In letters to the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) and the provincial home department on Sunday, the health department of Sindh, Pakistan wrote that it is seeking to make vaccination certificates mandatory for people to get services at banks, post offices, restaurants, hotels and courier services' offices.

Watch:&nbsp;Tehreek-E-Taliban Pakistan claims attack in Quetta

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Seeking "obligatory vaccination regime", the NCOC has been requested by the provincial health department to direct bankers and post office staff to offer services to only vaccinated citizens after production of valid proof. &nbsp;

The health department has asked the home department to ensure that vaccination certificates be made essential for restaurants and hotels too. It urged the home secretary to issue "necessary directions" to the concerned officials. &nbsp;

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-holds-virtual-meet-with-afghanistans-neighbours-410935" hreflang="en">Pakistan holds virtual meet with Afghanistan’s neighbours</a>

“To make the vaccination drive more successful, it is highly recommended that all the restaurants/hotels may provide their hospitality services (check in/outdoor dining services) to only those people, who are vaccinated,” the health department wrote. &nbsp;

The provincial health department wants the vaccination to be made an obligatory part of the COVID-19 standard operating procedures (SOPs) issued for these places.&nbsp;

In letters to the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) and the provincial home department on Sunday, the health department of Sindh, Pakistan wrote that it is seeking to make vaccination certificates mandatory for people to get services at banks, post offices, restaurants, hotels and courier services' offices.

In letters to the National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) and the provincial home department on Sunday, the health department of Sindh, Pakistan wrote that it is seeking to make vaccination certificates mandatory for people to get services at banks, post offices, restaurants, hotels and courier services' offices. Watch: Tehreek-E-Taliban Pakistan claims attack in Quetta × Seeking "obligatory vaccination regime", the NCOC has been requested by the provincial health department to direct bankers and post office staff to offer services to only vaccinated citizens after production of valid proof. The health department has asked the home department to ensure that vaccination certificates be made essential for restaurants and hotels too. It urged the home secretary to issue "necessary directions" to the concerned officials. Also Read: Pakistan holds virtual meet with Afghanistan’s neighbours “To make the vaccination drive more successful, it is highly recommended that all the restaurants/hotels may provide their hospitality services (check in/outdoor dining services) to only those people, who are vaccinated,” the health department wrote. The provincial health department wants the vaccination to be made an obligatory part of the COVID-19 standard operating procedures (SOPs) issued for these places.

Pakistan’s Sindh looks to make Covid inoculation mandatory to enter banks, post offices, restaurants

In what could be termed as a harsh measure to&nbsp;encourage vaccination,&nbsp;the Pakistan's National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) has been asked officially by the regional, Sindh government,&nbsp;to block the mobile phone&nbsp;sims and social media accounts of unvaccinated users on Saturday,&nbsp;a report by The News said.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Sindh Government has apprised the national coordinator of the NCOC&nbsp;in a letter&nbsp;about the decision of the blocking of mobile sims. It was&nbsp;taken during the Provincial Corona Task Force meeting, which was held under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah.

The task force recommended sims' blocking in a phased manner. In the first,&nbsp;a warning message will be&nbsp;issued by the&nbsp;government. After it,&nbsp;blocking of&nbsp;social media accounts will be carried out. In the next phase,&nbsp;the outgoing calls will be blocked and, in the end,&nbsp;the SIM will be completely blocked until&nbsp;inoculation.

The letter reads,&nbsp;“It is, therefore, requested that the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority be directed to take necessary measures accordingly for a successful vaccination drive to break the transmission chain of COVID-19.”

Earlier, Adviser to Chief Minister Murtaza Wahab had&nbsp;tweeted about the&nbsp;Sindh government's plan to&nbsp;write to the NCOC and the PTA on blocking the sims.

(With inputs from agencies)

In what could be termed as a harsh measure to encourage vaccination, the Pakistan's National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) has been asked officially by the regional, Sindh government, to block the mobile phone sims and social media accounts of unvaccinated users on Saturday, a report by The News said.

In what could be termed as a harsh measure to encourage vaccination, the Pakistan's National Command and Operation Centre (NCOC) has been asked officially by the regional, Sindh government, to block the mobile phone sims and social media accounts of unvaccinated users on Saturday, a report by The News said. The Sindh Government has apprised the national coordinator of the NCOC in a letter about the decision of the blocking of mobile sims. It was taken during the Provincial Corona Task Force meeting, which was held under the chairmanship of Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah. The task force recommended sims' blocking in a phased manner. In the first, a warning message will be issued by the government. After it, blocking of social media accounts will be carried out. In the next phase, the outgoing calls will be blocked and, in the end, the SIM will be completely blocked until inoculation. The letter reads, “It is, therefore, requested that the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority be directed to take necessary measures accordingly for a successful vaccination drive to break the transmission chain of COVID-19.” Earlier, Adviser to Chief Minister Murtaza Wahab had tweeted about the Sindh government's plan to write to the NCOC and the PTA on blocking the sims. (With inputs from agencies)

Block sims, social media accounts of unvaccinated people, Pakistan's Sindh govt asks NCOC

The head of Sindh, a Pakistan province has ordered that government employees who refuse to receive Covid vaccine would not be paid starting next month. Murad Ali Shah, Chief Minister of Sindh made the announced the decision after meeting health officials. First cases of the delta variant of coronavirus have been detected in Sindh.

"Any government employee who is not vaccinated should have their salary stopped from July," he tweeted, adding that orders had been given to the finance ministry.

Third wave of coronavirus infections has begun to stabilise in the country after weeks of restrictions on public gatherings. However, Sindh has reported highest number of cases since the beginning of the pandemic.

Pakistan's initially sluggish vaccination rollout has been ramped up in recent weeks with more than 200,000 doses administered most days.

But the impoverished country has fully vaccinated only around 2.2 million people -- a fraction of its 220 million population.

Misinformation and conspiracy theories about the side effects of the jab have sparked hesitancy in Pakistan, while the requirement to have a mobile phone to register for a shot has proved a barrier for some poor and illiterate citizens.

Those in rural areas have also struggled to get access to vaccine centres, the majority of which are in major cities.&nbsp;

The Sindh salary order mystified employee representatives.

"This is a strange order, as people are very much volunteering and willing to get vaccinated," said Liaqat Sahi, the secretary general of a labour union at the central State Bank of Pakistan, adding that he has been vaccinated.

"Instead the government should... create more vaccination centres, especially in rural areas." 
Pakistan has recorded more than 850,000 infections and 21,022 deaths, but with limited testing and a ramshackle healthcare sector, many fear the true extent of the disease is much worse.

(With inputs from agencies)

The head of Sindh, a Pakistan province has ordered that government employees who refuse to receive Covid vaccine would not be paid starting next month. Murad Ali Shah, Chief Minister of Sindh made the announced the decision after meeting health officials.

The head of Sindh, a Pakistan province has ordered that government employees who refuse to receive Covid vaccine would not be paid starting next month. Murad Ali Shah, Chief Minister of Sindh made the announced the decision after meeting health officials. First cases of the delta variant of coronavirus have been detected in Sindh. "Any government employee who is not vaccinated should have their salary stopped from July," he tweeted, adding that orders had been given to the finance ministry. Third wave of coronavirus infections has begun to stabilise in the country after weeks of restrictions on public gatherings. However, Sindh has reported highest number of cases since the beginning of the pandemic. Pakistan's initially sluggish vaccination rollout has been ramped up in recent weeks with more than 200,000 doses administered most days. But the impoverished country has fully vaccinated only around 2.2 million people -- a fraction of its 220 million population. Misinformation and conspiracy theories about the side effects of the jab have sparked hesitancy in Pakistan, while the requirement to have a mobile phone to register for a shot has proved a barrier for some poor and illiterate citizens. Those in rural areas have also struggled to get access to vaccine centres, the majority of which are in major cities. The Sindh salary order mystified employee representatives. "This is a strange order, as people are very much volunteering and willing to get vaccinated," said Liaqat Sahi, the secretary general of a labour union at the central State Bank of Pakistan, adding that he has been vaccinated. "Instead the government should... create more vaccination centres, especially in rural areas." Pakistan has recorded more than 850,000 infections and 21,022 deaths, but with limited testing and a ramshackle healthcare sector, many fear the true extent of the disease is much worse. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan province to block salaries of unvaccinated employees

The administrations of Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) have announced to enforce a complete lockdown in their respective regions from May 8 to 15 to contain the spread of coronavirus during the Eid-ul-Fitr holidays in Pakistan, a media report said on Thursday.

The announcements come as the country continues to witness a tremendous surge in the number of <a href="https://www.wionews.com/topics/coronavirus">coronavirus</a>&nbsp;cases despite the measures being taken by the government, the Express Tribune reported.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-tightens-borders-as-covid-19-cases-soar-382597">Pakistan tightens borders as Covid-19 cases soar</a>

"The public transport, tourist destinations, parks, business and shopping malls and markets will remain closed during the eight-day lockdown," Punjab Health Minister Yasmin Rashid said.

She said to ensure complete lockdown police, Rangers, and Army personnel will be deployed in the province in line with the decision of the National Command and Operations Centre (NCOC) to restrict the movement of people during the Eid holidays.

Rashid said that pharmacies, medical stores, coronavirus vaccination centres, petrol pumps, food takeaways, small grocery stores, dairy, vegetable and fruit shops and meat shops will remain open during the lockdown.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/hospitals-in-lahore-almost-out-of-oxygen-supply-amid-rising-covid-19-cases-377292">Hospitals in Lahore almost out of oxygen supply amid rising COVID-19 cases</a>

Notices regarding the lockdowns were also issued by the administration of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Sindh and PoK. 
Planning Minister Asad Umar, who heads the NCOC, had said recently that stricter precautionary measures along with an expanded vaccination drive have had a positive impact.

The pandemic first emerged in the country in February last year. It started ebbing in July after seeing its peak in June, the report said.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/covid-19-pakistanis-forced-to-opt-for-expensive-jabs-from-private-markets-amid-slow-govt-vaccination-drive-377310">COVID-19: Pakistanis forced to opt for expensive jabs from private markets amid slow govt vaccination drive</a>

However, the cases spiked towards the end of the year, dubbed by the experts as the second wave.

The third wave of the disease started in March, the report added.

So far over 18,537 COVID-19 deaths have been reported in <a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan">Pakistan</a> since the beginning of the pandemic last year while the number of active Covid-19 cases is 845,833 as of May 5, media reports said.

The administrations of Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) have announced to enforce a complete lockdown in their respective regions from May 8 to 15 to contain the spread of coronavirus during the Eid-ul-Fitr holidays in Pakistan, a media report said on Thursday.

The administrations of Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) have announced to enforce a complete lockdown in their respective regions from May 8 to 15 to contain the spread of coronavirus during the Eid-ul-Fitr holidays in Pakistan, a media report said on Thursday. The announcements come as the country continues to witness a tremendous surge in the number of coronavirus cases despite the measures being taken by the government, the Express Tribune reported. Also read | Pakistan tightens borders as Covid-19 cases soar "The public transport, tourist destinations, parks, business and shopping malls and markets will remain closed during the eight-day lockdown," Punjab Health Minister Yasmin Rashid said. She said to ensure complete lockdown police, Rangers, and Army personnel will be deployed in the province in line with the decision of the National Command and Operations Centre (NCOC) to restrict the movement of people during the Eid holidays. Rashid said that pharmacies, medical stores, coronavirus vaccination centres, petrol pumps, food takeaways, small grocery stores, dairy, vegetable and fruit shops and meat shops will remain open during the lockdown. Also read | Hospitals in Lahore almost out of oxygen supply amid rising COVID-19 cases Notices regarding the lockdowns were also issued by the administration of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Sindh and PoK. Planning Minister Asad Umar, who heads the NCOC, had said recently that stricter precautionary measures along with an expanded vaccination drive have had a positive impact. The pandemic first emerged in the country in February last year. It started ebbing in July after seeing its peak in June, the report said. Also read | COVID-19: Pakistanis forced to opt for expensive jabs from private markets amid slow govt vaccination drive However, the cases spiked towards the end of the year, dubbed by the experts as the second wave. The third wave of the disease started in March, the report added. So far over 18,537 COVID-19 deaths have been reported in Pakistan since the beginning of the pandemic last year while the number of active Covid-19 cases is 845,833 as of May 5, media reports said.

COVID-19: Several regions in Pakistan announce complete lockdown during Eid holidays

A Pakistani Journalist has been killed by unknown gunmen at the barbershop in Pakistan's Sindh. 31-year-old Ajay Lalwani was shot multiple times while having a haircut, he was rushed to a hospital but he died on Thursday due to his serious injuries. He worked as a reporter for a local TV station, Police investigating the case.

Pakistani Journalist Ajay Lalwani shot dead during haircut at barbershop

A 31-year-old Hindu journalist in Pakistan was shot dead by unidentified assailants in the Sindh province, multiple reports said on Saturday.

Ajay Lalvani, a reporter with a local television station and an Urdu language newspaper Daily Puchano, died on Thursday after he sustained bullet injuries in stomach, arm, and knee, The News International reported. He was sitting in the barber shop in Sukkur city when unidentified assailants on two bikes and a car drove by and opened fire.

Lalvani was rushed to a nearby hospital where he died.

The police on Friday registered an FIR against three unknown assailants and launched an investigation.

The victim's father has dismissed the police's claim of the murder being the result of a personal enmity.

A group of journalists protested against Lalvani's killing and carried out a march after his funeral. They claimed that the incident was a target killing as they held the Sukkur Police responsible for the incident.

The New York-based Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), an American independent non-profit organisation, has also urged authorities in Sindh province to apprehend those responsible for the killing.

A 31-year-old Hindu journalist in Pakistan was shot dead by unidentified assailants in the Sindh province, multiple reports said on Saturday. Ajay Lalvani, a reporter with a local television station and an Urdu language newspaper Daily Puchano, died on Thursday after he sustained bullet injuries in stomach, arm, and knee, The News International reported.

A 31-year-old Hindu journalist in Pakistan was shot dead by unidentified assailants in the Sindh province, multiple reports said on Saturday. Ajay Lalvani, a reporter with a local television station and an Urdu language newspaper Daily Puchano, died on Thursday after he sustained bullet injuries in stomach, arm, and knee, The News International reported. He was sitting in the barber shop in Sukkur city when unidentified assailants on two bikes and a car drove by and opened fire. Lalvani was rushed to a nearby hospital where he died. The police on Friday registered an FIR against three unknown assailants and launched an investigation. The victim's father has dismissed the police's claim of the murder being the result of a personal enmity. A group of journalists protested against Lalvani's killing and carried out a march after his funeral. They claimed that the incident was a target killing as they held the Sukkur Police responsible for the incident. The New York-based Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), an American independent non-profit organisation, has also urged authorities in Sindh province to apprehend those responsible for the killing.

Hindu journalist killed in Pakistan's Sindh province

Pakistan government has decided to formally join the Sindh govt's review petition against the Supreme Court judgement on the acquittal of all accused persons involved in the murder of journalist Daniel Pearl.

Daniel Pearl Murder Case: Pak govt formally to join Sindh's review plea

The Sindh government on Friday filed a review petition before Pakistan Supreme Court after it granted a release order for Omar Saeed Sheikh, the prime suspect in Daniel Pearl killing.

Pakistan files review petition in Supreme Court in Daniel Pearl case

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's posters were seen at a protest in Pakistan's southern Sindh province. The posters read 'Sindh wants freedom from Pakistan'.

Indian PM Modi's posters seen at pro-independence rally in Pakistan

With the population of 20 million people Karachi is Pakistan's largest city, A short distance from Karachi is the world's largest arid Mangroves forest. Pakistani government wants to build a mega housing project on an island on the outskirts of the city, but environment activists say the real estate project threaten the very existence of arid Mangroves forest.

Wion Dispatch: Leaders of Sindh take on Imran Khan over mangroves forest

Supreme Court of Pakistan has allowed Daniel Pearl's parents to become party to case. Supreme Court suspended Sindh High Court's verdict. Watch this video to know more.

WION Dispatch: All accused to stay in custody in Daniel Pearl case

Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah has imposed a rain emergency in the province after heavy rainfall wreaked havoc in Karachi and other parts of the Pakistan.

Karachi Floods: 44 killed in two days, 200 families rescued

The number of coronavirus cases are on a constant rise in the South Asian country Pakistan. The total tally of coronavirus cases increased to&nbsp;261,917&nbsp;and the total tally of deaths due to the virus reached 5,522 on Saturday morning.

As per the latest figures of the local media, a total of&nbsp;198,509 people have recovered from the novel coronavirus till Saturday.&nbsp;From Sindh, 111,238 cases have been reported while from Punjab 89,465 cases have been reported.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-aviation-authority-suspends-15-more-pilots-having-fake-licenses-314253">Also read:&nbsp;Pakistan aviation authority suspends 15 more pilots having fake licenses</a>

On Friday, Prime Minister Imran Khan took a dig at India while urging citizens to stay safe during the upcoming festival of Eid.

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Pak is amongst the fortunate countries where COVID 19 cases in hospitals, esp in intensive care &amp; death rate have gone down, unlike in our unfortunate neighbor India. This positive trend has been the result of our smart lockdown policy &amp; the nation observing govt SOPs.
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImranKhanPTI/status/1284056089944895489?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 17, 2020</a></blockquote>
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Following the tweet, a National Command and Operation Center meeting was chaired by Planning Minister Asad Umar in Karachi on Saturday to discuss preventive measures and the implementation of standard operating procedures (SOPs) during Eidul Azha. The meeting was also attended by&nbsp; Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, health minister Azra Pechuho and other officials.

(With inputs from agencies)

The number of coronavirus cases are on a constant rise in the South Asian country Pakistan. The total tally of coronavirus cases increased to 261,917 and the total tally of deaths due to the virus reached 5,522 on Saturday morning.

The number of coronavirus cases are on a constant rise in the South Asian country Pakistan. The total tally of coronavirus cases increased to 261,917 and the total tally of deaths due to the virus reached 5,522 on Saturday morning. As per the latest figures of the local media, a total of 198,509 people have recovered from the novel coronavirus till Saturday. From Sindh, 111,238 cases have been reported while from Punjab 89,465 cases have been reported. Also read: Pakistan aviation authority suspends 15 more pilots having fake licenses On Friday, Prime Minister Imran Khan took a dig at India while urging citizens to stay safe during the upcoming festival of Eid. Pak is amongst the fortunate countries where COVID 19 cases in hospitals, esp in intensive care & death rate have gone down, unlike in our unfortunate neighbor India. This positive trend has been the result of our smart lockdown policy & the nation observing govt SOPs. — Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) July 17, 2020 × Following the tweet, a National Command and Operation Center meeting was chaired by Planning Minister Asad Umar in Karachi on Saturday to discuss preventive measures and the implementation of standard operating procedures (SOPs) during Eidul Azha. The meeting was also attended by Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah, health minister Azra Pechuho and other officials. (With inputs from agencies)

COVID 19: Pakistan's cases cross 260,000 mark before Eid

Police, paramilitary rangers and other law enforcement agencies arrested several men and women, including students protesting against enforced disappearances in Sindh from Karachi press club on Saturday.

According to sources, the late crowd including family members of the victims gathered at the Karachi press club to hold a peaceful protest against illegal arrests and enforced disappearances of their loved ones.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistans-anti-graft-body-files-corruption-case-against-nawaz-sharif-309025">Also watch:&nbsp;Pakistan's anti-graft body files corruption case against Nawaz Sharif</a>

According to details when protesters started chanting slogans against enforced disappearances, a large number of Police, Paramilitary Rangers, and plainclothes personnel of intelligence agencies attacked peaceful protesters. They baton charged and tortured elderly men, women, young girls and students.

Many were injured. Security forces manhandled girls and threw them into police mobile vehicles and were shifted to an unknown place.

It is learned that since the last two weeks, more than 200 Sindhis and Mohajirs belonging to MQM and different groups of Jiye Sindh have been arrested by Paramilitary Rangers and other law enforcement agencies in Karachi, Hyderabad and other cities of Sindh.

No arrested person was presented before any court of law, said sources. 
&nbsp;

Police, paramilitary rangers and other law enforcement agencies arrested several men and women, including students protesting against enforced disappearances in Sindh from Karachi press club on Saturday.

Police, paramilitary rangers and other law enforcement agencies arrested several men and women, including students protesting against enforced disappearances in Sindh from Karachi press club on Saturday. According to sources, the late crowd including family members of the victims gathered at the Karachi press club to hold a peaceful protest against illegal arrests and enforced disappearances of their loved ones. Also watch: Pakistan's anti-graft body files corruption case against Nawaz Sharif According to details when protesters started chanting slogans against enforced disappearances, a large number of Police, Paramilitary Rangers, and plainclothes personnel of intelligence agencies attacked peaceful protesters. They baton charged and tortured elderly men, women, young girls and students. Many were injured. Security forces manhandled girls and threw them into police mobile vehicles and were shifted to an unknown place. It is learned that since the last two weeks, more than 200 Sindhis and Mohajirs belonging to MQM and different groups of Jiye Sindh have been arrested by Paramilitary Rangers and other law enforcement agencies in Karachi, Hyderabad and other cities of Sindh. No arrested person was presented before any court of law, said sources.

Massive protest in Karachi against enforced disappearances in Sindh

Not just Line of Actual Control, there are tensions at Line of Control (LoC) too. There have been a number of ceasefire violations by Pakistan in the last few days, not only in the Jammu division but also in the Kashmir valley.

Since June 7, Pakistan has targeted Indian villages and military positions multiple times. There has been unprovoked firing in the sectors of Rampur, Keran and Tangdhar.

There seems to be a pattern behind Pakistan's ceasefire violations. The Pakistani Prime Minister seems to be on the same page as the Chinese president in provoking India.

<a href="Pakistan reports 132 COVID-19 deaths in 24 hours; infections rise to over 165,000">Also read|&nbsp;Pakistan reports 132 COVID-19 deaths in 24 hours; infections rise to over 165,000</a>

Imran Khan promised a 'naya Pakistan'. He vowed to end corruption. The PM&nbsp;positioned himself as a champion of austerity. Most importantly, he swore to serve the people, not the army.

Imran khan became the Prime Minister of Pakistan riding on all these promises. Then, he began complaining about how low his salary was.

He started replacing civilians in his government with army generals. He began adjusting corruption by his ministers, and&nbsp;used relief money to pay his bills.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-mulls-using-dexamethasone-for-critically-ill-patients-as-covid-19-death-toll-tops-3000-306588">Also read|&nbsp;Pakistan mulls using dexamethasone for critically ill patients as COVID-19 death toll tops 3,000</a>

In short, he broke all his promises and his sham of austerity was busted.

His country is on the brink of economic collapse. Pakistan&nbsp;doesn't have enough health supplies to keep up during this pandemic, and the food sector has been crippled.

How has the Prime Minister Imran Khan expressed his&nbsp;remorse at not being able to live up to expectations? By enjoying opulent feasts!

These are not our words, but Pakistani media itself.

According to Pakistan media reports, Imran Khan was served 135 traditional dishes during his visit to Larkana in north-western Sindh.

Pakistan is starving as Imran Khan is feasting.

The most shocking and ironic thing is that his visit was supposed to be a review visit of the functioning of hospitals filled with coronavirus patients, as Sindh is the hardest-hit region in all of Pakistan. However, for Imran Khan, good food is more important.

Reports further claim that atleast 37 protocol vehicles accompanied him on his visit to the city.

All of this amid slashes in Pakistan's budget, and at a time when Imran Khan's allies are deserting him and his government is in troubled waters.

A threat to&nbsp;coalition

Sardar Akhtar Mengal, the chief of the Balochistan National Party has announced to part ways with PTI-led coalition government.

He says the PTI has failed to implement accords with allies, and that agreements and promises made to the people of Balochistan have not been kept.

Imran Khan's coalition had 184 seats in the national assembly. After this announcement,&nbsp;it will be down to 180, which&nbsp;threatens the future of this coalition.

A minimum of 172 seats are required to form a government in Pakistan's national assembly. So, if any other coalition partner pulls out,&nbsp;Imran Khan can face a vote of no confidence in the Pakistan&nbsp;assembly.

Not just Line of Actual Control, there are tensions at Line of Control (LoC) too. There have been a number of ceasefire violations by Pakistan in the last few days, not only in the Jammu division but also in the Kashmir valley.

Not just Line of Actual Control, there are tensions at Line of Control (LoC) too. There have been a number of ceasefire violations by Pakistan in the last few days, not only in the Jammu division but also in the Kashmir valley. Since June 7, Pakistan has targeted Indian villages and military positions multiple times. There has been unprovoked firing in the sectors of Rampur, Keran and Tangdhar. There seems to be a pattern behind Pakistan's ceasefire violations. The Pakistani Prime Minister seems to be on the same page as the Chinese president in provoking India. Also read| Pakistan reports 132 COVID-19 deaths in 24 hours; infections rise to over 165,000 Imran Khan promised a 'naya Pakistan'. He vowed to end corruption. The PM positioned himself as a champion of austerity. Most importantly, he swore to serve the people, not the army. Imran khan became the Prime Minister of Pakistan riding on all these promises. Then, he began complaining about how low his salary was. He started replacing civilians in his government with army generals. He began adjusting corruption by his ministers, and used relief money to pay his bills. Also read| Pakistan mulls using dexamethasone for critically ill patients as COVID-19 death toll tops 3,000 In short, he broke all his promises and his sham of austerity was busted. His country is on the brink of economic collapse. Pakistan doesn't have enough health supplies to keep up during this pandemic, and the food sector has been crippled. How has the Prime Minister Imran Khan expressed his remorse at not being able to live up to expectations? By enjoying opulent feasts! These are not our words, but Pakistani media itself. According to Pakistan media reports, Imran Khan was served 135 traditional dishes during his visit to Larkana in north-western Sindh. Pakistan is starving as Imran Khan is feasting. The most shocking and ironic thing is that his visit was supposed to be a review visit of the functioning of hospitals filled with coronavirus patients, as Sindh is the hardest-hit region in all of Pakistan. However, for Imran Khan, good food is more important. Reports further claim that atleast 37 protocol vehicles accompanied him on his visit to the city. All of this amid slashes in Pakistan's budget, and at a time when Imran Khan's allies are deserting him and his government is in troubled waters. A threat to coalition Sardar Akhtar Mengal, the chief of the Balochistan National Party has announced to part ways with PTI-led coalition government. He says the PTI has failed to implement accords with allies, and that agreements and promises made to the people of Balochistan have not been kept. Imran Khan's coalition had 184 seats in the national assembly. After this announcement, it will be down to 180, which threatens the future of this coalition. A minimum of 172 seats are required to form a government in Pakistan's national assembly. So, if any other coalition partner pulls out, Imran Khan can face a vote of no confidence in the Pakistan assembly.

Broken promises and lavish feasts: Imran Khan disappoints people of Pakistan

At least three people, including security personnel, were killed in a roadside blast in southern Pakistan Friday, police said. &nbsp;

Two members of the Rangers -- an elite paramilitary security force -- were killed after an improvised explosive device detonated near their vehicle in the city of Ghotki in Sindh province, senior police officer Hafiz Abdul Qadir told AFP. &nbsp;

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-anti-terrorism-court-convicts-four-jud-leaders-307018">Pakistan: Anti-terrorism court convicts four JuD leaders</a>

A second security official who spoke on the condition of anonymity also confirmed the attack and toll.&nbsp;

Rural Sindh is home to some of Pakistan's most impoverished areas with powerful landowners holding vast sway over large populations of effectively indentured labourers, who have little in the way of access to education, healthcare or upward social mobility. &nbsp;

In 2017, the Islamic State claimed a suicide blast at a Sufi shrine in Sindh which killed 90 people, in one of the bloodiest attacks to hit the province in years.

Pakistan has slashed militant violence in the country since launching a series of offensives since 2007 against homegrown insurgents as well as Taliban and Al-Qaeda-linked militants -- often based near the lawless border with Afghanistan.

The offensives have also been coupled with operations by security agencies in urban areas, hitting militant networks hard and dramatically reducing violence across the country. &nbsp;

Militant groups however still retain the ability to launch periodic attacks in many rurals areas of the country.&nbsp;

&nbsp;

At least three people, including security personnel, were killed in a roadside blast in southern Pakistan Friday, police said. Two members of the Rangers -- an elite paramilitary security force -- were killed after an improvised explosive device detonated near their vehicle in the city of Ghotki in Sindh province, senior police officer Hafiz Abdul Qadir told AFP.

At least three people, including security personnel, were killed in a roadside blast in southern Pakistan Friday, police said. Two members of the Rangers -- an elite paramilitary security force -- were killed after an improvised explosive device detonated near their vehicle in the city of Ghotki in Sindh province, senior police officer Hafiz Abdul Qadir told AFP. Also read | Pakistan: Anti-terrorism court convicts four JuD leaders A second security official who spoke on the condition of anonymity also confirmed the attack and toll. Rural Sindh is home to some of Pakistan's most impoverished areas with powerful landowners holding vast sway over large populations of effectively indentured labourers, who have little in the way of access to education, healthcare or upward social mobility. In 2017, the Islamic State claimed a suicide blast at a Sufi shrine in Sindh which killed 90 people, in one of the bloodiest attacks to hit the province in years. Pakistan has slashed militant violence in the country since launching a series of offensives since 2007 against homegrown insurgents as well as Taliban and Al-Qaeda-linked militants -- often based near the lawless border with Afghanistan. The offensives have also been coupled with operations by security agencies in urban areas, hitting militant networks hard and dramatically reducing violence across the country. Militant groups however still retain the ability to launch periodic attacks in many rurals areas of the country.

Three killed in IED blast in Pakistan's Sindh

Omar Sheikh is the main accused in the murder of American journalist Daniel Pearl. He will very soon be released from jail in Pakistan. Watch this video to know who is Omar Sheikh? Why is he being released?

Sindh court lets journalist Daniel Pearl's murderers walk free?

The Sindh HC in Pakistan has allowed all the accused involved in the murder of American journalist Daniel Pearl to walk free. The court reduced the main accused Omar Sheikh's death sentence to only seven years in jail. Since Sheikh had already served a prison sentence he would be released in a few days.

Daniel Pearl murder case: Main accused Omar Sheikh to be released in few days

The Sindh High Court in Pakistan April 2 commuted the death sentence of the prime accused Ahmed Omer Saeed Sheikh in the 2002 kidnapping and murder of the Wall Street Journal reporter Daniel Pearl. Who was Daniel pearl and why was he beheaded?

Who was Daniel pearl? Why was he beheaded in 2002?

The Sindh High Court in Pakistan on Thursday (April 2) commuted the death sentence of the prime accused in the 2002 kidnapping and murder of the Wall Street Journal reporter Daniel Pearl. Ahmed Omer Saeed Sheikh will now serve seven years in prison.

Pakistan court gives verdict in 2002 Daniel Pearl kidnapping and murder case

Pakistan meanwhile has reported 20 positive cases of coronavirus. The worst-hit coronavirus state in Pakistan is Sindh with 15 cases of the infection. On March 10 two new cases were confirmed Hyderabad of a patient who had returned from Syria via Doha and another case in Karachi. The Pakistan Super League matches will still go ahead and will be staged in Sindh. Watch report:

WION Dispatch: Cricket matches to go ahead in Karachi

&nbsp;Activists and supporters of the Sindhi, Baloch and Pashtun ethnic groups on Tuesday held a protest, condemning Pakistan`s atrocities against minorities and crimes against humanity, outside the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) headquarters in Geneva.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-policeman-killed-as-blast-hits-polio-vaccine-team-281386">Pakistan policeman killed as blast hits polio vaccine team</a>

Protestors gathered at the iconic Broken Chair sculpture in front of the UN Office amidst the ongoing 41st session of the UNHRC to urge the world body to take immediate action against worst forms of rights violations by the Pakistani Army in the Sindh, Balochistan and Pashtun region.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/pakistan/sindhis-celebrate-116th-birth-anniversary-of-late-gm-syed-with-fervour-275038">Sindhis celebrate 116th birth anniversary of late GM Syed with fervour</a>

Activists also held up huge posters stating "Pakistan Army Stop Atrocities Against Sindh, Baloch and Pashtun". In the past decade, many mass graves with more than 100 bodies were discovered in Balochistan. Almost 7000 people have been faced with enforced disappearances by the Pakistan Army.

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Dozens of villages have been destroyed by the security forces and thousands have been forcibly displaced in Makkuran, Jhalawan, Dera, Bugti, and Kohlu regions of Balochistan. Moreover, the perpetrators have been given immunity by the Pakistani government. Similarly, in Sindh and Pashtun, the Pakistani Army held arbitrary arrests, enforced disappearance, torture, extra-judicial killing, and political repression as a tool to silence their voice and struggle.

Last month, the leader of the Pashtun Tahaffuz Movement (PTM) Manzoor Pashteen was arrested due to its critiques against the Pakistani government.

Meanwhile, Pakistan refuses to comply with UN Conventions.

According to Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, Article 5 of Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Article 7 of International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance the violent acts of Pakistan constitute a crime.&nbsp;

Activists and supporters of the Sindhi, Baloch and Pashtun ethnic groups on Tuesday held a protest, condemning Pakistan`s atrocities against minorities and crimes against humanity, outside the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) headquarters in Geneva.

Activists and supporters of the Sindhi, Baloch and Pashtun ethnic groups on Tuesday held a protest, condemning Pakistan`s atrocities against minorities and crimes against humanity, outside the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) headquarters in Geneva. Also read: Pakistan policeman killed as blast hits polio vaccine team Protestors gathered at the iconic Broken Chair sculpture in front of the UN Office amidst the ongoing 41st session of the UNHRC to urge the world body to take immediate action against worst forms of rights violations by the Pakistani Army in the Sindh, Balochistan and Pashtun region. Also read: Sindhis celebrate 116th birth anniversary of late GM Syed with fervour Activists also held up huge posters stating "Pakistan Army Stop Atrocities Against Sindh, Baloch and Pashtun". In the past decade, many mass graves with more than 100 bodies were discovered in Balochistan. Almost 7000 people have been faced with enforced disappearances by the Pakistan Army. × Dozens of villages have been destroyed by the security forces and thousands have been forcibly displaced in Makkuran, Jhalawan, Dera, Bugti, and Kohlu regions of Balochistan. Moreover, the perpetrators have been given immunity by the Pakistani government. Similarly, in Sindh and Pashtun, the Pakistani Army held arbitrary arrests, enforced disappearance, torture, extra-judicial killing, and political repression as a tool to silence their voice and struggle. Last month, the leader of the Pashtun Tahaffuz Movement (PTM) Manzoor Pashteen was arrested due to its critiques against the Pakistani government. Meanwhile, Pakistan refuses to comply with UN Conventions. According to Convention Against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment, Article 5 of Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Article 7 of International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, and International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearance the violent acts of Pakistan constitute a crime.

Sindh, Baloch and Pashtuns protest against Pakistan Army atrocities outside UNHRC

Chilli cultivation in Pakistan's Sindh is under threat. The scorching heat is ruining the crops. The farmers are blaming climate change.

Gravitas: Pakistan's climate change threatens red chilli harvest

It is not unusual to see farms growing red chillies in Sindh, Pakistan - it is the region's biggest crop.

Of tons of chillies that Pakistan produces, Sindh accounts for 85 per cent. The Kunri region in Sindh is the famed red chilli capital of Asia.

Last year, the production of chillies fell by 40 per cent in Pakistan due to climate change.&nbsp;

Heatwaves and warmer climatic conditions had an adverse impact on red chilli crops in the country.&nbsp;

Chillies are a mainstay of Pakistan's economy and less production translates into big losses for the region and the country.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-annual-inflation-rate-rises-to-1456-in-january-278074">Pakistan annual inflation rate rises to 14.56% in January</a>

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Pakistan produces over 120,000 tonnes of chillies which roughly accounts for 5 per cent of global production.&nbsp;

The country ranks third in the Asian belt after India and China and stands as the world's fourth-largest producer.

Chillies contribute 1.5 per cent to Pakistan's GDP. Faced with a grim situation, chilli farmers in Pakistan are staring at a bleak future.&nbsp;

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/climate-change-spurs-greening-in-barren-frozen-arctic-278178">Climate change spurs greening in barren, frozen Arctic&nbsp;</a>

According to reports, Pakistan could produce over 120,000 tons of red chilli crops in 2018 which dropped to around 70-80,000 tons in the following year.&nbsp;

If the heat spell and drier conditions continue, it will only spell bad news for the chilli market in Pakistan. Lesser output translates into higher prices for the crop and nobody is willing to import expensive chillies. Unsold stock will only add to farmers' woes and burden the economy which is already in the doldrums.&nbsp;

Meanwhile, it is found that climate change is spurring growth of green cover in the Arctic as warmer temperatures create a conducive environment for foliage to thrive.&nbsp;

The phenomenon, 'Arctic greening' is being studied by a host of experts to analyse how climate change spurs shift in temperatures, prompting vegetation in parts of the Arctic.&nbsp;

It is not unusual to see farms growing red chillies in Sindh, Pakistan - it is the region's biggest crop. Of tons of chillies that Pakistan produces, Sindh accounts for 85 per cent.

It is not unusual to see farms growing red chillies in Sindh, Pakistan - it is the region's biggest crop. Of tons of chillies that Pakistan produces, Sindh accounts for 85 per cent. The Kunri region in Sindh is the famed red chilli capital of Asia. Last year, the production of chillies fell by 40 per cent in Pakistan due to climate change. Heatwaves and warmer climatic conditions had an adverse impact on red chilli crops in the country. Chillies are a mainstay of Pakistan's economy and less production translates into big losses for the region and the country. Also read: Pakistan annual inflation rate rises to 14.56% in January × Pakistan produces over 120,000 tonnes of chillies which roughly accounts for 5 per cent of global production. The country ranks third in the Asian belt after India and China and stands as the world's fourth-largest producer. Chillies contribute 1.5 per cent to Pakistan's GDP. Faced with a grim situation, chilli farmers in Pakistan are staring at a bleak future. Also read: Climate change spurs greening in barren, frozen Arctic According to reports, Pakistan could produce over 120,000 tons of red chilli crops in 2018 which dropped to around 70-80,000 tons in the following year. If the heat spell and drier conditions continue, it will only spell bad news for the chilli market in Pakistan. Lesser output translates into higher prices for the crop and nobody is willing to import expensive chillies. Unsold stock will only add to farmers' woes and burden the economy which is already in the doldrums. Meanwhile, it is found that climate change is spurring growth of green cover in the Arctic as warmer temperatures create a conducive environment for foliage to thrive. The phenomenon, 'Arctic greening' is being studied by a host of experts to analyse how climate change spurs shift in temperatures, prompting vegetation in parts of the Arctic.

Pakistan: Chilli cultivation in Sindh takes a hit due to climate change 

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