Rupee on the Road to Recovery Against US Dollar

Image: Pexels

The Pakistani Rupee is anticipated to begin its resurgence against the US dollar, following the government’s attempts to secure a bailout program from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Traders and analysts believe that the market’s positive sentiments have been boosted by the government’s efforts to meet the IMF conditions for the state-level agreement.

During the previous week, the local currency appreciated by 2.18% against the greenback, with the rate rising from 275.30 to 269.28. Although no agreement was reached between the government of Pakistan and the IMF during the latter’s recent visit, both parties agreed to continue their negotiations.

The country’s economic crisis appears to have no quick resolution, and it is crucial that Pakistan comes to an agreement with the IMF in order to secure additional aid, avoid default, and restore its foreign currency reserves, which have decreased to $2.9 billion.

The stock market experienced a sell-off, but there was no reaction to the failure of both parties to reach a staff-level agreement. This extends the IMF timeline by at least another 10 to 12 days, which is a significant concern given the depleting reserves.

Despite this setback, the market remains optimistic that the IMF agreement will proceed, especially given the several prior actions already taken by Pakistan. A currency dealer stated that “the IMF must witness some progress on the terms; the staff-level agreement (SLA) is yet not in place.

At least in a week, the SLA might be signed and then sent to the IMF board for final approval. Overall, progress is good.” The currency market is also seeing a positive effect from exporters, who are realizing export proceeds and providing much-needed liquidity in the market.

According to a client note from Tresmark, “for the first time in many months, the market also witnessed material selling in the forward tenors by exporters.” However, there is still a substantial backlog of imports and payments, which could exceed any inflow of export proceeds. In the medium term, if the IMF agreement goes ahead with follow-up from friendly countries and multilateral institutions, demand may take a huge hit.

The client note concludes that “entities involved in the export business will see a boom, while those in the import business will notice a bust. In the short term, the market might stay above the 270/$ level, but is likely to fall back to 262/$ level in the medium term.”

Digital Census In Pakistan: This is how you can do Self Enumeration?

The first Self Enumeration has been announced In Pakistan from February 20 to March 3

People in Pakistan can sign up for the Self Enumeration portal from 20 February to 3 March, when the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics will conduct the country’s first digital census.

The first three censuses were carried out by the census organization when it was employed by the Ministry of Home Affairs, which was founded in 1950 as an integral part of the organization. The Census Organization was created permanently after the 1972 Census and became an associated department of the Ministry of Interior.

The first formal population census in the region that is now Pakistan was conducted in 1881. However, this is the first time in Pakistan’s history that enumeration has been made public.

Here is a detailed explanation of the self-enumeration process.

All you have to do is go to the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics website, log in using your mobile device, and you’ll get an OTP from PBS/9727.

Once you’ve verified the OTP, you just need to click the form and fill it out with the necessary information.

You will receive a UTN code on your mobile phone, which you must preserve and present when Statistical Staff visits your home between March 1 and April 1.

The Official website of the Pakistan bureau of statistics: https://www.pbs.gov.pk/content/population-census

Tower 21, a project by Citihousing

Tower 21
Credit: Citihousing

Tower 21 is the tallest residential tower located in the heart of Lahore. After completing mega projects in 7 different cities of Pakistan, CitiHousing has now laid its foundations in Lahore. It has received immense positive acknowledgment for the project.

The construction work is meticulously going on. We have successfully completed three dedicated basements and now we have started construction on the Ground Floor.

Credit: Citihousing

Tower 21 has successfully sold a maximum number of residences with only a few exclusive bespoke Residences left. The immense success rate of Tower 21 is because of the key features of this project that sets it apart:

Credit: Citihousing

• 24/7 concierge service

• Private direct-access elevators

• Dedicated club floors

• Members-only restaurant

• Business Centre

• Children’s play area

• Fully equipped Gymnasium • Infinity pool

• Spa

• Health bar

• Valet service

• Dedicated cargo and service lift

• 24/7 electricity back-up

• Building management

• Garbage chute/ Waste management system on every floor

• BOH entrance in all apartments

• Stackable mechanical parking

• Electric car charging provisions in all parking spaces

• Drivers Lounge

• Dedicated car wash for residents

Credit: Citihousing

Book your residence before it’s too late.

Official Website

Majestic Contribution from Big-hearted Pakistani: $30 Million Donated for Earthquake victims in Turkey and Syria

A Majestic Contribution: $30 Million Donated for Earthquake victims in Turkey and Syria
Image: Getty

A charitable act of remarkable magnitude has taken place at the Turkish embassy in the United States, where an anonymous philanthropist from Pakistan made a $30 million donation towards the victims of the earthquakes in Turkey and Syria. This generous donation was met with great admiration by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who took to Twitter to hail the act as “glorious” and a triumph of humanity in the face of adversity.

In a show of compassion, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also reached out to Syria’s Prime Minister Hussain Arnous to express his heartfelt condolences for the loss of life and property. The Prime Minister informed that Pakistan has already sent its first batch of humanitarian aid and more relief goods will soon arrive via air and land routes.

In response to the Turkish government’s request, over 200 tons of relief aid, including tents, were sent to Turkey to aid the thousands of people affected by the earthquake and harsh winter conditions. Furthermore, doctors, paramedics, and rescue workers from the Pakistan Army, NDMA, and Rescue 1122 were deployed to the affected countries to assist with rescue and relief efforts.

This magnificent donation and outpouring of support serves as a testament to the kindness and generosity of the people of Pakistan in times of crisis.

PSL 8 Anthem: Opening and Closing Ceremony

PSL 8 Anthem: Opening and Closing Ceremony

Every year, Pakistanis excitedly anticipate the PSL cricket competition and its opening ceremony. They also wonder who will sing the PSL Anthem this year, so we’re going to tell you who it will be.

At the PSL 8 opening ceremony, who will perform?

It has been announced that Asim Azhar, Shae Gill, and Faris Shafi would perform the official PSL 8 anthem.

The PSL 8 Opening Ceremony will take place in Multan, followed by the first PSL 8 match between Multan Sultans and Lahore Qalandars.

People are very happy to see Asim Azhar and Shae Gill performing the PSL anthem because they are excited to see these two amazing and awesome singers together. According to the above schedule provided by PCB, the opening match will take place in Multan, while the final will be held in Lahore.

When and where PSL 8 Closing Ceremony is happening?

It is going to be happening in Lahore on the 19th of March, where top Pakistani stars are going to perform. The Final of Pakistan Super League’s eighth edition is to be played on the same day as well.

How eager are you to witness the PSL opening ceremony? Keep checking for further updates

Karachi Ijtema 2023: Tableeghi Ijtema

Karachi Ijtema 2023: Tableeghi Ijtema

In Karachi, a three-day Tableeghi Ijtema began on the evening of February 9th. Tens of thousands of people are anticipated to attend the Ijtema each year where eminent religious teachers from Pakistan and other nations will speak.

To ensure that the assembly conducts itself in peace, strict security measures have been taken.

Sindh Home Department has imposed a ban on the opening of shops, stalls, and construction work in surrounding areas outside the boundary of Ijtehmagah from Thursday.

The number of people grows yearly, and the Ijtima grounds fill up with more and more people. Ten thousand people kneel to the All-Powerful Allah simultaneously over three days of communal devotion.

For three days, people sacrifice their time away from home in order to practice Islam, improve their character, and become nearer to Almighty Allah.

The Ijtima will conclude with Dua on Sunday morning. More individuals leave their homes after Fajar Namaz to participate in Dua.

Petrol Shortage Imminent: Refineries Sound the Alarm

Fuel Crisis Looms in Pakistan: Petrol Stations Running Dry in Major Cities

Refineries in Pakistan are warning of a severe petrol crisis by mid-February, unless the government takes immediate action to resolve the issues surrounding letters of credit (LCs) for imported raw materials and additives. In separate letters addressed to the Minister of State for Petroleum and the Governor of the State Bank of Pakistan, the refining sector expressed their concern that the delay in payments, combined with the dollar shortage, is severely hindering petrol production.

The challenges in obtaining LCs to pay for essential inputs have been identified as a major contributor to the crisis. Vendors have started hoarding supplies in anticipation of a price hike, leading to petrol shortages in Punjab. Despite petroleum products being on the State Bank of Pakistan’s priority list of essential imports, imports of raw materials and additives are being held by banks, who remain hesitant to establish LCs for future payments due in February and March 2023.

Refineries have stressed the importance of maximum production of domestic petroleum products, as oil marketing companies are already facing difficulties importing fuel due to a lack of foreign exchange liquidity in Pakistan. The refining sector also pointed out their significant contributions to the country’s economy, including revenue, government levies, and taxes, as well as their role in processing crude oil and saving precious foreign exchange through import substitution.

Any delay or suspension of foreign payments for the imports in question would severely impact refinery operations and local petrol production, the refineries warned. The situation is rapidly becoming critical and immediate action is needed to avoid a nationwide petrol crisis.

Renowned poet/drama writer Amjad Islam Amjad passes away in Lahore

Renowned poet/drama writer Amjad Islam Amjad passes away in Lahore

Amjad Islam Amjad, recipient of the Sitara-e-Imtiaz, passed away in Lahore. May he rest in peace, his soul. إِنَّا لِلَّٰهِ وَإِنَّا إِلَيْهِ رَاجِعُون

Amjad Islam Amjad was born in Lahore on August 4, 1944.

Amjad Islam Amjad was a Pakistani poet, playwright, and lyricist who wrote in Urdu. He has written over 40 books over the course of a 50-year career and won numerous accolades for both his literary work and TV screenplays, including the Pride of Performance and Sitara-e-Imtiaz (Star of Excellence) Awards.

Amjad was born in Lahore, British India’s Punjab province, which is now in Pakistan. [1][5] Originally from Sialkot, his family. [Reference needed] He completed his secondary education in Lahore at the Government Islamia College Civil Lines, where he also obtained his diploma. [Reference needed] He took part in the intercollegiate tournament and was a member of the college cricket team. Punjab University awarded him a Masters of Arts in Urdu literature.

He started out as a lecturer at the Government M.A.O. College in Lahore. From 1975 to 1979, he served as a director at Pakistan Television Corporation before going back to teaching.

closing of an era. There is no more Amjad Islam Amjad Sahab. The most depressing day in Urdu poetry is today.

Amjad Islam Amjad, one of the best playwrights, a poet of the highest calibre, a former university cricket player, and a remarkable human being, has gone away.

Few Famous poetries of Amjad Islam Amjad:

بہت نزدیک ہو کر بھی وہ اتنا دور ہے مجھ سے اشارہ ہو نہیں سکتا , پکارا جا نہیں سکتا !

تم ہی نے پاؤں نہ رکھا وگرنہ وصل کی شب زمیں پہ ہم نے ستارے بچھا کے رکھے تھے

Lawyer Protest Against Inflation at Karachi Press Club

Karachi Pakistan, A massive protest against Pakistan’s inflation and price increases was reordered by lawyers.

Most of the protesters, in this case, were attorneys, but there were other people present to lend support and help the protest against Pakistan’s highest inflation succeed. They were all carrying signs stating that inflation is no longer acceptable.

As is well known, Pakistan’s economy has suffered from a significant depreciation of its currency, and its foreign exchange reserves are currently only sufficient to finance imports for three weeks. August of last year saw the country devastated by floods.

Inflation in food rose by 5% over the past month and by 42.9% over the past year. According to PBS, prices for perishable goods increased by 61.6% in the past year but decreased by 1.76% from December 2022. To help its faltering economy, the government is working with the International Monetary Fund to try and unlock bailout funding.

The IMF program is anticipated to force Pakistan to raise its power rates, which is anticipated to exacerbate inflation.

People backed this protest at the Press Club Karachi because they are currently highly frustrated in Pakistan and concerned about how they would spend their present and future and meet their basic needs.

Long March has been Announced by Ameer Jamaat e Islami Pakistan Siraj ul Haq Awami

Long March has been Announced by Ameer Jamaat e Islami Pakistan Siraj ul Haq Awami

Ameer Jamaat e Islami Pakistan Siraj ul Haq announced the Awami March, which will take place nonstop for three days from Friday, February 10, through Sunday, February 12. This Awami March is protesting the unemployment and inflation that are current issues in Pakistan.

In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa today, Siraj ul Haq said, “Flour is expensive and death is cheap.” Settlements are deserted, and the poor are cut off. The reason why the rulers’ blood is pouring is being questioned by the populace. After all, who can blame them? Why are we treating the province like a stepmother?

What else do you need, he added, given that there are ships, tanks, cannons, atomic bombs, and millions of wealthy people? We threw everything at you, yet you were unable to bring my children any peace.

They released a three-day plan on Twitter for this march, which will travel through several locations at various times.

https://twitter.com/JIPOfficial/status/1623662260215226368?s=20&t=S3kKDinQ2kgpnFMTaoyXHQ

At 2 PM, People will gather on Multan Road, and at 3 PM, the March will depart, passing past several of the places depicted in the above image before arriving in Rawalpindi.

Siraj Ul Haq invited the residents of Punjab to participate in the protest against inflation in order to improve Pakistan and advance human rights.

Twitter Blue Subscription Service Soon to be Available in Pakistan: Enhancing User Experience on the Platform

Twitter Blue, a subscription service offered by the social media platform, will soon be available to users in Pakistan. The Twitter blue icon has been spotted by some Pakistani users on the website version of the platform, and when clicked, a window appears outlining the features that come with the subscription.

Among these features are the ability to upload long videos and use images from NFT profiles, and a blue checkmark next to the user’s name. The cost of the desktop version of the app is $8, while the iOS and Android versions cost over $11 to access all features. The blue checkmark, previously available only to verified accounts of public figures, will now be available to anyone willing to pay.

The monthly subscription for Twitter Blue is priced at $11 for both Android and iOS users, while the annual web subscription is priced at $84, offering a discount to the monthly web subscription price of $8. This discount is available in countries such as the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Japan, New Zealand, and Australia.

Twitter Blue was first introduced by Elon Musk in November 2022, but the service was soon overshadowed by fake accounts belonging to institutions and celebrities with blue ticks. The introduction of Twitter Blue was aimed at growing revenue and retaining advertisers. Twitter offers users a way to access premium features and enhance their experience on the platform. The service includes features such as undoing tweets, changing color schemes, and accessing only official Twitter content. The price for the service varies by region.

Twitter, founded in 2006, has become one of the largest and most well-known social media networks in the world. It allows users to post short communications, known as tweets, that may contain text, images, or videos. By subscribing to Twitter Blue, users can improve their experience on the platform.

Robbers Disguised as Police Steal 140 Shot Guns, 43 Pistols and 170 Bullet Proof Jackets from Security Company in Karachi

Picture: AFP/FILE

A case has been registered against unidentified men who looted a security company while disguised as policemen.

A police officer at shah Latif Station told the media that they are still trying to trave the individuals who robbed the security company in police uniform and also came in a car that looked like a police car.

The robbers took away with them at least 43 pistols, 140 shot guns, 200 uniforms and 170 bullet proof jackets.

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The Sindh government partnered with the World Bank to construct 46,000 climate-resistant homes

46,000 climate-resistant homes will be rebuilt as part of Sindh Resilient’s pledge.

The Sindh government partnered with the World Bank to construct 46,000 climate-resistant homes
Credit: Sindh Government

The Sindh government and the World Bank collaborated to develop the SPHF project, which would help make the region’s environment more robust to the effects of flooding.

The Resilient Sindh Conference took place today in the morning. Murad Ali Shah, the chief minister of Sindh, also went to the meeting. The approach to reconstruction and redevelopment was addressed in Sindh.

According to Sindh Chief Secretary Dr. Muhammad Sohail Rajput, the Sindh government established the Sindh People’s Housing Foundation, a Section 42 business with an independent board of directors, to construct homes for flood victims.

The provincial Sindh sustained losses estimated at $1 billion, per PDNA. This amount keeps rising as we finish our surveys and take into account the loss of livelihood. The Planning and Development Board of the GoS is led by Hassan Naqvi.

After the flood, Sindh had water covering almost 70% of its surface.

3.8 million acres of crops and 20,000 schools were devastated. The Planning and Development Board of the GoS is led by Hassan Naqvi.

Rebuilding the province is the UN’s primary priority. Diversity and long-term resilience must be taken into account.

Additionally, the private sector must contribute significantly. Rep Knut Otsby of UNDP Pakistan.

Few clicks from the conference:

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The Sindh government partnered with the World Bank to construct 46000 climate-resistant homes

Karachi Down Syndrome Program Carnival 2023

The biggest event of Especial Kids by Karachi Down Syndrome Program (KDSP)

Every year, this event is held, and this year it was held on February 5 from 3 to 9 PM at the Moeen Khan Academy sports club. they observed the day #WordLowSyndromeDay in observance of #KashmirDay.

Karachi Down Syndrome Program Carnival 2023

A group of dedicated people and concerned parents founded the Karachi Down Syndrome Program (KDSP), a non-profit organization, in March 2014 after seeing the need for a platform for people with Down syndrome due to the lack of local resources and support. KDSP was established with the goal of promoting the value, acceptance, and inclusion of Karachi residents who have Down syndrome and giving them the chance to lead independent and satisfying lives.

This carnival features a variety of entertaining activities for kids with special needs as well as a special kids’ art and craft show that is supported by several corporate sectors.

The journalists, several social media influencers, and bloggers joined this carnival and spent time with these special kids.

Every year, people join this festival with great joy in order to spend some quality time with these special kids. The kids took part in various games and activities with the adults at the festival.

This festival has always been unique because it represents humanity and demonstrates concern for the feelings of others by providing them with a distinctive experience.

By visiting the following URL, you can support them and maintain contact with them: https://www.kdsp.org.pk

Strict Security Measures Advised for Foreign Players and Production Crew for PSL

The Police Chiefs of Lahore, Rawalpindi and Multan divisions have been instructed to ensure strict security for the upcoming season. The Punjab Home Department has asked to arrange tier wise deployment of security and bomb disposable squad for the players and foreign officials.

The eighth edition of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) will be starting from 13th February to 19th March in Lahore, Multan and Rawalpindi in which local and international players along with their supporting staff will participate.

All the match officials and participating teams have been given the status of state guests while the foreign delegations, crew and commentators will be considered VIPs.

The Police has been advised to provide top level security to all the players and foreign guests. Special security will also be ensured for their movement between airports, stadium and hotels. Intelligence agencies, Rangers and army will work in collaboration with police to make sure smooth transition.

All the vehicles entering the three cities including Rawalpindi, Lahore and Multan will have to go through strict checking.

Automated Parking System for Lahore Implemented to Avoid Corruption

Automated Parking System for Lahore Implemented to Avoid Corruption
Image: Lodige Industries

The Secretary of the Punjab government, Dr. Irshad Ahmed, has issued directives to the Lahore Parking Company to upgrade its parking system and implement automation technology. During a meeting at the Punjab Civil Secretariat, Dr. Ahmed emphasized the importance of proper monitoring of the parking lots, using CCTV cameras to ensure thorough fee collection.

He advised the Lahore Parking Company to carry out a survey to identify additional parking sites in the city and submit suggestions for the formation of a board of directors. The Secretary also demanded a report on the automation system within a week, pointing out that the manual collection system results in a significant portion of the company’s revenue going unaccounted for.

Dr. Ahmed stated that, given the large number of cars in the city, the parking company should be maximizing its revenue instead of experiencing losses. He emphasized the need for the Lahore Parking Company to tighten its monitoring system and improve its fee collection process.

Fuel Crisis Looms in Pakistan: Petrol Stations Running Dry in Major Cities

Fuel Crisis Looms in Pakistan: Petrol Stations Running Dry in Major Cities

The country is facing an unexpected fuel shortage crisis, with inadequate imports and a scarcity of both petrol and high-speed diesel on the local market. Cities such as Lahore, Gujranwala, and Faisalabad in Punjab are among the worst affected areas, with numerous petrol stations running low on or completely out of fuel. This shortage is believed to be a result of limited supplies from oil marketing companies (OMCs).

According to the Secretary of the Pakistan Petroleum Dealers Association, Khawaja Atif, around 70 out of 450 petrol pumps in Lahore are currently empty, while 70% of pumps in Gujranwala have no petrol due to short supplies from OMCs. In smaller districts such as Faisalabad, Sahiwal, and Okara, petrol stations have been without fuel for several days.

Despite this, the Minister of State for Petroleum, Musadik Malik, has dismissed rumors of a fuel shortage and assured that there is enough petrol and diesel to last for the next 20 days. He warned that petrol station owners who are found to be rationing fuel supply will have their licenses revoked.

The Oil Tankers Contractors Association (OTCA) has requested an urgent meeting with the Petroleum Division to address the issue of the Share of the Oil Tankers Association in the White Oil Pipeline. This meeting will take place on February 8th to discuss the matter.

Also, see:

This Electric Bike is cheaper than a petrol bike in Pakistan

Daraz to Lay Off 11% Employees

Daraz, Employees
PC: Daraz

The global recession has started to hit Pakistani IT Industry too.

CEO Daraz Bjarke Mikkelsen recently said that the company is cutting off 11% of its workforce. He said, “In the last quarter of 2022, funding declined causing job layoffs, starting with Daraz in Pakistan

Nasheed Malik, Topline Securities ICT analyst told the media, “Startups have prioritised growth over profitability and cash flow, leading to a continuous cash burn.”

He further said that Daraz initially focused on customer acquisition and then diverted it’s preference to app growth, not caring too much about the profits for the first decade. However, the recent economic crunch is forcing the company to get rid of employees who are not directly related to the profit generating business units.

Startups in Pakistan are now limiting themselves to their core business to maintain profits and cash flow, slashing workforce from future projects or removing highly paid experts.”

MD Daraz Pakistan Ehsan Saya told the employees, “Daraz is restructuring to ensure we continue to grow in the future.”

Daraz was formed in 2012 and was later acquired by Alibaba in 2018. It serves to more than 500 million customers across Pakistan and has 100,000 SMEs.

Startups funding expert, Kapeel Kumar said, “I predict more layoffs in future due to poor economic conditions and an unstable rupee-dollar exchange rate.”

This Electric Bike is cheaper than a petrol bike in Pakistan 2023

This Electric Bike is cheaper than a petrol bike in Pakistan

Next Gen Solution for Petrol Price in Pakistan Because an electric bike costs less than a fuel-consuming bike

Due to the rising cost of gasoline in Pakistan as a result of the country’s uncertain condition and inflation, SUNRA Company is recommending electric bikes as an alternative to fuel-consuming vehicles.

SUNRA is a publicly traded corporation that primarily focuses on the design, R&D, production, and sales of electric vehicles. SUNRA uses cutting-edge technology to build high-performing electric automobiles. These SUNRA electric vehicles are widely used around the world and have obtained approved certificates from the EEC, DOT, CE, and EPA.

The manufacturer claims that these electric bikes are better and more secure than fuel-consuming bikes since they require less maintenance because they don’t have a chain or an oil system, and they are also easier to use and more secure.

These bikes run on a large battery that charges quickly; some of them are even rechargeable. They have excellent break systems with safety features and alarms that ring loudly to keep the bike safe from onlookers.

Few people shared their knowledge and experiences about these motorcycles, claiming that they are better and more practical for ride-hailing. You can read more about one of the users’ personal experiences and information.

Visit the following URL:

Compared to the graphics of other bike brands utilized in Pakistan, these bikes are exquisitely created and feature completely unique artwork.

The goal of these vehicles is to provide a good riding and performance experience with the integration of powerful power, precise control, and smart technology.

For additional information about these bikes, you can also check out this website: https://www.sunraev.com/

Waseem Badami, a well-known host, and the anchor is trending on his 38th birthday.

Waseem Badami is a Pakistani television anchor, journalist, and news anchor. He is known for hosting news and current affairs programs on various Pakistani news channels. On February 7, 1985, Waseem was born in Karachi, Pakistan. On his 38th birthday, his fans celebrated a birthday and eventually it become a Trending Topic on Pakistan’s Twitter Panel.

Waseem Badami has a Master’s degree in Mass Communication from the SZABIST, Badami began his career by providing traffic updates on the radio. Later, his sheer effort paid off when, out of thousands of applicants, he was chosen to join ARY News in 2006, where he began his career as a journalist and anchor. He is currently the top host and anchorperson in Pakistan.

Fans send him their warmest wishes on social media and in person every year. The wishes are coming from all of the social media users. Although supporters couldn’t physically congregate, they are wishing each other well on social media.

https://twitter.com/minaalmirza/status/1622949797765185537?s=20&t=bebzX956P2aBjbM7dRqYbg