Health crisis hits flood-ravaged Pakistan

Published

3 years ago

September 5, 2022

Reuters

UNICEF is warning of the the risk of waterborne diseases as one-third of Pakistan remains underwater

Residents in Pakistan have been warned of severe food shortages as the nation grapples with a relief and rescue operation of near unprecedented scale.

Widespread flooding has claimed the lives over 1,000 people, as nearly one-third of the country remains underwater.

UNICEF is working with the Pakistani Government and other non-government partners to respond to the urgent needs of children and families in affected areas.

“These floods have already taken a devastating toll on children and families, and the situation could become even worse. UNICEF is working closely with the Government and other partners to ensure that children affected get the critical support they need as soon as possible.”
Abdullah Fadil, UNICEF Representative in Pakistan.

In one instance, a wedding hall in the Pakistani town of Johi once received hundreds of joyful revellers.

However, it has since turned into a retreat for hundreds of sick patients, who are suffering from the effects of flooding.

Johi is in the hardest-hit Sindh province, which emains cut off from road access.

Record monsoon rains and melting glaciers in the northern mountains bought floods that have killed over 1,200 people.

The floods, which have been blamed on climate change, have destroyed all the crops in some areas.

In Balochistan, Pakistan’s army is delivering aid by helicopter.

The province has seen widespread devastation, including the washing away of key rail and road networks as well as breakdowns in telecommunications and power infrastructure.

“When disasters hit, children are always among the most vulnerable,” said Abdullah Fadil, who is UNICEF’s representative in the flood-ravaged nation.

Initial estimates of the damage across the country have been put at $10 billion.

Aid has flowed in from a number of countries, but charities in Pakistan have warned that there are still millions who have not been reached by aid and relief efforts.

Appeals court halts Trump’s attempt to fire Cook

Appeals court blocks Trump’s attempt to remove Lisa Cook from Federal Reserve ahead of crucial interest rate meeting

Published

9 hours ago

September 16, 2025

Ahron Young

Appeals court blocks Trump’s attempt to remove Lisa Cook from Federal Reserve ahead of crucial interest rate meeting

In Short:
– A federal appeals court has blocked Trump’s attempt to remove Lisa Cook from the Federal Reserve board.
– Trump’s expected Supreme Court appeal raises concerns about the Federal Reserve’s independence and market stability.

A federal appeals court has blocked President Donald Trump’s attempt to remove Lisa Cook from the Federal Reserve board.

The decision comes just before a crucial meeting regarding potential interest rate changes.The court determined that the Trump administration did not meet the requirements for an appeal against a prior ruling that had already blocked Cook’s removal.

Cook has faced allegations of mortgage fraud, which she denies. Her lawyers assert she has not committed any wrongdoing, and documentation reviewed by NBC News supports her position.

Trump is expected to appeal this ruling to the Supreme Court.

The legal context for Cook’s position at the Federal Reserve highlights that removal can only occur “for cause,” under the Federal Reserve Act. Analysts warn that firing Cook may destabilise the Federal Reserve, which is critical for market stability.

Legal Context

The Supreme Court has previously distinguished the Federal Reserve from other federal agencies, underlining its unique structure.

Concerns have escalated regarding the implications of Trump’s actions on the independence of the Federal Reserve and broader economic stability.

News

Chinese auto brands dominate, taking one in five Aussie sales

Chinese car brands surge in Australia, capturing 20% market share with diverse offerings and aiming for expansion despite challenges

Published

18 hours ago

September 16, 2025

Nathan Langridge

Chinese car brands continue to rise in Australia, capturing 20% market share with a diverse range of EV offerings.

In Short:
– Over 20 Chinese car brands, including BYD and MG, are now available in Australia, with four in the top ten.
– Traditional automakers are adapting to increased competition and concerns about the quality of new Chinese entrants.

Australia is witnessing a significant increase in the presence of Chinese car brands, with over 20 names currently available, including BYD, GWM, and MG. In August, four Chinese brands ranked in the top ten for the first time, indicating a growing market share.

Australia’s low trade barriers facilitate the entry of these brands, which view the market as an opportunity for growth and learning. Most electric vehicles sold outside of Tesla are Chinese, showcasing their dominance even in models from other manufacturers.

Industry analyst Mike Costello from Cox Automotive joins to discuss the latest developments in the EV space, and answers the big question: who was the dominate force at this year’s Munich Motor Show?

Money

RBA plans to ban credit card surcharges in Australia

Reserve Bank of Australia plans to ban credit card surcharges despite banks warning of potential higher fees and weaker rewards

Published

19 hours ago

September 16, 2025

ticker NEWS

Reserve Bank of Australia plans to ban credit card surcharges despite banks warning of potential higher fees and weaker rewards.

In Short:
– The RBA plans to ban surcharges on debit and credit card transactions, supported by consumer group Choice.
– Major banks oppose the ban, warning it could lead to higher card fees and reduced rewards for credit card users.

The Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) intends to implement a ban on surcharges associated with debit and credit card transactions. Consumer advocacy group Choice endorses this initiative, arguing that it is unjust for users of low-cost debit cards to incur similar fees as credit card holders.

The major banks, however, are opposing this reform. They caution that the removal of surcharges could prompt customers to abandon credit cards due to diminished rewards.

A final decision by the RBA is anticipated by December 2025.