Pakistan

Punjab’s government faces backlash for allegedly manipulating air quality data by shutting down monitors during peak smog hours in Lahore; Officials cite “technical issues,” but experts say it’s an attempt to mask severe pollution levels

National Database and Registration Authority NADRA will open three new “mega centres” in Karachi, in Gulshan-i-Iqbal, Gulberg, and in Surjani Town, by March 2026 to improve public access to services and expand mobile app Pak ID usage

Punjab province suffered its worst floods ever in late August, as monsoon rains and upstream dam releases inundated towns and fields; Two million people were affected, with widespread evacuations and damage to homes and infrastructure

Over 200 supporters of former PM Imran Khan were detained during countrywide rallies marking his arrest anniversary; Clashes in Lahore and Karachi saw police using force to disperse crowds

Maulana Khan Zeb, a noted peace advocate and member of the Awami National Party, was assassinated on July 10 while campaigning in Bajaur, sparking national mourning and condemnation

Five qualified bids have been announced to fully privatize Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), including consortia of major firms and a military-backed company; it is Pakistan’s first major privatization in nearly 20 years

The daily Wagah-Attari border ceremony with India will be resumed, previously halted after an April 22 attack in Kashmir; The ceremony reopens to media and the public, though diplomatic tensions persist