Pakistan

Representing Pakistan... but without a cue

2012-02-19T19:15:00.001-08:00

The streets of Pakistan are renowned for producing quality cricketers, ones that bring laurels aplenty to the nation.

However, a national event earlier this month sprouted a new snooker sensation – aged 30 – who, by virtue of reaching the final, qualified to represent Pakistan in April’s Asian Snooker Championship.

Sultan Muhammad is hard-working, talented, grew up playing snooker on the streets but, with limited finances and unemployment, cannot afford a decent cue.

He lost a one-sided final against the second-seed Mohammad Asif – who he will be partnering in Doha – but remains worried that his love for the game, which he took up as a hobby in his youth, might end up against a wall as he tries hard to collect enough cash to buy a new stick.

“The cue that I’m using right now is made locally and is of poor quality but unfortunately that’s all I could afford with my current state of finances,” said Sultan. “I am worried because the Asian Championship is a huge event for me and without a decent cue, it’ll be difficult to make an impression. However, with my country’s name at stake, I will try to give it my best shot.”

Sultan, who managed to invest in a Rs7,000 stick last year, remains confident that his game is skilful enough to overcome the lack of quality equipment.

Not being able to complete even his matriculation, Sultan finds it hard to get a job but relies on earning money, to move forward in the world, by taking on local opponents in a winner-takes-all battle. He does, however, have a brother residing in London who does assist financially and even sent in a world-class cue to help Sultan fulfil his dreams.

“My brother did send me a Rs70,000 stick but it didn’t click with my game and I sold it for Rs60,000 in fear of what it’d do to me if I carried on playing with it,” added Sultan, confident that quality equipment was all that he needed to make his national debut.

Snooker, even on the streets, is an expensive sport to pursue for the not-so-well-off. The equipment in snooker clubs is provided by the owners but they charge as much as Rs5 per minute, depending on the location and the quality of the tables.

“To beat the best, you have to practice with the best. A best-of-five encounter could cost almost Rs1,000 and that is a big amount for someone who doesn’t have a job but wants to play snooker.

“I’ve been playing on the streets for 16 years and never in my wildest of dreams had I seen this coming: playing for Pakistan is just an unbelievable achievement. I hope to make full use of this opportunity.”

Pakistan’s show in international events has been below-par of late. The hunt goes on for world-class players who can bring laurels to the country. An expected opportunity has risen for Sultan but his aim right now is not to win the Asian Championship, it’s just to take part in it with a proper cue.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 15^th, 2012.

Draining Attabad Lake: FWO to brief stakeholders on progress and future strategy

2012-02-19T17:25:00.000-08:00

GILGIT:

The Frontier Works Organisation (FWO) will hold a briefing for Gilgit-Baltistan’s (G-B) legislators and representatives of affected people to share the difficulties and future strategy for draining Attabad Lake, sources said on Saturday.

“The session is planned for February 14 when senior officials of FWO will share their experience with elected representatives including members of the legislative assembly and G-B Council,” said officials requesting anonymity as they were not authorised to interact with the media.

Responsible for executing the project to widen the lake’s spillway, the FWO has been severely criticised for the past one year for its failure to drain the lake that has submerged almost four villages upstream.

More than 25000 people in Gojal have been stranded after a massive landslide in January 2010 formed a natural dam in the Hunza River, creating a lake. The landslide also blocked the Karakoram Highway, a vital trade link to China, cutting off people in Gojal valley, also known as Upper Hunza, from the rest of the country.

Engineers had dug out a spillway to let the water gush out, but the lake did not drain out, sparking criticism.

According to experts, the spillway should have been at least 30 metres deep in order to allow the submerged villages and two RCC bridges and part of the Karakoram Highway to resurface. “The depth of the spillway is about 10 to 12 metres,” sources said.

FWO officials said huge boulders beneath the spillway were hindering progress and that they had tried to blast the rocks to widen the spillway. A colonel had drowned in the spillway in an attempt to rescue three persons stuck in a bulldozer.

Former home secretary G-B, Asif Bilal told reporters that Chinese engineers had expressed their inability to drain the Attabad Lake. Desperate to restore the only surface link to the rest of the country, youth from Attabad and Gojal attempted twice to drain the lake but the government barred them due to the risk involved.

In the absence of a land route, boats are the only means of transportation, but in winters when the surface of the 23-kilometre long Attabad Lake is frozen, the voyage is perilous and has been banned.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 5^th, 2012.

Attabad Lake: Authorities set new date for clearing spillway

2012-02-19T17:24:00.001-08:00

GILGIT:

Authorities on Saturday set a new date to clear obstructions caused by landslides in the Attabad Lake at Hunza.

The spillways need to be blasted which in turn result in flashfloods due to the sudden release of water. The authorities, in an effort to minimise losses for the population living in low-lying areas, have sought time to make adequate preparations.

The district administration of Hunza Nagar made an announcement last week to blast the spillway on February 18, but put off the task till the 27th of this month.

“We have been informed by the home department about a change in date, with instructions to complete the preparations by the revised date,” Deputy Commissioner of Hunza Nagar, Burhan Afindi said.

Explosives will be used to blast the boulders currently obstructing the outflow of water though a spillway dug in 2010. Several unsuccessful attempts have been made in the past using controlled blasting to widen the spillway.

An official said that traffic on the Gilgit-Hunza portion of the Karakoram Highway would be stopped on that day. Authorities also warned residents settled downstream to avoid venturing to the riverside. Pakistan Red Crescent society (PRCS) has deputed a team of volunteers to assist the administration in case of an emergency.

“Assistant Director, Youth, Wajid Ali has been assigned the task of assisting rehabilitation work if something untoward happens,” said Safdar Ali, an official in the PRCS. He added that the team has been trained and equipped to deal with any emergency.

More than 25,000 people in Gojal were stuck after a massive landslide in January 2010 formed a natural dam in the Hunza River, creating a lake that consumed upstream villages as it expanded. The landslide also blocked the Karakoram Highway, a vital trade link connecting the region to China.

The army engineering department implemented a project when the lake formed. But locals have raised criticism, time and again demanding that the project be handed over to Chinese companies to provide prompt relief.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 19^th, 2012.

Eavesdropping on Iran: ‘US pressing for listening posts in Balochistan’

2012-02-19T17:23:00.000-08:00

ISLAMABAD:

Everyone wants to have a hand to play in Balochistan.

The latest player to unmask itself is the United States. Even as tensions brew between Pakistan and the US over a resolution introduced in the US House of Representatives seeking sovereignty for the volatile province, officials reveal that the US has been pushing Islamabad for permission to establish bases in Balochistan for intelligence operations against bordering Iran.

“Like always, things are not what they look like, and how they unfold … lies at the heart of all (this). The outburst in America for Balochistan is part of an ambition to set up intelligence bases close to the Iranian border,” an official told The Express Tribune on Sunday, indicating that the Congressional hearing and proposed resolution were playing their part as pressure tactics.

“They (Americans) want to use our soil against Iran, which we can never allow,” said the official, who did not want to be named.

Three officials, two from the security agencies and one from diplomatic circles, confirmed to The Express Tribune that American diplomats and military leaders have been requesting permission for their agents to operate near the Iranian border in Balochistan.

The revelation came days after a bill was moved in the House of Representatives, blaming Pakistani security agencies for forceful disappearances and extra-judicial killings in Balochistan and calling for the liberation of the country’s largest province. It also follows thevisit of Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad to Pakistan for a trilateral summit.

Officials said that ostensibly, US authorities were seeking Pakistan’s permission to establish bases in Balochistan, claiming to counter the activities of the Afghan Taliban, whom they blame for operating out of the provincial capital under the umbrella of the so-called Quetta Shura. Islamabad, however, denies the presence of any such Taliban shura or council.

The proposed resolution adds to the rising chorus of voices across the country pointing fingers over the troubles of the violence-ridden province, including the Pakistan Muslim League- Nawaz (PML-N) which has vowed to introduce a resolution in the National Assembly, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf, the Muttahida Qaumi Movement and even the Pakistan Bar Council among others.

The international front

Running parallel to the Balochistan saga is the recent rising concern in the West over purported Iranian ambitions to build nuclear arsenal. Reports in the recent past suggest American and Israeli authorities are starting to run out of patience, and the threat of Israeli military action against defiant Iran is a growing one.

Just last week, President Ahmadinejad reportedly urged Pakistani authorities to disallow Americans from reinforcing their presence at a consulate in Quetta.

Trilateral summit statement

Earlier last week, a joint declaration was issued at the conclusion of the Pakistan-Iran-Afghanistan summit in Islamabad, where all three sides vowed to put up collective resistance to any new misadventure by any force in the region.

Experts say the statement was a veiled reference to American ambitions to put an end to Iran’s nuclear drive.

In December last year, President Asif Ali Zardari delivered a speech at a gathering of Pakistan Peoples Party workers, saying he would never allow his country to become part of any other war theatre in the region.

“We are the well wishers of all and don’t want to make any more enemies,” the president said in remarks that officials interpreted as a snub to American pressure seeking permission for anti-Iran intelligence operations.

(Read: A troubled land)

Published in The Express Tribune, February 20^th, 2012.

City planning: Traffic issues persist at Kalma Chowk

2012-02-19T17:22:00.000-08:00

LAHORE:

Despite the new flyover, long waiting times persist for some traffic at Kalma Chowk.

For vehicles travelling straight down Ferozepur Road, the flyover cuts travel times across the busy intersection. But for traffic turning towards New Garden Town or Gulberg, congestion is still a problem.

A traffic police official said that the problem was caused by poor design and planning of traffic junctions. A Communication and Works official said that the problem was poor management and the blocking of the traffic signal in the service lane for vehicles headed towards Model Town and New Garden Town.

When the barricades are up, vehicles coming from Gaddafi Stadium and wanting to turn right at the chowk must get into the service lane before the start of the flyover, turn left onto Main Boulevard, then make a u-turn at the Centre Point junction back towards Kalma Chowk before going straight to New Garden Town, adding around 500 metres to their journey.

Sadar Traffic Superintendent of Police (SP) Asif Zafar Cheema said that the Traffic Engineering and Planning Agency (TEPA) had set up signals at the service lanes, but it could still get very congested. He said that the barricades were placed at the service lane during peak traffic hours to set up the diversion.

The diversion puts an extra burden on Main Boulevard, he said, particularly where vehicles from the service lane merge with traffic heading towards Liberty from New Garden Town, and at the Centre Point u-turn where the diverted vehicles meet traffic headed from Liberty to New Garden Town. “It greatly slows down all traffic,” he said. “These junctions need to be reviewed.”

Traffic Engineering and Planning Agency Director (Planning) Khalid Mehmood Alvi said that the Communication and Works Department together with their consultants the National Engineering Services of Pakistan was responsible for the traffic problem at Kalma Chowk.

Sabir Khan Sadozai, the project director for the Kalma Chowk flyover and who is currently in charge of the Muslim Town flyover, said that if wardens were placed at the square beneath the flyover and the traffic signals kept running, there would be smoother traffic movement.

“They did a one-day trial around six weeks ago when the signals were set up, opening the signal for about 20 seconds for Ferozepur Road traffic. It was quite successful,” he said.

However, he said, traffic police would place barricades at the service lane during peak hours and vehicles were forced onto the alternate route. “If handled properly, traffic will run smoothly without any barricades.”

He said that plans to build an underpass at Kalma Chowk linking New Garden Town and Gulberg, originally mooted to be built at the same time as the flyover, had been shelved as it was not really needed.

“It will be required in about three years but not right now,” he said.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 20^th, 2012.

Acid attack: Suspect’s family held ‘for questioning’

2012-02-19T17:21:00.000-08:00

FAISALABAD:

Ghulam Muhammadabad police have taken into custody a woman and her two sons for interrogation about the whereabouts of her third son who is accused of throwing acid on four women.

SHO Waheed Shahid told The Express Tribune that the police had raided several places in Khurarrianwala based on information gleaned from the family on Sunday but did not find the suspect, Kashif, a resident of Bahmani Wala.

The SHO said a team had been formed following directions from DCO Naseem Sadiq, SP (Operations) Sadiq Ali Dogar and SSP (Lyallpur Town) Zahid Mehmood Gondal to investigate the case. He said the suspect’s mother, Fatima Bibi, and his brothers would be released shortly. He said they were being held for interrogation. “We have not booked the women or her two sons yet. They have been held to pressure the suspect into surrendering,” he said.

The FIR registered on a complaint filed by Nazir Ahmad, father of Alina*, one of the four victims, stated that Kashif intercepted Alina, 18, and her colleagues Saadia*, 13, Faiza*, 18, and Rafia*,20, in front of a garments factory on Kashmir Road on Saturday night where the women worked. It said the suspect threw acid at them following an argument with Alina over his proposal for marriage.

The women were leaving the factory after finishing their work shift. They were later taken to Allied Hospital where Saadia and Rafia were discharged after first aid. The other two were still under treatment at the hospital. Doctors said they were now out of danger. They said the women had minor burn injuries on their face, back and arms.

The FIR has been registered against the suspect under Sections 324, 34 of the Pakistan Penal Code and Section 7 of the Anti Terrorism Act.

Complainant Nazir Ahmad told The Tribune that he had turned down Kashif’s proposal for his daughter because he did not have a decent job. “I could not give away my daughter to someone who cannot sustain a family,” he said. Ahmed said his family had told Kashif to abandon the idea when he first approached them.

*Names have been changed to protect identity of the victims

Published in The Express Tribune, February 20^th, 2012.

‘Don of Sialkot’ arrested after six years at large

2012-02-19T17:20:00.001-08:00

SIALKOT: Sialkot police arrested a proclaimed offender wanted in over 200 cases in a raid on Sunday, District Police Office (DPO) Syed Ali Mohsin told a press conference at his office.

He said Yasir Cheema alias Yasira, a resident of Daska, carried Rs1 million head money and went by titles like “the don of Sialkot” and “SHO of Punjab”.

Cheema was arrested in a raid following a tip off early Sunday morning, the DPO said.

Cheema was headed towards a trader’s home receive a ‘protection’ payment when the police team intercepted him.

The DPO said the man was wanted in over 200 cases of murder, extortion and kidnapping for ransom.

Cheema, present at the press conference, told the media that he had lived near a coal mine in Chakwal for over a year.

Earlier, he said, he had fled to Dubai.

Cheema said he had travelled to Dubai using false papers.

“I used a forged identity card and passport issued in another name to flee to Dubai,” he said. He said his application forms were attested by a former union council nazim.

Cheema said he had continued operating his extortion network in Sialkot and its surroundings from Dubai. The network included a firing squad which, he said, was terrorised traders and other affluent people who were reluctant to pay up by firing at their homes and cars.

Daska City police have registered a case against Cheema under Sections 324, 353 and 13/20/65 of the Pakistan Penal Code for putting up resistance during Sunday’s raid.

A large number of lawyers including Sialkot District Bar Association (DBA) president Advocate Shahid Mir, traders and journalists were present on the occasion.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 20^th, 2012.

Probing 2008 attack: March 12 likely date for commission’s departure

2012-02-19T17:19:00.001-08:00

RAWALPINDI:

The nine-member judicial commission is now likely to leave for India on March 12, to record the statements of the magistrate and chief investigator of the 2008 Mumbai attacks.

The federal investigation agency (FIA), on Saturday, submitted a fresh notification by the Federal Interior Ministry after the approval of the law ministry, giving new dates for the departure of the judicial commission for India.

The fresh notification was submitted to the Special Judge Anti-Terrorism Court (ATC) Shahid Rafique, after removing objections raised by the leading defence counsel Khawaja Haris Sultan, The Express Tribune was told by Chaudhry Zulfiqar Ali.

The judicial commission is supposed to cross examine the chief investigator of the Mumbai attacks as well as the magistrate who recorded Ajmal Kasab’s confessional statement. Kasab alleged that he, along with other attackers, was trained and sent by Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi among others to carry out terrorist attacks in Mumbai.

The commission comprising of two prosecutors, five defence lawyers, on FIA official as coordinator and one record keeper of the trial court, is also delegated to record the statements of the investigators and the doctors who carried out postmortems and medical legal reports of the injured in the Mumbai attacks.

The Indian authorities have already announced their team for the commission. Mumbai Chief Metropolitan Magistrate S S Shinda was nominated as the team’s head by the Mumbai High Court chief justice.

Meanwhile the trial court here, carrying out the trial of seven men including Zakiur Rehman Lakhvi, the alleged mastermind of the Mumbai attacks, put off the hearing till February 25.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 19^th, 2012.

Boosting air defence: F-16s replace Americans at Jacobabad airbase

2012-02-19T17:18:00.001-08:00

ISLAMABAD:

The Pakistan Air Force (PAF), in a significant move, has equipped the newly renovated Jacobabad airbase with close to three dozen F-16s, including the advanced Block 52+ version of the aircraft.

Pakistan has spent over $3.75 billion on both the revamping of Jacobabad airbase and the acquisition of new planes, officials told The Express Tribune. The air force is in a better position to encounter any threats after acquiring the new F-16s which are capable of carrying nuclear weapons, they added.

Defence analyst Lt General (retd) Talat Masood said this was a significant development especially as it had come months after the Americans had quit the airbase. Masood, however, warned of a shift in the strategic balance of the region, saying “India’s new aircraft deal with France would leave Pakistan far behind”. For all intents and purposes, he said, Pakistan should continue its cooperation with the US to enhance its defence capability. “Pakistan and the US are reciprocal when it comes to regional stability in South Asia,” he added.

India is all set to reach an agreement with France over the purchase of 126 medium multi-role combat aircraft (MMRCA) costing over $12 billion, making it the largest international defence deal by value in recent years, according to Indian media. Chief of Air Staff Rao Qamar Suleman and Chief of Army Staff General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani had formally announced the completion of Jacobabad Airbase on February 12. The Chief of Air Staff said that all American personnel, including the Training Support Team for the new F-16s, have left after training PAF pilots and other technical staff.

“The new F-16 Block 52 fleet will pave the way for establishing the balance of power in the region,” said General Kayani.

“This airbase is now the largest platform for modern aircraft capable of carrying nuclear weapons,” a senior PAF official told The Express Tribune. “It’s an outcome of years long cooperation between Pakistan and the US.”

Pakistan had purchased 18 new F-16 Block 52+ aircraft, while 14 used F-16s were supplied free of charge by the US. The US Training Support Team consisted of over 200 personnel, including staff to train PAF personnel on making the aircraft operational. PAF has also recruited over 4, 000 employees for the newly renovated strategic airbase which is located close to the western frontier bordering both Iran and Afghanistan.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 19^th, 2012.

US Congressman tables resolution calling for independence of Baloch

2012-02-17T12:57:00.001-08:00

WASHINGTON: A week after he chaired a Congressional committee’s hearing on Balochistan, US Congressman Dana Rohrabacher introduced tabled a resolution in the US Congress, asking for the Baloch be given their right of self-determination and to their own sovereign country.

The House Concurrent Resolution in the US House of Representatives has been co-sponsored by Representatives Louie Gohmert and Steve King. It highlights the history of Balochistan, and says that revolts in 1958, 1973 and 2005 “indicate continued popular discontent against rule by Islamabad, and the plunder of its vast natural wealth while Baluchistan remains the poorest province in Pakistan.”

The text says that there is also an insurgency underway in Sistan-Balochistan, which is being repressed by Iran.

Rohrabacher’s resolution says that it is the US policy to “oppose aggression and the violation of human rights inherent in the subjugation of national groups as currently being shown in Iran and Pakistan against the aspirations of the Baloch people.”

According to the resolution, the people of Balochistan that are “currently divided between Pakistan, Iran, and Afghanistan, have the right to self-determination and to their own sovereign country and they should be afforded the opportunity to choose their own status among the community of nations, living in peace and harmony, without external coercion.”

In a statement from his office, Rohrabacher, who is also the Chair of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations, said, “The Baluchi, like other nations of people, have an innate right to self-determination. The political and ethnic discrimination they suffer is tragic and made more so because America is financing and selling arms to their oppressors in Islamabad.”

The press release further added that Balochistan is “rich in natural resources but has been subjugated and exploited by Punjabi and Pashtun elites in Islamabad, leaving Baluchistan the country’s poorest province.”

Rohrabacher had earlier this week introduced a bill calling for a medal be awarded to Dr Shakil Afridi for revealing the location of Osama bin Laden, directly aiding in the SEAL team operation to kill the former al Qaeda leader.

Pakistan, Iran, Afghanistan to evolve roadmap

2012-02-17T12:55:00.000-08:00

SLAMABAD - Pakistan , Iran and Afghanistan Friday agreed to develop a joint framework of trilateral cooperation particularly in the areas of counter terrorism, anti narcotics and border management within six months.
It was decided during third Trilateral Summit held here on Feb, 16 and 17 among Afghan President Hamid Karzai, Iranian President Mahmood Ahmadinejad and President Asif Ali Zardari
The three Presidents pledged to enhance cooperation among the countries comprehensively for realizing the shared aspiration of their peoples for peace, security, stability and economic prosperity.
They agreed to extend support of comprehensive cooperation and to take pragmatic steps for realizing mutually beneficial cooperation to promote stability, peace and shared prosperity and ensure respect for sovereignty, independence, unity and territorial integrity, as enshrined in the UN Charter.
The summit also agreed to proceed on the basis of mutual interest, shared respect, non interference and non intervention in internal affairs of each another. The meeting also had a consensus not to allow any threat emanating from their respective territories against each other. All parties agreed to commence trilateral consultations on an agreement in this regard.
All three heads of states also agreed to take part in the development and reconstruction of Afghanistan.
Pakistan Iran and Afghanistan will broaden cooperation in the political, security, economic, cultural, social and educational fields and enhance people to people contacts including exchange visits of parliamentarians, academicians and journalists.
They also had the same opinion to strengthen cooperation for eradicating extremism, terrorism and militancy and to address the root causes of these menaces, condemning the killings of civilians as well as any kind of assassinations. The three regional players would cooperate in combating the problems of narcotic drugs production and trafficking and in combating transnational organized crimes.
They would also prioritize cooperation for socio-economic development and enhance three-way trade by facilitation measures, including preferential tariff and free trade arrangements as well as barter trade. They also expressed commitment to expand trade in transit and encourage the private sector to invest in the three countries.
The summit also consented for enhancing connectivity by promoting project cooperation in infrastructure, road and rail links, transport and communications. The three countries would develop mutually beneficial cooperation in the energy, mining and minerals, agriculture and other sectors.
They also agreed to cooperate for the safe, voluntary and early return of Afghan refugees to their homeland in honour and dignity. The meeting too emphasized the need for enhancing their cooperation at international level, especially within the United Nations system.
The trilateral conference also concurred that mandate would be given to the Foreign Ministers to prepare and coordinate a roadmap for trilateral cooperation for submission to the next Summit. Further it would ask the Commerce Ministers to outline steps for enhancing three-way economic cooperation.
Presidents Iran and Pakistan reiterated their full support for an Afghan-led and Afghan-owned inclusive process of peace and reconciliation. They assured the President of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan that they would extend full cooperation and stressed that any initiative in this regard must have authentic Afghan ownership.
They also stressed the need for implementation of the earlier decisions taken at the Trilateral Summits held in Tehran in May 2009 and June 2011 respectively.
The meeting decided that the Fourth Trilateral Summit shall be held in Kabul by the end of 2012. The exact dates will be communicated through diplomatic channels.

Doctors adamant about punishing patients as strike goes on

2012-02-17T12:53:00.002-08:00

While poor patients are being denied treatment in indoor wards of the Punjab Institute of Cardiology (PIC) on the pretext of the strike by the Young Doctors Association (YDA), Punjab, the ones who can afford the treatment are being provided with the same, it is learnt.

The PIC is the only institute where the YDA Punjab has been observing the strike both indoor and out patient departments (OPDs) wards unlike other teaching hospitals of Lahore where strike is being observed in the OPDs only.

According to sources, a senior PIC consultant on Wednesday had performed angiography of four private patients while cases of poor patients were not taken up by the PIC consultants on the pretext of strike by the young doctors.

Interestingly, the young doctors have been on strike against the Punjab government demanding reinstatement of the said consultant Prof Dr M Azhar, the former chief executive officer of PIC – who along with medical superintendent Dr Saleem Jafar and six others was removed by the government over drug reaction issue. So far, as many as 144 people have lost their lives owing to drug reaction.

In a meeting with PIC consultants, Prof Azhar, while justifying the treatment provided to his private patients, said the same were of emergency nature, they sources added. It is learnt that the OPD at the PIC opens for private patients at 2:00pm while each consultant is paid a handsome share by the institute for providing treatment to the private patients.

The News could not reach Prof Azhar despite repeated attempts at his PIC phone number. Asif, who introduced himself as a ward boy, picked up phone twice and said: “Dr Azhar is on round.”

The third time, another person Waheed attended the phone and introduced himself as office assistant of the said doctor. He too said that Dr Azhar was on the round. He assured the correspondent that the doctor would call back but the latter did not rang back till the filing of the report. Meanwhile, patients continued to suffer at PIC and other teaching hospitals of the provincial metropolis including Ganga Ram Hospital, Services Hospital, Mayo Hospital and Jinnah Hospital, etc, in the wake of forcible strike by the young doctors. Reportedly a number of operations had to be postponed at the PIC and other health facilities owing to the strike which has been denying people’s basic right to healthcare.

The general public has condemned the YDA Punjab for its strike, saying poor patients, especially the heart patients, who were already suffering owing to drug reaction were facing another nightmare because of complete strike at the PIC. They have also expressed shock and disappointment over mysterious silence of the Punjab government over the strike.

Meanwhile, the YDA office bearers, addressing a press conference, warned the Punjab government that, in case of any disciplinary action against the young doctors, they would launch the province-wide strike.

Addressing the press conference, YDA Punjab president Dr Hamid Butt, Dr Nasir Abbas and Dr Usman Dar said it was in fact the government which had been a cause of trouble for the patients, arguing if their demands were met the situation would have been different today. They said the Punjab chief minister, being a health minister, was responsible for deaths caused by drugs reaction. To a question, the YDA office-bearers said if lawyers announced that they would not hold strike in future, doctors would follow suit. “People suffer too when lawyers go on strike.”

Smoking ban to be ensured in Lahore

2012-02-17T12:52:00.002-08:00

LAHORE: The District Committee for Tobacco Control (DCTC) has finalized a comprehensive strategy to ensure smoking free health centres, government offices and public places across the provincial capital through implementation of anti smoking laws.

DCTC advisory committee in its meeting at a local hotel on Thursday also urged the government departments and civil society to play their role to make the city tobacco free to create a healthy environment for future generations.

The committee headed by EDO Health Dr Inamul Haq also reviewed various proposals for the implementation of relevant laws for tobacco control across the district.

The representatives from World Health Organization Shahzad Alam, district departments including health, environment, education, social welfare, cinema association, NGOs and other wings of civil society were present in the meeting.

The participants discussed various clauses of the laws related to the tobacco control in Pakistan.

WHO Operational Officer Dr Babar Aleem also briefed the participants about formation of a Technical Advisory Group for the implementation of anti tobacco laws in the country.

The EDO Health discussed various areas where civil society, NGOs, transport and cinema associations and government departments could make joint efforts to make the city environment more healthy and clean.

The committee also decided to launch a mass awareness drive across the city regarding tobacco free environment. (APP)

LHC hands over girl to French mother

2012-02-17T12:51:00.002-08:00

LAHORE: The Lahore High Court (LHC) handed over an 11-year-old Amna to her French mother on Friday, Geo News reported.

According to details, Amna aged 11 was handed over to her French mother after the court ruled in her mother’s favour.

Amna’s mother had filed a case for her daughter’s custody in LHC. The police presented the girl in the court today where she insisted to go with her father Abdul Razzak.

The mother told the court that Abdul Razzak had married her in France but due to domestic clashes, the French court had handed over Amna to her mother. However, Razzak managed to return to Pakistan with Amna.

The court kept up the order of the French court and handed over the girl to her mother.

Amn’s uncle and grandfather were also present in the court while her father was hospitalized due to trauma, the court was told.

Karachi Literature Festival inaugurated

2012-02-17T12:50:00.000-08:00

KARACHI: The inaugural ceremony of the third Karachi Literature Festival (KLF) was held at a local hotel on Friday night.

The American Ambassador to Pakistan, Cameron Munter, was the chief guest on the occasion.

The two-day festival formally commenced from Saturday morning.

It is being organized by the British Council in collaboration with the Oxford University Press (OUP) Pakistan.

The Managing Director of OUP Pakistan, Ms. Ameena Saiyid, presented the welcome address.

The Consul General of the Federal Republic of Germany in Karachi, Dr Tilo Klinner, Mashood Rizvi, Director British Council Sindh, and Asif Farrukhi also expressed their views on the occasion.

According to organizers, the KLF will bring together international and Pakistani writers to showcase writing at its best. (APP)

Dr Qaiser appointed new vice-chancellor of KU

2012-02-17T12:48:00.003-08:00

KARACHI: Prof Muhammad Qaiser has been appointed as the new Vice-Chancellor of the University of Karachi.

This was announced in a statement issued here from the Governor House on Thursday.

It said that Governor Sindh, Dr Ishrat ul Ebad Khan, who is also the Chancellor of the public sector universities in the province, has appointed Dr Qaiser as the Vice-Chancellor of Karachi University.

Earlier, the Search Committee had presented its recommendations in this regard to the Governor.

Dr Qaiser prior to this appointment was serving as the Vice-Chancellor of the Federal Urdu University for Science and Technology (FUUAST).

Meanwhile, Dr Ishrat ul Ebad Khan, has appreciated the services rendered by the outgoing vice-chancellor of Karachi University, Prof. Dr Pirzada Qasim Raza Siddiqui.

The Governor also wished Prof. Siddiqui well in the time ahead.

Nasra Trust to continue its efforts in promoting education: Shahnaz

2012-02-17T12:48:00.000-08:00

KARACHI: Senior Provincial Minister Pir Mazharul Haq has appreciated the role of Nasra Educational Trust for promotion of education.

This he said while addressing as chief guest at foundation day function of the trust here on Sunday.

The minister said that chain of Nasra schools has imparted quality education to the millions of youth since its establishment in 1942.

Speaking on the occasion chairperson of the trust Begum Shanaz Wazir Ali highlighted the achievements of the schools and said that the trust will continue efforts to impart quality education and knowledge to youth. (APP)

LUMHS exams from Feb 01

2012-02-17T12:47:00.000-08:00

HYDERABAD: The Controller of Examinations Postgraduate Studies Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences Jamshoro announced the conduct of Postgraduate Examinations 2011 from February 1, 2012.

The examinations in subjects of M.Sc. Final Community Dentistry, M.Phil Biochemistry Part-II, M.Phil Physiology Part-II, M.S. Obstetrics and Gynaecology (Basic Medical Science), M.S. Orthopaedic (Basic Medical Science), M.Sc. Community Dentistry (Basic Medical Science), M.Sc. Orthodontics (Basic Medical Science) and M.Sc. Operative Dentistry (Basic Medical Science) will be conducted at Liaquat University of Medical and Health Science Jamshoro, he said. (APP)

Tension prevails in SU, students leave hostel

2012-02-17T12:46:00.000-08:00

JAMSHORO: Hundreds of students of Sindh University (SU) have left hostel after the killing of Director Students Affairs Professor Bashir Chhanar, Geo News reported.

It may be noted here that academic activities in the varsity have been suspended for many days in protest against killing of Prof. Bashir, as a result students have made their way home.

Meanwhile, Secretary Teachers Association Irfan Malah said the protest campaign would continue till the removal of Vice Chancellor.

A protest march would be held from Old Campus to Press Club besides a sit-in out side the club, the secretary announced.

He called upon the Governor to take notice of the incident and save the university from devastation.

LUMHS announces winter vacations from Dec 28

2012-02-17T12:45:00.000-08:00

HYDERABAD: The Registrar of the Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences (LUMHS) Jamshoro informed here Monday to teaching faculty members that winter vacation of the university will be start from December 28 and end on January 5, 2012.

Those faculty member who have not completed one year of their service as well as the contract employees basis and all in-service and private postgraduate students are not eligible to avail the winter vacation, he said.

FUUAST extends last date for admission to Dec 26

2012-02-17T12:44:00.001-08:00

KARACHI: Director Admission Committee of Federal Urdu University of Arts Science and Technology (FUUAST) Muhammad Siddique has announced extension in the last date of submission of admission forms for BS and master’s program (morning shift) at Karachi campus to 26 December.

In a release on Monday, he said that admissions at Arts Faculty of Abdul Haq Campus would be given on merit in subjects of Urdu, Islamyat, English, Education, B Ed, General History, Islamic History, Political Science, Special Education, Sindhi, Arabic, International Relations and Social welfare while in Law Faculty admissions would be given on merit in LLB and LLM and in Business Administration Faculty admissions would be given in Economic and Commerce.

At Gulshan Campus Science Faculty the admissions would be given on merit in Geology, Statistics, Chemistry, Zoology, Bio Chemistry, Physics, Botany, Micro Biology, Mathematics and Environmental Science.

At Abdul Haq Campus under Faculty of Business Administration admission in BBA while at Gulshan Campus under Department of Computer Science Admissions in BS Networking, BS Software system,under Pharmacy Faculty admission in Pharm D and under Science Faculty admissions in BS Geology would be given on the basis of NTS test.

According to Director Admission Committee, students of Religious Seminaries who have degree of ‘Shahadat-ul-Aalia, could get conditional admissions this year in MA Arabic and Islamyat and they would have to pass compulsory subjects of BA.

He said that for admission in BS Arts and MA minimum required marks are 45% while for admission in BS Science are 50% except those departments whose details have been given in the prospectus. Those students who have passed their last exams before 2007 are not eligible for admission in arts faculty while those who have passed their last exams before 2009 are not eligible to get admission in science subjects.

Admission forms can be obtained from Askari bank, Allied bank and United Band branches located on University road Gulshin-e-Iqbal. From Askari and Allied banks branches located on Baba-e-Urdu road and Bohra Pir branch of Askari bank. The forms are also available on the University website.

KU issues BCom exam schedule

2012-02-17T12:43:00.000-08:00

KARACHI: University of Karachi issued the schedule of Bachelors of Commerce –2011 annual regular examination.

The exams would commence from August 24. Fifty-eight exam centers have been set up at the varsity and its different affiliated colleges for 40366 candidates, including 26300 boys and 14066 girls.

SU winter break from Dec 16 to Jan 1, exams to continue

2012-02-17T12:41:00.000-08:00

HYDERABAD: The management of University of Sindh (SU) Thursday announced the winter holidays in all its teaching centres, institutes and departments as well as Campuses of Badin, Mirpurkhas and Dadu and Model Schools of the University from December 16, 2011 to January 1, 2012.

The administrative staff working in teaching centres, institutes and departments will be available in their offices as usual during winter break while Directors/ Chairpersons of the teaching centres, institutes and departments will attend their offices for two days on Monday and Tuesday during the winter break. The Deans of all Faculties will however remain on their duties as usual.

The management further informed that semester examinations however will continue as per already announced schedule.

The University management has advised all teachers to submit their results of semester examinations before proceeding on winter break.

Students protest against delay in results in Rawalpindi

2012-02-17T12:40:00.002-08:00

RAWALPINDI: Students are protesting against the delay in results outside the intermediate board in the city, Geo News reported.

During the rioting students entered the intermediate board building and set fire to records and other material present inside.

The police officials deployed outside the board building fled the scene when the protests started.

Afterwards a police contingent reached the scene and used aerial firing and tear gas to disperse the protestors.

Admissions in BS Mass Comm at SMI opens

2012-02-17T12:39:00.002-08:00

KARACHI: Sindh Madressatul Islam College, which is affiliated with the University of Karachi, has announced on Wednesday that the admissions in B.S Mass Communication and BS Education(four-year programme) for both girls and boys shall continue till December 23, 2011.

In a statement issued, Principal SMI Dr. Muhammad Ali Shaikh said the willing candidates can obtain admission form from the admission committee of SMIC with a payment of Rs.200 during working hours.

Admission test would be held on December 24 (Saturday) and the results would be announced on December 26, it added.

Celebs with mental disorders: Lock up the crazy

2012-02-17T10:00:00.002-08:00

KARACHI:

Whether it’s your annoying co-worker who has an obsessive need to assert power or your freaky neighbour who spies at you through her window every night, its seems these days, ‘the crazies’ have invaded our world. According to the fifth edition of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, almost 78 per cent of people are suffering from some kind of psychological disorder. With so many loco people around us, it’s the normal 22 per cent who start feeling ‘crazy’. But when it comes to celebrities, who are faced with persistent pressure and incredible media scrutiny, it is absolutely impossible to stay sane. And sometimes, it’s their kookoo-ness that makes them famous.

Lindsay Lohan/OJ Simpson/Mike Tyson — Sociopaths

Sociopaths have an inability to empathise and have no conscience. They can brutally torture and kill without feeling an ounce of remorse. OJ Simpson, who callously killed his ex wife and then wrote about it in his book If I did it and Mike Tyson, who bit off someone’s ear and allegedly raped are prime examples of sociopaths. Sociopaths have a total disregard for the law and are fearless — traits demonstrated best by Lindsay Lohan who has been involved in theft, high speed car chases, rehab stints and drug abuse.

Angelina Jolie — Bipolar Disorder

One year she’s kissing her brother on the lips and the next year she is creating her own little army of coloured kids — Angelina Jolie, is full of contradictions. Bipolars shift their moods from manic highs to depressive lows. There is a lot of self destructiveness and impulsiveness exhibited in all their relationships. Her partner Brad Pitt has suffered the brunt of her craziness as his physical appearance and career have gone downhill. She’s played an integral role in breaking up Brad Pitt’s marriage to Jennifer Aniston. The first manic or depressive episode occurs in early adulthood and Jolie was absolutely koo koo in her younger days. However, she has reined it her bipolarity and tries to portray normalcy with her excessive love for her kids and Brad Pitt.

Veena Malik — Exhibitionism/Pathological Liar

An exhibitionist has an extreme desire or compulsion to publically expose parts of their body and is thrilled if their expose shocks or scares people — a response Veena achieved with her FHM nude photo shoot. Exhibitionists have a strong sense of guilt; they usually deny the episode ever took place which may parlay into pathological lying. A pathological liar always provides stories which have some element of truth. The liar sticks to his story until he is caught.

Meera — Attention Seeking Behaviour/ Language disorder

There is no doubt that most things she says, whether it’s her leaving Bollywood and turning a new leaf, attention is what she craves. This is commonly demonstrated by children. Additionally, her tweets, “I love to come in Holland” and “I think I still have the jet leg” can be traced back to her language disorder. Such people have a difficult time with syntax, morphology and semantics of language.

Charlie Sheen and John Mayer — Narcissism

Narcissism may seem harmless and even charming from afar but it has destructive repercussions. Narcissists have delusions of grandiosity and are obsessed with themselves. Charlie Sheen and John Mayer’s verbal diahorrea, in the form of interviews and tweets, and their inability to commit is a testimony to their disorder. John Mayer has likened his genitals to a white supremacist, saying he doesn’t think he “opens himself” to black women. On the other hand, Sheen says things like: “I am on a drug. It’s called Charlie Sheen. It’s not available. If you try it once, you will die. Your face will melt off and your children will weep over your exploded body.”

Published in The Express Tribune, February 18^th, 2012.

Gender issues: ‘Almost 90% women in G-B facing violence at home’

2012-02-17T09:59:00.002-08:00

GILGIT:

Almost 90 per cent of women in Gilgit-Baltistan (G-B) have been subjected to domestic violence at least once in their lives. This was the consensus among speakers during a seminar on gender-based violence held at a local hotel on Thursday.

The seminar stressed on the fact that most women are subjected to physical abuse, mental torture and in some cases, even sexual abuse at home, which often go unreported due to lack of education and tribal norms.

The participants, comprising researchers, human rights activists, journalists and government officials, demanded immediate measures to address the issue.

“There is an urgent need to extend all national and international laws concerning women to G-B to check the increasing cases of violence,” said Yasmeen Nazar, parliamentary secretary for planning and law.

In addition to that, speakers also stressed on the role of men in uprooting the menace by ensuring the rights enshrined for women in religious teachings.

Sher Azam, the coordinator of Trust for Community Empowerment, a non-governmental organisation which organised the event, said women will continue to bear the brunt of violence until collective and coercive measures are taken. “This is the need of the hour and this is what society wants,” he remarked.

Nasreen Nasir, who has won a gallantry award in the past, said Islam guarantees equal rights for men and women, adding that more efforts are needed to curb domestic violence in the region.

At the end of the seminar, participants were asked to sign a petition to introduce laws concerning women in the region, which will be submitted to the concerned authorities.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 17^th, 2012

Ordinance promulgated: Pakistan gets new federal drug regulatory body

2012-02-17T09:57:00.002-08:00

ISLAMABAD: With pressure mounting following the Punjab Institute of Cardiology spurious drug fiasco which claimed the lives of nearly 120 people, President Asif Ali Zardari on Friday issued the much needed Drug Regulatory Agency Ordinance (DRAO) 2012.

The ordinance paves the way for the formation of a federal agency which will control pricing of drugs, quality assurance, import and export regulations, and issuing licenses to drug manufactures among others.

According to sources speaking to The Express Tribune, the ordinance will set Islamabad as the location for the head office of the DRA. It will work under a secretary cabinet and will be comprised of 13 members, including health secretaries of each of the provinces.

The agency will be headed by a chief executive officer who should hold a postgraduate degree and 20 years experience. His tenure will be for three years which would be extended for another year if required.

The agency will also take on one technical member from the federations of doctors, pharmacists and the pharmaceutical industry.

The Express Tribune is trying to get a copy of the ordinance.

Cricket: Pietersen says Cook an inspiration

2012-02-17T09:56:00.001-08:00

DUBAI: Senior English batsman Kevin Pietersen praised on Friday one-day captain Alastair Cook for the successive one-day hundreds that gave England an unassailable 2-0 lead against Pakistan in their four-match series.

Cook hit 137 and 102 in the two wins in Abu Dhabi and England will look to wrap up the series in the last two matches in Dubai on Saturday and Tuesday.

Pietersen said it was a good turnaround after losing the preceding Test series 3-0.

“It’s been a really good turnaround after the Test matches,” said Pietersen, who flopped in the Tests with just 67 runs. “The team have done really well. Cook and Ravi (Bopara) have done a brilliant job, and (Steven) Finn has been remarkable.”

Paceman Finn finished with identical figures of 4-34 in both games to give England wins by 130 and 20 runs respectively.

Pietersen said Cook had stood up to the mark since being made captain last year. “Cooky’s such a good player, who is fulfilling his role in the team really, really well. You can’t complain when you get two hundreds in successive games.”

On his own form, Pietersen said he was trying his best to score with the help of coach Andy Flower after being used as opener in the one-dayers.

“Andy’s a great believer, and the team realise that not every single person in the team is always going to be in form – and a few of us haven’t been in the best nick,” Pietersen said.

“But dovetailing is a word Andy has used a lot over the last few years, since he’s come into the job, and you need that. That’s why we’ve done so well.”

“We were fortunate to have a lot of players in a lot of good form over the last 18 months, and then quite a few who have struggled on this trip.

“But the dovetailing in the one-day team has certainly been there, and it’s proven by the way we’ve played in the last couple of games.”

Dubai’s worst sandstorm for six years spoiled the teams’ early practice on Friday. The storm may also affect Saturday’s match.

Pak vs Eng: Team management justifies Umar’s dual role

2012-02-16T14:52:00.000-08:00

KARACHI: Successive losses in Abu Dhabi and severe criticism following twisted team selection has forced critics to question the team management’s motive but Naveed Akram Cheema, Pakistan team manager, defended the tactics, confirming that all decisions were made with the interest of the side in mind.

Besides blaming the team’s poor batting, former players have criticised Umar Akmal’s dual role in the team with the makeshift wicket-keeper dropping Alastair Cook, when the England captain was on 28, before he went on to complete his second successive hundred.

The loss ended Pakistan’s run of six consecutive series-wins in One-Day Internationals as England gained a 2-0 lead in the four-match series. However, Cheema said the management was satisfied with Umar’s performance.

“The decision gives us an extra choice for a batsman,” Cheema toldThe Express Tribune. “Overall, we’re satisfied with Umar’s performance in this position.”

The team manager added that a decision on whether to continue with Umar behind the stumps will be made in the team meeting before the penultimate ODI on February 18. Cheema also rubbished claims of differences in the team, saying there was ‘complete harmony’ in the dressing room.

“Our team spirit is still our most reliable weapon. There’s complete harmony in the team and the atmosphere is absolutely fine.”

Show trust in Adnan: Waqar

Meanwhile, former captain and coach Waqar Younis felt the decision of assigning Umar wicket-keeping duties was not helping Pakistan’s cause.

“It’s affecting the team’s performance,” said Waqar. “Adnan Akmal has performed well in the Test series and the team management should trust his ability.”

Former Pakistan fast-bowler Shoaib Akhar said the team was missing a specialist wicket-keeper.

“You cannot ask a part-timer to take all the chances, Pakistan need a specialist with a strong batting ability,” said Akhtar before adding that irresponsible batting was the major reason behind the back-to-back defeats. “We could’ve won the game easily but irresponsible batting let us down.”

Former chief selector Iqbal Qasim, however, felt the batting failure was the only reason for the twin losses.

“The batsmen are not maintaining a proper run-rate during the innings and the lack of meaningful partnerships is harming us,” said Qasim. “I do not see any issue in playing Umar as the wicket-keeper. Sometimes playing with a part-time wicket-keeper pays and sometimes it does not.”

Published in The Express Tribune, February 17^th, 2012.

Cricket: Pakistan to bank on ‘match-winners’

2012-02-16T14:51:00.000-08:00

ABU DHABI:

Pakistan opener and all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez maintained that the team had the ability to bounce back and win the remaining One-Day Internationals (ODI) after England clinched the second match to take a 2-0 lead in the four-match series.

Pakistan, bowled out for 130 in the first match to lose by 130 runs, put on an improved batting display but could not overhaul a challenging 250-run total, which was inspired by England captain Alastair Cook’s second consecutive century.

Misbahul Haq failed to match his counterpart’s efforts and was dismissed for a 59-ball 47 as Pakistan lost track after being well-set at 179 for four, needing another 72 in the last 11 overs.

Hafeez said batting under lights was difficult but admitted Pakistan could not carry on the winning momentum that saw them clinch the Test series 3-0 prior to the ODIs.

“The ball was seaming more and was spinning a bit more later,” said Hafeez. “England bowled really well. It became a bit difficult batting second. We were definitely thinking of coming harder in the ODIs as well. Credit goes to the England team. They really played good cricket. And Cook has played a solid knock in the last two ODIs.

“We can still come back hard because we believe in our team. We have a lot of match-winners in our side and anybody can come in and win the game for Pakistan,” said Hafeez who has scored five and 26 in the first two matches.

Asked why the captain and coach did not attend the press-conference, opener Mohammad Hafeez said, “When you do well and even when you don’t do well, you have to face the media. It is not that nobody wants to face the media.”

‘Fielding was the difference’

Misbah, who was left ruing the dismissal of Umar Akmal and Shahid Afridi as both looked like steering the team past the finish-line with the captain, said fielding remained a concern.

Umar, wicket-keeping for the side instead of a specialist filling the role, let off Cook on 28 with the miss proving to be a costly one.

“The batsmen showed improvement,” said Misbah, who lost two successive ODIs for the first time since taking over as captain in October 2010. “But the fielding was the main difference. We also lost wickets in a cluster.”

Pakistan lost their last five wickets for 23 runs with the dismissal of Afridi exposing the tail. Abdul Rehman consumed 12 deliveries for a single, failing to get bat on ball, and as the run-rate soared, Misbah lost his wicket to an out-of-character shot.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 17^th, 2012.

Bopara warns Pakistan can hit back

2012-02-16T14:50:00.001-08:00

DUBAI: Return-to-form batsman Ravi Bopara on Wednesday warned England to avoid any complacency against a dangerous Pakistan team despite racing into a 2-0 lead in their one day international series.

England won the first match by 130 runs on Monday and then doubled the lead with a hard earned 20-run win in the second on Wednesday – both in Abu Dhabi.

Bopara hit half centuries in both games and assisted his captain Alastair Cook – who hit successive centuries – to help England post challenging totals in both the games.

But Bopara warned Pakistan can still bounce back in the last two games here on Saturday and Tuesday.

“Any series where you go 2-0 up is pretty good,” said the 26-year-old. “But we’re keeping our feet on the ground. We know from the Test series what Pakistan are capable of. They are a very unpredictable side,” said Bopara.

Pakistan won the preceding three-Test series 3-0.

Bopara, part of the England team which lost 5-0 in India last year, said a win of this stature in sub-continent conditions would be great.

“It’s going to be a massive thing for us to win out here. We haven’t had a good one-day record in the sub-continent so it’s a big thing for us to win. It will give us confidence to know we can do it in sub-continent conditions.”

Bopara warned against thinking of a 4-0 win.

“I wouldn’t want to think like that. We’ve done that in the past. Individually we’ve got a bit giddy and things just go wrong. So we’re not going to look too far ahead.

“We’ll just keep doing what we’ve been doing in the last couple of matches and worry about our skills and dealing with that Pakistan bowling line-up,” said Bopara.

Bopara, who has so far scored 1,668 in 71 one-day internationals, said his good form was pleasing.

“I feel good. I felt a lot better yesterday than I did in the first game,” said Bopara of his 58 on Monday when he added 131 with Cook for the third wicket. “I was just getting used to the bowlers and it was my second game since October.

“It makes a massive difference once you’ve had that time at the crease. The good thing is Cook is in great form. Hopefully he can go into the third match and get some more runs,” said Bopara.

Bopara said he has tried to soak up the pressure.

“That’s been a massive thing for me. We have to soak up the pressure as it’s going to be tough in the first 15 or 20 minutes,” he said.

“It has got easier as the innings has gone on. Once you’re in for about fiveovers, you get used to the pace of the wicket, the bowlers. It gets a lot easier.”

Bopara, who played one Test against India last year, said he was not thinking far ahead in his career.

“I’m not analysing where I am at the moment. I remember in the summer, against India, I had a good series but then I went out to India and didn’t have such a good series. Things can change so quickly.

“I’m just keeping my feet on the ground. I’m just thinking about (Saeed) Ajmal and how I’m going to deal with him.”

Cook's recipe helps England expose Pakistan

2012-02-16T14:46:00.000-08:00

ABU DHABI: Captain Alastair Cook’s simple recipe of playing hard has exposed cracks in the Pakistan team, leaving England with an invincible 2-0 lead after their 20-run win in the second day-night match.

Pakistan, who blanked England 3-0 in the preceding Test series, looked disjointed in the first two matches and now need to win the remaining two on Saturday and Tuesday, both in Dubai.

Pakistan failed to chase a target of 261 in the first match and 251 in the second – defeats which saw captain Misbahul Haq and coach Mohsin Khan avoid the mandatory post-match news conferences.

Asked why the captain and coach did not attend, opener Mohammad Hafeez said: “When you do well and even when you don’t do well, you have to face the media. It is not that nobody wants to face the media.”

England rode on a second successive hundred by Cook – the first England captain to hit back-to-back centuries in one-day cricket – to post a challenging 250-4 on Wednesday before Steven Finn (4-34) restricted Pakistan to 230 in 49 overs.

Cook had scored his best one-day score of 137 while Finn had identical figures in England’s big 130-run win in the first match in Abu Dhabi on Monday.

Hafeez gave credit to England.

“The ball was seaming more and was spinning a bit more later. England bowled really well. It became a bit difficult batting second under lights,” said Hafeez, accepting Pakistan could not carry the Test win momentum.

“Definitely, we were thinking at coming harder in the one-dayers as well. Credit goes to the England team. They really played good cricket. And Cook played a solid knock in the last two ODIs.

“We can still come back very hard because we believe in our team. We have too many match winners in our side and anybody can come in and win the game for Pakistan,” said Hafeez who scored only five and 26 in two defeats.

Cook said England were not going get complacent despite their wins.

“You train like it’s still 0-0. Complacency has never been an issue with this England side, whether we win or lose games of cricket.

“It will never be easy, but it’s a great situation to be in – 2-0 up with two to go,” said Cook, adding he had transformed after being written off as one-day player.

“When I’d played those first 20-odd games, I knew if I wanted to play one-day cricket for England I’d have to improve. I’ve changed the way I play one-day cricket,” said Cook, who was made one-day captain in May last year.

Wednesday’s hundred was his third as captain following a 119 against Sri Lanka at Lord’s last year.

Cook was full of praised for Finn.

“He was our outstanding performer in India, and never really got the wickets he deserved,” said Cook of England’s 5-0 one-day defeat in India last year.

“He’s got two ‘four-fors’ – and that opening spell of five overs for six was quality, running in and bowling 90mph and landing it on a sixpence.”

Both teams play three Twenty20 internationals in Dubai (February 23 and 25) and in Abu Dhabi (February 27).

Second ODI: England take unassailable lead in ODI series

2012-02-16T14:45:00.001-08:00

ABU DHABI: England seem to have returned to winning ways after beating Pakistan in the second one day international in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday. Chasing 251 to win, England restricted Pakistan to 230 to get an unassailable lead in the four match series.

Earlier, Alastair Cook hit a second successive hundred to propel England to another challenging score of 250-4 against Pakistan in the second day-night international at Abu Dhabi Stadium here on Wednesday.

Cook scored 102 for his fourth hundred, the first England captain and ninth batsmen for his country to hit back-to-back hundreds in one-dayers, to carry on the good work after his career-best 137 in Monday’s win in the first match.

The 27-year-old left-hander put on 67 for the opening wicket with Kevin Pietersen (26) after England won the second successive toss and batted. He also added 49 with Jonathan Trott (23) for the second and 78 for the third with Ravi Bopara who made an attractive 58.

Cook was again at his fluent best, hitting 10 boundaries off 121 balls before he gave a return catch to leg-spinner Shahid Afridi in the 42nd over.

He hit paceman Umar Gul for two boundaries to reach 99 and then took a single off Abdul Rehman to reach the three-figure mark as he carried the batting right from the off.

Pakistan, who lost the first match by 130 runs here, brought in paceman Aizaz Cheema, batsman Azhar Ali and left-armer Rehman in place of Wahab Riaz, Asad Shafiq and Shoaib Malik.

England, who remained unchanged from the first match, also owed their progress to a dropped catch by part-time wicket-keeper Umar Akmal who dropped Cook on 28 off Afridi, a costly lapse for Pakistan.

Ajmal, who finished with 1-54, again provided the breakthrough when he trapped Pietersen leg-before in the 16th over. Paceman Cheema had Trott, caught behind before Cook and Bopara followed their 131-run stand in the first match with another solid partnership.

Bopara, who hit four boundaries during his 66-ball knock, gave finishing touches to the innings with a 56-run stand for the fourth wicket with Eoin Morgan whose 25 not out had one six.

The squads for the second ODI are:

Pakistan: Misbahul Haq (capt), Younis Khan, Shahid Afridi, Mohammad Hafeez, Imran Farhat, Umar Akmal, Umar Gul, Aizaz Cheema, Saeed Ajmal, Abdul Rehman, Azhar Ali.

England: Alastair Cook (capt), James Anderson, Ravi Bopara, Stuart Broad, Steven Finn, Craig Kieswetter, Eoin Morgan, Samit Patel, Kevin Pietersen, Graeme Swann, Jonathan Trott.

Eid-e-Miladun Nabi: President, PM urge Muslims to unite

2012-02-05T16:31:00.000-08:00

ISLAMABAD:

On the occasion of Eid-e-Miladun Nabi (pbuh), President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani have urged Muslims to adopt the teachings of the Holy Prophet (pbuh) to improve their lives and for the betterment of Muslim Ummah.

President Zardari congratulated Muslims on the birthday of the benefactor of humanity and the last Prophet Muhammad (pbuh). “The day attracts us to continue to make efforts to brighten our days and nights in the light of teachings of Prophet Muhammad (pbuh).”

In his message, Prime Minister Gilani said “Those who spread disorder and chaos cannot even claim to be Muslims as the scourges of terrorism and extremism are incompatible with the essence of Islamic teachings.”

He said it is a sacred day for Muslims and the entire humanity. “The Holy Prophet (pbuh) brought with him the Holy Quran, which will continue to serve as a beacon of light for the human beings till the Day of Judgment.”

Published in The Express Tribune, February 5^th, 2012.

Eid Miladun Nabi: Over 5,000 cops to be deployed in twin cities

2012-02-05T16:30:00.001-08:00

RAWALPINDI/ISLAMABAD:

Police on Saturday said they have chalked out an elaborate plan to ensure foolproof security for processions of Eid Miladun Nabi in twin cities.

According to the security plan formulated by the Rawalpindi police, over 4,000 officials including lady police and Bomb Disposal Squad will be deployed on the main routes of the procession in the city.

All entry points to the routes of the processions will be sealed and barricaded properly and a central control room has also been set up to monitor the security situation.

In addition to that, Rawalpindi City Traffic Police have also devised a comprehensive traffic plan for the city.

Under the plan, as many as 474 officials will be deployed in the city, while 17 diversion points have been ensured to maintain smooth flow of traffic.

A control room to monitor the traffic has also been set up at Race Course Traffic Headquarters, while a squad has also been deputed which can be reached at a free helpline 1915.

The main procession in Rawalpindi will start from Jamia Masjid and after passing through Kohati Bazaar, Benazir Bhutto Road, Committee Chowk and Fowara Chowk, will conclude on Jamia Masjid Road.

The diversions on Benazir Bhutto Road (formerly Murree Road) would be at Rialto Chowk, Liaquat Bagh, Committee Chowk underpass, Naz Cinema Chowk, Rawal Road Turn and Double Road.

The traffic police have urged local residents to use the Airport Road, Rialto Chowk, Tipu Road, Rawal Road and Murree Road ahead of Chandni Chowk to reach Islamabad.

Security in Islamabad

According to the Islamabad police, as many as 1,000 officials including Rangers will be deployed on the main routes of the procession and the entire area will be cordoned off.

The routes have been divided into four sectors and a superintendent of police has been assigned to ensure security in each sector. Officials in plain clothes will also be deployed to keep an eye on suspicious elements.

Meanwhile, Islamabad Traffic Police said Senior Superintendent of Police Dr Moeen Masood will lead the traffic police to ensure smooth flow of traffic in the federal capital. The procession will be carried out from Sitara Market in Sector G-7, from where it will go through various routes and end near Hazrat Saki Mahmud’s shrine near Aabpara Market.

CDA arranges for illuminating buildings

The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has made special arrangements for illuminating the government buildings in connection with celebrations of the Eid Miladun Nabi. This was stated by Member Engineering CDA Sanaullah Aman on Saturday. He said that special teams have been constituted to oversee the arrangements and monitoring the illumination of the buildings on this occasion. The civic body has made arrangements for illuminating the Parliament House, Cabinet Block, Secretariat buildings, Foreign Office, Jinnah Convention Centre, CDA Chairman Office, Fire Headquarters and Old Navel Headquarters on the eve of 11th and 12th Rabiul Awwal.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 5^th, 2012.

3rd Test: Rehman spins Pakistan into contention

2012-02-03T17:49:00.003-08:00

DUBAI:

England edged to a slender five-run lead over Pakistan at stumps on the opening day of the third and final Test against Pakistan in Dubai.

A total of 16 wickets fell during an extraordinary day’s play as Pakistan, routed for just 99 in their first innings by England pacemen Stuart Broad (four for 36) and James Anderson (three for 35), hit back through their spinners to leave England struggling at 104 for six.

England, playing for pride after losing the first two Tests and the series, now hold a slight lead on a seemingly batting-friendly pitch. At close, Andrew Strauss was unbeaten on 41 and James Anderson was on three not out.

Paceman Umar Gul led Pakistan’s fightback by dismissing opener Alastair Cook (one) and Jonathan Trott (two) before Strauss added 57 for the third wicket with Kevin Pietersen (32) during their bids to overcome batting frailties. Abdul Rehman and Saeed Ajmal, who grabbed 34 of the 40 wickets in the first two Tests, then grabbed four more wickets, with Rehman dismissing Pietersen and Eoin Morgan (10) and Ajmal accounting for Bell (five).

Pakistan coach Moshin Khan said the decision to bat first was unanimous. “We thought if we could see off the first hour it would be easier later, but it didn’t happen,” said Khan.

Earlier, Broad and Anderson bowled well to expose Pakistan. Anderson struck in the first over, trapping opener Taufeeq Umar for a duck.

Broad snared Ali in his third over through a caught-behind and caught Younus Khan off guard with a rising delivery. He then claimed Mohammad Hafeez’s wicket, trapping him leg-before.

Only Asad Shafiq showed resistance with a fighting knock of 45. However, Panesar, who took two for 25 broke the 34-run stand between Ajmal (12) and Shafiq after lunch as Pakistan folded out for 99.

Published in The Express Tribune, February 4^th, 2012.

England edge ahead as wickets tumble in third Test

2012-02-03T17:49:00.001-08:00

DUBAI: England edged to a slender five-run lead over Pakistan at the close as 16 wickets fell during an extraordinary opening day of the third and final test at Dubai Stadium Friday.

Routed for a low score of 99 in their first innings by England pacemen Stuart Broad (4-36) and James Anderson (3-35), Pakistan spinners moved to the fore to leave England struggling at 104-6.

England, playing for pride after losing the first two Tests and the series, now hold a slight lead on a seemingly batting-friendly pitch.

At the close, Andrew Strauss was unbeaten on 41 and James Anderson was on three not out.

England’s batting had flopped during their two wicket defeat in the first Test here and in the 72-run defeat in the second match in Abu Dhabi.

Pakistani spinners Abdul Rehman and Saeed Ajmal, who grabbed 34 of the 40 wickets in the first two Tests, then grabbed four more wickets, with Rehman dismissing Pietersen and Eoin Morgan (10) and Ajmal accounting for Bell (five).

Pietersen’s dismissal made it 34 leg-before dismissals for the series, beating the previous record of 33 in the Pakistan-West Indies series in the Caribbean in 1993.

Rehman, who took 3-23, then bowled Matt Prior (six) with England just one behind Pakistan.

Earlier in the morning, England’s pace duo of Broad and Anderson bowled well to expose Pakistan, who won the toss and batted. Asad Shafiq topscored with 45.

Anderson struck in the first over, trapping opener Taufiq Umar for a duck.

Broad then clicked into gear, snaring Ali in his third over through a caught behind and Younis in his next, caught off a rising delivery, again by wicket-keeper Prior.

He then claimed Hafeez’s wicket trapping him leg before. Australian umpire Simon Taufel initially turned down the appeal but changed the decision after England called for a review.

Hafeez mocked the decision review system and may face a hearing from match-referee Jeff Crowe of New Zealand after the day’s play.

From the other end Anderson trapped Misbahul Haq for one in a decision challenged by the Pakistani skipper to no avail. That left Pakistan struggling at 21-5.

Shafiq and Adnan Akmal (six) added 18 for the sixth wicket before Broad changed ends to dismiss the wicket-keeper, again with a sharp incoming delivery which caught the batsmen in front of the stumps.

Graeme Swann then teased a miscued a drive from Rehman (one) gathered by a grateful Pietersen at mid-off, leaving Pakistan in danger of being bowled out for their lowest ever Test total – 53 against Australia in 2002.

Shafiq hit his first boundary in the last over before lunch to take Pakistan to that lowest mark and then hit another off left-arm spinner Monty Panesar to avoid the ignominy.

But Panesar, who took 2-25, had the last laugh, breaking the 34-run stand – the best of the innings – between Ajmal (12) and Shafiq after lunch.

Gul made 13 before Anderson bowled him to wrap up the innings.

England resisted the temptation to change their line-up but Pakistan brought paceman Aizaz Cheema for Junaid Khan

3rd Test: With aims of a whitewash

2012-02-03T17:48:00.001-08:00

DUBAI:

Not even the most optimistic of Pakistan fans would have predicted the team would go into the third and final Test, which starts in Dubai today, aiming for a clean sweep over the world’s top-ranked team.

But as the first two matches panned out, Pakistan will be looking towards clinching their fifth whitewash in Test cricket in a series of at least three matches. Additionally, no team has ever registered a clean sweep in the 58 years of Pakistan-England cricket and Misbah’s team now has a good chance of creating history following comprehensive wins in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

Not taking extra pressure: Misbah

Captain Misbahul Haq, amid all the praise and accolade, believed a 3-0 score-line will be a big achievement but stressed that his team will not take that extra pressure into the match.

“It will be a big achievement for the team,” said Misbah. “If we play well like we did in the first two games, good results will come but we will not take that extra pressure.”

Since taking over as captain in the aftermath of the spot-fixing scandal, Misbah has led Pakistan to eight wins with one defeat and five draws. However, the 37-year-old said England were still a good team and winning the last Test will not be easy.

“No doubt, England are a good team, they are number one in the world and it will not be easy because they’ll be more prepared, but we’ll try our best.”

Misbah’s weapons include the spin duo of Saeed Ajmal and Abdur Rehman, who have been instrumental in the series-win. Ajmal took a career best seven for 55 in the first Test here and Rehman registered his best six for 25 in the second in Abu Dhabi, feats which Misbah said were extraordinary.

“I think both have been bowling well for quite some time now and they create pressure. On top of that England batsmen were low on confidence.”

Misbah hinted at keeping the same combination, although Pakistan have the option of using the bench player in paceman Wahab Riaz in place of Junaid Khan.

“I’m a firm believer in the balance of the team because the first priority is to win and we’ll go with whatever is the best combination.”

Different agenda

England, who will also be in danger of losing their top ranking if they lose here, will have to find a quick solution to counter Ajmal and Rehman with Andrew Strauss admitting that this would be key in Dubai.

“That’s one of the crucial things about playing spin, you have to adapt your game according to the surfaces you play on,” said Strauss. “You’ll see people a bit clearer in what their game-plan is and how they’re looking to play, which is a good starting point. We desperately want to avoid losing the series 3-0. There’s a feeling among the whole squad that we can and should come back.”

Misbahul Haq

“It will be a big achievement for us. England are a good team, they are number one in the world and it will not be easy because they will be more prepared, but we will try our best.”

Mohsin Khan

“I think this team has the capacity to become the world’s best team. Our target should be to gradually come in the top three in Tests and One-Day Internationals and then aim for the first place.”

Published in The Express Tribune, February 3^rd, 2012.

England desperate to avoid Pakistan whitewash

2012-02-03T17:47:00.003-08:00

DUBAI: Spin-weary England will be desperate to avoid the humiliation of a series whitewash against Pakistan in the third and final Test which starts at Dubai Stadium on Friday.

Andrew Strauss’s men, pulverised by Pakistan spinners Saeed Ajmal and Abdul Rehman, are also in danger of losing their world number one spot after a dismal 10-wicket defeat in Dubai and the 72-run capitulation in Abu Dhabi.

Pakistan have never inflicted a Test series whitewash on England, who topped the Test rankings in August last year with an unbeaten nine series sequence, but have seen 34 of their 40 wickets tumble on tour to Pakistan’s spinners.

Off-spinner Ajmal has led the destruction with 17 scalps while left-armer Rehman has claimed 12 wickets and Mohammad Hafeez five.

England need to win to guarantee their top spot on April 1 – the cut-off date for a $175,000 award to the side sitting at the top of the ICC Test championship table.

But their celebrated batting order has so far failed to answer the challenge laid down by Pakistan’s wily spinners.

Jonathan Trott (141 in four innings) tops their batting chart, while Andrew Strauss (68) and Alastair Cook (109) have failed to provide strong starts.

Key batsmen Kevin Pietersen (17 in four innings), Ian Bell (36) and Eoin Morgan (41) have also struggled to cope with the slower ball as England lost the first Test in three days and the second in four.

The tourists will resist the temptation of replacing Morgan with Ravi Bopara whose last Test innings was a 44 not out, against India at The Oval.

Speaking after the Abu Dhabi defeat Strauss said his chastened team needed to bounce back after two dismal performances.

“Pakistan have thoroughly deserved their victory in the series,” he said. “We’ve been below where we want to be and we need to come back and bounce back strongly from this.

“As a batting unit we have to hold our hands up and say we haven’t been good enough, it’s been pretty apparent, we need to be better than that,” said Strauss, whose last hundred came 30 months ago.

The defeats have left no doubt about England’s vulnerability to the slow ball on subcontinental wickets, a weakness they will need to address before tours to Sri Lanka and India later in the year.

“If you take the point of view, which I think you’ve got to, that you learn as much from your defeats as you do from your victories then I think we’ve learned some valuable lessons going forward,” Strauss said.

“It’s not easy in these conditions, in these circumstances but we’re good enough players to be able to adjust to the conditions we’ve encountered.”

Under Strauss’ stewardship England have won only twice on the subcontinent – both times against minnows Bangladesh.

Pakistan are chasing the whitewash as they look to climb the Test rankings and captain Misbahul Haq has vowed his team will be going for the jugular in Dubai.

“We will try our level best to do the same we did in the first two Tests, we have the best team up against us so they can come back in the series, but what is in our control we will do,” said Misbah, who has not lost a series since taking over in October 2010.

“We need to to do our hundred percent and be focused for good cricket.”

The Dubai Stadium pitch, which provided help to spinners from the first day of the opening Test, is likely to continue its assistance to slow bowlers.

Pakistan may consider replacing left-arm seamer Junaid Khan with Wahab Riaz, who has been part of the squad without taking the field.

IPL not a distraction for us: Strauss

2012-02-03T17:47:00.001-08:00

DUBAI: England captain Andrew Strauss disagreed the lucrative Indian league was a distraction for his team which faces a 3-0 defeat against Pakistan.

With Saturday’s auction in the Indian Premier League (IPL) looming, Strauss was asked whether that would be a distraction for his players.

“I certainly hope not, I think we’ve had this circumstance before,” said the England captain.

Names of several members of the current squad will appear in the auction to be held in Bangalore with James Anderson, Ian Bell, Graeme Swann, Ravi Bopara, Matt Prior and Chris Tremlett appearing favourites to be included. Stuart Broad, Eoin Morgan and Kevin Pietersen already have IPL contracts in place.

“I certainly remember Test matches in the past where this has been looming, in the background – and it is very much in the background. I would be very, very surprised if any of our players had their attention anywhere other than on the game at the moment – especially after what’s happened over the last couple of Test matches. So it’s not a big issue for us.”

Published in The Express Tribune, February 3^rd, 2012.

Rockets hit Pakistan Military Academy

2012-01-26T22:59:00.001-08:00

PESHAWAR: Attackers on Friday fired rockets at Pakistan’s top military academy, damaging its outer wall in a major security breach near the home where Osama bin Laden lived for years, officials said.

No one was hurt in the pre-dawn attack and it was unclear who fired the nine rockets from behind a mosque in mountains overlooking the Kakul academy.

The garrison city of Abbottabad was considered one of the safest parts of nuclear-armed Pakistan until American special forces on May 2 found and killed the al Qaeda founder in a compound where he apparently lived for five years.

Three rockets on Friday damaged the outer wall of the academy, which is just 500 metres (yards) from the site of the US Navy SEALs raid that seriously damaged already turbulent relations between Pakistan and the United States.

“Nine rockets were fired. Three rockets hit the boundary wall of the military academy and damaged it. No one was hurt in the attack,” Imtiaz Hussain Shah, a top local government official in Abbottabad told AFP.

“We have launched a search operation,” Shah added.

Mohammad Karim Khan, Abbottabad police chief, confirmed the attack.

“Three rockets hit the boundary wall. Three others landed in an open area and three others landed in a field,” he said.

Officials blamed terrorists for the attack.

Shah told TV channel Geo that police had recovered nine rocket-launching pads behind a mosque, about 500 metres from the academy.

“We have a security system and checkpoints on the roads, but the place they used as a launch pad is accessible from all sides and there are mountains at the back of this place,” he said.

“At this stage we cannot say who was involved, but they are terrorists and we are investigating how they managed to reach this place.”

Taliban and other militants are fighting an insurgency against the army, although there has been a marked decline in violence in recent months.

Considered one of the quietest towns in the northwest, nestled in pine-dotted hills and popular with day-trippers from the capital, Abbottabad is listed on Pakistan’s official tourism website as a “popular summer resort”.

But although it is mainly tranquil, it is close to more troubled areas.

A judicial commission is investigating how bin Laden managed to live undetected in Pakistan for so long, and whether there was any government or military collusion.

Pakistani-US ties have since reached a new low over US air strikes that killed 24 Pakistani soldiers last November, leading Pakistan to shut its Afghan border to Nato supplies and conduct a review of its alliance with Washington.

Another ‘final reprieve’ for elusive Mansoor Ijaz

2012-01-26T22:58:00.002-08:00

ISLAMABAD: He’s adamant, but they’re relentless.

Despite two refusals by Mansoor Ijaz to visit Pakistan and appear before the Parliamentary Committee on National Security (PCNS), Memogate’s central character has been given another ‘last chance’ to appear before the panel on February 10 and prove his allegations against former envoy to the US Husain Haqqani.

The panel also expressed its ‘satisfaction’ over the security arrangements made by the government for Ijaz.

“We will pass final recommendations in the case if Ijaz fails to appear before the committee on February 10,” said panel’s chief Senator Raza Rabbani while speaking to The Express Tribune.

Recommendations will be forwarded to the “concerned quarter,” he added, not specifying if that would be the prime minister or parliament.

Notice to Ijaz will be issued through the foreign ministry, Rabbani said, adding that the secretary for the judicial commission also probing Memogate will hand over PCNS’ notice to Ijaz, if he arrives to appear before the commission on February 9.

“Neither Ijaz nor his counsel submitted a reply to the committee,” a lawmaker who attended the panel’s Thursday proceedings told The Express Tribune.

“Ijaz is backpedaling on the memo issue,” the lawmaker added while quoting his colleagues’ observations.

Attorney General Maulvi Anwarul Haq briefed the committee on the security arrangements for Ijaz and assured the panel that the government has already announced the best possible arrangements. Rabbani said the government could reconsider the arrangements if it felt the need to do so but lawmakers feel adequate measures have been put into place.

Meanwhile, Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif offered ‘adequate security’ to Ijaz if he came to Punjab to record his statement.

Talking to Express News, Sharif said that he will take personal responsibility of providing complete security to Ijaz during his visit to Pakistan.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 27^th, 2012

Memogate commission: Ijaz offered last chance as Malik assures safety

2012-01-26T22:58:00.000-08:00

ISLAMABAD:

Mansoor Ijaz, the mover and shaker at the heart of Memogate, has been told in firm terms by the judicial commission probing the issue: we will not budge.

After a marathon hearing on Tuesday, the commission gave Ijaz one last chance to present his version of events in person and in Pakistan,inviting him to appear on February 9.

The commission categorically refused Ijaz’s application that he record his testimony at a location of his choice. The uncompromising stance came after Interior Minister Rehman Malik gave assurances thatIjaz’s name would not be placed on the Exit Control List (ECL), unless directed by the parliamentary panel on national security.

Fearing a media escalation of the already-hyped issue, the three-judge judicial commission, comprising the chief justices of Balochistan, Sindh and Islamabad, also barred all petitioners in the case from giving interviews and appearing on television talk shows to discuss the issue.

Preparing for all events, the commission also ordered the Federal Investigation Agency and Civil Aviation Authority to allow the secretary of the commission, Raja Jawad Abbas, to receive Ijaz if he lands on Pakistani soil. Abbas would then take all Ijaz’s data related to the memo, including his BlackBerry phones, into custody.

During the hearing, Justice Qazi Faez Isa, the commission’s head, questioned Akram Sheikh, Ijaz’s lawyer, about the absence of his client from the hearing. Justice Isa said the commission needed to cross-examine Ijaz and also examine all his electronic devices.

In response, Sheikh accused the interior minister of issuing threats to his client if he came to Pakistan to record his statement. Hence, Sheikh argued, Ijaz had wanted to do his business in London or Zurich.

“He thinks Rehman Malik will kill him,” said Sheikh, who then accused Malik of being the head of Benazir Bhutto’s security team when she was killed in 2007, a charge Malik denied.

“This is wrong,” Malik said. “The then government was responsible for her security and I was not in the government at that time.”

Malik, confidently attired in a black suit and pink tie, maintained that, despite pressure from the press, he had never been provoked into threatening Ijaz through the media or any other means.

In a tacit admission that he may have been misquoted, he did say he was a busy man and did not have time to read the newspapers. However, he presented a news clipping published in The Express Tribune and a video to corroborate his statement that he meant Ijaz no harm.

Malik also presented a letter, stating that Ijaz would be provided with the security cover of the Islamabad police, the federal constabulary, Rangers and the army. Attorney General Maulvi Anwarul Haq proposed holding proceedings in an aiport lounge when Ijaz arrived.

Justice Isa then asked Sheikh to ask his client for his thoughts. Ijaz, via email, again expressed apprehensions over Malik’s assurances.

Ultimately, the commission was adjourned till February 9, as it now asks Chief Justice Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry for an extension. It appears it will be some time yet till Memogate closes shut.

(With additional input from AFP)

(Read: Not coming after all)

Published in The Express Tribune, January 25^th, 2012.

KESC protest: Consumers brace for power cuts as workers plan protests

2012-01-26T22:56:00.001-08:00

KARACHI:

The Karachi Electric Supply Company (KESC) workers fearing retrenchment are gearing up to intensify protests in the coming days, raising concerns that incessant power breakdowns will return.

Last year when the management and union of the power utility locked horns over the removal of non-core staff, Karachi saw some of the worst and prolonged labour agitation.

“There is no bowing out of this situation,” said Usman Baloch, a labour union representative. “We will face baton charge, be beaten and injured but only to come back on to the streets with more determination.”

On Friday, police charged at the protesting workers near Governor House as they tried to stage a sit-in for the implementation of last year’s agreement to bring back sacked employees.

Last year’s protests, which continued for weeks, saw disgruntled employees staying away from work, stopping others from fixing broken transmission lines and occupying service stations across the city.

KESC was successful in convincing 3,000 of the 4,000 non-core workers who included drivers, sanitary workers, bill distributors, metre readers and peons to opt for a voluntary separation scheme or golden parachute.

The concern of the employees is not misplaced either. KESC’s management has made it clear that they can either choose the scheme or be kicked out.

It may seem that just one thousand employees in an organisation that employs close to 17,000 people will not be able to bring the system to its knees like last year but the management is cautious. A KESC spokesman, Aminur Rehman, said consumers don’t get their bills on time when there are protests. “The union workers didn’t let outsourced meter readers do their job for three months. So we had to send the bills based on average consumption, which in some cases was inflated.”

The protesters, he alleged, were also involved in cutting off power lines and hijacking servicing vehicles, which are essential to fix problems with pole-mounted transformers.

“If you look at it, the people who were doing small-time jobs have received a good deal,” he said referring to the voluntary separation scheme. “We had paid them Rs1.2 million on average.”

Published in The Express Tribune, January 22^nd, 2012.

Senate session: ‘KESC has become an economic terrorist’

2012-01-26T22:55:00.000-08:00

ISLAMABAD: The Karachi Electric Supply Company’s (KESC) anti-consumer policies came under fire once again in the Senate on Thursday, when a key lawmaker of the Pakistan Peoples Party termed the power company ‘economic terrorist’.

The KESC administration was on the receiving end of Senator Raza Rabbani’s harangue during the eighth sitting of the upper house.

“The KESC management has become an economic terrorist. The company is fleecing the people of Karachi by transferring billions of rupees of profit to its foreign accounts,” claimed Rabbani, who had earlier asked the government to take over the company
as its management had failed to meet contractual obligations.

He was responding to a rebuttal KESC had given, defending itself against the senator’s earlier criticism. “Rabbani’s allegations are baseless,” the company said, urging the government to play its role in ensuring regular supply of electricity to consumers by getting government entities to pay billions in debt.

“The power company owes Rs55 billion to the Pakistan Electric Power Company (PEPCO) and other power generation companies,” said Senator Rabbani. “KESC also owes Rs36.775 billion to the Sui Southern Gas Pipelines Limited for the last two years,” added the senator.

During Tuesday’s session, lawmakers had demanded action against the KESC management. Muttahida Qaumi Movement senator Tahir Hussain Mashhadi had demanded that the names of the top KESC officials be put on the Exit Control List (ECL) so that they could not escape with ‘looted money’.

In response, Water and Power Minister Naveed Qamar had assured the House that the licence of the company could be revoked if its management “does not mend its ways.”

Privilege motion

During the question hour on Thursday, the House passed a motion against the secretaries of foreign affairs, finance, cabinet division, production and commerce, for not replying to questions posed by Senators.

Chairman of the Senate referred the privilege motion regarding ministerial absence to the Standing Committee on Rules of Procedures and Privileges.

Rabbani, while submitting privilege motion against federal secretaries, said that it was breach of lawmakers’ privileges when the ministries of finance, foreign affairs, commerce and other departments failed to submit replies to Parliament.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 27^th, 2012.

Free medicine case: Punjab govt caught unaware?

2012-01-26T22:53:00.001-08:00

LAHORE: Members of the opposition in Punjab Assembly were unimpressed on Thursday as the parliamentary health secretary briefed them on the free medicine case, which has so far killed over 100 people.

“The Punjab Institute of Cardiology caters to as many as 600,000 people annually. Of these, 50,000 people are registered for free medicines for various cardiac diseases,” Dr Saeed Elahi, parliamentary health secretary, said. “The substandard medicines were distributed to 28,000 patients and 450 of them were affected. One hundred patients have died while 222 are undergoing treatment and 22 of them are in critical condition. However, those in serious condition are not responding to medicines.”

Dr Elahi said that the PIC keeps data of the eight divisions of Punjab that it supplies to, according to which 75% of affected patients are from Lahore. He said that PIC staff will also be interrogated by the chairman of the chief minister’s inspection team.

Explaining the procurement process at the PIC, he said that the institute purchases medicines from the company which bid the lowest rate. The medicines were distributed on December 15, 2011, and up till the first week of January, the government was unaware of the deaths caused by drug reactions.

“It was in the first week when patients thronged hospitals, complaining of bleeding from various areas of the body. A preliminary investigation revealed that almost all patients were using cardiac medicines issued by the PIC in December,” he said.

Further investigation showed that these patients suffered bone marrow suppression, which led to a low blood count and severe bleeding. “Alarmed by the situation, Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif constituted various probe committees, which found that most patients were using one or more of the following five medicines: Cardiovastation, Concont, Isotab, Solprin and Atenolol,” Dr Elahi said.

Government response

Elahi said that the government had constituted eight committees to deal with the issue and sought to assure the house that the government had devised a multipronged strategy to counter the problem at the initial stage.

Detailing government response, he said that the first response was to provide free medical care to affected patients at all teaching hospitals. Separate counters have been established at these hospitals’ emergency departments. Simultaneously, he said, suspected drugs are being collected from patients through the local administration, health authorities and police. Drug inspectors are retrieving medicines from markets, he said.

Secondly, he said, samples of suspected drugs have been sent for analysis and investigation to domestic and foreign laboratories. In Pakistan, samples have been sent to the National Institute of Health, Islamabad, while one man has gone to a lab in London and is expecting a report in 48 hours. Samples have also been dispatched to labs in Belgium and the US.

He said that hospitals have been issued clinical management guidelines for treating these patients and senior professors have been deputed to monitor their implementation.

About legal action, he said that an FIR, under Section 322 of the Pakistan Penal Code, has been lodged at the Shadman Police Station and a team of prosecution, law, health and police officials is investigating the case.

Talking about compensation, he said that the provincial government has announced compensation of Rs0.5 million to the heirs of those who died and Rs200,000 for patients still in hospitals. Rs30,000 have so far been disbursed to admitted patients, he said.

Opposition response

MPA Javed Gujjar, from the Pakistan Peoples Party, said that responsibility lies with those factories which manufacture the medicine, not the five companies that only produce a component of the drugs. He said that the issue should be taken up by the federal government as foreign companies had sent the ingredients to local companies which mixed them.

MPA Mohsin Leghari, from the Pakistan Muslim League-Quaid, criticised the PIC’s purchasing mechanism and said that the companies had sold medicines across the country hence drugs should not just be retrieved from the PIC.

PML-N MPA Asghar Monda demanded that an FIR be lodged under Section 302 instead of 322, as the latter allows payment of a Diyat.

Responding to the criticism, Dr Elahi said that the federal government has issued licenses to some companies, which import raw materials from China and Dubai and 15 committee members are analysing this raw material. He said that the federal government specifies the prices of medicines.

The session was then adjourned till Friday.

Falling like flies

2012-01-26T22:52:00.000-08:00

Patients who had consumed pills doled out by the Punjab Institute of Cardiology, the premier heart facility in the province, continue to die like flies. Contradicting his own health department, which put the toll at 72, the Punjab chief minister said on a visit to PIC that 100 people have died. He has set up yet another commission, the eighth so far, to look into the matter. None of these bodies have given in results, as yet. Meanwhile, the PPP has demanded a case against Shahbaz Sharif, as news comes in that a company which had lost its licence had been supplying medicines to the PIC.

The massive 22-member commission set up by the chief minister, headed by Dr Javed Akram, who is the principal of the Allama Iqbal Medical College, believes that the death toll could further increase as people continue to suffer the mysterious ill-effects of the tablets which they took as a part of free treatment for their cardiac condition. Hospitals in other places have warned patients to discontinue the medications. Three pharmaceutical companies, headquartered in Karachi, are under investigation, with the FIA reportedly set to arrest their owners. Medical experts say the pills — or some of them — created bone marrow suppression or aplastic anaemia. This is in itself a mystery as none of the listed ingredients would be expected to have this effect.

Certainly, those responsible need to be held accountable, but we alsoneed a wider examination of the process of manufacturing and testingthe safety of medicines in the country. We already know many of those sold lack quality; some entirely spurious compounds are put together in backstreet labs. A system needs to be put in place to stop this, while Punjab also needs to review the working of its health ministry, given the dengue debacle suffered last year, followed now by a new series of deaths, the health ministries confidence that it can help cure the ailments patient suffer because of its reputation and standing, is ill-founded.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 27^th, 2012.

Attention heart patients: Government sends SMS alert on defective drugs

2012-01-26T22:51:00.001-08:00

KARACHI: The health ministry in Sindh started an SMS service on Thursday to alert cardiac drug users given the tragedy that has struck Lahore.

The office is disseminating a message on the identified drugs, their generic and market names and the batch numbers. “Please be informed that the following batch numbers of drugs are being tested by the Punjab health department in connection with severe drug reactions leading to death. If you have the following batch numbers of these drugs then do not use them,” reads the introduction, followed by the detail.

Solprin batch 535 (aspirin) 300mg, by Pharmawise Lahore Alfagril (clopidogril) 75 mg, by Alfa pharma Lahore Cardiovastin (simvastatin) 20 mg, batch number 11E451 – 11L710 – 11L686 – 11G585, by Mega pharma Atenolol 100 mg, batch number 110, by Zafa pharmaceuticals Karachi Corcont 5 mg, (amlopidipine by besylate) batch number 24-25-27-28, by Swiss pharma Karachi Isotab (Isosorbide mono nitrate), batch numbers J098 – J100 – J101, by Efroze pharma Karachi.

In addition, the Sindh health secretary, Hashim Raza Zaidi, held a meeting on Thursday evening with the drug inspection committee to form a strategy for dealing with the threat.

The chief drug inspectors, five divisional inspectors and other people concerned were present at the meeting. The drug inspectors have been asked to re-collect the drugs of the specified batches. Talking to The Express Tribune, the secretary said that these samples will be sent again to the provincial drug testing laboratory. Meanwhile, there are alternate drugs by other companies that the doctors can prescribe, he added.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 27^th, 2012.

Contaminated medicine case: Probe stalls, death toll rises

2012-01-26T22:50:00.001-08:00

LAHORE/ISLAMABAD:

The Joint Investigation Team probing the spurious drugs case is practically dysfunctional owing to the noncooperation of institutions of the Punjab government in providing relevant records, The Express Tribune has learnt. On the other hand, the death toll from the reaction to free medicines from the Punjab Institute of Cardiology (PIC) continues to rise with the death of two more people on Thursday.

Reports suggested that the death toll has crossed 100; however, the health department has only confirmed 72 deaths, so far. Over 178 affected patients have recovered and been discharged from hospitals, while above 280 are still under treatment in different public hospitals, according to an official of the health department.

None of the inquiry committees probing into the incident have been able to determine the cause of the deaths. A senior member of the joint investigation team, comprising officials of the Federal Investigation Agency and the Federal Inspector of Drugs, confirmed that the probe into the contaminated drugs has stagnated.

For one, the administration of the Drug Testing Laboratory (DTL), the Punjab Institute of Cardiology (PIC) and the Executive District Officer (EDO) Health have refused to provide relevant information and record to the FIA.

The FIA had sent letters to the provincial health secretary, the administration of the PIC, EDO health and others regarding the exact numbers of deaths from the contaminated drugs supplied by five Pharmaceutical Labs. The JIT also sought information regarding a list of drug inspectors posted in the areas where the pharmaceuticals labs are situated.

After failing to receive the information, the FIA again on Thursday sent a letter to the provincial health secretary quoting the management of the PIC, DTL and the office of EDO Health saying they would not provide any record or share any information with the FIA without receiving, in writing, instructions from the secretary health, sources familiar with the matter revealed.

3 Pharma CEOs arrested

Meanwhile, Interior Minister Rehman Malik disclosed on Thursday that six pharmaceutical companies were allegedly involved in the spurious drugs case. He added that the CEOs of three of the companies have been arrested, so far.

Malik said that drug inspectors of the FIA, Lahore conducted raids on three pharmaceutical companies – Pharma Wise Laboratories, Al-Falah Pharma (Pvt) and Mega Pharmaceutical Limited in Lahore – and seized alleged spurious drugs (Alfagril tablets, Solprin tablets and Carovatin tablets) from their stores.

Drug test results in

Results of samples of drugs that were sent to Karachi’s Central Drug Testing Laboratory (CDTL) on Monday were completed on Wednesday and a report was prepared on Thursday.

Dr Obaid Ali, analyst at the CDTL, said that all the composition and ingredients of the drugs were found to be according to standard. However, the efficacy of the drugs in question still remains doubtful as there is no mechanism and resources at the laboratory to check the efficacy of the raw materials or the presence of toxic elements in them, he said.

In fact, there is no laboratory in the entire country to check the efficacy of raw materials, he added. The report will be sent to the federal government for further action.

Health secretary briefs PA

Members of the opposition in the Punjab Assembly remained unsatisfied on Thursday, as the parliamentary health secretary briefed them on the free medicines case.

“The substandard medicines were distributed to 28,000 patients and 450 of them have been affected. One hundred patients have died while 222 are undergoing treatment, 22 of whom are in critical condition,” Parliamentary Health Secretary Dr Saeed Elahi said.

Explaining the procurement process at the PIC, he said that the institute purchases medicines from the company which bids the lowest rate.

He further said that the medicines were distributed on December 15, 2011, and up until the first week of January the government was unaware of the deaths.

“It was in the first week when patients thronged hospitals, complaining of bleeding. A preliminary investigation revealed that almost all patients were using cardiac medicines issued by the PIC in December,” Elahi said.

Detailing government response, Elahi said that the first response was to provide free medical care to affected patients at all teaching hospitals.

Simultaneously, he said, suspected drugs are being collected from patients through the local administration, health authorities and police.

Secondly, he said, samples of suspected drugs have been sent for analysis and investigation to domestic and foreign laboratories. Samples have been sent to the National Institute of Health, Islamabad, while some samples have also been sent to a lab in London, Belgium and the US.

LHC issues notices

Meanwhile, the Lahore High Court on Thursday issued notices to Punjab health secretary, DG FIA, and inspector general Punjab police for January 30 in a petition seeking the judicial inquiry of the deaths of scores of cardiac patients due to the use of adulterated medicines.

With additional reporting by ALI USMAN, ABDUL MANAN AND RANA TANVEER IN LAHORE AND SAMIA SALEEM IN KARACHI.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 27^th, 2012.