Rs40bn crops go down the d-rain

 MIRPURKHAS: Chairman Farmers Organization Council (FOC) Sindh Javed Ahmed Junejo said agriculture of district Mirpurkhas has been destroyed during recent flood while farmers suffered Rs 40billion losses on this account.

This he said, while presiding over a meeting of FOC here on Saturday.

He further said that cotton crop over 105000 acres was destroyed. As the farmers had spent on an average Rs 30000 per acre the total amount is worked out at Rs 31billion.
He said that similarly growers had spent millions of rupees on cultivation of banana, sugarcane, onion, and tomato crops etc. in the district, which were also washed away.

On the other hand, he said that owing to inundation of farmlands and villages, farmers were staying along roads and relief camps.

He demanded of the government to drain out the stagnant rainwater from the villages and farms otherwise wheat crop could not be cultivated.

He also demanded of the government to immediately waive off agriculture loan of the growers and provide agriculture loan without interest. (APP)

FBS shakes up SPI touchstones

 ISLAMABAD: The Federal Bureau of Statistics (FBS) has changed the base period for monitoring of the Sensitive Price Indicator (SPI) besides making several other modifications in the index keeping in view the overall changes in incomes since 2000-2001-the earlier based period.

Till the week ended on September 15, the SPI was being computed on base period 2000-2001 which has been replaced with base 2007-2008=100, covering 17 urban centers and 53 essential items for all income groups and combined.

Similarly, the range of lowest income group has been increased from Rs.3,000 to Rs.8,000 besides making changes in the ranges of other income groups monitored for SPI.

Earlier, SPI was being computed on income groups ranging from Rs.3001-5000, Rs.5001-12000 and Rs.12000. But as per the new scale, the range of income groups has been increased and set as from Rs.8001-12,000, 12,001-18,000, 18001-35,000 and above Rs.35,000.

According to new scale three items including coarse latha, voil(printed) and electricity bulb have been removed from the list where as three things including energy saver, long cloth and georgette have been included in it.

Similarly, changes have been made in two items as wheat flour (average quality) has been replaced by wheat flour (bag) and gas charges (up to 3.3719 MMBTU) replaced with gas charges (upto 100 m3). (APP)

KSE stands fast during week

 KARACHI: Karachi Stock Exchange (KSE) had a bullish week as its benchmark 100-Index crossed 12,600 points, Geo News reported Saturday.

Market managed a green opening on Monday, which stood somewhat strong through the week even in the face of rumours regarding a cut in the discount rate, but fell to the rising Pak-US tensions. As a result profit-booking ensued.

By the end of the week 100-Index had gained 254 points to close at 11, 607 points.

Average volume went up by 70 percent to stand at 700 million shares.

Fauji Fertilizer Bin Qasim turned out to be the most traded scrip.

KSE-30 Index before closing reached 11,096 points with a weekly gain of 179 points.

This rollercoaster ride is likely to last for some more sessions, analysts said

Pakistan Railways to rent Indian locomotives

 LAHORE: Pakistan Railways will rent engines from India, Geo News reported.

A meeting chaired by Railways minister Ghulam Bilour evaluated acquiring engines on rent from India. According to the Railways Ministry, the engines will be rented to increase performance and initially 50 engines will be acquired.

Europe shoots for a fortified crisis fund

 WASHINGTON: Europe is working to ramp up the firepower of its bailout fund, top officials said on Saturday, as the United States, China and other nations raised the alarm about its debt crisis hurting the world economy.

Financial markets plunged last week on fears that Greece's near-bankruptcy could spread to other euro zone countries, heaping pressure on European policymakers to prevent a repeat of the chaos that swept the world in 2007-2009.

The European Union's top economic official, Olli Rehn, said as soon as the region's governments confirm new powers for their 440-billion-euro fund, known as the EFSF, attention will turn to how to get more impact from the existing money.

"We need to find a mechanism where we can turn one euro in the EFSF into five, but there is no decision on how we could do that yet," another senior European official said on condition of anonymity.

The rescue fund would need to be at least 2 trillion euros to safeguard Italy and Spain if the crisis were to spread, financial analysts estimate.

The United States and other nations have urged Europe to leverage up the fund, possibly with support from the European Central Bank.

But officials from the ECB and from Germany, the region's paymaster, remained wary of using the central bank, which has a strict mandate to pursue low inflation.

"We should not think of leveraging a public pot of funds as a free lunch," said ECB Governing Council member Patrick Honohan.

Nonetheless, arming the euro zone with a bigger warchest to lend to governments or shore up banks was the focus of top finance officials from around the globe who met in Washington for semiannual meetings of the International Monetary Fund.

The sovereign debt crisis threatens to throw the euro zone into recession and has placed a troubling drag on an already slow U.S. economy. It could come to weigh on emerging economies too.

"Brazil's experience with past crises suggests you have to confront the problems in a fast, consistent manner," said Brazilian central bank chief Alexandre Tombini.

"The longer it takes, the higher the cost, the more contagion spreads. You have to act with overwhelming force."

The IMF's steering committee said in a statement that the euro zone was committed to whatever was needed to resolve the single currency bloc's crisis.

It warned that the global economy had "entered a dangerous phase, calling for exceptional vigilance, coordination and readiness to take bold action" to cope with Europe's financial stress and prevent it infecting others.

European officials were scrambling to put in place a comprehensive crisis-fighting plan by the time leaders from the Group of 20 nations meet in France in early November.

Greece is at the epicenter of the crisis but it has threatened to spread to several other euro zone countries. Italy, the third-biggest economy in the currency bloc, has also struggled to retain investor confidence, but Italian Economy Minister Giulio Tremonti said on Saturday its financial house was "in order."

Treasury chief Timothy Geithner, in his most explicit warnings to date, said the ECB should take a more central role in fighting the crisis. "The threat of cascading default, bank runs, and catastrophic risk must be taken off the table," he said.

CALMING NERVES

Investors took some comfort on Friday from signs of new resolve by European officials, after nearly two years of what many saw as half-hearted action.

"It is encouraging that ... European officials are signaling a better appreciation of the depth and potential consequences of the crisis," Mohamed el-Erian, co-chief investment officer of bond giant PIMCO, said on Saturday after further signals that Europe was bolstering its defenses.

"Now they need to translate this into decisive actions underpinned by a common vision of what they want the euro zone to look like in five years time."

Some policymakers now talk openly of a possible Greek default and the need to move much more aggressively to prepare for it.

"Decisions as to how to conclusively address the region's problems cannot wait until the crisis gets more severe," Geithner said.

His warning was echoed by China's central bank governor, Zhou Xiaochuan, who urged quick action to bring greater financial stability to the Europe.

Canada's central bank governor, Mark Carney, told Canadian radio that the euro area's bailout fund should be more than doubled to "the neighborhood of a trillion euros."

BATTENING THE HATCHES

A default by Greece could cause a domino effect in other highly indebted euro zone countries, putting at risk European banks which hold their debt.

Greek Finance Minister Evangelos Venizelos said Athens was determined not to default and would stay in the euro zone.

"Greece will always be in the euro and Greece will never go bankrupt because this would be destructive for the euro zone and for many other countries beyond the euro zone," he said.
Athens is in tense talks with the IMF and European authorities to secure a new 8 billion-euro installment of its rescue package.

In return, it has pledged deep austerity measures but negotiators are frustrated at what they say is Greece's slow reform pace. A loan payment, however, is still expected to be made in October. The next installment is due in December.

Venizelos was quoted by two newspapers on Friday as saying an orderly default with a 50 percent "haircut" for bondholders was one way to resolve the heavily indebted euro zone nation's cash crunch. European banks have agreed to take a 21 percent loss on their Greek bonds in a restructuring deal.

To battle the crisis, Geithner called for more cooperation between European policymakers -- who set their own tax and fiscal policy -- and their central bank.

One option to increase the potency of the EFSF would be for the ECB to commit large amounts of funding, with the temporary bailout fund putting forward money to cover potential losses.

German Finance Minister Wolfgang Schaeuble said he was open to the idea of leveraging Europe's rescue fund but said that did not necessarily mean the ECB should provide the extra firepower.

In another sign of new thinking by Europe, Schaeuble said Germany backed bringing forward the launch of the euro zone's permanent rescue mechanism, which is currently scheduled for mid-2013. The new mechanism would give policymakers powers to impose losses on private bondholders in a default and could be leveraged more easily than the temporary version of the fund.

Germany, as the strongest economy in Europe, needs to play a central role in any effort to curb a debt crisis, but public opinion there has turned against further big bailouts for fellow euro zone countries. (Reuters)

Commanders tear apart US chargesheet

 RAWALPINDI: A Corps Commanders’ over-the-top meeting with Chief of the Army Staff, General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani in chair Sunday hashed out the latest Pak-US rift at length, brushing aside all the blames US slapped on Pakistan, Geo News reported.

The meeting, which lasted for several hours, zoomed in on security affairs vowing a befitting retaliation to any cross-border incursion.

The military top brass also agreed upon letting the political leadership of the country in on the decisions taken for which General Kayani will very soon hold meetings the President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani.

Corps Commanders gave all the national security issues a 360-degree reckoning

Jackson killed by greed, medic's fault: brother

 LOS ANGELES: Michael Jackson was driven to his death by a mix of greed, power and money, one of his brothers claimed Thursday, while saying the star's doctor "had no business" giving him the drug that killed him.

Speaking before the manslaughter trial of medic Conrad Murray kicks off this month, Jermaine Jackson said those surrounding his brother failed to look after him, as they pushed him to play a lucrative series of comeback gigs.

He described how his brother's health had clearly deteriorated in the months leading up to his death -- when he was rehearsing intensively for the This is It shows in London -- but those around him had not told the family.

"Why didn't somebody call me or Jackie or Tito or Marlon or his family, to say, 'Come down here, your brother is not acting normal?' Had we been called, he would be alive today. We would have taken him to the hospital," he said.

Asked why he thought they didn't, he told CNN interviewer Piers Morgan: "Because they wanted the show to go on... It's all about -- this is a story about greed and power and money. And not looking at the person in Michael."

Murray is due in court on September 27 for the long-awaited manslaughter trial over Jackson's death in June 2009 from an overdose of the powerful drug propofol, prescribed to help him sleep.

Jermaine Jackson said the doctor's lawyers would try to paint his brother as a drug addict, but dismissed a suggestion that Jackson -- who suffered from chronic insomnia -- could have forced Murray to give him more propofol.

The drug is so powerful that it is used as an anaesthetic during surgery, he noted, adding that as a cardiologist and not an anesthesiologist, Murray "had no business giving my brother propofol."

"Being a doctor, you take an oath to care for your patient not to kill
them," he added.

Jackson's death, on the eve of the planned series of comeback concerts at London's O2 Arena aimed at reviving his reputation and finances battered by child sex allegations, stunned fans around the world.

Murray's defense team is expected to argue that Jackson gave himself an excessive dose of the drug while the doctor was out of the room at the singer's mansion in the affluent Holmby Hills neighborhood west of Los Angeles. (AFP)

Salman Khan’s new Romanian interest

 MUMBAI: While Salman Khan is busy shooting for his next film with Katrina Kaif in Dublin, a Romanian magazine has linked him up with a local TV news presenter named Iulia Vantur.

According to the report, Iulia met Salman last year when she came to India for a holiday. She met him through a producer friend. At that time, she was dating her long-time boyfriend Marius Moga. However, she made another trip to India this year after breaking up with Moga. Salman helped her get over the break up and she stayed in touch with him after she returned to her country.

The magazine reveals that Iulia has now adopted an Indian lifestyle. So much so, that she even observes traditional festivals, visits temples and reads the scriptures. Her sense of dressing has also changed, with her wearing the shalwar-kameez and even saris!

Talking to the magazine, she admitted that meeting Salman was a turning point in her life and that the two are very much in touch via IM on their phones. The TV presenter is now planning to make another visit to India after Salman returns from his overseas shoot.

Amanat Ali Khan remembered on Saturday

ISLAMABAD: The popular classical singer Amanat Ali Khan is being remembered on Saturday with tributes paid to his memorable songs in the Pakistan music industry.

He was born in 1932 in Sham Chaurasi, Hoshiarpur, Punjab. He was a Pakistani classical/ghazal singer from the Patiala gharana and soon after independence he moved to Pakistan.

His concerts on Radio Lahore became quite popular and he toured South Asia becoming the representative of Patiala gharana in Pakistan. The late 1950s and early 1960s saw the rise of seraphic singer Ustad Amanat Ali Khan.

The prestigious Patiala Gharana, the family that sworn to carry on the traditional and classical aura of Hindustani music, saw another immaculate and faultless singer adding more shine, prestige and prosperity to their name.

His memorable songs include "Aa Mere Pyaar Ki Khushboo", "Yeh Arzoo Thi", "Mausam Badla", "Yeh Na Thi Hamari Qismat", "Insha Je Utho" and "Kab Aao Ge".

Ustad Amanat Ali died at aged 42 years in Lahore in 17 September 1974. He was honored with the 'Pride of Performance' award by the government of Pakistan

Lebanese war film wins top Toronto film fest award

 TORONTO: A film about the struggles of a village in war-torn Lebanon took the People's Choice award at the Toronto International Film Festival on Sunday, an audience trophy that has often been a harbinger of Oscar glory.

"Where Do We Go Now", by Lebanon-born Nadine Labaki, tells the story of village inhabited by both Muslims and Christians. When a wider inter-religious conflict threatens to seep into the village, its women go to inventive and sometimes extreme ends to prevent violence.

The film, which debuted at Cannes earlier this year, is already Lebanon's official entry into the Foreign Language Film category at for next year's Academy Awards.

A festival official said Labaki wrote the film in Beirut in2007 when armed clashes had broken out. Pregnant at the time, she began thinking about what she could do to change the world as a filmmaker.

"I'm running around jumping up and down at the Frankfurt airport," Labaki said in a message read to the awards ceremony audience.

Last year's winner of the People's Choice award was "The King's Speech", which went on to win the Oscar for best picture. "American Beauty," "Crash," and "Slumdog Millionaire" also won the award at Toronto before going on to Oscar glory.(Reuters)

Ra.One poster is Batman Return's rip off

 MUMBAI: The poster of the upcoming super hero movie Ra.One starring Shahrukh Khan is a complete copy of the cover of Bollywood flick Batman Returns, Geo News reported Sunday.

The Batman Returns was starred by Micahel Keaton.

In an interview Shahrukh Khan was quoted: "Ra.One is the modern, new age technology version of our mythological "Raavan", who was a mixture of ten different evil characters. I am essaying the role of G.One or better say Jeevan, a superhero who saves the mankind from Ra.One's torment. Through this film, I want to prove that Indian superheroes can also be as cool as the international ones."

If the idea of Ra.One is a rip off by courtesy of Batman, it will prove wrong the idea of Shahrujh Khan that, 'Indian superheroes can also be as cool as the international ones.'

Ra.One is set to release on October 26, an upcoming 2011 Hindi superhero science fiction film starring Shahrukh Khan, Kareena KapoorKareena Kapoor and Arjun Rampal.
It is said to be currently India's most expensive film to date according to sources.

Madhuri Dixit back for good!

MUMBAI: Madhuri Dixit, the dhak-dhak girl who made the Bollywood rat race irrelevant by occupying the top slot for almost a decade in the '80s and '90s, is coming back after spending 15 years away from the hustle-bustle of Mumbai in the quiet anonymity of Denver, Colorado. Madhuri said her husband has a few options in Mumbai that he wants to explore. "I think this was going to happen one day anyway...it's pre-ordained. We are all very excited, the kids especially," she said. The mother-of-two made her comeback film in 2007 with Aaja Nachle and was recently back in India as a judge on a dance-based reality show. When asked about her decision to return to Mumbai, Madhuri said that while there were many factors involved, she and her husband would like their children, Arin and Ryan to be raised in India. “It would be a great experience culturally for them. This is where their roots are. They are at an age where they can adapt quickly. They’ll be giving up their friends here [in America], but they are looking forward to making friends there [India]. I want them to learn Hindi and Marathi. I think it will be an exciting time for them too.”

Krrish sequel sold out

 MUMBAI: The sequel to the blockbuster Krrish has been sold almost entirely. Rakesh Roshan has only maintained the rights of the film in Mumbai.

All other territories have fetched him a good price." And, also doing the rounds are rumours that the channel rights have been sold to a leading channel at a price, speculated to be higher than what even Aamir Khan's 3 Idiots received.

Roshan's resolution to sell the rights of the sequel, slated to go on floors in November, is not the only unconventional decision he has taken. Interestingly, the filmmaker has sold the film rights to multiple distributors.

"While Eros International has acquired the overseas rights, the all-India rights have been sold to individual companies," added the source.

When asked why Roshan chose to sell the rights to more than one company, the source explained, "Well, nowadays the corporates create a lot of issues, especially financial agreements, which have an adverse effect on the film. Rakesh Roshan has great business sense and he knows what is happening around him."

Apparently, even the film's music, to be composed by the filmmaker's brother Rajesh Roshan, has been up for grabs.

The source told us that the music rights have been acquired by T-Series for Rs 5 crore. Even though the music of the film is in its preliminary stage, the one song that T-Series heard, in the original film, was convincing enough for the company to buy the music rights.

When contacted, head honcho of T-Series, Bhushan Kumar, confirmed, "We are very happy to be associated with a cool franchise like Krrish."

The sequel to Krrish stars Hrithik Roshan, Priyanka Chopra Chitrangada Singh and Vivek Oberoi.

Disney, Cameron to create theme-park 'Avatar'

 LOS ANGELES: Moviegoers pining for a return to the lush moon of Pandora in James Cameron's film "Avatar" will finally get their chance -- first-hand.

Walt Disney Co is teaming with the Oscar-winning director and News Corp unit Fox Filmed Entertainment, to mimic the thriving green landscape depicted in the highest-grossing movie of all time in a section of its Orlando, Florida, theme park.

Under their agreement, Disney won exclusive global theme park rights to the "Avatar" franchise. It will begin building from 2013 and will eventually take Avatar "lands" beyond Orlando's Disney World.

"Our goal is to go beyond current boundaries of technical innovation and experiential storytelling, and give park-goers the chance to see, hear and touch the world of 'Avatar' with an unprecedented sense of reality," Cameron said in a statement.

At a news conference, Cameron said that when he began talks with Disney designers, he "quickly realized their vision for this thing was far beyond what I imagined, and I've got a pretty good imagination."

The estimated cost for the Orlando project is about $400 million, a source familiar with the matter said. Construction should take about five years.

Planning is in the early stages, and executives gave few details on how Disney would recreate the fantasy world of "Avatar" and the creatures that inhabit it. The section will be located within Disney's Animal Kingdom park.

"Avatar," the 2009 film that chronicled the struggle of the alien Na'vi against marauding resource-ravenous humans, grossed almost $3 billion worldwide and triggered the current renaissance in 3D-film making. Cameron is planning sequels to the blockbuster hit, which surpassed his own "Titanic" as the highest-grossing movie in history.

The first of the "Avatar" sequels is set for release around Christmas 2014, Cameron said.

Disney Chief Executive Bob Iger said the company planned to bring "Avatar" to other locations beyond the Florida park. "We think we can clearly leverage the global interest in this property," Iger said.

The company is deep into several big theme park projects, including building a new park in Shanghai and adding a 12-acre section, set to open next year based on the animated "Cars" films, to its California resort.

Disney typically works with its own movies when developing themed sections and rides. It does have some attractions based on films from other studios, including the "Star Wars" and "Indiana Jones" franchises. (Reuters)

Shakira to take part in Big Boss 5

 MUMBAI: Latino pop star Shakira will take part in famous Indian reality show Big Boss 5. The show will be hosted by Bollywood actor Sunjay Dutt.

This is not the first time an international celebrity will take part in the show. Hollywood actress Pamela Anderson was featured in the show during its last season.

Big Boss 5 will start from October 2 and it is rumoured that Pakistani actress Humaima Malik will also be taking part in the reality show

I need to be left alone: Manisha Koirala

 MUMBAI: A few months ago, the grapevine was abuzz with rumours of Manisha Koirala's marriage being on the rocks.

That she was heading back to Mumbai, as she could not adjust to the life of domesticity with her businessman husband Samrat Dahal.

She, however, confirms, "I am very much in Nepal. But I will not talk about my personal life. At the moment, all my friends know I need to be left alone.

I don't need to give explanations about what's going on in my life."

Interestingly, a close pal reveals, "Manisha has had to struggle against all odds to make the marriage work.

She has had to adjust not only to a life of domesticity, but also to her husband's entire family and their traditional way of life.

At one point, she almost gave up and decided to return to India, but now she wants to give her marriage one last shot."

Rumours of her return to Bollywood were sparked off when prominent filmmakers received text messages from her secretary informing them that she's open to acting offers.

"If I get a damn good project I'd be interested anytime. In fact, I'm on the verge of accepting good offers. I'll talk about it only after they materialise," she says.

As for relocating to India, the actress says, "I travel to Mumbai because I've a home there. I was there recently for just two days."

Shoaib Akhtar’s ‘Controversially Yours’ released

 NEW DELHI: Former Test cricketer Shoaib Akhtar’s autobiography ‘Controversially Yours’ whihc has already sparked much controversy has been released in India, Geo News reported Saturday.

The book was launched in New Delhi hotel and the ceremony was attended by Pakistan High Commissioner to India Shahid Malik.

The former fast bowler said that people should read his autobiography first to "understand his remarks" about Sachin Tendulkar and Rahul Dravid, and added that they are "world class cricketers".

"I am not here to clarify anything... but facts in my book have been presented in a rather strange manner by the media here," Akhtar said responding to queries about his remarks on Tendulkar and Dravid.

Akhtar said that he respects Shah Rukh Khan but alleged that he was cheated by former Indian Premier League (IPL) chairman Lalit Modi and former PCB chairman Naseem Ashraf.

The bowler admitted to ball tampering and feels it should be legalised

14 militants killed in Orakzai, Khyber Agency

 PESHAWAR: Fourteen militants were killed and two hideouts used by the insurgents destroyed when gunship helicopters hit in Orakzai and Khyber Agency areas, official and tribal sources said.

The sources said the security forces targeted militant sanctuaries in Dabori, Ali Khel, Mamuzai and Malakhel areas of Orakzai Agency. As a result of shelling and bombling, ten militants were killed and two refuge compounds were destroyed.

Four extremists were also killed in Tirah Valley of Khyber Agency where security forces bombed their hideouts

President Zardari summons NA session on Oct 3

 ISLAMABAD: President Asif Ali Zardari has summoned the National Assembly (NA) session on October 3 here, Geo News reported Saturday.

Prime Minister Syed Yusuf Raza Gilani has advised the President to summon the session to discuss national security situation, a statement from the PM house said.

The session, being held following a series of allegations by senior US officials will focus on the security situation and the challenges confronting the country

Qawwal Maqbool Sabri’s funeral shortly

KARACHI: Noted qawwal Maqbool Ahmed Sabri’s funeral prayers will be said in Paposhnagar, Nazimabad at 3 pm and will be buried in the local graveyard, Geo News reported Saturday.

Sabri 66 passed away due to heart problem in South Africa on Wednesday. He was suffering from heart disease and was under treatment at a hospital there.

Maqbool was born on Oct 12, 1945 in Kalyana

Motorway police official kills friend in Karachi

KARACHI: Motorway police official shot dead his friend during the fight in Clifton area of the city. Wounded police sub inspector has been arrested from Jinnah hospital.

According to the police, incident took place when police sub inspector had a fight with his friend in a flat located in Clifton block 4 area of the metropolis.

During the fight police sub inspector also received bullets in his hand after which he rushed to Jinnah hospital for medical treatment. He told hospital administration that he received bullets from his own gun incidentally.

Police arrested sub inspector Ahmad Afridi and recover pistol from his possession, however case has not yet been registered in police station.

KESC warns of further loadshedding

 KARACHI: While the citizens of Karachi continued to bear up to 10 hours long power loadshedding, the Karachi Electric Supply Company (KESC) on Friday warned the public to increase the loadshedding duration due to "further cut in gas supply".

In a statement on Friday, the KESC strongly condemned the "unilateral" SSGC decision to cut the gas supply to the power utility by 20 MMCFD, saying that it would add to the hardships of 20 million people of Karachi already facing extensive power failures.

"Continuing short supply of gas had already forced shutdown of gas-fired generation units, doubling loadshedding duration as a result. The mounting public anger and mob attacks at the utility's business and maintenance offices has become a big issue for the KESC, and the SSGC is actually responsible (for the situation)."

The KESC apprehended that public reaction might worsen with the fresh SSGC reduction of 20 MMCFD in gas supply. "This crisis could be avoided; the SSGC could be better off financially and operationally by implementing the June 30 Cabinet decision on gas load management."

They reiterated the offer to pay double the amount of cash every day for every molecule of gas above 200 MMCFD; half of it going to arrears.

While contradicting the SSGC claim of outstanding amount, the KESC said that since the meeting at the Governor House on July 29, the power utility had paid almost Rs15 billion to the SSGC and PSO combined, including Rs3.2 billion for the past arrears

Rupee weakens; o/n rates flat

 KARACHI: In the currency market, on Friday, rupee weakened to 87.57/64 to the dollar, compared with the previous day's close of 87.53/58 to the dollar, amid higher import payments.

The rupee hit a record low of 87.92 to the dollar last week and dealers expect the pressure to continue after reports Pakistan will not seek a new loan from the International Monetary Fund.

Increases in import payments and a negative economic outlook will also continue to keep the local unit under pressure, dealers say.

The IMF also projected Pakistan's GDP growth for 2011/12 fiscal year at 3.8 percent, compared with the government's target of 4.2 percent.

In the money market, overnight rates were flat at the top level of 13.40 percent, unchanged from the previous day's close, despite a reverse-repo in which the central bank bought back 267 billion rupees ($3.05 billion), against scheduled outflows of 210 billion rupees. (Reuters)

Asian markets slump for second day

 HONG KONG: Asian markets plummeted for a second straight day Friday and the dollar rose against regional units on growing fears that the global economy is on the verge of slipping back into recession.

Tokyo gave up 2.07 percent by the break, Seoul dived 4.35 percent, Hong Kong was 1.81 percent lower, Sydney lost 1.08 percent and Taiwan slumped 3.79 percent while Shanghai was 0.46 percent lower.

The Asian sell-off followed heavy losses in the United States and Europe, which were caused by the Federal Reserve's comments on Wednesday that the US economy faced "significant downside risks", with the economy struggling with slow growth, high unemployment and a depressed housing market.

The warning came after the Fed announced a $400 billion plan to boost the economy that would see it shift its shorter-term debt portfolio to longer-term bonds in a bid to lower long-term interest rates, a move that disappointed markets.

On Wall Street the Dow slumped 3.51 percent - marking its worst two-day fall since November 2008 - the S&P 500 sank 3.19 percent and the tech-heavy Nasdaq Composite shed 3.25 percent.

The Fed's forecast piled the pressure on already nervous investors, who were selling assets earlier in the week amid fears Greece is on the verge of default, which could spread to other economies and lead to another global financial crisis.

"The selloff in risk assets threatens to become disorderly," Tim Condon, economist at ING, told Dow Jones Newswires.

The dollar extended its rise against regional currencies as dealers shifted their attention away from risker assets.

The Australian dollar was at 98.31 US cents, from $1.0017 late Thursday. The Aussie hit a record high above $1.10 just two months ago.

The greenback, which in recent months was languishing near record lows against several Asian currencies, was up at Sg$1.3017 from Sg$1.2878, to 1,194.47 South Korean won from 1,179.57 and to Tw$30.61 from Tw$30.34.

The euro edged up to $1.3546, from $1.3464 late Thursday in New York, while it was also at 103.21 yen, from 102.64.

The dollar fetched 76.20 yen, from 76.25 yen.

On oil markets New York's main contract, West Texas Intermediate for November extended its losses, dropping $1.09 to $81.60 in morning Asian trade, and Brent North Sea crude for November tumbled 0.85 cents to $106.34.

Gold fetched $1,747.10 an ounce by 0200 GMT, down from the $1,765.40 it was at by 0900 GMT Thursday. (AFP)

Dollar keeps strength amid market panic

 SINGAPORE: The dollar extended gains Friday thanks to its reputation as a safe haven during crises, as turmoil sparked by fears of another recession churned global markets for a second day.

The euro recovered from 10-year lows but the global outlook remained bleak after the US central bank warned of significant risks to the world's biggest economy and as the eurozone struggled to prevent Greece's debt crisis from spiralling out of control.

Strikes swept across Greece on Thursday amid new budget cuts, with doubts growing that the government can implement new EU-IMF measures needed to secure funds and avert a debt default.

In morning Asian trade, the dollar was up at 76.2275 yen from 76.20 yen in late New York trade Thursday.

Japanese financial markets were closed for a public holiday.

The greenback also rose to Sg$1.3017 from Sg$1.2878, to 1,194.47 South Korean won from 1,179.57 and to Tw$30.6070 from Tw$30.34.

The commodities-linked Australian dollar was also trading sharply lower on Friday, falling to 97.88 US cents, well down on its close of 100.18 cents the day before.

Since breaching parity in October last year the currency has rallied consistently near or above the US$1.00 mark, hitting a record of US$1.1081 in July.

Asian shares were also tumbling Friday, mirroring falls in US and European stock markets.

"The dollar has already strengthened quite a fair bit, and the trend will continue for a while," said Simon Teo, a senior currency dealer at Phillip Futures in Singapore.

"Europe still has a lot of problems, pushing the euro currency lower. With the US dollar strengthening, it has a double effect on the euro."

The euro was trading at $1.3522 in morning trade, up from 1.3470 late Thursday in New York. It was changing hands at 103.0379 yen, after sinking to a 10-year low of 102.60 yen.

Singapore's DBS Bank said the world is looking for leadership from the ongoing International Monetary Fund-World Bank annual meetings in Washington which gathers the world's finance chiefs and central bank governors.

"Needless to say, market sentiment is at its most fragile since (the) Lehman crisis," DBS said, referring to the collapse in late 2008 of US investment bank Lehman Brothers, sparking a global financial crisis that lasted well into 2009.

"More than ever, markets now need to see global leaders holding each other's hands, and not pointing fingers at each other, to help restore stability to global financial markets and return the world to its recovery path." (AFP)

IMF sees Pakistan’s FY11 GDP at 3.8pc

 KARACHI: Pakistan’s GDP growth rate will hover around 3.8 and inflation about 12 percent, Geo News reported Thursday.

International Monetary Fund’s recently released (IMF) Annual Report 2011 says Pakistan’s economy is likely to grow at 3.8 percent.

Report adds that country may chase a growth target of 4.2 percent, which is 0.4 percent short of the target fixed.

Moreover, Pakistan’s Current Account Balance is seen going down by 1.7 percent.

Mullen’s Haqqani statement baseless: COAS

Updated at: 1946 PST,  Friday, September 23, 2011  RAWALPINDI: Chief of Army Staff (COAS), General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani said the statement of Adm. Michael Mullen, chairman of the US Joint Chiefs of Staff regarding links with the Haqqani network is against facts, Geo News reported. COAS Ashfaq Parvez Kayani, in a statement, termed these accusations as very unfortunate and not based on facts. This is especially disturbing in view of a rather constructive meeting with Admiral Mullen in Spain, he said. On the specific question of contacts with Haqqanis, the COAS said that Admiral Mullen knows fully well which all countries are in contact with the Haqqanis. Singling out Pakistan is neither fair nor productive, the statement said. ‘Categorically denying the accusations of proxy war and ISI support to Haqqanis, the COAS wished that, the blame game in public statements should give way to a constructive and meaningful engagement for a stable and peaceful Afghanistan, an objective to which Pakistan is fully committed.’

World wants to see Indo-Pak play: Saqlain

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan spin legend Saqlain Mushtaq, believes that the rival of Indo-Pak cricket series will be great as the entire world wants to see India and Pakistan play for the sheer passion the players show.

There are talks that Indo-Pak cricket could be revived with India hosting a series in February-March 2012.

“I personally feel that India and Pakistan should start a series on the lines of Ashes. But lets wait for the ties to resume first," Mushtaq said.

Talking about Indian team's performance on the England tour, Mushtaq said, 'It was the failure of the team and you cannot just blame the spinners. You didn't have runs on the board and, in such scenario, the spinners can’t gamble".

“The conditions were pacer-friendly and, as one saw, it was the pacers who did the trick for the hosts. So I don't think it would be right to blame the spinners alone,"
Mushtaq said that he thinks India's performance in England was an overall failure and no specific department should be blamed. "The injuries made things worse for India as they could not field a full-strength. I am sure that if India did not have injury problems, the outcome would have been different.

In fact, I am sure that things will be different when England visits India next month. India should have all their players fit and the conditions will also favour them," he said.

Mathews' ton gets S Lanka 157-run lead over Aussies

 COLOMBO: Angelo Mathews scored his maiden test hundred to give Sri Lanka a handy first-innings lead of 157 against Australia on the fourth day of the third and final Test on Monday.

Mathews, unbeaten on 85 overnight, was stuck nervously in the nineties as he lost three partners in quick succession but finally got across the elusive 100-mark with a cover-driven four off Peter Siddle.

Mathews, on 95 when the ninth wicket fell, would have tothank last man Suranga Lakmal for hanging around for 37 minutes to help him get to his century.

The 24-year old all-rounder, who had twice been dismissed in the nineties in his 16-Test career, jumped into the air to celebrate his century and was warmly applauded by his team mates in the dressing room.

Australia made early inroads into the Sri Lankan batting on Monday when Siddle breached the defence of debutant Saminda Eranga (12) and trapped Rangana Herath (3) leg before.

Chanaka Welegedara (1) was run out after a misunderstanding with Mathews that saw both batsmen stuck at the non-strikers end.

Siddle, who replaced the injured Ryan Harris for the final Test, was Australia's best bowler, finishing with four wickets for 91.

Australian were 16-0 in their second innings, with Shane Watson and Phil Hughes at the crease at lunch.

Australia lead the three-Test series 1-0.

Hughes leads Aussies fight back against Sri Lanka

 COLOMBO: Phil Hughes hit timely form as Australia fought hard to wriggle out of a tight corner in the third and final Test against Sri Lanka in Colombo on Monday.

Hughes was unbeaten on 78 as the tourists, trailing by 157 runs on the first innings, moved to 127-2 in their second knock at tea on the fourth day at the Sinhalese Sports Club.

Michael Clarke's Australia need to bat out a major part of the last four sessions to draw the match and win the series 1-0 on the back of a 125-run victory in the first Test in Galle.

Hughes had walked to the crease in danger of losing his spot in the team after failing to score a half-century since an unbeaten 86 against New Zealand in March last year.

The left-handed opener responded with an aggressive knock that contained 11 boundaries and a six.

Hughes contributed 36 in an opening stand of 62 with Shane Watson, who fell leg-before to Rangana Herath for 21 when a TV review overturned umpire Tony Hill's decision to reprieve the batsman.

Shaun Marsh added 60 for the second wicket with Hughes when he was given out by Hill, caught at short-leg off Herath, even though replays showed the ball made no contact with the bat.

Former captain Ricky Ponting, who replaced Marsh, had yet to score.

Sri Lanka, needing a win to draw the series, gained a sizeable lead through a maiden Test century from vice-captain Angelo Mathews.

Mathews returned unbeaten on 105 as the hosts added 45 runs to their overnight score of 428-6 before they were all out for 473 shortly before lunch on the fourth day.

Fast bowler Peter Siddle claimed two of the last four Sri Lankan wickets to finish with 4-91 from 35 overs. Trent Copeland and Mitchell Johnson picked up two wickets each.

Siddle bowled Shaminda Eranga for 12 and trapped Herath leg-before for three within the first hour.

Mathews was stranded on 95 when Sri Lanka lost their ninth wicket, but the right-hander reached the coveted century by driving Siddle to the cover fence for his 10th boundary.

The 24-year-old has been one of Sri Lanka's few batting stars in the series, having made 95 in the first Test and 58 in the drawn second game.

Last man Suranga Lakmal contributed 13 in a 10th-wicket stand of 23 with Mathews before he was bowled by Johnson.

Zahlavova Strycova wins first WTA title

 QUEBEC CITY: Czech sixth seed Barbora Zahlavova Strycova captured her first WTA title on Sunday, rallying to beat New Zealand's Marina Erakovic 4-6, 6-1, 6-0 and win the $220,000 Quebec City Challenge final.

The 25-year-old, ranked 10 spots ahead of Erakovic at 75th in the world, had lost her only prior WTA final last year on clay at Prague.

Erakovic broke to open her first WTA final but the Czech fought off two break points in the third game to hold serve and broke back. Erakovic, 23, broke again in the ninth game and held to take the first set after 53 minutes.

Zahlavova Strycova, who denied Erakovic on nine of 11 break-point chances in the first two sets, responded by winning 12 of the last 13 games to capture the match in one hour and 57 minutes.

Erakovic, a 2008 Olympian, had lost all three of her prior WTA semi-finals until ousting third-seeded defending champion Tamira Paszek of Austria on Saturday

Sri Lanka hope to level series despite Hughes ton

 COLOMBO: Sri Lanka kept their hopes alive of securing a series-levelling win over Australia in the final Test in Colombo on Monday, despite an unbeaten century from opener Phil Hughes.

Left-arm spinner Rangana Herath grabbed all three wickets as the tourists, trailing by 157 runs on the first innings, ended the fourth day's play at 209-3 in their second knock at the Sinhalese Sports Club.

Hughes was unbeaten on 122 and skipper Michael Clarke was on eight, with Australia going into the final day on Tuesday 52 runs ahead with seven wickets in hand.

Clarke's men will need to bat out at least two of the last three sessions to draw the match and clinch the series 1-0 on the back of a 125-run win in the first Test in Galle.

The rain-hit second match in Pallekele was drawn.

Hughes had walked to the crease in danger of losing his spot in the team after failing to score a half-century in 11 innings since an unbeaten 86 against New Zealand in March last year.

The left-hander, who had an umpire's review for a catch at the wicket go in his favour off the last ball of the day, responded with an aggressive knock that contained 16 boundaries and a six.

Hughes had also survived a review for leg-before on 99 before cutting seamer Chanaka Welegedara for two runs later in the same over to bring up his third Test century.

Hughes celebrated the landmark by raising his fist towards the travelling Australian media in the press box before he acknowledged the cheers from his team-mates and the crowd.

Hughes contributed 36 in an opening stand of 62 with Shane Watson, who fell leg-before to Herath for 21 when a TV review overturned umpire Tony Hill's decision to reprieve the batsman.

Shaun Marsh added 60 for the second wicket with Hughes when he was given out by Hill, caught at short-leg off Herath, even though replays showed the ball made no contact with the bat.

Marsh, surprisingly, did not ask for a review.

Hughes then put on 66 for the third wicket with Ricky Ponting, before the former captain edged a vicious turner from Herath to the slips after making 28.

Earlier, Sri Lanka gained a sizeable lead through a maiden Test century from vice-captain Angelo Mathews.

Mathews returned unbeaten on 105 as the hosts added 45 runs to their overnight score of 428-6 before they were all out for 473 shortly before lunch on the fourth day.

Fast bowler Peter Siddle claimed two of the last four Sri Lankan wickets to finish with 4-91 from 35 overs. Trent Copeland and Mitchell Johnson picked up two wickets each.

Siddle bowled Shaminda Eranga for 12 and trapped Herath leg-before for three within the first hour.

Mathews was stranded on 95 when Sri Lanka lost their ninth wicket, but the right-hander reached the coveted century by driving Siddle to the cover fence for his 10th boundary.

The 24-year-old has been one of Sri Lanka's few batting stars in the series, having made 95 in the first Test and 58 in the drawn second game.

Last man Suranga Lakmal contributed 13 in a 10th-wicket stand of 23 with Mathews before he was bowled by Johnson

Oil prices rebound, but Italy downgrade weighs

 LONDON: Oil prices rebounded on Tuesday from recent sharp falls, but sentiment remained weak after Italy was slapped with a sovereign debt rating downgrade, and before the US Federal Reserve's latest meeting.

New York's main contract, light sweet crude for delivery in October, added $1.08 to $86.78 a barrel. Brent North Sea oil for November rose $1.46 to $110.60 a barrel in late morning London deals.

Standard & Poor's downgraded Italy's sovereign debt assessment, citing economic, fiscal and political weaknesses in a fresh blow to Silvio Berlusconi's fragile coalition government.

The rating agency said it had downgraded Italian debt to "A/A-1" from a "A+/A-1+" grade because of "Italy's weakening economic growth prospects."

The downgrade comes at a highly sensitive moment in the eurozone debt drama, which has so far witnessed enormous bailouts for debt-ravaged Greece, Ireland and Portugal.

Oil prices had slumped Monday on concern that Greece was on the brink of default, while the market was also rocked by the ongoing political feud over deficit reduction in the United States.(AFP)

Sindh government was warned of attacks in Karachi

KARACHI: The Interior Ministry had sent a letter three weeks ago warning the Sindh government of attacks on Chaudhry Aslam and at sensitive areas, Geo News reported. The letter warned of attacks in Karachi on the 18 and 19 of September between 6 and 10 am. The letter was drafted following information received by the Interior Ministry from security agencies warning of terrorist attacks. The letter which was sent on August 27 stated that suicide bombers were present in Karachi and were looking to target offices of security agencies, foreign consulate staff, religious locations and police officers who were tackling terrorism. The letter also mentioned Chaudhry Aslam and the names of other officials.

Blast in Peshawar CD shop

PESHAWAR: A blast has been reported in Nishtarabad area of Peshawar inside a CD shop, Geo News reported.

Wanted extremist al-Qahtani wants to surrender: Saudi Arabia

 JEDDAH: An alleged extremist who is one of 47 on Saudi government's wanted list has said he will turn himself in, the Saudi interior ministry spokesman has said.

'The wanted man Mujeeb Bin Mohammed al-Qahtani has called his family telling them of his decision and asking them for help to return home and hand himself over,” said a ministry spokesman.

He will be dealt with “according to the procedures followed in similar cases, and his initiative will be taken into consideration when looking into his case,” the spokesman said.

Islamabad stocks shade green

 ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad Stock Exchange (ISE-10) here on Monday witnessed bullish trend as the index closed at 2,477.36 with gain of 8.23 points as compared to previous day's trading.

A senior equity dealer told APP that the local equity markets remained range-bound but buying in
selected scrips led the rally of positive sentiments.

He said that circulating rumors to resolve circular debt by the end of September caused positive sentiments for investors to take positions Pakistan Petroleum Limited (PPL).

Analysts say bearish global markets and postponement of announcement of monetary policy till October were the main cause of low volume in the local markets.

He said that majority of the investors remained sidelined and some of these took positions in the selected scrips at lower of index and off-loaded the positions at higher-level index.

He said that PPL and Attock Petroleum remained favorites for local and foreign institutions.

Total traded shares were 70,005, which were up by 44,255 as compared to previous day's trading.

Out of 121 companies, the price of 48 was increased while the price of 73 decreased. (APP)

Zardari thanked US for election win: Wikileaks

 KARACHI: PPP co-chairman Asif Ali Zardari thanked the US delegation for his election win, Wikileaks revealed.

A diplomatic cable sent by the then US ambassador Anne Patterson to Washington on 30 May, 2008 spoke of a meeting between US Representatives Shiff and Schwarts and Asif Ali Zardari along with his foreign policy team.

Zardari thanked the US for its support of credible parliamentary elections which brought his party to power. “We are here because of you” he said.

Zardari said that the war against terrorism was Pakistan’s war and blamed President Pervez Musharraf for not taking enough responsibility for the war on terror in Pakistan. Zardari said the public, instead, believed Pakistanis were dying for the US

Corrupt police officials should be identified: SC

 KARACHI: The two member monitoring committee of the Supreme Court comprising of Justice Anwar Zaheer Jamali and Justice Sarmad Jalal Osmany here on Wednesday ordered Inspector General Sindh Police Wajid Durrani to submit concrete reports on the law and order situation in the city.

The committee expressed dissatisfaction on reports submitted by the police in compliance with an interim order, passed by the larger bench of the apex court in the suo moto case on law and order situation in Karachi.

Advocate General Sindh, IG Police, AIG and DIGs of Karachi appeared before the committee on its notice on Wednesday.

Justice Anwar Zaheer Jamali remarked that "the police were submitting reports about minor crimes", but we want reports about action against criminal elements disturbing law and order of the city, progress of investigation being carried out into cases of target killings and extortion."

Justice Jamali said this information would help root out corrupt officials in the police force


The IG Police requested the committee to grant time for submission of required data.

He informed that the police have arrested 15 target killers and investigation into the cases is under way.

The committee observed that "bhata mafia is still active and people are getting slips for Bhatta".

On request of IGP, the committee granted time to him till Monday for submission of police reports as ordered by the larger bench in suo motu case on law and order situation in Karachi.

The bench also formed the committee to monitor the implementation of its interim order passed in the case.

A five-member bench of the apex court had reserved the judgement in suo motu case on law and order situation in Karachi. The bench comprising Chief Justice Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry, Justice Anwer Zaheer Jamali, Justice Sarmad Jalal Usmani, Justice Amir Hani Muslim and Justice Ghulam Rabbani completed the hearing of the case on September 15th.

Dhoni urges India to finish strongly

 LONDON: India captain MS Dhoni has urged his side to finish their difficult summer with a flourish in Friday's final one-day international against England in Cardiff.

A dramatic tied match at Lord's on Sunday gave England, who are 2-0 up with one to play, the one-day series but Dhoni's team have one last chance to get an international win this summer.

They were beaten 4-0 in the Test series, lost the only Twenty20 and were 2-0 with one no result going into the fourth one-dayer.

And Dhoni has demanded his side -- who have been decimated by injuries -- do not relax now that the series is gone.

"Every game is important," Dhoni told reporters after Sunday's game at Lord's.

"Despite the fact we have lost the series every game is an international game. We all know we have lost the series but it is important to get the most out of that game and we want a victory in the final game of the whole series."

For some of the younger players Friday's match is their last opportunity to impress their captain before England play five one-dayers in India before Christmas.

Dhoni has lost eight players to injury on this tour including big names such as Sachin Tendulkar and Virender Sehwag and expects the youngsters to make way for the established players when they host the five-match series.

Players such as 22-year-old Ravindra Jadeja, 24-year-old Ravichandran Ashwin and 23-year-old Ajinkya Rahane have featured in this series but may have to take a back seat when the veterans are fit again.

Dhoni added: "We have quite a few players who we have to get fit and who will be back in the one-day squad.

"We will not be as good a fielding side as we are now but you shouldn't forget that most of the grounds in India are quite small and there is not as much opportunity for the batsmen to take twos and threes.

"Everybody is considered but you have to see who is available. It becomes difficult when you have senior players who are missing this series.

"They always get the upper hand so it is tough for the youngsters but this is a good grooming period and once their time comes we all know they will be there for the next five or ten years."

Ali Zafar steals the show in MBKD

MUMBAI: Pakistani pop star Ali Zafar has received praise over his role in Mere Brother Ki Dulhan (MBKD). This is Ali Zafar's second Bollywood movie and with it he has become the hot favourite in India. Ali Zafar, in MBKD, which was released under the Yash Raj banner on September 9, portrays the role of an individual who assigns his brother (Imran Khan) to search for his bride (Katrina Kaif). The film had a sensational opening at the box office and Zafar earned more praise than co-stars Imran Khan and Katrina Kaif. Besides acting in the movie, Zafar has also provided his vocals to one of the tracks.

jackson killed by greed, medic's fault: brother

 LOS ANGELES: Michael Jackson was driven to his death by a mix of greed, power and money, one of his brothers claimed Thursday, while saying the star's doctor "had no business" giving him the drug that killed him.

Speaking before the manslaughter trial of medic Conrad Murray kicks off this month, Jermaine Jackson said those surrounding his brother failed to look after him, as they pushed him to play a lucrative series of comeback gigs.

He described how his brother's health had clearly deteriorated in the months leading up to his death -- when he was rehearsing intensively for the This is It shows in London -- but those around him had not told the family.

"Why didn't somebody call me or Jackie or Tito or Marlon or his family, to say, 'Come down here, your brother is not acting normal?' Had we been called, he would be alive today. We would have taken him to the hospital," he said.

Asked why he thought they didn't, he told CNN interviewer Piers Morgan: "Because they wanted the show to go on... It's all about -- this is a story about greed and power and money. And not looking at the person in Michael."

Murray is due in court on September 27 for the long-awaited manslaughter trial over Jackson's death in June 2009 from an overdose of the powerful drug propofol, prescribed to help him sleep.

Jermaine Jackson said the doctor's lawyers would try to paint his brother as a drug addict, but dismissed a suggestion that Jackson -- who suffered from chronic insomnia -- could have forced Murray to give him more propofol.

The drug is so powerful that it is used as an anaesthetic during surgery, he noted, adding that as a cardiologist and not an anesthesiologist, Murray "had no business giving my brother propofol."

"Being a doctor, you take an oath to care for your patient not to kill
them," he added.

Jackson's death, on the eve of the planned series of comeback concerts at London's O2 Arena aimed at reviving his reputation and finances battered by child sex allegations, stunned fans around the world.

Murray's defense team is expected to argue that Jackson gave himself an excessive dose of the drug while the doctor was out of the room at the singer's mansion in the affluent Holmby Hills neighborhood west of Los Angeles. (AFP)

Amanat Ali Khan remembered on Saturday

ISLAMABAD: The popular classical singer Amanat Ali Khan is being remembered on Saturday with tributes paid to his memorable songs in the Pakistan music industry. He was born in 1932 in Sham Chaurasi, Hoshiarpur, Punjab. He was a Pakistani classical/ghazal singer from the Patiala gharana and soon after independence he moved to Pakistan. His concerts on Radio Lahore became quite popular and he toured South Asia becoming the representative of Patiala gharana in Pakistan. The late 1950s and early 1960s saw the rise of seraphic singer Ustad Amanat Ali Khan. The prestigious Patiala Gharana, the family that sworn to carry on the traditional and classical aura of Hindustani music, saw another immaculate and faultless singer adding more shine, prestige and prosperity to their name. His memorable songs include "Aa Mere Pyaar Ki Khushboo", "Yeh Arzoo Thi", "Mausam Badla", "Yeh Na Thi Hamari Qismat", "Insha Je Utho" and "Kab Aao Ge". Ustad Amanat Ali died at aged 42 years in Lahore in 17 September 1974. He was honored with the 'Pride of Performance' award by the government of Pakistan.

SC dissatisfied over police reports in Karachi violence case

 KARACHI: The Supreme Court of Pakistan has expressed dissatisfaction over the police reports submitted in the sou moto Karachi violence case, Geo News reported.

According to Supreme Court sources, IG Sindh, AIG and all IGs have been summoned on Wednesday to the Karachi Registry where a two-member bench will hear their versions.

The suo moto case was being heard at the Supreme Court Karachi Registry and its judgement had been reserved.

Seven awarded 4-count death in Sialkot lynching case

 GUJRANWALA: In a landmark decision, an anti-terrorism court Tuesday handed down four times death punishment to seven accused and life imprisonment to six others in Sialkot case in which two brothers Mughees and Muneeb were brutally lynched in full public view in August last year, Geo News reported.

Ten policemen, including DPO Waqar Chohan, were also awarded 3 years in jail.

1 killed in 2nd deadly air show crash in 24 hours

MARTINSBURG, W.Va.: The second deadly air show crash in 24 hours has left one pilot dead in West Virginia and prompted the National Transportation Safety Board to dispatch an investigator to the site where an aerobatic demonstration plane plunged into a runway and exploded as spectators looked on.

Thousands of people were watching from a distance but no one was injured when a T-28 fixed-wing plane in a civilian aerobatics group wobbled and crashed Saturday, authorities said. Many in the crowd hugged each other and cried after seeing the aircraft appear to disintegrate in a fireball.

The ill-fated aircraft was part of a T-28 acrobatic team that tours the nation performing in air shows such as the Thunder Over the Blue Ridge airshow organized over the weekend at an airport near Martinsburg, according to Gen. James Hoyer, West Virginia Air National Guard adjutant.

The rest of the air show, including Sunday's planned performances, were canceled.

The crash occurred a day after a stunt pilot crashed at a Nevada air race Friday, killing at least nine and injuring dozens more.

45 killed as quake hits vast Himalayan region

 GANGTOK: Rescue teams battled landslides and heavy rains Monday after an earthquake rocked a vast swathe of northeast India and Himalayan states, killing at least 45 people in India, Nepal and Tibet.

The epicentre of Sunday's 6.9-magnitude earthquake was in a remote region on the border between India's Sikkim state and Nepal, and there were fears the toll could rise as reports filter in from isolated town and villages.

Tremors were felt more than 1,000 kilometres (600 miles) away in New Delhi to the west, and in Bangladesh to the east.

In Nepal, police said a motorcyclist and his eight-year-old daughter were among three killed when a wall crumbled at the British embassy compound in the capital Kathmandu, 270 kilometres west of the epicentre.

Three others were killed in separate incidents in eastern Nepal, national police spokesman Binod Singh told.

A budget debate in Nepal's parliament stopped for 15 minutes when lawmakers leapt to their feet and fled the chamber as the entire building shook.

At least 60 people were injured by mudslides, falling debris and collapsing buildings in Gangtok, the state capital of Sikkim, where thousands spent the night in the streets after two large aftershocks sparked further panic.

"We all ran out of our houses, some even jumped out of their windows. You can see some buildings that have developed cracks," said Gangtok resident CK Dahal.

The quake downed power lines, blacking out Gangtok and most of Sikkim, further hampering rescue efforts as telephone landlines were interrupted and panicked mobile users swamped local networks.

"The biggest challenge now is to get the rescue teams to the affected areas," said Sikkim Information Minister CB Karki.

G. Anandan, chief of the central emergency control room in Gangtok, said five people had been killed in the city, and another 18 had died in building collapses and landslides in outlying towns and villages.

"There's a good chance the death toll could rise as rescue teams begin to access the more remote areas," Anandan told.

Air force planes carrying rescue teams from Delhi were despatched to Bagdogra airport, around 125 kilometres south of Gangtok.

Torrential monsoon downpours grounded all helicopter flights, and the rains and landslides had washed away or blocked numerous sections of the only highway to Gangtok.

"Our rescue teams are stuck in that corridor," said National Disaster Response Force spokesman Surendra Ahlawat. "The conditions are terrible, but road crews are doing their best."

The quake was felt across a wide region including the Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan after it struck at about 6:10pm (1240 GMT) on Sunday, according to the US Geological Survey.

Its epicentre was just over 60 kilometres northwest of Gangtok, at a relatively shallow depth of 19.7 kilometres.

The Press Trust of India said that police rescued 15 foreign tourists in the north of Sikkim, a popular destination for trekkers.

Nine other people died in India, including one killed in a stampede by panicked residents in Bihar state and four who were buried when a house fell down near Darjeeling.

China's official Xinhua news agency said seven people had been killed in southern Tibet, near the border with Sikkim.

Strong tremors were felt in Guwahati, the main city in India's Assam state, some 600 kilometres away, sending people running into the streets.

"Our apartment block was literally swaying," said housewife Anamika Das.

In Kathmandu, traffic came to a standstill as hotels and bars were evacuated. Hundreds of anxious tourists and residents waited for news in car parks and on the streets as the seasonal monsoon rain lashed down.

India's seven northeastern states, joined to the rest of the country by a narrow sliver of land known as the "chicken's neck," are located in an area of frequent seismic activity. (AFP)

Senior Kadhafi general captured in south: official

 BENGHAZI: A senior general loyal to Moamer Kadhafi has been captured in the southern Libya, an official from the country's new regime told Tuesday, as the hunt for the toppled dictator intensified.

"General Belgacem Al-Abaaj, Kadhafi's intelligence chief in the Al Khofra region, was captured" on Monday some 100 kilometres (60 miles) from southern Libyan town of Sebha, said Mohamed Wardugu, spokesman for the "Desert Shield Brigade" in Benghazi.

Al-Abaaj, who had been sought by the forces of the National Transitional Council (NTC), was seized with members of his family who were traveling in five four-wheel drive vehicles, added Wardugu.

Wardugu said that the NTC forces had entered Sabha and taken control of the airport but that fighting was continuing in some quarters. (AFP)

Two killed in Ankara blast

 ANKARA: A bomb blast rocked the centre of the Turkish capital Ankara on Tuesday and some media reports said two people were killed, while a local mayor said nobody was dead but three people were seriously wounded.

Police were not immediately available for comment, but a TV station reported that the explosion had occurred in a minibus.

Television images showed several parked cars ablaze in front of a local state authority's offices, while a plume of thick smoke rose over the area.

Ambulances and fire engines rushed to the scene. The state-run Anatolian news agency said police set up a security cordon at the site in case of a secondary explosion.

Dogan News Agency quoted police sources as saying the blast was caused by a bomb and fire service officials as saying that two people had died. It also reported that police had detained a woman near the scene.

Cankaya Mayor Bulent Tanik said nobody was killed but three people had been seriously wounded, while broadcaster CNN Turk said 20 people were wounded and were being treated at three hospitals.

CNN Turk said bomb disposal teams were at the scene. (Reuters)

Mastung bus driver tells what he saw

 MASTUNG: The driver of the bus carrying the unfortunate pilgrims on whom the assailants opened indiscriminate fire here on Tuesday, giving the eye witness account said 8 to 10 armed men riding two vehicles executed the heinous act and then headed back towards Quetta.

Talking to Geo News Khushhal Khan, driver of the bus, who was spared by the attackers said that first a pick up carrying the gun men intercepted the bus. They dismounted the pick up with Kalashnikovs and other heavy arms and ordered the passengers of the bus to come out, the driver added. He said, in the meantime, he got a chance and ran away from the scene to save himself.

"When I came back I found many passengers killed and others injured," Khushhal Khan said, adding the security personnel reached the spot after a lapse of around 1 and a half hour time.

Emergency services also arrived at the site of the incident and shifted the dead and injured to hospital.

Later, banned LAshkar-e-Jhangvi claimed responsibility for the attacks on pilgrims

Dead whale washes ashore in Karachi

 KARACHI: A dead whale 40-50 feet long and 15 feet wide washed ashore and several people rushed to the beach to see it, Geo News reported.

People who came to see the whale said the administration should investigate the reasons behind why the whale washed ashore but on the other hand efforts were underway by the administration to bury the whale.

Protest against torture of students at Multan varsity

 MULTAN: Students at the Bahauddin Zakariya University are protesting after a torture video of students being tortured was released, Geo News reported.

One of the tortured students Waseem Abbas said he did not have differences with anyone and five senior students who were intoxicated at the time were involved in the incident. The students protested after Geo News brought video of the incident to light.

After seeing the video Governor Punjab and Chief Minister Punjab took notice of the incident and directed the Inspector General of Police to review the situation

MQM, other elements involved in May 12 tragedy, Sattar told US

 KARACHI: Wikileaks has revealed that MQM leader Dr. Farooq Sattar said certain MQM workers, former president Pervez Musharraf, landlords, Inter Services Intelligence (ISI) and other political parties were involved in the May 12, 2007 mayhem in Karachi.

A diplomatic cable sent from Karachi to Washington on 17 May, 2007 contained details of a 40-minute phone conversation between Sattar and Charge d'affaires US Consulate Peter Boday. During the conversation Sattar admitted that certain members of his party were involved in the May 12 incident and the party should consider unarming its militant wing.

According to the cable Sattar had informed government officials about those involved in the incident. Sattar said that slogans chanted in favour of Musharraf were not made on his recommendation and MQM Chief Altaf Hussain had dismissed his recommendation on the issue.

Salim Shahzad widow records statement

 ISLAMABAD: The widow of slain journalist Salim Shahzad has recorded her statement before the commission investigating into the case, Geo News reported Tuesday.

During a meeting of the commission chaired by SC Judge Justice Saqib Nisar held here today, the widow said that the commission had assured her of full security.

The commission will meet again on September 27 during which Inter Services Intelligence (ISI) will submit its reply