📉 Weekly Forex Update: #SBPReserves Edge Up as Commercial Holdings Decline
According to the latest data released by the State Bank of Pakistan for the week ending October 16, 2026:
🟢 Central Bank Reserves: Rose slightly by $19.1 million (+0.09% WoW) to stand at $21.49 billion.
🔴 Commercial Bank Holdings: Scaled back by $49.4 million (-0.92% WoW) to $5.34 billion.
📉 National Total: Overall forex reserves experienced a minor dip of $30.3 million (-0.11% WoW), settling at $26.83 billion.
💡 The Bigger Picture: Despite short-term fluctuations, central bank reserves show remarkable momentum—gaining 16.34% ($3.02B) in the current fiscal year and surging 33.70% ($5.43B) since the start of the calendar year.
Islamabad to Modernize Water Supply Infrastructure with Smart Tech 🚰⚡
The Capital Development Authority (CDA) is exploring plans to introduce a Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system to automate and digitize Islamabad’s water distribution network.
In partnership with the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the proposed initiative aims to evaluate and upgrade key infrastructure, including:
🔹 ~200 tube wells
🔹 40 overhead water tanks
🔹 Associated pumping stations
Key Objectives:
✅ Real-Time Monitoring: Instant tracking of water pressure, distribution, and operational metrics.
✅ Energy & Cost Savings: Identifying opportunities to curb rising electricity expenses and maintenance costs.
✅ Sustainability: Reducing water loss and improving service reliability across the federal capital.
If approved, the project will undergo technical and financial feasibility studies before moving to an international competitive bidding phase.
#Islamabad #SmartCity #WaterManagement #CDA #Sustainability #Infrastructure #TechInGov
#Pakistan’s Strategy to Scale Its Role in Global Critical Minerals
Pakistan sits on an estimated $8 trillion in mineral wealth, yet the sector currently accounts for less than 3% of national GDP. Strategic efforts are now underway to tap into this immense potential.
The Current Landscape & Road Ahead:
92 minerals identified nationwide | 52 commercially extracted.
Export revenues could potentially soar from $3 billion to $8 billion through enhanced infrastructure and favorable investment policies.
Reko Diq Project, Pakistan’s largest foreign investment initiative, is progressing towards its Phase 1 production target by late 2028.
By optimizing regulatory frameworks and attracting global investors, Pakistan aims to strengthen its footprint in critical mineral supply chains worldwide.
#MiningIndustry #SupplyChain #EconomicGrowth #ForeignInvestment #EmergingMarkets
Under the Murree Development Plan initiated by Punjab Chief Minister #MaryamNawaz Sharif, the work of shifting electricity cables underground in #Murree’s #Barrian Bazaar has been completed.
This project has enhanced the aesthetic appeal of the bazaar and provided a better environment for both citizens and traders. Local residents have expressed their gratitude to Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif for this facility.
#Hayatabad Toll Plaza Underpass — Final Touches in Progress!
Finishing and beautification works are underway as the project moves towards completion.
© New Khan Builders
#HayatabadUnderpass #Peshawar
Karachi Port Trust has successfully handled a major shipment of 179 electric buses arriving from Yingkou, China, aboard the MV RUINING 6. Delivered via the Karachi Gateway Terminal Multipurpose Limited (KGTML) for Margalla Heavy Industries Limited, this arrival highlights the port’s capability in managing specialized modern cargo.
This accomplishment marks a significant step forward in modernizing Pakistan’s public transport infrastructure and accelerating the nation's transition toward clean, sustainable mobility. ⚡🚌
#SustainableTransport #ElectricVehicles #GreenMobility #KarachiPort #Logistics #CleanEnergy #Pakistan
Construction work on the Pushta Kharra Underpass is progressing rapidly. With work continuing round-the-clock.
#Peshawar #KP #KhyberPakhtunkhwa
🚧 Motorway Chowk Underpass: Construction Work Moves Ahead
Construction activity is continuing at the Motorway Chowk underpass project in Islamabad. According to the shared update, a hotel located along the route is being demolished as work progresses.
The project is expected to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion for motorists using this busy junction.
#Islamabad #MotorwayChowk #RoadDevelopment
🚧 Motorway Chowk Underpass: Construction Work Moves Ahead
Construction activity is continuing at the Motorway Chowk underpass project in Islamabad. According to the shared update, a hotel located along the route is being demolished as work progresses.
The project is expected to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion for motorists using this busy junction.
#Islamabad #MotorwayChowk #RoadDevelopment



















