CAPRA Sphere, Peshawar (2025)

30/12/2024

The Khunjerab Pass, situated at an altitude of over 4,600 meters, has historically served as a vital trade route connecting Pakistan’s Gilgit-Baltistan region with China’s Xinjiang province. This strategic mountain pass has long been a cornerstone of bilateral commerce between the two neighboring regions.

Recently, the pass has taken on an even greater role in regional trade with the launch of its first TIR (Transports Internationaux Routiers) operation. The milestone shipment commenced at the Sost Dry Port in Gilgit-Baltistan and traveled toward Karachi, where it is set to continue its journey via sea transport. This development highlights the pass's growing importance as a critical link in international trade routes.

Local authorities have expressed optimism about this initiative, underscoring its potential to significantly boost Pakistan’s economy, uplift local communities, and generate substantial revenue. Supporting this optimism, customs officials reported a record-breaking revenue of Rs9.5 billion ($34.87 million) from trade activities at the pass. The Khunjerab Pass is steadily solidifying its reputation as a crucial hub for regional trade and economic growth.

29/12/2024

Elon Musk recently shared his bold vision for Mars colonization, posting an image of a spacecraft on Twitter with the caption, "This will be Mars one day." Renowned for his relentless commitment to making humanity a "multi-planetary species," Musk has long advocated for the potential of Mars as the next frontier for human settlement.

The tweet followed a successful static fire test of a SpaceX rocket engine at the Starbase facility in Texas. Musk has frequently described Mars as a challenging but promising destination, often referring to it as a "fixer-upper" with immense possibilities. His confidence in transforming the Red Planet into a habitable world has remained steadfast.

When asked about establishing a self-sustaining civilization on Mars, Musk projected a timeline of 20 to 30 years from the first human landing. This estimate hinges on the assumption of rapid growth in the frequency of launches and technological advancements.

Although the prospect of a thriving Martian colony remains speculative, SpaceX's continuous progress signals that Musk's vision is steadily moving closer to reality. With each milestone achieved, the dream of humans living on Mars transitions from science fiction to a tangible goal.

29/12/2024

A devastating incident unfolded at Muan International Airport as Jeju Air’s flight 7C2216 crashed, resulting in the loss of 62 lives and leaving many others injured. The accident has sent shockwaves across the aviation community and the nation.

The Boeing 737-800, returning from Bangkok, Thailand, veered off the runway during its landing attempt. Initial investigations suggest a possible bird strike may have caused the landing gear to malfunction, but this has yet to be confirmed. The flight was carrying over 170 passengers along with six crew members at the time of the tragedy. This marks a grim milestone as the first fatal crash in Jeju Air’s history as a low-cost carrier.

In response to the crash, all operations at Muan International Airport have been suspended indefinitely. South Korea’s acting President has instructed authorities to prioritize rescue and recovery efforts, ensuring every available resource is utilized. The nation mourns as investigations continue to uncover the full details of this horrific event.

28/12/2024

Pakistan has made a strong start in the match against South Africa, leaving the opposition under pressure early on. With only 12 runs on the board, South Africa has already lost two key wickets, setting the tone for an intense game.

Mohammad Abbas showcased his exceptional bowling skills, trapping Tony de Zorzi leg-before-wicket with a perfectly pitched delivery. Shortly after, Khurram Shahzad added to South Africa’s woes by dismissing Ryan Rickelton. The early breakthroughs have given Pakistan a firm grip on the game as they look to capitalize on the momentum.

28/12/2024

Cristiano Ronaldo recently shared an exhilarating glimpse into his Christmas holiday spent in the frosty landscapes of Finland. The iconic footballer, who now represents Al Nassr, braved the extreme cold with a daring plunge into a -20°C pool. Capturing the icy adventure on Instagram, Ronaldo exclaimed, “Guys, look at this experiment, freezing!” as his son, Cristiano Ronaldo Jr., looked on with an amused smile.

In addition to his bold winter exploits, Ronaldo showcased heartwarming festive moments in a vlog shared on YouTube. The video highlighted the family indulging in holiday traditions like making gingerbread cookies, sipping hot cocoa, and even visiting Santa Claus himself. These cherished activities underscored the importance of family bonding during the holidays.

Reflecting on the joy of the season, Ronaldo described Christmas as "a special time" to unwind and reconnect away from the pressures of professional football. At 39 years old, the legendary athlete continues to inspire fans worldwide with his unwavering commitment to fitness and his enduring love for family life.

27/12/2024

China has achieved a remarkable milestone by completing the excavation of the world’s largest-diameter underwater shield tunnel in just 110 days. This engineering marvel, located beneath the Yellow River in Jinan, spans 3.6 miles and boasts an impressive diameter of 55.8 feet. Once operational, it will significantly enhance regional connectivity and improve transportation infrastructure in the area.

At the heart of this ambitious project is the cutting-edge "Shanhe" boring machine. This advanced piece of technology can progress at a daily rate of 52.5 to 59 feet, showcasing the efficiency and precision of modern engineering. The machine is designed to withstand immense pressure and is equipped with state-of-the-art features, including an automated air cushion system and a specialized flushing mechanism, ensuring smooth and reliable operation.

The tunnel, set to feature three lanes in each direction, will greatly ease traffic flow and support economic development in the region. With construction expected to be completed by late 2025, this project stands as a testament to China’s commitment to pushing the boundaries of engineering and innovation.

26/12/2024

Pakistan's cricket team struggled in the first Test against South Africa at SuperSport Park, Centurion, managing to post only 211 runs in their first innings. South African bowler Dane Paterson played a pivotal role, dismantling Pakistan's batting lineup with an impressive five-wicket haul. His performance gave the Proteas a significant upper hand in the match.

This Test is particularly important for South Africa, as they need a victory to remain in contention for a spot in the World Test Championship final. A win here would not only boost their confidence but also keep their championship hopes alive.

With two matches still to be played, the series promises to be a gripping battle between the two sides. Both teams will need to bring their best performances to the fore as the stakes continue to rise.

26/12/2024

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has announced plans to expand its fleet with eight new aircraft set to arrive in 2025. During a meeting with the National Assembly Standing Committee on Aviation, PIA CEO Khurram Mushtaq revealed that the airline will add wide-body Boeing 777 planes, which will primarily serve long-haul routes.

The CEO also shared positive news regarding PIA’s operations in Europe. After a four-year suspension, the European Union’s ban on PIA flights has been lifted. As a result, the airline will resume flights to Paris on January 10, 2025, with two weekly services. To further improve connectivity across Europe, PIA has entered into an agreement with Air France to facilitate access to additional destinations.

In response to concerns about inflight meal standards, the CEO stated that efforts have been made to enhance food quality. Additionally, PIA will commence daily flights between Karachi and Sukkur, marking a step toward strengthening domestic connectivity.

However, the committee voiced concerns over the slow progress of airport infrastructure development projects. To address these issues, a sub-committee has been formed to conduct a thorough evaluation and propose solutions.

25/12/2024

Pakistan has revealed its playing XI for the opening Test of the two-match series against South Africa, set to begin on December 26 at SuperSport Park in Centurion. The series is a critical part of Pakistan’s ongoing all-format tour of South Africa.

Earlier in the tour, Pakistan faced mixed results. They suffered a 2-0 defeat in the T20I series but bounced back in style to secure a clean sweep in the ODI series, winning 3-0. The upcoming Test matches, part of the ICC World Test Championship, hold significant importance for both teams as they vie for crucial points.

Fast bowler Mohammad Abbas has made a return to the squad, earning his spot after a stellar performance in domestic cricket, where he claimed 31 wickets during the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy. This series will also mark Pakistan’s first red-ball matches under the guidance of interim head coach Aqib Javed.

The selected squad features Shan Masood as captain and Saud Shakeel as vice-captain. Other notable inclusions are Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan as wicketkeeper, and promising young pacer Naseem Shah. The full lineup includes Shan Masood, Saud Shakeel, Aamir Jamal, Babar Azam, Kamran Ghulam, Khurram Shahzad, Mohammad Abbas, Mohammad Rizwan, Naseem Shah, Saim Ayub, and Salman Ali Agha.

25/12/2024

Google Wallet is set to debut in Pakistan by January 2025 as part of Google’s global expansion plans, which also include Egypt and Venezuela. This information comes from leaked developer notes, though no official confirmation has been made by either Google or Pakistan’s government.

The digital wallet will provide users with a centralized platform to manage payment cards, loyalty programs, tickets, and more. Its arrival is expected to stimulate Pakistan’s burgeoning fintech industry, fueled by the increasing adoption of smartphones and digital financial services across the country.

Google Wallet’s entry into the market will place it in direct competition with established local players such as Easypaisa and JazzCash. This competition is anticipated to accelerate innovation and enhance the overall user experience in the digital payments space. By introducing its services, Google aims to integrate Pakistan more deeply into the global digital economy, marking a significant milestone for the country’s tech landscape.

25/12/2024

Pakistan Railways has embarked on a significant milestone by beginning local production of advanced train coaches. This achievement follows the successful transfer of manufacturing technology from China. High-speed passenger coaches and goods wagons are now being produced at state-of-the-art facilities in Lahore and Islamabad, marking a new era for the country's railway sector.

Chinese experts have played a pivotal role in enhancing the technical expertise of Pakistan Railways' engineers and technicians. Their guidance has enabled the domestic manufacturing of cutting-edge rail components. Over the next three years, the Carriage Factory in Islamabad is set to assemble 184 modern passenger coaches, further boosting the country’s railway capabilities.

This initiative is a key component of broader infrastructure advancements under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). It complements the upgrade of the Main Line-1 (ML-1) railway track, a critical project aimed at improving Pakistan’s transport efficiency and fostering stronger economic connectivity across the region.

25/12/2024

An Azerbaijan Airlines flight, J2-8243, traveling from Baku to Grozny, tragically crashed near Aktau, Kazakhstan, during an emergency landing. The flight had been redirected due to heavy fog in Grozny, but disaster struck as the plane attempted to land in an open field.

The aircraft was carrying 67 passengers when it went down, erupting into flames upon impact. Emergency responders quickly arrived at the scene to extinguish the fire and begin rescue efforts. Unfortunately, 42 people are feared to have lost their lives in the crash, while 27 survivors were rushed to a nearby hospital for treatment.

The airline confirmed that the crash occurred approximately three kilometers from Aktau. Authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause of the incident, with initial reports suggesting a possible technical malfunction.

25/12/2024

The nation is celebrating the 148th birth anniversary of Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah with great enthusiasm and a deep sense of patriotism. The day commenced with prayers for the country’s prosperity, accompanied by a 21-gun salute and flag-raising ceremonies held across Pakistan.

A variety of events are being held to honor Jinnah's legacy. These include a formal change of guard ceremony at the Mazar-e-Quaid, as well as seminars, art exhibitions, and competitions aimed at showcasing his vision for a progressive and inclusive Pakistan. Such activities not only pay tribute to the founder but also inspire future generations to follow his ideals.

National leaders, including President Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, have lauded Jinnah’s unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and unity. They emphasized the importance of adhering to his principles to ensure a prosperous future for Pakistan.

The day also features community-driven initiatives like a cycling rally and vibrant cultural performances, reflecting the country’s diversity and spirit. It serves as a powerful reminder for all citizens to uphold Jinnah’s values and work towards building a united and thriving nation.

25/12/2024

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has revealed the schedule for the upcoming West Indies tour of Pakistan. The West Indies team will arrive in Pakistan on January 6, 2025. Their visit will kick off with a three-day practice match against Pakistan Shaheens at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, scheduled from January 10 to 12.

After the warm-up match, the West Indies will travel to Multan for a two-match Test series against Pakistan. The first Test will take place from January 17 to 21, followed by the second Test from January 25 to 29. This will mark the West Indies' first Test tour of Pakistan in nearly two decades, with their last Test series against Pakistan occurring in 2016.

25/12/2024

A significant development in Pakistan's digital infrastructure is underway as part of the 2Africa Submarine Cable System. This transformative project aims to greatly enhance internet speed and reliability in the country. The initiative, spearheaded by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) in collaboration with Transworld Associates (TWA), is expected to connect 46 destinations across Africa, Europe, and the Middle East.

The cable utilizes cutting-edge Space Division Multiplexing (SDM1) technology, boasting an impressive capacity of 180 terabits per second (Tbps). Supported by a global consortium that includes major players such as Meta and Vodafone, the project represents a landmark in international telecommunication advancements.

The 2Africa cable system is projected to go live in Pakistan by the fourth quarter of 2025, promising to redefine the country's connectivity landscape. This initiative aligns with Pakistan’s vision for a digitally empowered future, reinforcing its commitment to technological growth and innovation.

24/12/2024

Elon Musk’s Starlink and Shanghai Spacecom, a Chinese satellite communications company, have both submitted license applications to operate in Pakistan. Their goal is to boost internet connectivity across the country, particularly in underserved regions.

These applications, currently under review by the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), were confirmed on December 24, 2024, by Shaza Fatima Khawaja, the State Minister for IT and Telecommunication. To adhere to Pakistan’s regulations, both companies must collaborate with locally registered partners.

If granted approval, the satellite-based internet services could revolutionize online access, especially in remote and rural areas where traditional infrastructure is lacking. The PTA is evaluating the proposals through its efficient Online Application Submission Information System (OASIS), ensuring that service quality standards are met. This development has the potential to transform Pakistan’s digital landscape and bridge the connectivity gap.

24/12/2024

Richard Grenell, a former U.S. ambassador to Germany and a prominent figure in global diplomacy, has called on Elon Musk to extend Starlink's internet services to Pakistan. Grenell, who was also President Donald Trump's nominee for presidential envoy for special missions, made the appeal through a widely viewed tweet that garnered over 2.7 million views. His request has sparked discussions about the potential expansion of the satellite-based internet service into Pakistan.

The spotlight on Starlink's availability in Pakistan comes as the company works through regulatory hurdles. Earlier today, Shaza Fatima, Pakistan’s Minister of State for IT, revealed that Starlink Internet Services Pakistan has submitted an application for an operational license. However, the process has hit a roadblock since Starlink has yet to register with the Securities and Exchange Commission of Pakistan, a prerequisite for obtaining approval.

Grenell's public endorsement could expedite efforts to bring Starlink to Pakistan, where high-speed internet remains inaccessible to many. Nevertheless, official approval from the Pakistani government remains critical before any progress can be made. The prospect of Starlink’s entry has drawn significant attention, reflecting the demand for advanced internet solutions in the region.

24/12/2024

Lieutenant General Asif Ghafoor, former Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), has concluded his illustrious military career. Commissioned into the 87 SP Medium Regiment Artillery in 1988, he served with distinction in numerous pivotal roles, showcasing exemplary leadership and dedication throughout his service.

During his career, he held several key positions, including Brigade Major, General Staff Officer-I, and Director of Military Operations. However, his tenure as DG ISPR from 2016 to 2020 brought him into the limelight. Known for his assertive press briefings and dynamic presence on social media, particularly Twitter, he became a prominent figure, particularly during the 2019 Pakistan-India standoff. His role in shaping the public narrative and countering misinformation was widely acknowledged.

In his final appointment, General Ghafoor served as President of the National Defence University. In this capacity, he emphasized the importance of strategic studies and defense education, contributing significantly to the training and development of future military leaders. His legacy will be remembered for his contributions to military operations, public relations, and defense strategy.

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