LAHORE: Up to 36,258 police officials have been assigned to provide security for 27,355 mosques, imambargahs and 775 open spaces for Eid prayer gatherings in the province.

The Punjab police have completed its preparations for ensuring security during Eid gatherings in mosques, imambargahs and open areas across the province on the occasion of Eidul Azha.

In Lahore, over 8,000 police officials will be deployed to secure 5,000 Eid prayer congregations.

In addition to the police personnel, 2,973 police national volunteers, 1,468 special police, and 268 Quick Response Force teams will also be deployed for security arrangements. Furthermore, 11,967 metal detectors, 263 walk-through gates and 4,921 CCTV cameras will be utilised to enhance security during the Eid prayers.

IGP Dr Usman Anwar directed supervisory officers to strictly enforce regulations, emphasising that activities such as one-wheeliie, aerial firing, kite flying and stone-throwing will not be tolerated.

He also instructed the officials to closely monitor all proscribed organisations engaged in illegal activities and effectively handle individuals on the fourth schedule.

The IGP emphasised the need for thorough checking and clearance of all mosques, imambargahs and Eid prayer grounds prior to the Eid prayers. He said snipers be positioned on the rooftops of A-category mosques and imambargahs and plainclothes commandos be deployed within the Eid gatherings.

The traffic DIG was directed to oversee traffic management plans and ensure smooth traffic flow throughout the province during the Eid period.

Comprehensive arrangements to prevent street crimes and robberies on highways were also instructed.

He emphasised the utilisation of all available resources to ensure the convenience and safety of tourists visiting Murree and other tourist destinations during the Eid holidays.

He urged the implementation of SOPs regarding the entry and exit of vehicles in Murree, aiming to prevent any inconvenience to the public.

Published in Dawn, June 24th, 2023