda, being a historic and tourist destination, has a pressing need for improved healthcare services. The medical staff at RHC Sharda is actively serving both locals and tourists, and the establishment of a civil hospital will directly benefit the people of Sharda and its surrounding areas. Upon completion of legal formalities, the hospital will be equipped with modern medical facilities, bringing a major relief to the local population.

    Furthermore, special attention is being given to areas severely affected by heavy snowfall, including Dudhnial, Sharda, Sargan, Kail, Shounter, and Grace, to ensure that residents receive uninterrupted healthcare services despite extreme weather conditions.

    Polio Eradication Campaign Launched in Haveli Kahuta – 28,000 Children to Receive Polio Drops

    0

    The campaign was inaugurated by Deputy Commissioner Haveli, Imran Shaheen, and District Health Officer (DHO) Dr. Jawad Afzal Kayani. Other district officers were also present at the launch ceremony. The polio drive will continue from February 3 to February 7, 2025.

    During this campaign, public health teams will be deployed at various locations to administer polio drops to children under the age of five. A target has been set to vaccinate over 28,000 children in Haveli district. To achieve this goal, teams will be stationed at various entry points, health centers, and union councils. Additionally, supervisors have been appointed at the tehsil and union council levels to ensure effective monitoring.

    Speaking at the inaugural ceremony, Deputy Commissioner Imran Shaheen emphasized that Azad Kashmir has remained a polio-free region for the past two decades, crediting frontline health workers for this success. He highlighted the dangers of polio and the importance of preventive measures.

    District Health Officer Dr. Jawad Afzal Kayani stated that polio vaccination campaigns in Haveli have always been successful and that this time, meticulous planning has been undertaken. He revealed that 156 mobile teams, 16 transit points, and 21 fixed centers have been established across the district. Additionally, supervisory teams will oversee operations to ensure the campaign’s success.

    Dr. Kayani expressed gratitude for the continued support of the district administration and hoped for the same level of cooperation in this campaign. The event was attended by Superintendent Police Khawaja Amiruddin, Deputy District Education Officer Khawaja Javed Bande, and other notable figures.

    State-of-the-Art Children’s Surgery Ward Coming Soon to DHQ Hospital – A Game Changer for Kotli!

      0

      Azad Kashmir: The project for establishing a world-class children’s surgery ward equipped with modern medical facilities at DHQ Hospital has entered its final phase.

      According to details, representatives of a British NGO, led by Dr. Tahir Lone, visited the hospital and, along with Minister for Public Health Dr. Nisar Ansar Abdali, DHO Shafqat Shah, and MS Dr. Nasrullah, selected a suitable location for the ward. The team inspected various sites, recorded video footage, and decided to further evaluate multiple options for the construction of the ward.

      The visit was attended by District Press Club Kotli President Shahnawaz Butt, Zakat Chairman Waseem Mustafai, Councilor Chaudhry Tauheed, journalist Manzar Bashir, and other dignitaries. Expressing gratitude to the British delegation, Shahnawaz Butt stated that this 1.7 billion rupee project will provide advanced medical facilities not only to the children of Kotli district but also to those from Pallandri, Hajira, Baloch, and surrounding areas.

      Minister for Health Dr. Nisar Ansar Abdali welcomed the representatives of the British organization and appreciated their efforts. He assured full cooperation from the government and hospital administration to ensure the project’s timely completion but clarified that the government would not be involved in its financial aspects. The government will, however, assist with free project designing and collaborate with the donor organization in case of any financial challenges.

      Dr. Tahir Lone praised the surgical team at DHQ Hospital for their outstanding performance despite limited resources. He called the project a true example of humanitarian service and expressed hope that teamwork would lead to its swift completion. Before the visit, MS Dr. Nasrullah briefed the British delegation in the committee room about the hospital’s capacity and performance.

      It is worth mentioning that this state-of-the-art children’s surgery ward will serve as a beacon of hope for thousands of children in Kotli district, eliminating the need for them to travel to larger cities for treatment.