Business

Social distancing – the key to conquering coronavirus

Published

6 years ago

March 28, 2020

Today, as the world grinds to a halt in response to the coronavirus, scientists and historians are studying the 1918 outbreak for clues to the most effective way to stop a global pandemic. The rise of globalization, urbanization, and larger, more densely populated cities can facilitate a virus’ spread across a continent in a few hours. In all this chaos, there are an internet-based industry that’s been waiting for the right time to serve humanity.

With this virus, just like any other contagious illness, precautions and multiple restrictions have been put in place. The last global pandemic to kill more people than the World War was the Spanish Flu back in 1918 that took the lives of over 100 million people worldwide. In 1918, a researcher named Richard Hatchett coined the term ‘social distancing’. The term, now a phrase that anyone in this century is very familiar with, shows how alike we are to our predecessors. In the 2000s, several papers re-analyzed Spanish flu data to show the efficacy of social distancing measures—and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention later incorporated them into their outbreak guidance.

The phrases ‘Flattening the curve’ is a textbook example created by medical practitioners, when a virus can not be contained anymore. Today, health carers struggle to handle the surge people who are affected by a coronavirus and have advised the world to fatten the curve. With fewer people sick at once, services aren’t overwhelmed and deaths diminish. This buys time for doctors to treat the flood of patients and researchers to develop vaccines and antiviral therapies. However, just like after the Spanish Flu pandemic, the world recovered, new businesses surfaced and people were put back to work, the same will happen now. The difference between 1918 and the current day is one powerful force called the internet.

Companies and businesses, especially in Pakistan have taken leaps in recent years with the surfacing of applications, 3-step to your door and home-delivery services. Food delivery giants such as foodpanda along with international restaurant franchises, online grocery services, and purely online business platforms are an essential need at this time. Applications like these not only make a life for the consumer easier but also allow for safety precautions to be implemented at a global level while also helping businesses (especially those in the food sector) stay afloat in this turbulent time.

In Pakistan, companies especially those that operate online could be the means to an end during these turbulent times. Should the government of Pakistan permit online delivery platforms like foodpanda, Daraz to resume service? Not only will it help flatten the curve, but ensure that social distancing practices are being implemented on a global level. In 1918, the studies found, the key to flattening the curve was social distancing. And that likely remains true a century later, especially in Pakistan with their current battle against coronavirus.

Business

Zong Special Bundles for Hajj Pilgrims

Published

4 days ago

May 5, 2026

Haris Sarfraz Ali

ISLAMABAD – Zong, Pakistan’s leading technology service enterprise, has launched customized bundles for the 2026 Hajj pilgrimage, aimed at ensuring seamless connectivity and uninterrupted communication for pilgrims throughout their sacred journey.

Zong ensures continuity through international roaming services, allowing pilgrims to continue using their existing Pakistan number while staying connected on Zong’s own network. With instant connectivity upon arrival at the airport, users can access communication services immediately and share important updates and cherished moments without disruption throughout their journey.

A key highlight of these bundles is seamless WhatsApp-based communication in Saudi Arabia, enabling pilgrims to stay connected with family and loved ones on their existing Zong number without any additional setup.

The bundle portfolio features the Saudi Arabia IR WhatsApp Offer (1 GB for PKR 1,374), Mini Hajj Bundle (2 GB, 10 mins, 10 SMS for PKR 1,500), and the Super Hajj Bundle (5 GB, 20 mins, 50 SMS for PKR 3,000). For higher-usage customers, the Mega Hajj Bundle provides 10 GB of data, an additional 2 GB for WhatsApp, 60 minutes, and 60 SMS for PKR 5,500. All bundles are valid for 30 days, ensuring reliable, convenient and uninterrupted communication throughout the pilgrimage.

Khurram Ishaq, Head of International Business, Zong, stated: “Supporting Pakistan’s pilgrims is a responsibility we hold close to our hearts. We’ve moved beyond standard offerings to design truly personalized bundles that reflect how families communicate today.

By prioritizing seamless, high-speed access for the apps pilgrims rely on most, such as WhatsApp, we are addressing the modern traveler’s need for convenience and peace of mind. We are proud to serve as the bridge that keeps our customers connected to home, allowing them to remain fully focused on this journey of a lifetime.”

Zong users can conveniently subscribe to these special bundles through the Zong website, My Zong App, or by dialing 310.

Through these specially curated offerings, Zong continues to drive Pakistan’s digital transformation agenda through innovative solutions and services, ensuring uninterrupted communication and a seamless experience for pilgrims.

Business

itel Energy showcases AI-powered solar solutions at Lahore expo

Published

2 weeks ago

April 23, 2026

Haris Sarfraz Ali

LAHORE – itel Energy concluded its participation as a diamond sponsor at the Lahore Solar Expo 2026 on April 22, presenting a range of renewable energy solutions aimed at strengthening Pakistan’s energy resilience.

The three-day exhibition attracted industry professionals and technology enthusiasts, with the company using the platform to introduce its latest innovations in solar and energy storage technologies.

A key highlight of the showcase was the Sparta Series hybrid inverter, featuring an AI-based optimisation system branded as SmartGo AI. According to the company, the system monitors weather patterns and adjusts battery usage automatically to maintain uninterrupted power supply during adverse conditions.

itel Energy also presented its Power Series portable energy solutions, which it said are equipped with Grade A lithium iron phosphate (LiFePO4) cells designed to ensure durability and a lifespan of up to 10 years.

In addition, the company demonstrated its commercial and industrial (C&I) energy systems, including the IPX-51314SPT battery solution. The system is designed to support scalable energy storage, allowing businesses to expand backup capacity up to 768kWh.

Speaking at the event, itel Energy Vice-President Eason Duan said the company’s “Power Up Pakistan” initiative focuses on providing reliable and intelligent energy solutions to households and industries.

The company said its participation in the expo reflects a broader commitment to promoting sustainable energy adoption and supporting the country’s transition towards cleaner power sources.

Business

Saad Ali Qureshi launches USPBA Pakistan chapter to promote trade and investment

Published

1 month ago

April 2, 2026

Haris Sarfraz Ali

LAHORE – The US–Pakistan Business Alliance (USPBA) was successfully launched under Chairman Saad Ali Qureshi, COO of Rustum Associates and Dynamic Constructors. This marks a key advancement in boosting bilateral trade, investment, and economic collaboration between Pakistan and the United States.

The newly formed alliance aims to create a dynamic platform that connects entrepreneurs, investors, industry leaders, and professionals from both countries. By fostering collaboration and building strategic partnerships, the alliance seeks to unlock new opportunities for trade expansion, innovation, and sustainable economic growth.
Addressing the launch ceremony, Chairman Saad Ali Qureshi emphasized the importance of stronger economic ties between Pakistan and the United States. He stated that the US–Pakistan Business Alliance will play a vital role in bridging the gap between the business communities of both nations and facilitating meaningful partnerships.

“The establishment of the US–Pakistan Business Alliance is a major milestone in strengthening commercial relations between Pakistan and the United States. Our mission is to empower entrepreneurs, promote investment opportunities, and create a supportive platform where businesses from both countries can collaborate and grow together,” said Saad Ali Qureshi.

He further added that the alliance will focus on encouraging cross-border investments, supporting startups and emerging businesses, and promoting innovation across various sectors, including technology, manufacturing, trade, and services.

The alliance also plans to organize international business forums, networking events, trade delegations, and policy dialogues aimed at bringing together business leaders, policymakers, and investors. These initiatives will help facilitate knowledge exchange, strengthen economic partnerships, and promote mutual understanding between the private sectors of both countries.

Business leaders, entrepreneurs, and stakeholders welcomed the launch of the alliance and expressed optimism that the platform will open new avenues for cooperation and create long-term opportunities for trade and investment. They noted that such initiatives are essential for building stronger economic bridges and enhancing global business connectivity.

The launch of the US–Pakistan Business Alliance is being viewed as a positive and forward-looking development that will contribute to the expansion of bilateral trade, encourage foreign investment, and strengthen long-term economic collaboration between Pakistan and the United States.

Through its initiatives and partnerships, the alliance aims to become a key platform for promoting business growth, supporting economic diplomacy, and fostering stronger commercial ties between the two nations.