Creation of new provinces and administrative divisions is the need of the hour, the National Dialog Committee leaders have emphasized.

Former federal minister and head of the National Dialog Committee Fawad Chaudhry told the media that the present setup of administration was not solving public issues.

He added yet the residents were deprived of essential facilities such work, health, education and clean drinking water.

“The country is going through difficult times when the public is reeling under inflation and other challenges,” Fawad said. “The country needs better governance, an effective administrative structure and equitable distribution of resources,” he said.

The former federal minister stated the concept of forming additional provinces should be examined with seriousness and an open mind.

“The changes in the administrative structure should be seen in light of the need to improve governance and to ensure better delivery of public services,” he said.

Islamabad and many other parts of the country received torrential rain followed by thunder and lightning, submerging low-lying areas and creating power disruptions in various sectors for durations.

The musical platform at the Sports Complex in Islamabad collapsed due to strong winds during the downpour. Falling trees damaged automobiles and hindered traffic flow in Sector F-10.

Haripur also had rain with gusty winds. Two persons were hurt in a tree fall incident in Paniya and water logged roads in different areas.

After rain in Peshawar, the extreme heatwave eased, offering respite to locals.

The torrential rain with thunder and lightning in Batkhela also caused surging streams and drains and disturbed the power transmission system.

Swabi also saw heavy rain and low-lying areas were submerged, making life tough for the locals.

More rain is anticipated across the country until September 17, according to the Meteorological Department.

Rain is forecast in Kashmir, Gilgit-Baltistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, while hot and humid weather is expected in Sindh and Balochistan.

The Airport Health Department said international travelers will not be able to fly without a vaccination certificate given by the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) starting September 14.

In a statement, the department has asked Umrah travelers to get their NADRA immunization cards before leaving.

The letter said that the Federal Government Civil Dispensary was the only center designated for vaccination of international travelers.

The airlines have also been asked to verify that Umrah pilgrims have proper immunization certificates when they board their flights.

Those who choose to get vaccinated at the airport have been advised to arrive at least six hours before their scheduled flight.

The airport health department said vaccinations and online registration for international travelers will be carried out at the international departure section of the airport.

The new requirement will be effective September 14.