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In Focus
JI rejects fuel relief package, demands abolition of petroleum levy
Third round of talks with government expected to resume on 15 September
On 14 September, Dawn reported that Jamaat-i-Islami (JI) Emir Hafiz Naeemur Rehman rejected Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s petroleum relief package as insufficient and reiterated demands for the complete abolition of the petroleum levy. The package offers relief to users of motorcycles, auto-rickshaws and vehicles up to 800cc amid rising global oil prices. Rehman argued that reducing interest rates by three percentage points could save around PKR 1.7 trillion, enough to offset the more than PKR 1.56 trillion he said was collected annually through the levy. He also called for refinery upgrades, reductions in official privileges and termination of unfair independent power producer contracts.
The dispute has prompted negotiations between JI and the government, with a third round scheduled for 15 September after two previous rounds and the submission of six proposals by JI. The party has staged sit-ins across the country since 16 August and says protests are continuing at around 40 locations. Rehman has warned that demonstrators will march towards Islamabad on 20 September if the levy is not withdrawn. The government currently imposes PKR 114 per litre in taxes and duties on petrol and PKR 100 on diesel, while separate talks on independent power producers are expected on 16 September. (“JI chief rejects petroleum relief package, demands abolition of levy,” Dawn, 14 September 2026; “Next round of JI-govt talks on petroleum levy rescheduled for Tuesday,” Dawn, 13 September 2026)
In Brief
EXTERNAL
Pakistan, African countries target USD 15 billion in bilateral trade by 2030
On 13 September, Dawn reported that Pakistan and African countries, at the inaugural ceremony of the Pakistan-Africa Economic Council (PAEC), reaffirmed their resolve to raise bilateral trade to USD 15 billion by 2030, diversify economic and trade relations, and bring private sectors closer through enhanced chambers of commerce engagement from both sides. Both sides reiterated commitment to promoting mutual investment and fully exploiting untapped resources through comprehensive long-term planning to advance bilateral economic and trade relations. Ambassadors, High Commissioners and Consuls General from Rwanda, Mauritius, Morocco, Zimbabwe, Sudan, Kenya and Ethiopia attended the ceremony. Federal Minister for Defence Production Raza Hayat Hiraj described the forum as a milestone in economic history. KP Governor Faisal Karim Kundi highlighted the forum's role in strengthening economic ties. PAEC Patron-in-Chief Hamid Asgher Khan noted Africa's 1.5 billion population represented huge potential and bilateral trade remained far below true potential. Pakistan's information technology (IT) potential stood at USD 2.7 billion and could double with stronger connectivity in coming years. ("Pakistan, African countries eye $15bn trade by 2030," Dawn, 13 September 2026)
Pakistan urges UN to close counter-terrorism framework gaps as TTP exploits propaganda, artificial intelligence
On 12 September, Dawn reported that Pakistan urged the UN Security Council (UNSC) to strengthen counter-terrorism mechanisms and close sanctions regime gaps as a new UN assessment warned terrorist groups were rapidly adapting propaganda, recruitment and financing methods. UN Security Council Counter-Terrorism Committee Executive Directorate (CTED) report specifically highlighted Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) as an example of how terrorist groups increasingly use propaganda reinforcing operations, exploiting local grievances, building legitimacy, facilitating fundraising and shaping perceptions of authority. More than 30 independent UN human-rights experts warned the 25-year campaign against terrorism had heavily impacted human rights and fundamental freedoms whilst stretching international law boundaries. Pakistan's Permanent Representative Asim Iftikhar Ahmad told the Council the terrorist threat had "evolved and mutated" since the 9/11 attacks and called for stronger international cooperation. Ahmad highlighted growing use of artificial intelligence, drones, the dark web, virtual assets, and cryptocurrencies by terrorist groups for propaganda, radicalisation, recruitment, networking, attack planning and financing. Pakistan noted that over 4,700 Pakistanis lost their lives to terrorism over the past three years. ("Pakistan urges UN to close gaps in fight against evolving terror threat," Dawn, 12 September 2026)
Virtual Assets Authority chief calls for unified global governance framework for digital assets at UN briefing
On 13 September, Dawn reported that Pakistan called for immediate establishment of global regulatory and institutional frameworks governing digital assets and shaping next-generation international finance. State Minister and Pakistan Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority (PVARA) Chairman Bilal Bin Saqib urged UN member states to build institutional structures necessary for managing next-generation finance at the "Digital Assets and Blockchain for Sustainable Development" session held at UN headquarters in collaboration with the UN Development Programme (UNDP), the UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and the Office of the Secretary-General's Envoy on Technology. PVARA's Chief stated that digital assets, tokenisation and distributed ledger technologies present emerging economies with an opportunity to rethink financial infrastructure around inclusion, efficiency and access. Saqib emphasised that 1.4 billion adults globally remain outside the formal financial system, alongside billions more participating unequally through expensive remittances, slow settlement and limited credit access. Digital finance's development potential extends beyond payments to digital identity and verifiable financial histories, helping small businesses, farmers and women entrepreneurs demonstrate economic activity without exclusive reliance on traditional collateral or documentation. ("Pakistan calls for unified global framework for digital assets," Dawn, 13 September 2026)
CDF Munir reaffirms strong Pakistan-Indonesia defence ties during naval chief's visit
On 14 September, Dawn reported that Indonesian Navy Admiral Dr Muhammad Ali called on Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir, who reaffirmed Islamabad's commitment to strengthening ties with Jakarta. Matters of mutual interest, regional security and bilateral defence cooperation were discussed during the meeting. Both sides expressed satisfaction over existing military-to-military relations and reaffirmed resolve to further strengthen cooperation, particularly in professional training, defence collaboration and joint exercises. CDF Munir reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to strengthening "longstanding and brotherly relations" with Indonesia significantly in defence and security spheres. Admiral Ali appreciated the professionalism of the Pakistan Armed Forces (PAF) and acknowledged their contributions towards regional peace and stability. President Asif Ali Zardari conferred Nishan-i-Imtiaz (Military) upon the Indonesian naval chief, recognising his contribution to the promotion of relations between the two navies. President noted that Pakistan and Indonesia enjoyed "enduring and fraternal relations" and stressed the need for further strengthening naval cooperation. President highlighted immense potential in the blue economy and mutual maritime sector development requiring harnessing. ("CDF Munir reaffirms commitment to bolstering defence ties in meeting with Indonesian naval chief," Dawn, 14 September 2026)
Pakistan still committed to defusing regional tensions, PM Shehbaz tells Saudi Crown Prince
On 13 September, Dawn reported that Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif told Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman that Pakistan would continue efforts for "defusing" regional tensions and expressed solidarity with the Gulf state following recent Houthi attacks (HA). The development occurred amid renewed regional tensions, with Yemen's Houthi rebels launching attacks on Saudi oil installations earlier in the week, injuring 73 people. A crucial Saudi oil pipeline also came under attack by drones launched from Iraq. PM Shehbaz condemned recent attacks on Saudi's civilian and economic infrastructure and expressed alarm that Houthi actions "threatened regional peace and security and could further disrupt the global economy and energy supplies." PM Shehbaz told the Saudi Crown Prince that he, alongside the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Asim Munir and Deputy Prime Minister (DPM) and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, "would continue their efforts for defusing tensions and bringing peace in the region." PM lauded the Saudi Crown Prince for his "wise and sagacious leadership throughout the crisis." Saudi Crown Prince appreciated Pakistan's support and its efforts for regional peace and stability. Two leaders agreed to remain in close contact and looked forward to meeting each other at an early date. ("Pakistan to continue efforts for 'defusing' regional tensions, PM tells Saudi crown prince," Dawn, 13 September 2026)
Pakistan and Tajikistan pursue agriculture and food sector cooperation
On 12 September, The Express Tribune reported that Federal Minister for National Food Security & Research (NFSR) Rana Tanveer Hussain met Tajikistan Ambassador Yusuf Sharifzoda to discuss bilateral trade, agricultural cooperation and economic relations. Ambassador Sharifzoda invited the Federal NFSR Minister to attend the upcoming Economic Cooperation Organisation (ECO) meeting scheduled for September. Minister Hussain emphasised that both countries' historic, cordial relations rested on shared religious, cultural and civilisational bonds, with Tajikistan holding a special position among Pakistan's Central Asian (CA) partners. Hussain highlighted significant cooperation potential in agriculture (AG), food processing, livestock, farm technology and value addition. Ambassador Sharifzoda acknowledged that declining bilateral trade required attention and urged exploring alternative avenues to revive and expand trade. Both sides agreed to strengthen trade and economic linkages, enhance business-to-business (B2B) contacts, and explore new opportunities in agriculture and food sectors, while emphasising regional connectivity. ("Pakistan, Tajikistan eye agri, food-sector cooperation," The Express Tribune, 12 September 2026)
ECONOMY
State Bank keeps policy rate unchanged at 11.5 per cent
On 14 September, Dawn reported that the State Bank of Pakistan’s (SBP) Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) kept the key policy rate unchanged at 11.5 per cent. MPC decided to keep the policy rate unchanged with a majority decision of seven out of ten members. MPC said that the current monetary policy rate was appropriate to guide inflation towards a target range of 5-7 per cent over the medium term. However, uncertainty regarding the outlook has increased, particularly from the worsening geopolitical environment. The SBP has held the rate steady since raising it by 100 basis points in April in response to rising global energy prices and supply chain risks, its first increase in nearly three years. (“SBP keeps interest rate unchanged at 11.5pc,” Dawn, 14 September 2026)
Debt and soaring energy bills among major concerns for Pakistanis, survey finds
On 14 September, Dawn reported that Pakistanis are more worried about the country’s ballooning debt and soaring electricity and gas bills than any other issue. The survey was released at a Citizens’ Roundtable convened by the Pakistan Institute of Legislative Development and Transparency (PILDAT) and independently conducted by the Institute for Public Opinion Research (IPOR). The findings present a blunt verdict on fiscal priorities. 66 per cent of respondents viewed Pakistan’s rising national debt as a grave concern, with 49 per cent calling it extremely concerning. As 49.2 per cent of the PKR 18.771 trillion federal budget goes to debt servicing alone, more than defence, health, education, pensions and subsidies combined. By contrast, federal health spending amounts to just 0.1 per cent of the budget. The survey, based on 5,155 face-to-face, in-home interviews conducted between 23 August and 5 September 2026, used a four-stage stratified sample covering all four provinces, 60 per cent rural and 40 per cent urban areas, and all major age, gender and income groups. 19 per cent of respondents named rising electricity and gas prices as Pakistan’s number one problem, the single most-cited issue nationwide. Nearly one in five also cited the sharp rise in the cost of everyday goods as a leading concern, while unemployment ranked third. The survey further showed that 68 per cent viewed the International Monetary Fund (IMF) programme as either harmful or of no benefit to the general public, while 60 per cent said the education system did not meet the needs of a modern economy. The survey found a deep trust deficit as only 15 per cent of respondents had complete trust in Parliament, while the revenue department was trusted by 13 per cent. The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) and the National Accountability Bureau (NAB) recorded the highest levels of confidence, at 33 per cent and 23 per cent, respectively. (“Survey finds debt energy costs top concerns for citizens,” Dawn, 14 September 2026)
PIA and Afghanistan’s Kam Air sign interline agreement to facilitate smoother travel
On 14 September, Dawn reported that Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) and Afghanistan’s Kam Air have signed an interline agreement offering smoother travel for passengers travelling from Afghanistan to West Asia. Travellers will be able to book one reservation, avoid rechecking baggage in Islamabad, and skip immigration during airside transit. The first phase activates the Kabul-Islamabad-Dammam route. Under the agreement, passengers can book their entire itinerary under a unified reservation, avoiding the need to purchase separate tickets for each leg. Checked luggage from Kabul is transferred directly at Islamabad International Airport to the connecting PIA flight, eliminating the need to collect and recheck baggage during transit. (“PIA, Afghanistan’s Kam Air ink interline agreement,” Dawn, 14 September 2026)
Government considering reviving austerity measures, says
On 14 September, Dawn reported that the government was considering reviving austerity measures introduced during a previous fuel conservation drive amid renewed hostilities in West Asia, according to Information Minister Attaullah Tarar. The austerity measures were announced on 09 March to mitigate the impact of the ongoing US-Iran war. These included a 50 per cent cut in fuel allowances for official vehicles, salary cuts for lawmakers, and a partial work-from-home policy in the public sector. He also mentioned a relief scheme, under which users of motorcycles, rickshaws, Qingqis and vehicles up to 800cc will receive relief of PKR 100 per litre. The Premier had also directed the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister to ensure that transport fares did not rise following the launch of the scheme. Separately, PM Shehbaz chaired a meeting to review the progress on the relief scheme and directed that the message for the registration be made free of charge. (“Govt mulling revival of austerity measures decision to be taken soon: Tarar,” Dawn, 14 September 2026)
State Bank forex reserves jump USD 1.2 billion on commercial loan inflows
On 11 September, Dawn reported that the State Bank of Pakistan's foreign exchange reserves surged USD 1.2 billion to USD 18.328 billion in the week ended 4 September, an increase the central bank attributed to commercial loan proceeds received by the government; total liquid foreign reserves, including USD 5.387 billion held by commercial banks, stood at USD 23.715 billion. ("SBP forex reserves surge $1.2bn," Dawn, 11 September 2026)
NEPRA approves USD 58 billion 11-year power plan over its own members' objections
On 12 September, Dawn reported that NEPRA approved the Integrated System Plan 2025, envisaging roughly USD 58 billion in power generation and transmission investment through 2035, even as all three regulator members, including the chairman, filed more than 12 pages of dissenting notes questioning why major projects were added or dropped and why the Council of Common Interests was bypassed on a matter that constitutionally belongs there; the approved reference case assumes low-growth demand and plans 26,045MW of new capacity for USD 47.08 billion, alongside roughly USD 10.65 billion in transmission investment, while a proposed USD 900 million battery storage component was rejected pending a proper technical and economic study. NEPRA also flagged contradictory statements between the Independent System and Market Operator and the Power Planning and Monitoring Company over how the plan would affect consumer tariffs, which PPMC projects rising to PKR 37.28 per unit by 2035 from PKR 34 currently, and noted a 40MW standalone plant has been added for Gwadar and Makran after the Iran-US conflict disrupted electricity imports from Iran. ("Nepra okays $58bn 11-year power plan amid reservations," Dawn, 12 September 2026)
POLITICS & GOVERNANCE
Balochistan parties call for dialogue amid worsening security
On 13 September, Dawn reported that leaders of several political parties in Balochistan held a multi-party conference to discuss the province’s deteriorating law and order situation and broader political, economic and constitutional challenges. The meeting, chaired by National Party President and former chief minister Abdul Malik Baloch, criticised authorities for failing to take effective measures to address the worsening crisis. Participants discussed the controversial Mines and Minerals Bill, control over provincial resources, democratic rights and economic difficulties, while seeking consensus on a joint political strategy. The leaders rejected the use of force as a solution and called for political dialogue with genuine, trusted representatives to restore public confidence in the state and address Balochistan’s longstanding grievances. (“Multi-party conference voices concern over Balochistan’s law and order,” Dawn, 13 September 2026)
Debate on new provinces remains at early stage, says PML’N’s Sanaullah
On 14 September, Dawn reported that Prime Minister’s Adviser on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah Khan said any proposal to create new provinces remained at an early stage and could take six to eight months to pass through parliament and its committees. He stressed that the PML-N had not initiated the project, but said all political parties and lawmakers would have an opportunity to debate any formal proposal. Sanaullah noted that discussions could eventually include new administrative units or local government elections, while highlighting differing views within the PML-N over a separate Bahawalpur province and its inclusion in a proposed South Punjab province. He also said back-channel contacts with PTI founder Imran Khan might exist but would carry political costs. (“New provinces debate may take eight months, says PM’s aide,” Dawn, 14 September 2026)
KP CM Afridi claims “abduction” by authorities during Lahore visit
On 14 September, Dawn reported that Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi claimed he was “abducted” by Punjab authorities during a visit to Lahore and later left by the roadside, a charge denied by Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari. Afridi alleged a conspiracy to abduct an elected provincial chief executive, while Bokhari said he had voluntarily boarded a Punjab Police vehicle to secure the release of detained PTI workers and later refused to leave it. PTI condemned the incident as an attack on KP’s mandate and federal unity, while provincial officials accused Punjab of “police high-handedness”. Afridi’s visit had already heightened tensions, with police blockades, arrests of PTI workers and clashes reported amid the party’s preparations for a nationwide protest on 27 September. (“KP CM claims he was 'abducted' by authorities in Lahore; Punjab minister denies allegations,” Dawn, 14 September 2026)
SECURITY
Balochistan: Three terrorists killed in Mastung operation
On 14 September, Dawn reported that security forces killed three terrorists, including a commander, during an operation targeting a vehicle associated with Balochistan-based militant groups in Mastung district. The vehicle was destroyed in a precision strike involving a quadcopter, according to state media. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and Balochistan Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti praised the operation, saying it had prevented the militants from carrying out planned attacks. The operation comes amid a recent escalation in militant violence in Balochistan, where terrorist attacks increased seven per cent from 83 in July to 89 in August. Security forces have conducted several major operations across the province in recent weeks, killing dozens of militants in Mastung, Kalat, Kharan, Washuk, Quetta and Sibi. (“Security forces kill 3 terrorists, including commander, in Balochistan's Mastung: state media,” Dawn, 14 September 2026)
South Waziristan: Two children injured in landmine blast in Birmal
On 13 September, Dawn reported that two children were injured when an old landmine exploded in the Azam Warsak area of Birmal tehsil in South Waziristan. The injured, Imran and Khan Syed, were taken to the District Headquarters Hospital in Wana, while police registered a report and launched an investigation. The incident has renewed concerns over the risks posed by abandoned landmines and unexploded ordnance in Lower and Upper South Waziristan, where residents say explosive remnants from past military operations continue to threaten communities. Children are particularly vulnerable because they may not recognise the danger of abandoned devices. Residents have called for comprehensive surveys, systematic mine-clearance operations and greater public awareness to prevent further casualties. (“Two children injured in South Waziristan landmine blast,” Dawn, 13 September 2026)
Karachi: Wanted terrorist killed by Counter-Terrorism Department
On 14 September, Dawn reported that Sindh Rangers and the Counter-Terrorism Department (CTD) jointly killed a “wanted terrorist”, Zia Rehman alias Qari Saifullah, during an operation in Karachi’s Shershah area. According to the Rangers, Rehman was affiliated with the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and had fled to Afghanistan following a 2012 military operation, where he allegedly received further training before participating in attacks on Pakistani security posts near the Afghan border. The Rangers said he had recently returned to Karachi and was attempting to reorganise his network to target sensitive installations in the city. Arms and explosives were reportedly recovered from his possession. (“Rangers, CTD kill ‘wanted terrorist’ in Karachi's Shershah,” Dawn, 14 September 2026)
PROVINCES
KP: Government designates 26 KP districts as “terror-affected”, approves special security allowance
On 12 September, Dawn reported that the federal government designated 26 of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's (KP) 35 districts as "terror-affected" and approved an extraordinary law, order, and security risk allowance for Pakistan Administrative Service (PAS) and Police Service of Pakistan (PSP) officers posted there, effective 01 July 2026. The allowance was set at 250 per cent of an officer's running basic pay and would be disbursed retroactively. The Establishment Division said it would be notified annually at the start of each financial year and discontinued upon transfer out of the designated districts. Swabi and all districts of Hazara Division were excluded from the scheme. According to the Centre for Research and Security Studies (CRSS), KP recorded 2,331 conflict-related fatalities in 2025, up from 1,620 in 2024. The Pakistan Institute for Conflict and Security Studies (PICSS) reported 54 terrorist attacks in mainland KP in August alone, a 50 per cent increase from July. ("Govt approves 'extraordinary security allowance' for police, civil service officers in 26 KP districts," Dawn, 12 September 2026)
SOCIETY
Rights groups urge PM Shehbaz to address Pakistan’s deteriorating press freedom
On 11 September, Dawn reported that nine press freedom and human rights organisations urged Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to take immediate action over what they described as Pakistan’s rapidly deteriorating press freedom environment. The groups, including the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), Reporters Without Borders and the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan (HRCP), cited journalists being detained, disappeared, investigated and restricted from reporting, alongside growing use of the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) and internet blackouts. They called for the release of journalists Razi Tahir and Muhammad Saif, investigations into attacks on reporters, withdrawal of restrictions on foreign media and an end to interference in independent broadcasters. The groups also criticised the suspension of Geo News’ licence and pressure on journalists reporting on sensitive issues. (“9 rights groups, including CPJ and RSF, urge PM to address 'deteriorating press freedom' in Pakistan,” Dawn, 11 September 2026)
ENVIRONMENT
Indus River erosion displaces communities near Layyah
On 11 September, Dawn reported that severe erosion along the Indus River near Layyah had destroyed dozens of settlements, thousands of acres of fertile farmland and standing crops, leaving residents and livestock homeless. Several low-lying communities, including Kanjal, Alyani, Maken and Khokhar, have been badly affected, with residents protesting over the lack of government action. Activists attributed the worsening erosion partly to accumulated silt discharged into the river from the Chashma Canal over the past two decades, which they said had obstructed the riverbed and altered its course. The river has reportedly moved to within a few hundred feet of Layyah city, threatening nearby towns and hundreds of settlements, while residents have called for stronger embankments and protective measures. (“Indus erosion endangering dozens of settlements near Layyah,” Dawn, 11 September 2026)
AF-PAK
SHC suspends PMDC’s repatriation directives for Afghan medical students pending hearing
On 14 September, Dawn reported that the Sindh High Court (SHC) suspended Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) directives ordering Afghan medical students to return to their country until the next hearing on 29 September. A two-judge bench headed by Justice Adnan-ul-Karim Memon heard the case after three Afghan students filed a petition challenging the PMDC notification as being without jurisdiction. PMDC issued a notification on 01 September directing Afghan medical students enrolled in Pakistani colleges "to return to Afghanistan" and barred medical and dental colleges from granting admission or placement to Afghan students for the current academic session. Respondents listed in the petition include the state, Ministry of Interior, PMDC, Higher Education Commission (HEC), Dow University of Health Sciences (DUHS), Inspector General of Sindh Police, and SHO (Station House Officer) of Eidgah police station in Karachi. The court issued notices to respondents, the Additional Attorney General and the Advocate General Sindh for 29 September. "In the meanwhile, impugned notices shall remain suspended, and till then, no coercive action shall be taken by respondents against petitioners," the order stated. Three students enrolled at DUHS (Dow University of Health Sciences) under the Allama Mohammad Iqbal Scholarship Programme and expected to graduate in April 2027 hold valid Pakistani visas on Afghan passports for the duration of studies. Petitioners argued the impugned actions violated Articles 4, 9, 10-A, 14, and 25 of Pakistan's Constitution. Female petitioners highlighted that they would face gender-based persecution and an absolute ban on female education in Afghanistan. ("SHC suspends PMDC's return orders for Afghan medical students," Dawn, 14 September 2026)
Editorials/Opinions
Economy
Editorial, “Uneven tax burden,” The Express Tribune, 15 September 2026
"New tax data shows how hopelessly broken our collection system has become, as collection from the real estate sector crashed by 29% in the first two months of the current fiscal year. The realty sector holds special significance because it is the playground of the rich, and in a country where tax avoidance is a passion of the rich, realty is one of the few areas where they are taxed appropriately."
https://tribune.com.pk/story/2629293/uneven-tax-burden
Editorial, “Rethinking relief,” Dawn, 15 September 2026
“The Rs75bn package may sound substantial but is barely a fraction of annual petrol sales. Its reach will be narrower because eligibility depends on conditions such as vehicle and SIM ownership. A monthly subsidy of Rs2,000 for motorcycles and Rs3,000 for small cars may help households, but cannot shield them from sustained global oil price increases. Nor does it assist those who rely on public transport. The question that arises is whether the government is trying to soften the political impact of another fuel price shock."
https://www.dawn.com/news/2030055/rethinking-relief
Environment
Editorial, “Mangroves at risk,” Dawn, 15 September 2026
“Karachi is losing its mangroves to encroachment.The reported cutting of mangroves and construction of bunds beside the Mangrove Biodiversity Park at Korangi Creek is alarming because the destruction appears methodical: block the tidal flow, allow the trees to dry, clear the vegetation and convert the land into a plot. That this is happening next to a park inaugurated only last year exposes the gap between official environmental rhetoric and what is allowed on the ground. Mangroves are not wasteland awaiting ‘development’. They are among Karachi’s most valuable assets. They help absorb carbon, support fish nurseries and coastal biodiversity, stabilise shorelines and reduce the force of coastal hazards. For a city already exposed to rising climate risks, destroying them is an act of self-harm."
https://www.dawn.com/news/2030053/mangroves-at-risk
Politics & governance
Arifa Noor, “Burdens of politicians,” The Express Tribune, 15 September 2026
“No one expects Pakistan’s ruling elite to behave like their counterparts in the West where ministers carry their own baggage and fly economy. We are far too realistic to expect miracles here but a little discretion can do no harm. And for once, it is not enough to argue that there are powerful people in Pakistan who perhaps enjoy even more perks than politicians but are not spoken about. Indeed, those who take part in electoral exercise and claim to be popular have different burdens than those who simply wield power. And the people in government need to understand this difference."
https://www.dawn.com/news/2030060/burdens-of-politicians
Provinces
Danyal Adam Khan, “Shiny new toys,” Dawn, 15 September 2026
“The federal government is responsible for Islamabad in the same way that KP is for Peshawar. If the latter is not demanding a separate slice of the NFC to govern its metropolis, then the former’s 42.5 per cent share should also be sufficient. In case it isn’t, it may finally be time to consider meaningful urban fiscal reform that allows cities like Islamabad to raise own-source revenue, particularly through its overpriced real estate. But that will also require political leaders to take on a state-backed property mafia, and we don’t seem ready for that kind of conversation."
https://www.dawn.com/news/2030058/shiny-new-toys
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