Preparation: Independence Day ceremony arrangements in full swing

Seminaries around Convention Centre to close for three days

ISLAMABAD: Security officials have announced that all seminaries are to remain closed within a two-kilometre radius of the Convention Centre, as a security measure for the main Independence Day ceremony which is to be held at the Centre.

“All madaris located around the Convention Centre within two-kilometre radius shall be closed from August 12 to August 14,” said a spokesperson for the Islamabad Capital Territory Administration (ICTA) on Saturday.

The spokesperson said that all three public hospitals in Islamabad --- PIMS, Polyclinic and the Capital Hospital --- will be placed on high alert during the aforementioned time period.

Moreover, 10 ambulances with doctors and paramedics, as well as five fire brigade vehicles would be stationed at the Convention Centre as part of the security protocol.

“Islamabad Electricity Supply Corporation has been taken on board regarding the uninterrupted supply of electricity as well as placement of heavy duty generators at the venue to meet any eventuality,” the spokesperson added.

He said that the street lights would remain functional in the areas around the venue.

The green belt around the centre shall be pruned as well.

Furthermore, to ensure foolproof security, no one will be allowed to enter in Convention Center premises without a security pass or an invitation card.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 7^th, 2016.