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In Karachi, several significant local incidents were reported on Saturday, April 18, 2026, ranging from a minor earthquake to traffic tragedies and major policy shifts. Local Incidents & Safety Earthquake Tremors: A 3.4-magnitude earthquake jolted the city and surrounding areas on Saturday. The epicentre was located northwest of Malir at a depth of 10 km; no immediate casualties or structural damage were reported. Traffic Tragedy in Gulistan-i-Jauhar: An angry mob torched a water tanker after the heavy vehicle ran over and killed a 40-year-old motorcyclist in Block-18. Police Officer Martyred: Constable Abdul Manan was killed in Gulshan-i-Maymar after being hit by a vehicle belonging to suspected smugglers who refused to stop at a checkpoint. Road Fatalities: Two women were reportedly killed in separate traffic accidents involving heavy vehicles across the metropolitan area within a single hour. Economy & Infrastructure Hajj Operations Begin: The first Hajj flights of 2026 departed from Karachi's Jinnah International Airport on Saturday afternoon. Fuel Price Adjustment: Following a dip in global oil prices, Pakistan has announced cuts to the prices of diesel and jet fuel. Load Shedding Crisis: Residents continue to face worsening power outages due to rising demand and fuel supply constraints, though the Energy Ministry aimed to shield Karachi from the harshest evening peak cuts. Saudi Investment Plan: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif recently met with local businessmen to brainstorm a $1 billion investment plan from Saudi Arabia, specifically suggesting the establishment of a desalination plant to provide clean water.