Singapore: MRT train collides with stationary train, 23 injured

Pakistan Railways cancelled 11 trains scheduled to depart from Karachi to several major cities across the country, citing technical faults, a move that left thousands of passengers stranded and drew fresh criticism over the worsening condition of Pakistan's rail system.

Amid the developing security situation in West Asia, the Indian Embassy in Qatar provided an update, where it mentioned that about 1000 Indian passengers have travelled back to New Delhi, Mumbai and Kochi. It further said that temporary transit visas of 96 hours' validity had been issued for Indian nationals through the Salwa border to Saudi Arabia and underlined that the Embassy's 24/7 control room remains functional.

India's UN Ambassador, Harish Parvathaneni, has condemned Pakistan's "hypocritical" airstrikes in Afghanistan during Ramadan, which killed 185 civilians. Speaking at the UNSC, he denounced the strikes as flagrant violations of sovereignty and international law, while also slamming "trade and transit terrorism" targeting the landlocked nation.

The Embassy said that Indian Embassy in Riyadh is facilitating exit of Indian nationals from Saudi Arabian government.

The statement said that the evacuation will take place from Riyadh in Saudi Arabia on March 10.

Singapore's Prime Minister Lawrence Wong has held discussions with Gulf leaders regarding the escalating tensions in the Middle East, highlighting Singapore's concern over the evolving regional conflict and the safety of its citizens abroad.

In an official press statement, the MEA said that the Government of India is continuously monitoring the evolving situation in West Asia and the Gulf region, especially with regard to the welfare of Indian nationals who have been stranded there during transit or on short-duration visits.

The announcement has sparked widespread anxiety across the country, where residents are already battling high living costs during the month of Ramadan. Commuters and workers have expressed despair over the rapid cost-of-living increase.

In an advisory issued on Friday, the Embassy provided a registration link for stranded Indian nationals in Qatar on transit to facilitate obtaining a temporary transit visa for Saudi Arabia. Indians who have confirmed tickets for travelling out of Saudi Arabia can utilise the link.

Nepal is holding snap general elections following the "Gen Z movement" that ousted the previous government. With over 18 million voters--half being youth--the polls feature 6,541 candidates for 275 seats. Backed by heavy security, the Election Commission aims for a peaceful process and rapid results within 24 hours.