A father of four in the United Kingdom has turned an unusual idea into a profitable side business by offering professional dog waste removal services — earning an estimated more than $32,000 annually from the venture. Kyle Newby, a 39-year-old builder from Derbyshire, launched his dog waste removal service, Pet Poo Pick, earlier this year after noticing the popularity of similar businesses in the United States. Speaking to South West News Service, Newby said he was inspired after seeing dog waste pickup services frequently advertised on social media. Believing the concept had untapped potential in the UK, he decided to test the market locally by posting a simple advertisement on Facebook. “The response was overwhelming,” Newby said. “We were genuinely surprised at how quickly customers signed up.” The business now serves around 35 regular clients, with Newby visiting approximately 15 properties midweek and another 20 on weekends. Customers pay an initial fee of around $40 for the first visit, followed by weekly charges of about $20, depending on frequency and property size. Based on current demand, Newby estimates he earns roughly $2,600 to $2,700 per week, working approximately 12 hours spread across several days. He says the hourly earnings often exceed what he makes during long shifts in construction work. Each job typically takes 10 to 15 minutes per garden, during which dog waste is collected using professional scoopers and sealed bags. Afterward, the area is disinfected to ensure hygiene standards are maintained. Newby also travels significant distances to responsibly dispose of the waste. While some critics have dismissed the service as unnecessary, Newby says a large portion of his clients rely on Pet Poo Pick due to age, injury, or mobility limitations. “Many of my customers simply can’t bend down or move easily,” he explained. “We’re not replacing responsibility — we’re helping people who physically can’t do it themselves.” One such customer, Peter Fisk, said he began using the service after breaking his leg. “With my condition, I’ll need help for months,” Fisk said. “The job is done properly every time. It’s a great service.” In addition to waste removal, Newby has expanded offerings to include basic lawn care for customers who need extra assistance. Although the venture currently operates as a side business, Newby says he hopes to grow it into a full-time operation, citing steady demand and strong customer retention.
Babar and Shaheen Back as Pakistan Finalise Squad for Australia T20Is
Pakistan have recalled senior stars Babar Azam and Shaheen Shah Afridi for the upcoming T20I series against Australia, signalling a shift back to experience as selectors announced a 16-member squad on Friday for the three-match contest in Lahore later this month. The duo had been rested for Pakistan’s recent T20I series against Sri Lanka, where Shadab Khan made his return to international cricket. Shadab has retained his place and will lead a strong spin-bowling group that includes Abrar Ahmed, Mohammad Nawaz and Usman Tariq, according to a statement issued by the Pakistan Cricket Board. The T20I series will be played at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, with matches scheduled for January 29, January 31 and February 1, all starting at 4pm PKT. The PCB said Pakistan’s players and support staff are expected to assemble in Lahore on January 24, with preparations for the series set to begin the following day. Australia will arrive in Pakistan on January 28, marking only their second T20I series on Pakistani soil, following a solitary match played in Lahore in April 2022. A day earlier, Babar Azam confirmed that he would miss the remainder of the Big Bash League after being recalled for a national training camp ahead of the series. Australia have already announced their 17-member squad for the tour and have opted to rest several senior players, including Pat Cummins, Glenn Maxwell, Josh Hazlewood, Tim David and Nathan Ellis. Pakistan T20I Squad (16 Players) Salman Ali Agha (captain), Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Khawaja Mohammad Nafay (wk), Mohammad Nawaz, Mohammad Salman Mirza, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Naseem Shah, Sahibzada Farhan (wk), Saim Ayub, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Shadab Khan, Usman Khan (wk), Usman Tariq Player Support Personnel Naveed Akram Cheema (team manager), Mike Hesson (head coach), Ashley Noffke (bowling coach), Shane McDermott (fielding coach), Hanif Malik (batting coach), Cliffe Deacon (physiotherapist), Grant Luden (strength and conditioning coach), Talha Ejaz (performance analyst), Syed Naeem Ahmed (media manager), Lt Col (r) Usman Anwari (security manager), Dr Wajid Ali Rafai (team doctor), Dr Raheel Karim (psychiatrist), Muhammad Ehsan (masseur)
T20 World Cup 2026: Haris Rauf Says Captain Can Make or Break Selection
Pakistan fast bowler Haris Rauf has underlined the importance of strong captaincy in modern cricket, saying a captain plays a decisive role in unlocking a player’s potential and shaping careers. He stressed that criticism hurts players deeply, adding that national team members feel the pain of defeat just as much as fans do. Speaking in a special interview, Rauf said he does not consider Australian pitches his personal preference but acknowledged that beginning his professional career in Australia proved pivotal to his growth as a cricketer. He explained that early exposure to Australian conditions, culture, and competitive standards helped him mature both on and off the field. Rauf credited Marnus Stoinis, captain of the Melbourne Stars, for playing a key role in shaping his Big Bash League journey. According to Rauf, Stoinis’ trust and leadership gave him the confidence to bowl aggressively and express himself as a fast bowler. Comparing leagues, Rauf said there is a noticeable difference between the Big Bash League and the Pakistan Super League. He described the BBL as one of the world’s top T20 leagues, featuring elite international players, while noting that the PSL continues to grow and is expected to attract more overseas stars following future auctions. Addressing criticism faced by players, Rauf said there is a fine line between constructive criticism and outright disrespect — a boundary that is often crossed. He emphasised that he has always given his 100 percent while representing Pakistan, adding that his primary role as a fast bowler is to take wickets rather than focus solely on restricting runs. Rauf described bowling in the death overs as the most demanding responsibility in T20 cricket, a role he is frequently assigned. He revealed that Melbourne Stars management encouraged him to attack batters instead of bowling defensively, telling him that top-class batters are often uncomfortable facing him at full pace. The fast bowler also dismissed suggestions that he is going through a rough phase, stating that he has delivered consistent performances since the Asia Cup. He noted that criticism tends to persist regardless of form, once again highlighting that a captain’s support can either elevate a player or undermine their confidence.
From QR to Real-Time: aikPay Brings Shariah-Compliant Digital Payments to Pakistan
aik by BankIslami has launched aikPay, Pakistan’s first Shariah-compliant, Raast-enabled QR payment gateway, marking a major step forward in the country’s digital payments landscape. Built on the State Bank of Pakistan’s Raast infrastructure, aikPay enables real-time online payments through dynamic QR codes, allowing customers to pay directly from their bank accounts while offering merchants a fast, secure, and card-free checkout experience. The launch follows an engagement session organised by aik with key stakeholders from the national payments ecosystem, including representatives from the Raast platform. The session was attended by Muhammad Imaduddin, Director of Digital Innovations & Settlement at the State Bank of Pakistan, and Ahson bin Saeed, CEO of Raast Payments Pakistan. Senior leadership from BankIslami and aik, including Sohail Sikandar, Chief Operations Officer of BankIslami, and Ashfaque Ahmed, Chief Officer of aik, were also present. Commenting on the launch, Ashfaque Ahmed said that the rapid shift toward technology has made digital payments a daily necessity. He added that aik remains committed to promoting Riba-free digital banking while supporting Pakistan’s national push toward a digitally enabled economy by offering solutions that make everyday transactions faster, simpler, and more seamless. With aikPay, customers can make online purchases using any Raast-enabled mobile banking app, receiving instant transaction confirmation without the need for cards. For merchants, the platform offers nationwide reach through Raast interoperability, real-time payment verification, instant settlement to improve cash flow, and low-cost payment acceptance through competitive MDR rates. The solution is designed to be scalable and accessible, catering to small and medium enterprises (SMEs), online businesses, institutions, and government entities, positioning aikPay as a key enabler of Pakistan’s evolving digital payments ecosystem.
Slippery Roads, Freezing Nights: Safety Guide as Snowfall Hits Pakistan
As snowfall continues across many parts of Pakistan, icy roads and freezing temperatures pose serious risks to motorists and pedestrians. Slippery surfaces significantly increase the chances of accidents, injuries, and road closures. Authorities and safety experts advise taking preventive measures to reduce ice formation and adopting safe practices to protect yourself and others. How to Prevent Ice Formation on Roads and Driveways Use Salt or Sand Spreading rock salt, calcium chloride, or sand on roads, driveways, and walkways helps melt ice and improves traction. Salt lowers the freezing point of water, while sand provides grip even when ice remains. Clear Snow Early Removing snow before it compacts and freezes is crucial. Fresh snow is easier to shovel and less likely to turn into hard ice. Avoid Water Accumulation Ensure proper drainage so melted snow does not refreeze overnight. Blocked drains and standing water quickly turn into dangerous ice patches. Apply De-icing Solutions In high-risk areas, liquid de-icers or brine solutions can be sprayed in advance to prevent ice from bonding with road surfaces. Limit Traffic Where Possible Reduced vehicle movement during heavy snowfall helps prevent snow from being compressed into slippery ice layers. How to Stay Safe While Driving on Snowy and Icy Roads Drive Slowly and Smoothly Reduce speed and avoid sudden braking, sharp turns, or rapid acceleration. Gentle movements help maintain control on slippery roads. Increase Following Distance Keep at least three to four times more distance than usual between your vehicle and the one ahead, as braking distances increase on ice. Use Winter-Ready Tires if Available Tires with deeper tread provide better grip on snow and ice. Always check tire pressure, as cold temperatures can reduce it. Avoid Hills and Slopes If possible, avoid steep roads, as vehicles can easily slide downhill on icy surfaces. Carry an Emergency Kit Keep essentials in your car, including a torch, warm clothing, blanket, water, first-aid kit, shovel, sand or salt, and a charged mobile phone. Pedestrian Safety Tips During Snowfall Wear Proper Footwear Use shoes or boots with non-slip soles to reduce the risk of slipping on ice. Walk Carefully Take small steps, keep your hands free, and avoid rushing on snowy or icy paths. Be Visible In foggy or snowy conditions, wear bright or reflective clothing to remain visible to drivers. General Safety Advice Avoid unnecessary travel during heavy snowfall. Follow weather advisories issued by local authorities. Check road conditions before starting your journey. Elderly people and children should stay indoors as much as possible during extreme cold. Snowfall can be beautiful, but it also brings hidden dangers. By taking timely preventive steps and following safety guidelines, individuals and communities can significantly reduce the risks associated with icy roads and harsh winter conditions.
Used Phone Prices May Drop After FBR Revises PTA Tax Values for 62 Models
Pakistan has introduced significant changes to how mobile phone import taxes and Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) charges are calculated, potentially lowering costs for both importers and buyers in 2026. The Federal Board of Revenue (FBR) and Directorate General of Customs Valuation, Karachi issued Valuation Ruling No. 2035 of 2026, updating customs values for 62 types of used mobile phones to better reflect current international market prices. This move aligns with recent efforts described as relieving the so-called PTA tax burden on imported phones, particularly used devices. Under the revised system, customs duties and PTA-linked taxes will be calculated based on fixed values set by customs authorities, regardless of the phone’s physical condition or cosmetic grade. Earlier valuations had remained unchanged for more than 18 months, creating a growing gap between declared values and real prices in global markets. The new ruling covers phones from major brands such as Apple, Samsung, Google Pixel, and OnePlus, with customs valuations adjusted downward for many models. For example, the updated valuation lists the used iPhone 15 Pro Max at $460 and the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra at $255, figures significantly lower than previous estimates. Other models such as the Pixel 7, OnePlus 11, and older iPhones also received revised valuations. When customs values drop, the total tax payable — including PTA registration charges — also decreases automatically, making legal import and registration more affordable for ordinary buyers. Importers must meet one key requirement to benefit from this change: the used phone must have been activated at least six months before export to Pakistan. Customs officers will verify activation data during clearance to prevent misuse of the ruling and protect government revenue. The revision has drawn interest from mobile buyers and traders across major Pakistani technology markets, including Saddar (Karachi) and Hafeez Center (Lahore), where used phone demand remains high due to the relatively steep prices of brand-new devices. For many middle-income consumers, lower taxes could make quality used phones more accessible while encouraging compliance with PTA’s registration requirements. However, amid reports of tax reprieve on social media and messaging platforms, the PTA has clarified that no universal tax reduction notification has been issued directly by the regulator. The authority emphasised that tax relief stems from the new customs valuation and not a separate directive reducing mobile taxation for all importers or consumers. The PTA warned against fake notices and urged the public to rely on official channels for accurate updates. The broader context includes ongoing discussions about the impact of high mobile taxes on smartphone affordability and 5G rollout plans. Telecom experts have previously noted that heavy taxation could slow adoption of newer devices and services, especially as Pakistan prepares for 5G spectrum auctions and future network upgrades. In summary, although PTA has not formally slashed mobile taxation across the board, the updated customs values represent a meaningful tax adjustment that could lower prices for used phones in Pakistan. This development may reduce reliance on non-compliant imports, encourage more legal registrations, and gradually improve mobile affordability in the market.
From Virat Kohli to Jos Buttler: A Record That Could Fall at the Coming T20 World Cup
As anticipation builds for the upcoming ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, cricket fans are looking back at the record-holders who have dominated the tournament with the bat over the years. The list of all-time highest run-scorers in the T20 World Cup includes some of the greatest names in modern cricket history. According to official career data from ESPNcricinfo and other trusted cricket statistics sources, Virat Kohli is the leading run-scorer in T20 World Cup history, having accumulated 1,292 runs across editions from 2012 through 2024. Following him is India’s prolific opener Rohit Sharma, who scored 1,220 runs in his T20 World Cup career. Mahela Jayawardene ranks third with 1,016 runs, reflecting his consistency for Sri Lanka across several tournaments. Close behind is David Warner with 984 runs. Jos Buttler is fifth on the all-time list with 1,013 runs. What sets Buttler apart among the top five is his status as an active international player. Unlike the others on the list — many of whom have retired from international T20 cricket — Buttler continues to represent England cricket team and is expected to do so in future ICC events. This means he has the unique opportunity to add to his total in the 2026 T20 World Cup and could potentially rise further up the all-time rankings. The rest of the top five — Kohli, Rohit Sharma, Jayawardene and Warner — have largely finished their T20 World Cup careers, making Buttler the only current contender to challenge the existing records. As the 2026 tournament unfolds, all eyes will be on him as one of the few still-active batsmen capable of rewriting the T20 World Cup run-scoring charts. Notably, no Pakistani batter features among the top 10 run-scorers in T20 World Cup history. However, former Pakistan all-rounder Shoaib Malik is placed 13th on the all-time list, having scored 646 runs in 31 innings across 34 matches. Further down the list, current Pakistan captain Babar Azam is ranked 24th, with 549 runs from 17 matches and 17 innings. Given his consistency and role at the top of the order, it appears likely that Babar Azam could overtake Shoaib Malik in the run-scoring charts if he is selected for the upcoming T20 World Cup and continues his current form.
TikTok Escapes US Ban After ByteDance Seals American-Led Ownership Deal
TikTok’s Chinese parent company, ByteDance, announced on Thursday that it has finalized a landmark agreement to create a new joint venture that will place TikTok’s US operations under majority American ownership, a move aimed at preventing a nationwide ban on the app used by more than 200 million Americans. The agreement marks a major turning point in TikTok’s long-running standoff with Washington, which began in August 2020 when then-President Donald Trump first attempted to block the platform over national security concerns tied to data privacy and Chinese ownership. Although US lawmakers passed legislation in April 2024 requiring ByteDance to divest TikTok’s US assets by January 2025 or face a ban — a law later upheld by the Supreme Court — Trump ultimately chose not to enforce the measure after negotiations over a restructuring deal gained momentum. Under the finalized arrangement, a new entity named TikTok USDS Joint Venture LLC will oversee the protection of US user data, content moderation systems, and recommendation algorithms through enhanced cybersecurity and privacy safeguards. ByteDance shared limited details about the divestiture but confirmed that American and global investors will collectively own 80.1% of the venture, while ByteDance will retain a 19.9% minority stake. Three managing investors — cloud technology firm Oracle, private equity giant Silver Lake, and Abu Dhabi-based investment company MGX — will each hold a 15% share. Trump welcomed the agreement in a social media post, claiming TikTok “will now be owned by a group of Great American Patriots and Investors, the biggest in the world.” He also publicly thanked Chinese President Xi Jinping for approving the deal, saying cooperation from Beijing was critical to its completion. A White House official confirmed to Reuters that both the US and Chinese governments had signed off on the arrangement. The Chinese Embassy in Washington declined to comment. The new venture will operate TikTok’s US app, according to the White House, while handling backend services related to user data and algorithm security. The recommendation algorithm will be retrained and tested exclusively using US user data and will be stored within Oracle’s US-based cloud infrastructure. TikTok said the venture’s investor group also includes the Dell Family Office — linked to Dell Technologies founder Michael Dell — along with Vastmere Strategic Investments, Alpha Wave Partners, Revolution, Merritt Way, Via Nova, Virgo LI, and NJJ Capital. Former TikTok USDS executive Adam Presser has been appointed chief executive officer of the new venture, while Will Farrell will serve as chief security officer. TikTok CEO Shou Chew will join the board, continuing to oversee the platform’s global strategy. Trump, who has more than 16 million followers on TikTok, has previously credited the app with helping him secure reelection. According to a photo published by the New York Times, TikTok executives presented Trump with internal data highlighting his popularity on the platform in December. The White House itself launched an official TikTok account last August. Earlier reports had indicated that while ByteDance would retain control over revenue-generating businesses such as advertising and e-commerce, operational control over US data, content moderation, and algorithms would shift to the American-led venture. The new entity will earn a share of revenue in exchange for providing technology and data security services.
Fungus-Infested Sugar Sparks Shutdown of Pepsi Bottler Units in Islamabad
The Islamabad Food Authority has sealed two beverage manufacturing units in Islamabad after uncovering major food safety violations during an unannounced inspection. The action was taken against Haideri Beverages and Beverages Plus, both located in Humak Model Town, following a surprise raid carried out by the Islamabad Food Authority in coordination with the ICT Assistant Commissioner. The operation was launched after authorities received complaints regarding unsafe production practices. During the inspection, officials discovered expired sugar allegedly infested with fungus, which was reportedly being used in the production of beverages. The findings raised serious concerns about public health and consumer safety. According to the inspection report, authorities identified four major violations of food safety regulations. These included failure to comply with earlier directives issued by the Islamabad Food Authority, the presence of approximately 150 sugar bags with tampered expiry dates, cockroach infestation on sugar sacks, and improper storage of sugar directly on the floor, breaching hygiene standards. Food safety teams collected two separate sugar samples from the contaminated stock and sent them for laboratory testing to determine potential health risks. As a result of the violations, the authorities sealed a total of 54,874 sugar bags at both facilities and ordered an immediate suspension of all production, sales, and procurement activities until further notice. Officials said the value of the seized expired sugar alone runs into millions of rupees, underscoring the scale of the violation. The Islamabad Food Authority has reiterated its commitment to enforcing food safety laws and warned that strict action will be taken against any business found endangering public health.
The Quiet Shift: Why Natural Health Is Becoming a Long-Term Lifestyle
A few years ago, “natural health” sounded like a trend. Today, it looks more like a long game. People are not only buying healthier products. They are changing routines – sleep, food, movement, stress, and even the air they breathe. One reason is simple: chronic illness is everywhere. The World Health Organization says noncommunicable diseases (such as heart disease, stroke, cancer, diabetes, and chronic lung disease) account for 74% of all deaths worldwide. When the biggest health risks build slowly, “quick fixes” feel less convincing. It’s also an economy now, not just a mindset The wellness industry has become massive, which both reflects and fuels behavior change. The Global Wellness Institute (GWI) estimates the global wellness economy reached $6.3 trillion in 2023, about 6% of global GDP. In other words, millions of people are spending on healthier eating, fitness, sleep tools, mental wellness, and prevention—often as a response to stress, burnout, and rising healthcare costs. GWI defines wellness as “the active pursuit of activities, choices and lifestyles that lead to a state of holistic health.” That framing matters because it turns health into daily decisions, not a once-a-year checkup. Pakistan’s reality makes “natural” feel practical In Pakistan, “natural health” is often less about luxury and more about survival habits. Diabetes is a major driver: IDF estimates 34.5 million adults (20–79) in Pakistan had diabetes in 2024, and calls Pakistan the highest-prevalence country in that age group. That scale pushes families toward prevention – walking more, cutting sugar, and building food routines that can last. Air quality also shapes choices. IQAir has reported Pakistan’s 2024 average PM2.5 at 73.7 µg/m³, nearly 15 times the WHO annual guideline. When smog seasons hit, people rethink outdoor timing, masks, and indoor habits. The “natural health” shift is really a prevention shift Public health messaging increasingly supports small, repeatable steps. As WHO’s Ruediger Krech said: “Increasing physical activity not only helps prevent and manage heart disease, type-2 diabetes and cancer.” And the American Heart Association puts it bluntly: “Healthy habits are the best defense against heart disease.” The long-term appeal of “natural health” is that it fits real life. It is cheaper than crisis care. It is easier than perfection. And it works best when it becomes routine.
