England defeated Pakistan in a high-pressure Super Eights clash at the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026, chasing down the target with composure to secure a two-wicket victory. The result not only confirmed England’s place in the semifinals but also reshaped the qualification equation in Group Two. Pakistan posted a competitive total, but England held their nerve in the chase. A decisive batting performance in the final overs ensured England crossed the line, collecting their second win of the Super Eights stage. With four points from two matches and a healthy net run rate, England are now officially through to the last four. Updated Super Eights Points Table Following today’s result, England sit at the top of Group Two with four points. Their strong net run rate means they qualify for the semifinals regardless of the outcome of their final group fixture. Pakistan, however, remain under pressure. After losing to England and previously sharing points in a rain-affected match, they sit on one point with one match remaining against Sri Lanka. Their qualification now depends not only on winning but also on how other results unfold. Group Two currently consists of England, New Zealand, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. With England already qualified, the battle for the second semifinal berth is now effectively between New Zealand and Pakistan. Read More: NZ vs Pakistan Called Off: How the Washout Changes the Semi Final Race Pakistan’s Qualification Scenarios Explained Pakistan’s path to the semifinals depends heavily on New Zealand’s remaining matches. The qualification permutations are now clear: If New Zealand lose their remaining two games, Pakistan will only need to beat Sri Lanka to qualify. If New Zealand lose one of their remaining two games, Pakistan will need to beat Sri Lanka and rely on net run rate. If New Zealand win both games, Pakistan are out of the tournament. This makes Pakistan’s upcoming match against Sri Lanka a must-win contest. However, even a victory may not guarantee progression if net run rate becomes the deciding factor. Net Run Rate Could Be Decisive Net run rate remains a critical element in the Super Eights standings. In ICC tournaments, teams tied on points are separated by net run rate, which reflects overall scoring and bowling performance. Pakistan’s current net run rate trails England and could fall behind New Zealand depending on upcoming results. That means a narrow win over Sri Lanka may not be sufficient. A convincing margin of victory could be necessary if qualification is decided on decimal differences. England, in contrast, now approach their final Super Eights game without pressure. Qualification secured, they can focus on maintaining form ahead of the semifinals. Read More: England Dominate Sri Lanka by 51 Runs to Kick-start Super 8s in T20 World Cup 2026 Tournament Pressure Intensifies The Super Eights stage has once again delivered dramatic twists. One defeat and one shared result have left Pakistan fighting to stay alive in the tournament. Fans now turn their attention to New Zealand’s remaining fixtures and Pakistan’s must-win clash against Sri Lanka. Every run and every wicket could determine who joins England in the semifinals. As the tournament heads toward its knockout phase, the updated Super Eights points table highlights just how quickly fortunes can change in T20 cricket.
Ramadan 2026 Set to Complete 30 Days; Eid-ul-Fitr Likely on March 21 in Pakistan
The Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD) has predicted that there is no chance of sighting the Shawwal crescent on the evening of March 19, 2026, based on astronomical calculations. This forecast implies that the holy month of Ramadan 1447 AH will complete its full 30 days in Pakistan, making Eid-ul-Fitr most likely to fall on Saturday, March 21, 2026. These scientific forecasts provide a strong indication, but the final and official announcement will still be made by the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, the government’s official body that confirms lunar sightings across the country. How Eid-ul-Fitr Date Is Determined Eid-ul-Fitr marks the first day of Shawwal, the month that follows Ramadan in the Islamic lunar calendar. The festival begins once the crescent moon of Shawwal is sighted after the end of Ramadan. If the moon is not seen on the 29th day of the fasting month, Ramadan completes 30 days and Eid is observed the next day. According to astronomical predictions, the new moon (conjunction) of Shawwal will occur on March 19, 2026, but its visibility around sunset is expected to be extremely unlikely in Pakistan. This low probability drives the PMD’s forecast that Ramadan will continue through its full 30 days. Ramadan and Eid Timelines Across the Muslim World Similar lunar forecasts and sighting traditions are observed internationally. Scientific models and moon sighting committees in countries such as the UAE, Turkey and Singapore have projected that Ramadan likely began on February 19, 2026, and is expected to conclude around March 20 or 21. Astronomers in Pakistan also projected that the crescent moon for Ramadan was likely to be observed on February 18, making the first fast of Ramadan on February 19 after official confirmation. Globally, the diversity in moon sighting practices — local physical sightings versus astronomical calculations — means that the exact date of Eid can sometimes differ by one day between regions. Role of the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, established in 1974 and supported by PMD observatories, remains the authoritative body responsible for declaring the official start and end of Ramadan based on moon sighting testimonies and scientific data. The Committee gathers reports from across Pakistan and announces the day of Eid after thorough review. Once the moon is officially sighted, communities celebrate Chaand Raat — the night before Eid — with shopping, henna application, family gatherings and preparations for the festival itself. Looking Ahead to Eid-ul-Fitr While the PMD’s forecast strongly points toward Eid-ul-Fitr on March 21, final confirmation will follow the Ruet-e-Hilal Committee’s announcement after moon sighting reports on the evening of March 20. Families and communities across Pakistan are preparing for the festive occasion that marks the end of a month of fasting, prayer, charity and reflection.
PTCL Reports 12% Revenue Growth in FY2025, Completes Telenor Pakistan Acquisition
Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL), the country’s leading telecom and ICT services provider, has announced its consolidated financial results for the year ended December 31, 2025, reporting strong year-on-year revenue growth and significant operational improvement across key segments. Strong Revenue Growth and Operational Performance PTCL’s consolidated revenue increased by 12% year on year, driven by robust performance in fixed broadband, enterprise, wholesale and mobile services. Consolidated operating profit surged by 216% compared to the previous year, reflecting strengthened operational efficiency. However, the Group recorded a net loss of Rs. 9.7 billion, primarily due to accelerated Expected Credit Loss provisioning at Ubank following revisions to Prudential Regulations. Read More: PTCL Flash Fiber Wins Top Ookla Awards for Best Network in Pakistan On a standalone basis, PTCL’s revenue also grew by 12% year on year. Flash Fiber led the growth with a 50% increase, while Business Solutions expanded by 16% compared to the previous financial year. Carrier and Wholesale maintained momentum with 28% growth, and the international segment recorded a 3% revenue increase. PTCL’s operating profit reached Rs. 18.2 billion, up 49% year on year. The company posted a net profit of Rs. 1.4 billion despite a one-off additional pension liability booking of Rs. 6.9 billion following a decision by the Honourable Supreme Court of Pakistan. Ufone’s revenue grew by 14% year on year, driven by retail and corporate segments. Its operating profit reached PKR 17.6 billion, reflecting 283% growth, while net losses were reduced by 89%. Landmark Acquisition of Telenor Pakistan PTCL completed the acquisition of Telenor Pakistan on December 31, 2025, after receiving all required regulatory approvals. Operational results of Telenor Pakistan will be consolidated from January 1, 2026. With Telenor Pakistan and Orion Towers now wholly owned subsidiaries, the transaction marks one of Pakistan’s most significant telecom consolidations. PTCL has initiated the planned amalgamation of Telenor Pakistan and Ufone, subject to regulatory approvals. The integration aims to enhance nationwide coverage, improve operational efficiencies, strengthen market competitiveness and support long-term strategic priorities in connectivity and digital services. Broadband, Digital and Enterprise Expansion PTCL Flash Fiber maintained market leadership with 50% year-on-year growth and the highest subscriber market share of 33%. The ‘Tez Raftaar’ offer expanded access to affordable high-speed internet. Read More: IMF Confirms Review Mission to Pakistan From February 25 After Economic Reform Gains Digital services delivered strong results. UPaisa’s 30-day active users exceeded 1.5 million. Transactions grew 57% year on year, reaching a monthly peak of 13.2 million. Throughput increased 33% to a record monthly level of PKR 21.9 billion. The UPTCL self-care app surpassed 5.7 million monthly active users. Ufone’s digital sub-brand Onic crossed 406,000 subscribers, achieving 169% growth through a fully digital operating model. PTCL Smart Cloud expanded significantly, onboarding digital banks, fintechs, enterprises and government institutions. AI-ready data center infrastructure was upgraded, while the wholesale segment grew IP bandwidth and managed capacity through strategic partnerships with mobile operators and satellite providers. Internationally, PTCL strengthened its carrier wholesale leadership through a diversified submarine cable network and resilient national fiber infrastructure. The company secured major ICT and telecom projects across banking, education, aviation, healthcare and public-sector organizations. It also delivered Pakistan’s first 5G-ready smart residential community and became the first operator in Pakistan to enable end-to-end bill payments and monthly PDF billing via WhatsApp. PTCL partnered with Mercantile, Apple’s authorised distributor in Pakistan, to launch the iPhone 17 series bundled with Ufone and PTCL Flash Fiber offers in Karachi, Lahore and Islamabad. Awards and Social Impact PTCL received Gold recognition at the Dragons of Pakistan 2025 Awards and Dragons of Asia 2025 Awards for its clean water access campaign under the ‘Dil Se’ platform. Read More: PTCL Beats Competition to Lead Broadband Rankings Under Tech 4 Inclusion, Tech 4 Social Innovation and Act of Kindness pillars, aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, PTCL expanded digital inclusion initiatives. The Ba-Ikhtiar program graduated 79 women who launched independent ventures. The initiative expanded to 23 cities and gained visibility through BBC Urdu and Pashto coverage. In partnership with ConnectHear, PTCL and Ufone launched the world’s first AI-powered sign-language early warning system for the Deaf community, supported by the GSMA Innovation Fund and showcased at Gitex Global 2025. The company supported UNICEF’s polio awareness campaigns, provided connectivity in flood-affected districts and expanded clean water access in Thar and Umerkot. A new MoU with PPAF will extend water interventions across South Punjab and Thar, benefiting over 200,000 people. These initiatives underscore PTCL’s focus on delivering measurable social impact alongside sustained business growth.
Plan It Today, Send It Tomorrow: WhatsApp Scheduling Coming Soon
WhatsApp, the world’s most widely used messaging platform, is developing a native scheduled messages feature that will let users compose messages ahead of time and have them sent automatically at a preset date and time. The update, currently spotted in the WhatsApp iOS beta version 26.7.10.72, shows Meta is finally preparing a feature that millions have requested for years. The feature could be named Scheduled Messages and work across both individual and group chats. Hidden references in the beta reveal that users will be able to type a message, schedule the delivery time, and then let WhatsApp handle the rest without any further action. How It Will Work Once released, users will see scheduled messages appear in a dedicated Scheduled Messages section inside the chat’s info screen. From there, users will be able to view pending messages, edit them or delete them before sending. This gives full control if plans change after scheduling. At the moment, the feature appears in code for group chats, but there is no known reason why it would be limited only to groups. Tech analysts believe WhatsApp will ultimately roll it out for both one-on-one and group conversations. WABetaInfo, a reliable tracker of WhatsApp updates, first identified the scheduling function in late iOS betas. It confirms that the feature remains under development and is not yet available for public beta testers or general users. What Scheduled Messages Means for Everyday Users This feature will allow users to plan birthday wishes, anniversary greetings, work reminders or important updates in advance. Without it, users currently rely on third-party apps or workarounds like Apple’s Shortcuts or external automation apps which carry privacy and security limitations. Unlike third-party solutions, the native implementation would be free and integrated directly inside WhatsApp, making it easier to schedule texts without extra apps or risk. Why This Feature Matters Many messaging platforms already offer message scheduling. Telegram has long supported scheduled messages, and Apple’s Messages app added a Send Later option with iOS 18. WhatsApp’s adoption of the feature will bring it in line with competitors and fill a gap in its native functionality. For individuals, scheduling messages simplifies communication planning. For businesses and organizations using WhatsApp for customer communication, it could reduce the need for separate scheduling software or manual reminders. What to Expect Next Meta has not announced a public release date for the Scheduled Messages feature. Observers expect it to appear in future beta releases before a wider rollout to Android and iOS users. The feature’s availability timeline remains unknown, and like all beta features, it could change or evolve before release.
Inside Burj Azizi: What Apartments in the World’s Second-Tallest Tower Cost
Dubai is adding another landmark to its already dramatic skyline with the Burj Azizi, a skyscraper poised to become the world’s second-tallest building at 725 metres and over 140 storeys high. Positioned on the prestigious Sheikh Zayed Road, this mixed-use development blends residential, hospitality, retail, entertainment and cultural spaces under one roof. Construction is scheduled for completion in 2029. Developed by Azizi Developments, the Burj Azizi will redefine luxury living in the Middle East. Apartments start at AED 4.97 million (about USD 1.35 million), making high-rise living a reality for affluent buyers. What Buyers Can Expect The tower will offer a broad range of residences, from one to three-bedroom apartments to ultra-luxury penthouses, each featuring dedicated lobby access and panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf and city skyline. Residents will enjoy an array of amenities, including swimming pools, a spa, gym and yoga centre, a private cinema and games room, and numerous retail and dining outlets, all within the building. Prices vary widely based on floor level, view and layout. According to market reports, ultra-luxury units have been priced from around AED 7,149 per square foot up to AED 34,000 per square foot at premium levels. Overall sales prices for apartments are expected to range from about AED 7.5 million to AED 156 million or more for the most exclusive floors. Farhad Azizi, Group CEO of Azizi Group, emphasised the project’s significance by comparing it to Dubai’s other skyscrapers, saying, “To have the two tallest buildings in the world located just kilometres apart is a powerful statement of Dubai’s unparalleled ambition and capacity to redefine what cities can achieve.” Records and Attractions Within the Tower In addition to residential space, Burj Azizi aims to set several world records. The design includes the highest observation deck on level 130, the highest hotel lobby on level 111, and the highest restaurant on level 122. A museum chronicling the tower’s construction will occupy the top. The building will also feature a seven-star hotel, with multiple cultural dining concepts, a luxury ballroom and an exclusive beach club. These features ensure the tower will not just be a residence but a global destination for living and leisure. Global Context of Super-Tall Skyscrapers While Burj Azizi is rising to prominence, other mega–structures are also transforming skylines. Malaysia’s Merdeka 118 currently holds the title of the second-tallest building at 678.9 metres, completed in 2023, before Burj Azizi surpasses it. Saudi Arabia’s ambitious Jeddah Tower project, which paused construction, is also back under way and aims to exceed 1,000 metres to become the world’s tallest structure upon completion. The Burj Khalifa, Dubai’s iconic 828-metre skyscraper, will continue to hold its title as the world’s tallest building even after Burj Azizi opens. An Investment and Lifestyle Opportunity Despite some fluctuation in Dubai’s rental and property markets, luxury buyers continue to show strong interest in premium real estate and high-rise living. New developments like Burj Azizi provide a compelling option for high-net-worth individuals seeking prestige, breathtaking views and world-class amenities in one address.
T20 World Cup Weather Watch: Could Rain Hit Pakistan vs England?
Pakistan’s much-anticipated Super Eights clash against England in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 looks set to go ahead under favourable weather conditions, providing relief for fans and players after recent rain disruptions in the tournament. According to the latest weather updates for Kandy’s Pallekele International Cricket Stadium, rain is very unlikely to interrupt play on match day, with mostly clear skies expected during the evening hours. The match carries major stakes for both sides. Pakistan needs a strong result to stay in semifinal contention, while England aim to consolidate their position at the top of Super Eights Group Two. Favourable Weather Forecast AccuWeather and local meteorological forecasts suggest a mostly sunny and dry day in Kandy with just a very low chance of rain during match hours. By early evening, when the match is scheduled to begin, rain probability drops further to around 2 percent, and cloud cover is expected to reduce significantly. Temperature readings are forecast to be comfortable for T20 play, with evening conditions hovering around 27°C to 28°C. Winds are predicted to remain light, offering stable visibility for both batting and bowling units. Humidity may be high due to Sri Lanka’s tropical climate, but it should not affect the likelihood of uninterrupted play. This clearer outlook marks a change from earlier in the Super Eights phase when rain caused the Pakistan vs New Zealand game in Colombo to be abandoned without a ball bowled. That match was completely washed out due to persistent downpours. Impact of Weather on Tournament Prospects Good weather is crucial for Pakistan’s hopes of progressing to the semifinals. A second rain-affected game could severely damage their chances, given they already shared points with New Zealand in their earlier match. England, on the other hand, may edge closer to qualification with a victory if the contest proceeds uninterrupted. Cricket analysts note that clear play conditions provide both sides with a fair chance to execute their strategies fully. Pakistan’s bowling attack may exploit early evening swing and seam conditions, while England’s batting line-up can look to build strong partnerships without weather-related pressure. Read More: NZ vs Pakistan Called Off: How the Washout Changes the Semi Final Race Pallekele Stadium and Pitch Dynamics The Pallekele International Cricket Stadium has hosted seven matches in this T20 World Cup. The venue’s surface usually starts favouring batters early in the innings before slowing slightly in later overs, offering opportunities for spinners to come into play. With clear skies expected, captains may prefer to bat first after winning the toss. But both teams will be ready to adapt according to conditions once the match begins. Read More: Pakistan Warns England Batting Will Struggle Against Spin in Super 8 Match Fan and Expert Reactions Cricket fans have expressed cautious optimism online following the brighter forecast, hoping for a full game after the disappointment of weather-impacted fixtures earlier in Super Eights. Experts point out that uninterrupted play not only preserves the competition’s competitive integrity but also boosts the atmosphere at packed stadiums. As match day arrives, players and officials will watch the skies closely. But for now, the forecast suggests that weather should not play spoilsport for this key clash between two of cricket’s most followed teams.
Exclusive: Palisade Price Range and Variants Revealed for 2026
Hyundai has officially announced pricing for its premium Hyundai Palisade SUV in Pakistan, a major development for local buyers eyeing a luxury seven-seater. The Palisade is set to arrive through Hyundai Nishat Motor (Private) Limited, with bookings beginning in March 2026 and deliveries expected later this year. The SUV will be locally assembled in Pakistan, making it one of the most anticipated SUV launches in the premium segment. Price Range and Variants Hyundai Pakistan has revealed the official prices for the Palisade in PKR, reflecting a range of variants that cater to different buyer preferences: Hyundai Palisade Standard: approximately PKR 13,885,830 (around $51,770) Palisade Limited AWD: around PKR 14,197,160These figures place the Palisade among the more expensive SUVs in the domestic market but provide extensive space, comfort, and performance for buyers seeking luxury and utility in one package. Although Hyundai Nishat has yet to release full local specifications for each variant, industry insiders expect modern features such as advanced infotainment systems, multiple airbags, and premium safety technology, aligning with global standards for the Palisade model. These expectations are based on international trims that include panoramic digital displays, terrain driving modes, and advanced driver-assistance systems. Local Assembly Marks a Strategic Move One of the most significant aspects of the Palisade launch is its local assembly (CKD) in Pakistan. Hyundai Nishat announced that Pakistan will be the first market after South Korea to locally assemble the flagship SUV. This decision could help reduce prices and improve parts availability and after-sales support compared to fully imported versions, benefiting consumers in the long run. Local assembly may also support job creation in the automotive sector and strengthen Pakistan’s growing manufacturing ecosystem. Experts believe that local assembly will help Hyundai better compete with other premium SUVs in Pakistan, including upcoming rivals like the GWM Tank 500. There is strong demand for large SUVs with modern features and comfort, particularly among families and buyers who travel long distances regularly. Read More: Hyundai Confirms Palisade Pre-Bookings and Pricing for Pakistan Market Context and Consumer Expectations The 2026 Palisade also represents Hyundai’s shift toward incorporating more hybrid technology and advanced features. Globally, the new Palisade offers both traditional petrol and hybrid powertrains, making it efficient as well as powerful. While Pakistan’s version is expected to emphasize petrol engines initially, hybrid variants could arrive later as demand grows for eco-friendly vehicles. The SUV market in Pakistan is expanding, with mid-size and full-size vehicles gaining popularity among buyers. Data from industry watchers show that demand for premium SUVs and hybrid vehicles is on the rise, driven by changing consumer preferences and greater focus on comfort, safety, and performance. Analysts believe the Palisade’s combination of space, luxury and local assembly could make it a strong competitor. Read More: From Hybrids to SUVs: How Hyundai and Kia Plan to Grow This Year Outlook and What’s Next With bookings opening in March 2026 and local assembly underway, the Hyundai Palisade’s launch in Pakistan could redefine the premium SUV segment. Buyers can expect more details on features, variants, and financing options closer to delivery dates, likely in late 2026.
New Report: Instagram Fails to Protect Teens From Sexual Images
A new Meta survey has revealed alarming figures about Instagram use among young teenagers. According to court filings made public as part of a federal lawsuit in California, 19 percent of Instagram users aged 13 to 15 reported seeing unwanted nude or sexual images that they did not want to view on the platform. The revelations raise fresh concerns about online safety and how social media companies protect underage users. The disclosure emerged from a 2021 survey of Instagram users that was referenced in portions of a March 2025 deposition by Instagram head Adam Mosseri. That survey asked teens directly about their experiences on the platform, rather than analysing data from the posts themselves. What the Numbers Show About 1 in 5 young teens told Meta that they encountered nudity or sexual images they did not want to see. The figures highlight the challenges social media platforms face in controlling what appears to users’ feeds, especially when the content is shared privately rather than publicly. The survey also found that roughly 8 percent of users in the same age group said they had seen someone harm themselves or threaten to do so on Instagram. These findings have been cited in legal battles accusing Meta of allowing harmful and addictive content to spread among young users. Despite these figures, Meta spokesperson Andy Stone emphasised that the explicit images cited in the survey were self-reported by users and were not derived from a review of Instagram’s content itself. The company says it has since taken steps to address harmful material. Read More: Instagram Under Fire: Zuckerberg Denies Targeting Children in LA Trial Platform Steps and Safety Efforts In late 2025, Meta updated its policies regarding content visible to teen users. The company said it would remove images and videos “containing nudity or explicit sexual activity, including when generated by AI,” with exceptions made only for educational or medical content. Meta’s goal with this change was to limit exposure to harmful material for its youngest users. However, experts note that the way content is distributed on platforms like Instagram often makes moderation difficult, especially when explicit material appears in private messages or direct chats. According to safety guidelines published by Meta, the company uses a combination of automated tools and human reviewers to detect and remove harmful content, particularly around sextortion and other abusive behaviour. These efforts are part of broader campaigns to protect children online. Challenges of Monitoring Teen Experience The data from the 2021 survey is significant because it reflects actual experiences reported by users, revealing gaps between reported behaviour and platform moderation. Teens are increasingly targeted with explicit material through direct messages, public posts, recommended content and even algorithmic suggestions. This is partly due to practices like sexting, which involves sending explicit images or messages via digital platforms. Sociologists and digital safety advocates say that teenagers are especially vulnerable online because they are still developing social and emotional skills and may not recognise harmful content until after exposure. Even with privacy settings and age-based limits, teens can encounter content that affects their wellbeing. Read More: Plaintiff Lawyer Says Meta, Google Built Platforms to Addict Children Legal and Social Implications Meta is facing thousands of lawsuits in federal and state courts in the United States that allege its social networks contribute to mental health problems among minors and fail to protect young users from exposure to harmful content. These legal challenges could shape how social media companies regulate content in the future. Advocates call for stronger safeguards, clearer reporting mechanisms, better parental controls, and more robust moderation of private messages as part of a comprehensive strategy to keep teens safer online.
Flights Canceled, Roads Closed as Record Snowfall Hits Several US States: What You Need To Know
A massive winter storm battered the northeastern United States beginning late Sunday and into Monday, forcing millions to stay home under blizzard warnings and travel bans. Snowfall totals topped 2 feet (61 centimeters) in many areas, with some places like Warwick, Rhode Island receiving over 3 feet of snow and wind gusts strong enough to create whiteout conditions across major metropolitan centers from Maryland to Maine. Officials described it as the strongest storm in a decade for parts of the region. National Weather Service forecasters confirmed the storm was a classic nor’easter that rapidly intensified into a “bomb cyclone,” a meteorological phenomenon where pressure drops sharply over a short time. This intensification fueled heavy snow, hurricane-force wind gusts, thundersnow and difficult travel conditions along the Eastern Seaboard. Travel Chaos and Flight Cancellations Air travel across one of the nation’s busiest corridors was ground to a halt. Over 8,000 flights were canceled or severely delayed as airports struggled to maintain operations amid snow-covered runways and low visibility. Major hubs including New York’s JFK and LaGuardia, Boston Logan, Newark and Philadelphia International were hardest hit. JetBlue reported it canceled or disrupted nearly 80% of its flights, affecting thousands of passengers. Airlines hoped to resume more normal schedules by Tuesday if weather conditions improved, but forecasters warned that lingering snow and cold may continue to hamper efforts. Powerful winter storm slams Northeastern US, leaving over half a million people without powerhttps://t.co/N4rGiYlToU 🎥: @vuralelibol pic.twitter.com/mhD8IGu2Zq — Anadolu Images (@anadoluimages) February 23, 2026 Power Outages and Emergency Declarations The storm knocked out electricity for hundreds of thousands. In Massachusetts alone, more than 270,000 customers were without power, while outages spanned the region as heavy, wet snow downed trees and damaged power lines. Officials warned that crews faced dangerous working conditions and that restoration could take several days. Governors across several states declared states of emergency, and officials urged residents to stay off the roads unless absolutely necessary. New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani implemented a travel ban and suspended non-essential movement to help protect public safety. BREAKING NEWS🚨: A massive snowstorm is hitting New York and the northeastern United States. A state of emergency has been declared in the city.pic.twitter.com/YLM6zTKk5F — All day Astronomy (@forallcurious) February 24, 2026 Daily Life Disrupted: Schools, Transit and Workplaces Across New York, New Jersey, and neighboring states, schools closed for the first traditional snow day in years and public transit systems experienced stoppages or delays. Rhode Island’s TF Green Airport temporarily shut down after record snowfall, while bus, Amtrak rail and local transit faced ongoing interruptions. Businesses and cultural institutions, including Broadway theatres, suspended operations as hazardous conditions made commuting difficult. Citizens reported teams of neighbors collaborating to clear heavy snow from driveways and walkways as the region began recovery efforts. What Comes Next Meteorologists are tracking another storm system expected later in the week that could bring additional snow, complicating cleanup and recovery. The National Weather Service continues to warn residents to prepare for dangerous wind chills, low visibility and potential infrastructure impacts as temperatures remain well below normal for the season.
Top National Medallist Now Works in Marble Factory Due to Poverty
A story that should inspire pride has instead become a stark reminder of the challenges many athletes face in Pakistan. Rizwan Pathan, a national-level martial arts and gymnastics athlete, has been forced to work as a daily wage labourer at a marble factory in Nowshera due to severe financial hardship. Once a rising star with medals around his neck, Pathan now spends his days lifting heavy stones to support his family, all while clinging to his dream of sporting success. From Champion to Labourer Pathan hails from Bajaur District in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He first gained wider recognition after winning a gold medal at the 2018 National Martial Arts Championships. Since then, he has also secured several medals at district and provincial levels in both martial arts and gymnastics, showcasing his talent and hard work from a young age. His journey into sport began after seeing a video on gymnastics in Mardan, which sparked his interest in martial arts and gymnastics. Although gymnastics requires substantial financial investment, he switched to martial arts where he found success and national recognition. Despite his achievements, financial pressures quickly overshadowed his sporting ambitions. The combination of limited resources and the need to provide for his family pushed Pathan into labour work. Currently he works long shifts at the marble factory, often starting early in the morning and continuing until the evening, lifting heavy materials in demanding conditions. A Harsh Reality for Athletes Pathan’s story underscores the harsh reality that success in sport does not always translate to financial security in Pakistan. Many talented athletes struggle to find sponsorship, institutional support, or stable income, forcing them to abandon training and competition. “There is widespread poverty in our area and my family is facing serious financial difficulties,” he said, explaining why he had to take on labour work while still pursuing his passion. He described the painful contrast between his medals and his current reality, saying that despite his accomplishments, everyday survival often takes precedence over sporting dreams. “If I am supported, I will become the best player and a proud name for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Pakistan,” he said, expressing a powerful commitment to his goals despite mounting challenges. Read More: Fasting and Fearless: How Muslim Athletes Compete in Ramadan The Struggle Continues Pathan’s situation reflects a broader issue affecting many athletes across the country. While some sports stars receive government jobs or corporate sponsorships after success, many others fall through the cracks due to limited funding and lack of structured athlete support programs. This gap often forces athletes to choose between pursuing their dreams or securing financial stability for their families. Supporters and sports activists have called upon both public institutions and private sponsors to extend a helping hand to athletes like Pathan. These calls emphasise the need for better support systems, including training facilities, financial assistance, and long-term career planning for athletes at all levels. Read More: Mir Abu Zar Faiz Sets Blazing 5.73 Second National Speed Record Hope and Determination Despite the hardship, Pathan remains resilient. He continues to train whenever his body allows after work, determined to reclaim his place in competitive sports. His experience has become a symbol of persistence in the face of adversity and a plea for broader structural change in Pakistan’s sports ecosystem. Pathan’s journey from national medallist to marble factory labourer highlights both the passion of a dedicated athlete and the urgent need to support talent before it is lost to poverty.
