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3 Pakistani Movies to Battle at the Box-Office this December

Our cinema industry, on the rise from warm waters, is certainly changing into a complete entertainment hub for audiences.

2017 was jam-packed with the release of a lot of Pakistani movies, unfortunately, many of them ended up being an eventual flop at the box-office. So far, Only Punjab Nai Jaungi and Na Maloom Afraad 2 have minted massive moolah and won hearts of the audience.

Not to forget, there was an explosive box-office brawl of movies on Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Adha 2017. Mehrunnisa V LUB U locked horns with Yalghaar while Punjab Nai Jaungi and Na Maloom Afraad 2 were engaged in an aggressive tug-of-war.

Nothing is more exciting than a hostile match between movies. And now, cinemas are all set to witness yet another combat between 3 movies releasing this December, that are bound to create even a greater uproar!

Rangreza to Pass With Flying Colors?

The first one is Rangreza starring the power-packed trio of Gohar Rasheed, Urwa Hocane, and Bilal Ashraf.

The imminent movie will be the debut directorial venture of Aamir Mohiuddin who started his career as an assistant director for TVCs, later joining Vision Art Media.

The trailer for the musical romance seems promising & full of colors, depicting a tale not yet narrated by any Pakistani movie.

https://youtu.be/VXpKI-jM1Ns

Release date: 21st December

Shaan Shahid’s Arth 2 in Action!

Now giving them tough competition rises, Arth- The Destination, flaunting an ensemble cast of Shaan Shahid, Humaima Malick, Mohib Mirza and Uzma Hasan!

The much-hyped remake of Bollywood classic has been making all the right noise in the industry. It is for sure that Shaan has done a lot of hard work for the remake of Mahesh Bhatt’s 1982 Arth and it is apparent from the trailer.

With so much of intensity packed in the trailer, you could feel a burst of emotions!

https://youtu.be/NH9opHVuwt4

Release date: 21st December

Ishq Wala Love- a Film Nobody’s Knows About!

With potential blockbusters like Arth and Rangreza creating a furor prior their release, Ishq Wala Love will surely debut to empty cinema halls. With zero promotions and a never-heard-before cast, the flick is bound to be a fail.

https://youtu.be/7K6Q6BrtTuw

Cast : Ali Tabish,Anwar Ali,Hanan Samad,Mahi Khan

Release Date: December 7

Both Arth and Rangreza are opening on the same day, that is 21st December. Let’s see which turns out to be the favorite of Pakistani movie-buffs!

Which movie are you rooting for? Let us know in the comments below.

Renault is Moving towards Electric Vehicles with Kwid!

Renault is one of the most well-known automotive manufacturers around the world. Now, the French brand is shifting towards saying goodbye to fuel powered and hello to electric powered vehicles.

As time goes on, manufacturers have found that EV are the alternatives to fuel and are eco-friendly. Given that fossil fuel is a scarce resource, this adds to why the trend of electric cars has seen a sudden increase in demand over the last couple of years.

Renault is to launch their iconic Kwid vehicle in an electric variant in the Chinese auto market as an experiment. The all-new Kwid Electric hatchback will be a zero-emission car.

Moreover, it would be worth mentioning here that the company will launch the new vehicle in China and then other emerging markets.

Another reason for Renault’s experiment in China is because of the country’s friendly laws for electric vehicles and is also one of the leading vocals for the production of electric vehicles.

The Kwid car is one of Renault’s successful car and is available in both 800cc and 1000cc variants coupled with either AMT transmission or a 5-speed manual gear. Carlos Ghosn current CEO of Renault, Nissan, and Mitsubishi alliance also asserted that three automakers are collaborating with each other to achieve good sales and to acquire market globally.

Suzuki Launches the GSX-R600 & GR-150 in Pakistan

Shahrah-e-Faisal Faces a Massive Traffic Jam: Here’s Why

It was supposed to be a usual day for many of us Karachiites! The metropolis was already geared up to brace the harsh winter winds. But who knew that a massive traffic jam is all set to strike the city all over again!

Yeap, the citizens woke up to a crazy traffic that nobody saw coming. Despite the fact that the citizens now don’t bat an eye on the daily traffic problem, having made peace with that fact; the traffic in the metropolis has recently surpassed an average Karachiites patience level.

THAT TOO SO EARLY IN THE MORNING!

SO BASICALLY EVERYBODY’S DAY GOT RUINED!

While everybody is clueless about this uncalled morning surprise, it seems that development work is causing all the blockage!

Road carpeting between peak hours is causing all the chaos at Shahra-e-Faisal from Baloch Colony ramp to Regent Plaza

It is suggested to stay updated with traffic and plan accordingly to avoid being unnecessarily stuck for long hours.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for more updates!

 

Suzuki Launches the GSX-R600 & GR-150 in Pakistan

Pak Suzuki just launched the 2018 Suzuki Cultus in Pakistan, and along with the new variant, the manufacturer also launched 2 new bikes, the GSX-R600 and GR-150.

The GSX-R600 is a high-end bike specially made for people who love the fast sporty running bike. On the other hand, the GR-150 is equipped with a 150cc engine to enhance the company’s presence within the country.

Suzuki GSX-R600

The Suzuki GSX-R600 has always been seen in dominance in the AMA Pro Road Racing series, here’s a closer look at its specs;

Courtesy: Pakwheels

Suzuki GR-150

According to the company, GR150 will help the company in enhancing brand image and will also increase market share. Here are its specs;

Courtesy: Pakwheels

BBC Being Accused of Racism: Here’s Why!

The demise of veteran Bollywood actor Shashi Kapoor has left the world of Bollywood lovers in mourning. The actor passed away last night at the age of 79 after a prolonged illness.

Wrapped around his death started a controversy due to British news channel, BBC which wrongly reported Shashi Kapoor’s demise in their news story. BBC has now been accused of ‘racism’ by various media outlets and by people over social media due to it not being able to differentiate between two ‘brown’ actors.

Mail Online and the New Zealand Herald were among the many outlets that mentioned BBC being accused of racism!

While some believed it was highly unprofessional, others called it offensive and racist on BBC’s part.

 

Amitabh Bachan and Rishi Kapoor were shown instead of the veteran actor in the story, this caused quite an uproar amongst fans. The clip from the famous movie, ‘Kabhie Kabhie’ was played on BBC news a 10, surprisingly leaving out Shashi Kapoor from the story!

The BBC News Report shows Amitabh Bachan and Rishi Kapoor 

People definitely admitted that this was the biggest blunder caused by the BBC!

The Sarcasm in these tweets was at an all-time high!

BBC editor then tweeted an apology to the masses and here’s how people reacted!

 

Google is everyone’s best friend, isn’t it?

Have anything to add to the story? Let us know in the comments below.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for latest news and updates.

Bitcoin Rises to $12,000 mark!

2017 witnessed a stunning rise of cryptocurrency! After its dramatic dip the previous week, Bitcoin continues to soar high and has rebounded from its slump to break yet another record.

As per the latest report, the price of Bitcoin has skyrocketed past $12,000 and moved its year-to-date (YTD) gain to more than 1,100%.

Bitcoin Craze continues with seemingly no end in sight!

Via Coin Desk

Over the past year, the largest cryptocurrency by market value took almost four months to reach $1,000 to a closing mark of $2,000.

It later skyrocketed from $9,000 to $10,000 in just a duration of three days, recording a tenfold jump in value this year.

However, Bitcoin’s sharp decline last week signified that a rapidly swelling phenomenon could explode in spectacular fashion.

Massive Drop in Bitcoin Value After $10,000 Threshold!

 

Now debates are raging as to whether it is the biggest bubble the history ever witnessed or simply “digital gold” assuming its rightful valuation.

Hedge fund manager, Mike Novogratz told Bloomberg:

“This is a bubble and there is a lot of froth. This is going to be the biggest bubble of our lifetimes”

A type of cryptocurrency, Bitcoin works via the encryption technique but does not have a legal support from the central bank. It is not recognized in Pakistan either and is labeled as illegal by the State Bank of Pakistan.

Bitcoin Bubble Buster Can Predict the End of Bitcoin!

 

 

SBP Takes Notice of ATM Hacking, Assures Victims of Compensation

After a wave of ATM hacking, in which more than 570 individuals were robbed of a large sum of money.

State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has taken notice of this act and is in talks with the Habib Bank Limited management.

Till now 296 users have confirmed that there have been transactions from their accounts by hackers. The bank has faced almost Rs 10.2 million loss for their customers.

The accounts of bank users who used HBL ATMs but had accounts in different banks were also compromised. HBL has already started its process to compensate the victims of their full amount.

Chief Marketing Officer-HBL Naved Asghar said that the affected customers would be compensated. He also added that all ATMs will be checked for bugs and will be re-checked to ensure they are safe to be used. He further added that there is nothing to be worried about and everything is being sorted out.

According to RS Snipers, SPB has issued guidelines to ensure such fraudulent transactions can be avoided in future. Banks will have to create and implement comprehensive regulations for security of cards, analyze risk factor and implement methods to control it.

ATM Cyber Attacks Take Karachi by Storm

 

Supreme Court Orders the Word ‘Non-Muslim’ to be Used for Minorities

On Tuesday, 5th December, the Supreme Court of Pakistan has said that the term ‘non-Muslim’ should be used when addressing religious minorities living in Pakistan.

The 3-judge bench was head of Justice Ejaz Afzal. The suo motu was heard in regards to the rights of minorities in the court.

Former chief justice Tassaduq Jillani took the suo motu under notice after the Peshawar church blast incident.

Justice Dost Muhammad said: “Now the majority has also become a minority because of a minority (group), whenever it wants, holds them hostage. The judge said the word non-Muslim should be used for religious minorities as per the Constitution.

Justice Afzal added that minorities should be aware of their rights and should be protected like special children.

Ex-CJP Jillani ordered the formation of a special police force trained with special and professional training to protect the worship places of the minorities.

The Balochistan advocate general informed the court they had taken all measures to protect the minorities’ rights.

The court disposed of the case after hearing the arguments.

Pak Suzuki Launched the New Cultus 2018

Yesterday, Pak Suzuki launched the automatic variant of its new Suzuki Cultus. Azam Mirza, the Executive Officer Marketing and After Sales Pak Suzuki, told the media that the company decided to bring the auto version of the Cultus after listening to the feedback from customers and dealers.

Previously, Suzuki launched the Mega-Carry, a heavy duty vehicle for workers.

Asides the Cultus, Suzuki also launched 2 new bikes as well. The brand looks like it is planning to expand and diversify its presence within the country.

The bikes are the Suzuki GSX-R600 and the Suzuki GR150.

The 2018 Suzuki Cultus is equipped with K series K10B 12-value 3-cylinder 1.0L 1000cc engine with 5-speed manual transmission, front-wheel drive, and a sportier look.

The VXL variant comes with airbags, power windows, fog lights, and anti-lock braking systems. On the other hand, the VXR variant comes with optional upgrades.

As Pak Suzuki itself mentioned in the presentation, the AGS is basically an “automated manual transmission” system. Instead of developing a fully automated transmission, Suzuki has devised a clever way to make their current manual transmission into an automatic transmission.

Price

The 2018 Suzuki Cultus AGS is priced at PKR1,528,000.

Suzuki Cultus VXL vs Suzuki Cultus VXR: Which is worth your Money?

Pak Suzuki to Officially Launch the New Mega Carry!

Abid Shaka Makes it to BOL TV!

We all remember the time BOL TV created an uproar in the entertainment circuit of Pakistan with its launch.

The network entered the race to leave the rest behind with its power-packed talk shows, popular media moguls, and state-of-the-art infrastructure.

Many popular stars and media moguls became the face of the television channel to create the much-needed uproar in the entertainment circuit and became a part of its revolutionary ride.

From industry stalwarts like Sajid Hasan, Nabeel, Aamir Liaquat, Veena Malik, Nadia Hussain and Hamza Ali Abbas; BOL roped in all the big names to create a furor.

But seems like its dream of creating a vast media empire seems to be crashing now that its members are gradually resigning and are exposing the media house like nobody’s business.

Is it us or BOL is losing its grip?

Soon after Aamir Liaquat and Sajid Hassan declared their departure from BOL, the network has kickstarted a new TV show ‘Lagti Hai Tou Lagay’

And you won’t believe who is starring in the show?

Posted by Lagti Hai To Lagay on Saturday, November 18, 2017

It is Lyari’s much-hyped gangster, Abid Shaka!

Earlier, this year, the bold and frivilous Abid has become a social media sensation Pakistan. He never fails to speak his mind and became the talk of the town for being a drug junkie.

Already, he has been featured in countless segments that are now going viral on social media.

https://youtu.be/0oDZVTvM0Ek

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8PIBncWfo9g

Why BOL has stooped so low that they have introduced a flippant like Abid Shaka on a professional platform that claims to be Pakistan’s No.1 media house.

What do you think about this? Let us know in the comments below.

Facebook Introduces Messenger Kids

Just when you think there is absolutely nothing else Facebook’s founder Mark Zuckerberg can do to take you by storm, he proves you wrong!

World’s biggest social media has done it once again, and this time, Messenger is preparing not only to be the #1 app for teens and adults but for kids as well.

Facebook has launched a new application by the name of ‘Messenger Kids’ suitable for children under the age of 13.

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The company has mentioned that the guidelines have been taken into consideration after talking to thousands of parents and associations like National PTA and parenting experts in the US.

Facebook found the need for a “messaging app that lets kids connect with people they love but also has the level of control parents want”.

This is a very smart move as US Federal law does not allow children under the age of 13 to sign up for Facebook.

“Parents fully control the contact list and kids can’t connect with contacts that their parent does not approve of. Parents control kids accounts and contacts through the Messenger Kids Controls panel in their main Facebook app.”

How it will Work

New chats by non-approved contacts can be vetted by parents of the children who are using the app. Parents will be able to control their child’s Messenger Kids app through their Facebook accounts.

iOS Platform

As of now, the application is available for iOS devices in limited rollout with the preview of the app only available on the Apple App Store in the US. Parents and other approved adults can use any device to chat with the child through their Messenger.

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In its introductory blog post, Facebook stated;

“There are no ads in Messenger Kids and your child’s information isn’t used for ads. It is free to download and there are no in-app purchases. Messenger Kids is also designed to be compliant with the Children’s Online Privacy and Protection Act (COPPA).”

Features of Messenger Kids

Kids will be able to do other things asides chatting with their friends. These include video chat either one-on-one or group with approved contacts. They will be able to enjoy filters and other content like emoji, sound effects, playful masks, etc.

According to a report by TechCrunch, Facebook started research 18 months ago to find out what children and parents wanted out of a potential product.

“It (Facebook) found that kids had the right hardware but the wrong software. Ninety-three percent of 6-12-year-olds in the US have access to tablets or smartphones while 66 percent have their own device. Three out of every five parents surveyed said their kids under 13 years use messaging apps, social media or both,” the TechCrunch report stated .

All tools and features have been made keeping children in mind, they will have the authority to report inappropriate content if needed. Also, it will be ad-free so that children can have a proper experience.

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Indians React to Parchi’s Trailer!

The upcoming Pakistani movie, Parchi released its official trailer recently and it has created an uproar over social media. The movie has been produced by Pakistani diva and actress, Hareem Farooq and she will be seen acting in the movie too. The movie is set to release on the 5th of January 2018.

The trailer has been loved across the world and has passed 1.1 million views on Youtube, it does seem like the movie is sure to break all records.

The movie consists of a stellar star cast that includes the four hunks, Ali Rehman, Ahmed Ali Akber & Usman Mukhtar.

People across the border hardly get to watch Pakistani films, however, Parchi has received quite the feedback from Indians. Various Youtubers have reviewed the trailer and given their reviews.

Mayank a popular film/trailer reviewer was in a fit of laughter at the end of Parchi’s trailer, he looks forward to the movie, however, he believes the storyline is a tad bit predictable.


Other popular reviewers such as Reaction Fever, M Bros Reactions, and Super Guy have all talked about the trailer and are all praises for it.

One Indian reviewer has also called it,

“The best trailer EVER!”

Watch Parchi’s Trailer here and decide for yourself!

What are your thoughts on the Parchi’s trailer? Let us know in the comments below.

‘Parchi’ Movie Teaser is Out & has us all Excited!

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for latest news and updates.

Karachi Weather Update: Temperature to Drop in the Upcoming Week

Winter in Pakistan is in full spring and Mainly cold and dry weather is expected in most parts of the country.

A harsh round of the cold season, beginning December 4 has taken Karachi under its wing.

Now according to weather update, the temperature is expected to lower down a notch further in the upcoming week.

Courtesy: The weather channel

As earlier reported by Express Tribune reveals, a bout of cold winds will strike the metropolis as the wind’s direction is shifting from north to south.

It will lower down the mercury level and chilly conditions will take over the city.

Pakistan Meteorological Department Regional Director Shahid Abbas told Express-News:

“After December 4, winds are likely to intensify and return, moving in the north-west direction”

According to Abbas, the winter spell will last for between four and five days.

Weather forecast in the next 24 hours 

Mainly cold and dry weather is expected in most parts of the country. However, light rain-thunderstorm (light snowfall over the hills) is expected at isolated places in Mirpur Khas division, Gilgit-Baltistan, and Kashmir. Shallow foggy conditions are likely to prevail over few plain areas of Punjab and upper Sindh during morning hours

Deadly cyclone Ochki’s effects to effect Karachi 

Cyclone Ockhi is expected to enter the Arabian Sea from the southeast from December 4, showing its impact  Thatta, Badin, and Karachi in the form of clouds said PMD.

‘Ockhi’ is the deadly cyclone that has hit Sri Lanka and Indian coasts, claiming over a dozen lives.

As the cold weather is predicted to take over the city, MET department has advised the citizens to gear up for the winter winds and chilly conditions.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for more updates.

PAS & CCP Joint Session

Pakistan Advertiser Society (PAS) took a one of its kind initiative to engage Competition Commission of Pakistan (CCP) by organizing a joint learning session for its member companies keeping in mind the regulatory role that CCP plays in the area of ‘deceptive marketing’, which is in alignment with one of the objectives of PAS to encourage ethical and responsible practices in the field of marketing and advertising communications.

The session was attended by representatives from brand, management and legal departments of various member companies that provided an excellent learning opportunity inside knowledge based on real case studies on “deceptive marketing” practices.

The objective was to educate the advertisers on the subject and have deeper understanding on how the regulator assess communications in the light of law.

Mr. Qamar Abbas the Executive Director of PAS initiated the session by discussing the PAS Code of Advertising Practice and its arbitration process that provides a self-regulatory mechanism. Mr. Nauman Laiq, Director of Office of Fair Trade (OFT) highly appreciated this service and said this mechanism of the Society offers an extended arm to its objective of encouraging practices that are fair and transparent.

Mr. Ahmed Qadir, DG Advocacy and International Affairs. CCP also presented a brief account of the Competition Act 2010 followed by Mr. Asfandyar Khattak, Director Advocacy & Media, explaining the advocacy and culture of compliance.

The session also included presentation on Provision of Section 10 of Competition Act 2010 by Ms. Marryam Pervaiz, Deputy Director, OFT. Mr. Numan Laiq highlighted the topic of deceptive marketing in light of case studies and procedures of Competition Act 2010. The session concluded with interactive Q&A’s.

PAS now intends to hold these sessions in Lahore and Islamabad and also will be offering exclusive in-house sessions to its member companies in cooperation with CCP.

How to Properly Erase Data from your Smartphone Before Selling it

Selling Smartphones is not as easy as you think. A phone keeps essential user data within it even after individuals perform ‘factory resets’ several times. Security researchers picked up several phones “wiped” this way, and found tons of data.

In a research done by the security software developer Avast, using 20 phones which were wiped using only factory reset, the team was able to retrieve data hidden in the phones successfully!

They were able to recover the following:

  • More than 40,000 photos, including over 1,500 family photos of children, 750 photos of women in various stages of undress, and 250 selfies of the previous owner’s “manhood”
  • More than 1,000 Google searches
  • More than 750 emails and text messages
  • More than 250 contact names and email addresses
  • Four previous owners’ identities
  • One completed loan application

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For those planning on selling their Smartphones, be sure you actually wipe data and make the phone data-free so that nothing can be misused after the device is no longer in your possession.

How to Erase Data from iOS Sets

For iOS users, your iPhone has built-in options that securely erase your phone. However, for someone who has an old iOS set like the iPhone 3GS and iOS 3.0 devices, Apple has moved to hardware encryption on its phones.

So this means that all data you store on the internal storage (which, aside from anything on the SIM card, is everything) is automatically encrypted. Your phone uses a device-specific key that’s never stored anywhere but your handset.

You simply have to do the following to erase data from your handsets; Settings > General > Reset > Erase all Content and Settings.

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How to Erase Data from Android Sets

Android users have to take a few more precautions, unlike iPhone users. Most of the steps depend on the manufacturer of the set. Unlike iOS, the data encryption of Android sets is not done on hardware, the setting need to be selected manually via Settings.

Keep in mind that the process is time-consuming and that when the PIN is entered, it might cause some slight performance decreases. This process also can’t be reversed without wiping your phone, so consider carefully before you commit.

Once your data is encrypted, Andoird users have 2 options to wipe their data, either by data reset or by rooting the device with a custom recovery, wiping via the recovery might not do everything properly.

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Be sure to vet your device before you hand it over to the new owner.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for more news and updates.

Forbidden Meat Being Sold in the Name of Delicacies in Pakistan?

The amount of sub-standard food available in the country has been increasing day by day. With unhygienic kitchens and unlawful ingredients, the Punjab Food Authority has been on the tail of such restaurants and many have been fined and sealed for not following the regulations set by the authority.

In the city of Gujranwala, restaurant by the name, ‘Miyaan Ji Tikka’ was raided by ARY News recently, uncovering the sale of ‘Haram birds’ in the eatery as a delicacy. Little do customers know that the delicacies they have been paying for are actually not permissible to be eaten, keeping in mind the Islamic rules of ‘Halaal’ eating.

A popular bird, ‘Chirray’ (Sparrow) eaten as a delicacy in Gujranwala is not available in the city due to the seasonal changes. However, eateries have been selling another unidentified meat which could very well be from the haraam species as the sparrow, cheating customers who have no idea what has been going on.

On inspection of the kitchens with the Punjab Food Authority, the ARY News team uncovered how the restaurant owners have been hiding the truth from the customers. Representatives of the PFA then went on and sealed the kitchen of Miyaan Ji Tikka due to their unhygienic kitchen conditions and also due to the unidentified birds they have been selling under the name of ‘Chirray’.

Check out the raid on Gujranwala restaurants here!

What are your thoughts on this issue? Let us know in the comments below.

 

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for latest news and updates.

Pakistani Celebrities Pay Tribute to Bollywood Icon ‘Shashi Kapoor’

A wave of melancholy has swept over Bollywood as the industry stalwart, Shashi Kapoor 7passed away at the age of 79.

The romantic screen superstar of the 70s and the ultimate charmer was reportedly suffering from kidney problems.

“Yes, he has passed away. He had kidney problem for several years,” his nephew Randhir Kapoor told media.

Many might not know, Kapoor was India’s first international superstar and acted in over 175 films. He was a popular commercial actor, appearing in films such as Jab Jab Phool Khile, Waqt, Deewar, Kabhie Kabhie, Trishul and Namak Halaal.

He also appeared in several movies alongside Amitabh Bachchan including Deewar, Shaan, Suhaag and Namak Halaal.

He even worked in Jinnah (1998) for which he visited Pakistani cities Karachi and Lahore.

While Indians are mourning over his sudden demise, Pakistani stars too are leaving no stone unturned to pay their respect to veteran actor-producer.

 

 

 

Everything You Need to Know about the Mercedes Shootout at Seaview

In an unfortunate incident which took place on Sunday, 3rd December lead to the death of an 18-yr old Zafir Zuberi, leaving Zaid Khan critically injured, and Irham Rahim and Izhan Khan in trauma.

Khawer Burney and his friends were arrested for this incident after being tracked down by the police. According to Burney, the incident happened by ‘accident’. Burney added that his intention was not to kill or harm the boys, but he just wanted to shoot at the tires.

The Incident

According to eyewitnesses, a group of 4 boys went out to have breakfast and were speeding near Seaview (Do Darya).

While they were enjoying their morning ride, the speeding car accidentally hit a heavy bike, panicking, the boys continued to speed trying to get away.

However, they were chased by a double-cabin vehicle — which was escorting the injured bike filled with armed men who opened fire at the Mercedes, resulting in 1 death, 1 critical injury, while 2 managed to save themselves.

 

 

The Reports

According to the police, at least 9 rounds were shot at the car even after it came to a stop, the armed men continued to open fire.

Also, unconfirmed reports suggest that the driver of the Mercedes was under the influence of Alcohol. Khawar Burney was identified later by eyewitnesses and arrested.

The Statements

Burney said that he opened fire on the Mercedes after the car hit his Vigo. “I wanted to aim at the tire but the Mercedes turned and the bullets hit the car,” said Burney. “Everything happened accidentally,” he added.

However, this was a new statement Burney came up with. In an earlier statement to the police, Burney had said he tried to stop the ‘Mercedes car’ when he witnessed the accident, engaging in aerial firing in order to signal it to halt.

As he fired, his pistol moved upwards by mistake, and the bullets hit the people inside the car. Dr Abdul Rahim — the motorcycle rider — has disassociated himself from the incident, saying he doesn’t know either Burney or the deceased.

The constant change in statements has surely made everyone raise an eyebrow, not to forget that Rahim’s claim of not having any association with Burney or knowing the deceased has also raised several questions.

Muhammad Irham, one of the boys who survived the attack but remains in trauma shared his last memory with his friend Zafir who had saved his life before a bullet fatally wounded the boy.

Deceased Zafir Zuberi

The investigating officer in the case said the deceased, Zafir, died of wounds from two bullets.

The vehicle he was riding was shot from the left side. The bullets hit Zafir in the chest and hand, the officer said.

#JusticeForZafir

Friends and family of the deceased have started an initiative called #JusticeForZafir so that the criminals behind this murder, the armed men asides Khawer Burney can also get arrested and so that justice can be served.

This is a developing story.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for more news and updates.

Pakistani City Makes it to The Global Competitiveness Rankings

It is estimated that around 80% of the population of the world will be living in the urban areas by the end of this century, as the developing countries will become increasingly urbanized.

While in Pakistan, 50-70% of the population in living in the urban centers, this ratio is expected to increase in coming decades. Urbanization in Pakistan has indeed grown, and people are living a better lifestyle relatively, but the poor management of the cities has largely wasted the potential of urbanization.

Pakistani cities lack the international standards or modern urbanization due to their poor management and regulations. Our cities have performed poorly in terms of the criteria of density, livability, business environment, walkability, and competitiveness.

The Economist ranking of Hot Spots by 2025 ranked 120 cities in terms of competitiveness and “ability to attract capital, business, talent, and visitors”.

Karachi was ranked 111th whereas other Pakistani cities such as Lahore did not even make it to the list!

Singapore was 3rd, Hong Kong 4th, Seoul 15th, Dubai 23rd, Kuala Lumpur 31st, Shanghai 38th, Mumbai 51st, Delhi 56th and Bangkok 66th.

History has proved that cities are the center of growth and development, which attract talents and capital by providing new and big opportunities to the people.

What’s Next?

As per the latest research, around 60-70% of the population belongs to the urban areas. These people are more aware of their rights and needs. Our politicians think that health and education are the basic diseases of Pakistan.

For developing more competitive cities, the government should consider the following:

1.Decentralization

Decentralization for each city in order to find its creative edge as only autonomous cities can meet the challenges of urban and social service provision.

2. Independent Technical & Administrative Staff

The hierarchically subservient Local government has always failed to serve the city. Cities must, therefore, have their own professional, technical and administrative staff independent of the federal and provincial organizations.

3. Vertical Growth of Cities

With population increase, it is now essential to allow vertical growth of cities to pave the way for affordable housing, creative commerce, public space and many other city functions.

4. Urbanization

Urbanization means improvement in transportation facilities. Only in Karachi, we face hours of traffic jams. Moreover, this has added to the pollution in the cities. To this, there are cheaper and healthier alternatives available such as biking and walking.

 

Al-Futtaim to Confirm New Renault Dealers for Pakistan

Al-Futtaim, the name behind the bringing of Renault in Pakistan is to shortly introduce dealers who will be expected to close sales around 200,000 units and 10 percent higher than in 2016.

Al-Futtaim will disclose the dealerships that will sell the models which will be made by the Renault plant in Karachi.

Len Hunt, President of Al-Futtaim Automotive has said,“The expectation is that the construction of the plant will commence in the first quarter of 2018. The finalization of the transaction remains subject to a number of conditions, mainly relating to relevant regulatory approvals from Pakistani authorities.” 

The plant is expected to be established in 2018, and if everything goes according to plan, sales of the assembled models could start from 2019. As of now, details about the investment, dealerships involved, and other sensitive information have not been revealed by Al-Futtaim as of yet.

“Renault will be entering the market for the first time,” Hunt said. “We have an exciting Renault product line-up for the Pakistani market. And the products we introduce will be built to the same specifications as in Europe. Information on the model line-up will be confirmed in due course.”

“We will confirm the details of the independent dealers and showrooms,” added Hunt. “Pakistani consumers can expect to see world-class Renault sales and after-sales facilities. Al-Futtaim has maintained a strong and mutually supportive partnership with Renault over many years.”

The Renault plant will be wholly-owned by Al-Futtaim Automotive, which has secured “long-term, exclusive agreements” with the French carmaker.

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