Cholistan Desert Rally to be held under strict security

Commissioner orders safety cover for campers

BAHAWALPUR: In view of the deteriorating law and order situation in the province, the Bahawalpur administration has decided to make foolproof security arrangements along the route of Cholistan Desert Rally that would commence on February 9.

This was said by Bahawalpur Commissioner Saqib Zafar while presiding over a video link conference of the administrative officers of the three districts to review the arrangements of the event at Conference Room on Thursday.

He said comprehensive measures should be taken for maintaining effective security arrangements. The rally would pass through Bahawalpur, Bahawalnagar and Rahim Yar Khan districts.

The meeting was attended by Bahawalpur Deputy Commissioner Dr Ehtesham Anwar Mahar, Rahim Yar Khan Deputy Commissioner Jameel Ahmad, Bahawalnagar Additional District Collector Rana Amjad Ali, TDCP Event Manager Fayaz Ahmad and officials of other departments.

The commissioner said, “All arrangements to organise cultural shows, establishing medical camps, refilling points, communication points and other administrative measures should be finalised at the earliest.”

He also instructed the officials to establish special spots along the track of the rally in the vicinity of historical forts, including Jam Garh, Khair Garh, Nawan Kot, Marrot, Moj Garh and Deen Garh for the visitors and spectators.

"Comprehensive traffic control plan along with health facilities, waste management and security cover for camping should be completed,” he maintained.

Meanwhile, Additional Deputy Commissioner Amjad Bashir has said concrete steps have been undertaken to provide safe, congenial and comfortable environment to the working women at workplaces. He made these remarks while presiding over a high-level.

Women in Struggle for Empowerment Executive Director Bushra Khaliq briefed the meeting regarding the salient features of Women Protection Act 2010 (Amended 2012) which extend comprehensive security cover to the working women at their workplaces.

She also briefed the meeting regarding constitution of inquiry committees, designation of competent authority and effective implementation of code of conduct in this regard.

She said training was being imparted to 30 volunteers for public awareness is also under way in Bahawalpur.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 6^th, 2017.