Day: April 8, 2024

Amidst rising inflation and denial of medical services under the health card, the health ministry has initiated efforts to outsource diagnostic services at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences (PIMS), rural health centers (RHCs), and basic health units (BHUs). This decision is anticipated to impose additional financial burdens on patients who currently benefit from either free or nominally priced diagnostic services. The employees of the hospital have expressed opposition to this decision, perceiving it as a step toward privatizing the hospital. Conversely, Secretary of Health Iftikhar Ali Shallawani defends the move, stating that it aligns with the government's vision to enhance efficiency and reduce costs through public-private partnerships. As per documented directives, Dr. Malik Mukhtar Ahmad Bharath, the prime minister's coordinator, visited PIMS and instructed the implementation of an evening outpatient department (OPD) and outsourcing of the diagnostic unit. Subsequently, PIMS Executive Direct or Prof Dr. Rana Imran Sikander issued directives to develop a comprehensive plan for outsourcing diagnostics. The Federal Health Alliance (FHA), representing hospital employees, vehemently opposes the move, perceiving it as a precursor to hospital privatization. FHA has announced plans to resist the decision and intends to convene a meeting after Eid to discuss further actions. In response, the health ministry has formed a committee to develop a proposal for establishing a 24/7 health emergency management system in Islamabad, utilizing existing RHCs under a public-private model. This committee comprises representatives from various healthcare entities, signaling the ministry's commitment to addressing healthcare needs through collaborative efforts. Source: Pro Pakistani

The Sindh government has officially announced a four-day holiday for Eid-ul-Fitr, as confirmed by a notification issued by the PPP-led administration. According to the notification, the holidays will begin on Wednesday, April 10, and conclude on Saturday, April 13. This announcement comes amidst anticipation regarding the sighting of the Shawwal moon, which marks the end of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan. The Meteorological Department has disclosed that there is a possibility of the moon being sighted on April 9, a day prior to the commencement of the holidays. The Meteorological Department has further provided insights into the lunar cycle, stating that the new moon is expected to be born on April 8 at 11:21 PM, with prospects of visibility on April 9. In alignment with the provincial decision, the federal government has also declared public holidays for Eid-ul-Fitr, spanning from April 10 to 13. As the region experiences a surge in temperatures, particularly noticeable in the port city of Karachi, th e Meteorological Department has issued warnings advising citizens to minimize outdoor activities during the daytime. Karachi is expected to endure hot and humid weather conditions, while other districts across Sindh are predicted to experience extreme heat until April 10. The announcement of Eid-ul-Fitr holidays brings a brief respite for residents amid the challenging weather conditions, with authorities emphasizing the importance of taking necessary precautions to ensure the well-being of the public during this period. Source: Pro Pakistani

Pak Suzuki Motor Company Limited (PSMC) has announced a staggering loss after tax (LAT) of Rs. 10 billion in the year that ended on December 31st, 2023 (CY23), 50 percent higher than a loss of Rs. 6.3 billion in the same period last year. The net sales of the company decreased by 50 percent year-on-year (YoY) to Rs. 102 billion as compared to Rs. 202 billion last year. According to the automaker's financial results for CY23, the company posted a loss per share of Rs. 122.35 per share as compared to a loss per share of Rs. 77 per share last year. The gross profit of the company increased by 48 percent YoY from Rs. 11.68 billion to Rs. 17.27 billion. Gross margins clocked in at 17 percent during the period in review, which is higher than the previous year. Other income during CY23 fell by 33.4 percent to Rs. 2.1 billion as compared to Rs. 3.2 billion. PSMC's scrip at the bourse closed at Rs. 17.02, up by Rs. 0.83 or 5.13 percent, with a turnover of 33.7 million shares on Monday. Delisting PSMC in Februa ry 2024 initiated the share purchase offer (SPA) to sell 22.14 million shares of the company at Rs. 609 per share and effectively delist from the Pakistan Stock Exchange. This was initiated after Suzuki Motor Corporation, Japan, the majority shareholder of Pak Suzuki Motor Company Limited (the Company) recently decided to purchase all the shares of the Company held by others (other than those held by the Sponsor / Majority Shareholder). Source: Pro Pakistani

A group of hikers experienced a harrowing ordeal in the Shah Allah Ditta area of Islamabad when they were kidnapped and robbed at gunpoint after breaking their fast (iftar) following a hike. The group, consisting of eight individuals including two women and a foreigner from Switzerland, fell victim to the criminal actions of five armed assailants. Reports indicate that the criminals held the hikers captive for several hours, during which they attempted to extort money by forcing the hikers to withdraw cash from their ATMs. In addition to stealing Rs. 120,000, the assailants also took $80 (around Rs. 22,250) from the Swiss hiker, along with various electronic gadgets, phones, cameras, and watches. During the ordeal, several members of the group suffered severe beatings and sustained head injuries. One of the women in the group was struck in the face with a rifle butt, causing her to fall 10 feet down the side of the trail. Despite the traumatic experience, the hikers managed to return home safely. However, they are still grappling with the emotional aftermath of the incident. One of the group members took to social media to recount the terrifying encounter, warning others to avoid the Shah Allah Ditta area, including Trail 7, which is connected to Shah Allah Ditta through the hills. The hiker emphasized that the robbery appeared to be well-coordinated, suggesting that locals might have been involved, as they observed and targeted the group. This incident is not an isolated case, as several similar incidents have been reported in the area by individuals on social media platforms. In a separate incident last month, a family returning from an iftar gathering at Lavista Resort in Shah Allah Ditta was ambushed by unknown armed individuals. The assailants attempted to rob the family, and when their car attempted to flee, the assailants opened fire, causing significant damage to the vehicle. Fortunately, the passengers escaped unharmed. These criminal activities have sparked outrage among the public, who are callin g for swift action from the Islamabad police to apprehend the perpetrators and increase police patrols in the area to ensure public safety. Source: Pro Pakistani