Processions: Security plan finalised for chehlum

BAHAWALPUR: Foolproof security arrangements have been finalised for Hazrat Imam Hussain’s chehlum being observed on Monday (tomorrow).

This was said by Regional Police Officer Muhammad Idrees Ahmad on Saturday.

“In order to maintain law and order in the province all DPOs and ulema should work together,” he said, directing District Police Officers of all three districts of Bahawalpur division to determine separate locations for entrance and exit.

He added that people entering the processions or public gatherings would be physically searched. Video camera recording should be ensured all the processions and public gatherings, he said, adding parking  area should be set up at a minimum distance of 300 metres from the location of public gathering and processions. He added that special cards should be issued for the police and security officials on duty and it should be ensured that they display their cards.

Around 67 processions and 154 public gatherings would be organised throughout the region and around 4693 policemen, 1432 national volunteer, 486 special policemen while 856 volunteer provided by the city administration will provide security duty.

A total of 7467 policemen, along with Punjab Constabulary’s heavy force, would perform their duties.

Around 155 ulemas in the province have been banned from entering the district, said Idrees.

Published in The Express Tribune, November 20^th, 2016.