The marble sector in Mohmand district of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, once seen as a key source of jobs and economic growth, is now facing criticism due to its harmful impact on the environment and public safety. Residents and experts caution that unregulated industrial activities are damaging water resources, farmland, and local infrastructure across the area.

Mohmand is rich in natural resources such as marble, chromite, and nephrite, which have long supported local livelihoods and contributed to the country’s economy. However, the lack of effective regulation has led to significant environmental deterioration. To address these issues, authorities introduced the Mohmand Marble City project, now known as the Mohmand Economic Zone at Machnai, aiming to shift factories into a planned industrial area with proper waste management. Despite this effort, only a few units have relocated, while most continue operating in Halimzai tehsil, especially in Chanda, Sangar, and Nasapai.

Experts report that many factories are dumping untreated wastewater, marble slurry, and dust into natural streams. This pollution is blocking waterways and increasing the risk of flash floods during heavy rains. Officials warn that clogged drainage systems could cause serious damage to homes, agricultural fields, and roads.

The environmental impact is also threatening small dams built to address water shortages. These reservoirs are quickly filling with industrial waste. For instance, a check dam near Chanda Bazaar is nearly blocked, while the Abdul Shakoor Small Dam near Ghalanai faces similar risks, potentially affecting irrigation and fishery projects.

Local residents have voiced frustration over the lack of action despite repeated complaints. Analysts point out that weak enforcement of environmental laws has allowed industries to operate without following safety standards. Stakeholders are now calling for urgent measures, including stricter regulation, relocation of polluting units, and immediate cleaning of dams and waterways to prevent further environmental harm.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Reuters.

Karachi is once again facing a severe water crisis after a major failure at the Dhabeji Pumping Station caused a critical supply line to rupture, highlighting the city’s vulnerable infrastructure. The incident resulted in the loss of millions of gallons of water and disrupted supplies across several key areas, according to The Express Tribune.

Officials reported that the disruption occurred late Sunday night when an unexpected power outage forced multiple pumps at the K-III Pump House and Phase-II system to shut down. This sudden stoppage caused severe pressure fluctuations in the pipeline network, ultimately leading to the bursting of the 72-inch main line.

Large amounts of water spilled into surrounding areas before authorities could control the situation. Emergency repair teams were immediately deployed, working continuously to restore the damaged infrastructure. Officials expressed serious concern over recurring power outages at the Dhabeji facility, warning that such interruptions pose a significant threat to Karachi’s already strained water supply system. They urged K-Electric to maintain a stable power supply to prevent the crisis from worsening.

The breakdown has affected several densely populated neighborhoods, including Korangi, Landhi, Malir, Gulshan-e-Iqbal, and parts of District Central, where residents are likely to face water shortages for 24 to 48 hours. Authorities have advised people to conserve water and prepare for delays, with a surge in tanker demand expected. According to sources in the Water Corporation, while repairs may be completed within a day, restoring full supply will take longer due to the need for gradual pressure stabilization. Partial service could resume by night if no additional issues arise, The Express Tribune reported.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from Reuters.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday expressed profound sorrow over the passing of former Suriname President Chandrikapersad Santokhi, describing it as an “irreparable loss” for both Suriname and the global Indian diaspora. In a message shared on X, he said he was deeply shocked and saddened by the sudden demise of his friend and the former leader.

Recalling their personal interactions, the Prime Minister praised Santokhi’s dedication to his country and his efforts to strengthen ties between India and Suriname. He noted that Santokhi had a deep appreciation for Indian culture and had won admiration for taking his oath in Sanskrit. Modi also extended his heartfelt condolences to Santokhi’s family and the people of Suriname during this difficult time.

In November 2024, Modi had met Santokhi on the sidelines of the second India CARICOM Summit in Georgetown, where they reviewed bilateral relations and explored ways to expand cooperation across sectors. In July 2025, 71 year old physician and senior lawmaker Jennifer Geerlings Simons became Suriname’s first woman president after securing parliamentary approval.

India and Suriname share warm and friendly relations, strengthened by long standing cultural and people to people connections rooted in the Indian diaspora that dates back over a century. The two countries maintain institutional mechanisms such as Joint Commission Meetings and a Joint Working Group on Agriculture to deepen cooperation. India has also supported Suriname through development partnerships, including lines of credit and grants.

Although trade ties remain modest, India exports items such as machinery, iron and steel, electrical equipment, pharmaceuticals, textiles, vehicles, tea, spices and other goods to Suriname, while importing products like wood, aluminium, textiles, garments, herbal items, spices and electrical machinery.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from X/@narendramodi.

Amid the ongoing Middle East crisis, rising global fuel prices and shortages have prompted attempts at unauthorized fuel hoarding. To curb such activities, ensure orderly fuel distribution, and maintain uninterrupted supply, the Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) has been deployed at multiple fuel depots nationwide, according to a statement on Saturday by the Ministry of Home Affairs.

The deployment follows a structured plan overseen by BGB Headquarters, with temporary base camps set up in secure locations to support operations in remote areas. Since the morning of 25 March 2026, BGB personnel have been stationed at 19 depots across 9 districts: Dhaka (1), Kurigram (2), Rangpur (3), Rajshahi (3), Sylhet (2), Moulvibazar (3), Cumilla (3), Brahmanbaria (1), and Sunamganj (1).

Deployed personnel are working under designated officers, ensuring strict supervision and enforcement of security and administrative measures. Enhanced intelligence monitoring has been implemented to prevent illegal fuel hoarding, unauthorized sales, and potential sabotage. The BGB is coordinating closely with depot authorities to ensure rapid information sharing, stabilizing fuel supply, and boosting public confidence.

To combat fuel smuggling, intensified land and river patrols are underway, with checkpoints for inspections and strengthened surveillance along borders. Monitoring at Integrated Check Posts (ICPs) and Land Customs Ports (LCPs) has also increased, with regular inspections of trucks and other vehicles involved in import-export activities. Bangladesh’s energy shortfall caused by the West Asia conflict, India has supplied an additional 5,000 tons of diesel, a senior government official confirmed on Friday night.
Disclaimer: This image is taken from BGB.

On “Destination Anywhere,” Melanie Oliveiro chats with Regina Lee, a travel and home influencer, about her journey through northern Xinjiang. From the shimmering turquoise waters of Sayram Lake to the lush rolling landscapes of Nalati Grasslands and the snow-capped peaks of the Tian Shan mountains, Regina recounts the region’s beauty and charm. She guides listeners through glacier valleys, picturesque villages, vibrant lakes, and lively bazaars, while also sharing practical tips on how to fully experience this remarkable frontier of China.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA.

Southeast Asia’s largest conglomerates have traditionally been viewed as the backbone of the region’s economy. However, a recent report by global consulting firm Bain & Company indicates that this model is facing significant challenges. Specialized competitors are encroaching on their markets, and many of these corporate giants are finding it hard to stay competitive. The question now is whether Asia’s major conglomerates need to reinvent themselves — and if they can. Andrea Heng and Susan Ng discuss this with Amanda Chin, Partner at Bain & Company.
Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA.

The Middle East conflict is intensifying rapidly, with reports of casualties and damage in at least nine countries within just 10 hours. Israeli and US aircraft have carried out new strikes across Iran, while Iranian missiles and drones target US-allied Gulf states. Nosheen Iqbal talks with Jamie Wilson, the Guardian’s head of international news – watch the discussion on YouTube.

Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from The Guardian.

The Middle East is at a pivotal moment after the reported death of Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in strikes by the U.S. and Israel. Retaliatory attacks have followed on both sides, sparking concerns about wider regional instability. Nations across the globe are urging calm, dialogue, and diplomatic efforts as tensions escalate. Andrea Heng and Hairianto Diman discuss the latest updates with Dr. Peter Layton, Visiting Fellow at the Griffith Asia Institute, Griffith University.

Disclaimer: This podcast is taken from CNA.