Highways cops seek better training

State minister for communications assures resolving issues of the force

National Highways and Motorways Police (NHMP) regional and zonal heads have suggested improvements in training syllabus and education standard for the force.

Giving their input at Administrative Retreat Meeting 2018, organised by NHMP in collaboration with Sustainable Development Policy Institute (SDPI) on Wednesday, officers recommended structural changes in systems of monitoring and operations, road safety and standards.

NHMP regional and zonal in-charges highlighted various achievements, shortcomings and suggest way forward for their respective areas. The major challenges they identified included shortage of human resource, lack of logistics, lack of clarity in function and duties of different sections of the force, undefined hierarchy and weak communication.

NHMP IG Dr Kaleem Imam said there was need to overcome shortcomings and weaknesses of the institution to further improve services to public. “Today, we are gathered here to analyse and take stock of our progress and to chalk way forward to ensure better services to public,” said Dr Imam, adding that the force was trying to develop the capacity of its officers through various training programmes with the help of partners, such as SDPI.

While conducting a training session during the retreat, SDPI Executive Director Dr Abid Qayyum Suleri said the best way to adapt to the requirements of changing times is to assess strengths and weaknesses in an introspective manner. He said in this context, NHMP effort in convening its retreat is highly commendable.

Speaking at the concluding session, Minister of State for Communications Junaid Anwar Chaudhry said his ministry will resolve all outstanding issues of NHMP before completion of the tenure of the current government.

The ministry of communication is well aware of NHMP problems, Chaudhry said, adding, “we are committed to resolving all outstanding issue of NHMP including medical policy and timescale promotions before the completion of incumbent government’s period.”

Published in The Express Tribune, April 19^th, 2018.