ISLAMABAD: Legendary voice of Radio Pakistan, Urdu newscaster Taskeen Zafar passed away in Rawalpindi on Sunday after a brief illness. She was 67.

Born in Rawalpindi in 1957, TaskeenZafar`s broadcasting career spanned over four decades. She joined Radio Pakistan as an announcer in 1980.

Taskeen Zafar hosted programmes on Radio Pakistan`s News and Current Affairs Channel and also remained associated with Pakistan Television where she read news and hosted music programmes.

In recognition of her meritorious services, Taskeen Zafar was presented with the Presidential Pride of Performance award last year. Radio Pakistan and the entire broadcasting fraternity mourn the loss of a legend.

Taskeen Zafar`s eloquent voice and unique style of reading news will always resonate in the minds and hearts of Radio listeners. Her Namaz-i-Janaza was offered at Eidgah in Lalkurti in Rawalpindi.

Information Minister Attaullah Tarar expressed deep grief and sorrow over the death of the senior newscaster.

In his condolence message, the minister said he was deeply saddened to hear about the death of Taskeen Zafar.Ms Zafar was a talented and experienced newscaster and her demise was a loss not only for Radio Pakistan but also for the entire media industry, he said.

Expressing his heartfelt condolences to her family, Mr Tarar prayed to Allah Almighty to rest the departed soul in eternal peace and grant courage to the bereaved family to bear this loss with fortitude.

Information Secretary Shahera Shahid also expressed her sorrow over the death of Taskeen Zafar.

Terming her an asset of Radio Pakistan, Shahera Shahid said the vacuum created by her death could never be filled and her services for Radio Pakistan would always be remembered.

The secretary prayed to Allah Almighty to rest the departed soul in eternal peace and grant courage to the bereaved family.-APP