LAHORE: Photojournalists from various newspapers were barred by the government on Monday from covering preparations for the test run of Lahore Orange Line Metro Train Service scheduled for Dec 10 (today).

“I went to Dera Gujran Depot (yard, originating point) for capturing some pictures but the security staff refused to give me access, stating to do so on the orders of the management,” a photojournalist told Dawn.

“The government has advised us not to allow entry of any journalist to the project area,” he quoted the duty official as having.

Photojournalists visited Dera Gujran and various stations including 1 and 2. However, the behaviour of the security staff was cavalier. “We faced a similar situation as faced by our other colleagues. But It was really very strange to see the government officials on duty.

“We tried hard but they didn’t allow us. Later, they asked us to visit station No 1 to 4. We reached there, but again the security staff present there disallowed us,” another press photographer told this reporter.

Later, the journalists also complained to the staff of minister for transport and other senior officials concerned.

“When the minister’s staff called and requested me to cover the Dec 10 trial run event, I complained to him. But I think the staff had no reason to justify the stance of the government officials,” deplored a journalist.

Published in Dawn, December 10th, 2019