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KPK
Markets, petrol pumps and LPG outlets inspected; traders directed to follow official prices
Anwar Zada Gulyar
Bajaur: The district administration in Bajaur conducted inspections of various markets, shops, petrol pumps and LPG outlets in Khar tehsil to review prices of essential commodities and the availability of petroleum products. The inspections were carried out by Additional Assistant Commissioners Arshad Kamal and Asadullah on the directives of Deputy Commissioner Bajaur Shahid Ali Khan.
During the visits, the officials reviewed the availability and proper display of official price lists at shops, the quality of food items, cleanliness conditions, and the expiry dates of products. Shopkeepers were directed to strictly follow the government-approved prices and ensure proper hygiene and quality standards in order to protect public health and consumers’ rights.
The inspection team also checked the stock and availability of petrol, diesel and LPG at different petrol pumps and LPG outlets. Officials reviewed the sale prices, storage arrangements and supply situation to ensure uninterrupted availability of fuel to the public.
According to the district administration, the overall availability of petrol, diesel and LPG was found to be satisfactory. Shopkeepers and petrol pump owners were instructed to continue complying with government regulations and refrain from hoarding or overcharging customers.
National
Pollen surge triggers eye irritation across twin cities.
Al-Shifa Trust urges protective glasses as spring allergens surge.
TARIQ KHATTAK
RAWALPINDI:
Pollen levels in Rawalpindi and Islamabad have climbed to dangerous levels, with Al-Shifa Trust Eye Hospital warning that the seasonal surge is driving a rise in painful eye allergies across the twin cities.
The Pakistan Meteorological Department has recorded 14,695 pollen particles per cubic metre of air in Islamabad’s H-8 sector. Counts in G-6 and E-8 stood at 5,510 and 5,391 respectively. Paper mulberry, the dominant allergen, accounted for 14,558 particles and was classified as very high. The pollen season typically runs from mid-March through April.
Prof. Dr. Inam Ul Haq, senior consultant at Al-Shifa Trust Eye Hospital, said the high concentration of airborne pollen is triggering allergic conjunctivitis, in which the eyes become red, itchy and inflamed. He advised residents going outdoors to wear protective or large-frame sunglasses to block pollen from reaching the eyes.
He said pollen allergies commonly cause burning, itching, redness, tearing, swelling and sensitivity to light. People with existing allergies or asthma should also consider using air purifiers indoors.
He added that pollen allergy is one of the most common conditions among patients visiting the hospital. The Ministry of Health estimates that around 120,000 residents, or about 30 percent of the population in the twin cities, suffer from allergic rhinitis. Hospitals, including Benazir Bhutto Hospital in Rawalpindi, report a sharp rise in allergy cases each year.
Prof. Inam Ul Haq said climate change is worsening the problem. Warmer springs and reduced rainfall allow pollen to remain in the air for longer periods. Summer has expanded from about 150 to 180 days, while spring has shrunk from roughly 45 days to nearly 10 days, reducing the rainfall that historically cleared pollen from the atmosphere.
A study published on February 2, 2026, in the International Journal of Biometeorology, analysing 16 years of pollen data in Islamabad, found that higher temperatures and rising air pollution are increasing pollen concentrations and extending the allergy season.
Doctors recommend staying indoors between mid-morning and early evening when pollen counts peak, keeping windows closed and using air conditioning. People with severe or persistent symptoms should consult a doctor before using eye drops.
