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Pakistan Quickens Privatization, Tightens Smog Curbs as 27th Amendment Draws Resistance

A firm year-end target for PIA's sale signals the government's resolve to keep its reform agenda moving despite political pushback.

Overview

  • Finance Minister Muhammad Aurangzeb said 24 state entities will be sold and PIA’s privatization will be completed before year‑end, alongside a federal rightsizing that merges 39 ministries with most work already done.
  • The Lahore High Court ordered strict enforcement of existing closures—markets by 10pm and restaurants by 11pm—floated a Sunday shutdown for commercial activity, and sought a compliance report from the deputy commissioner by Nov 7.
  • Lahore’s district administration re‑adopted its 2023 smog plan with detailed business hours and exemptions, while a judge pressed agencies on delayed works and directed fines for violations in WASA and LDA projects.
  • Punjab’s cabinet formally endorsed a ban on the proscribed TLP, pairing the move with broader administrative decisions including transport, agriculture and traffic enforcement measures.
  • Political contention over the proposed 27th amendment intensified as PTI leaders labeled it a threat to provincial autonomy, PPP’s Sharjeel Memon said his party’s CEC will decide after consultations, and coalition managers coordinated votes with meetings and instructions to remain in Islamabad.