Over 1,200 cops to guard Chehlum processions

Traffic to be diverted to alternate routes


APP October 28, 2018
Security personnel escort a Chehlum procession in Islamabad. PHOTO: AFP

ISLAMABAD: The police have chalked out an elaborate security plan for the Chehlum of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) with as many as 1,200 policemen expected to be deployed to guard processions and congregations in the city.

According to the security plan, the Islamabad Police along with personnel from the paramilitary Rangers, counter-terrorism personnel, police commandoes, Falcon Squad officials, motorbike patrols, Eagle squad and personnel from other law enforcement agencies will be deployed to perform patrolling and security duties.

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The routes of all processions will be completely cordoned off through a heavy deployment of security forces.

Operations SSP Amin Bukhari has directed three SPs, eight DSPs, 19 Inspectors and other police officials to perform their duties on the day. They have been tasked with visiting the routes of processions and ensuring effective coordination amongst the security personnel deployed. The route has been divided into three sectors with sector will be headed by an officer of SP rank, while sub-sectors will be headed by DSPs. Inspectors will be deputed on rooftops and pickets.

Moreover, personnel from the special branch of police, crime investigation department (CID) and the traffic police will also be on duty.

Snipers will be deputed on buildings along the procession routes.

Close liaison will be maintained with organisers of congregations and processions while special arrangements will be made for checking `burqa-clad' women participants using walk-through gates and metal detectors at all the entry points.

To monitor the situation three control rooms have also been established. The main procession will start from Imambargah AshriAsna in Sector G-6/2. After following its pre-determined route, it will culminate at the same point.

Traffic arrangements

As many as 354 traffic policemen will be deployed on the eve of the chehlum to ensure a smooth flow of traffic in the city. The 354 policemen include one traffic SP, four traffic DSPs and 11 inspectors of the Islamabad Traffic Police (ITP).

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According to the traffic plan finalised by Traffic SSP Farrukh Rasheed, traffic will be diverted on to alternate routes starting as early as 8am on the day of the Chehlum. During the processions, Fazl-e-Haq Road from Kalsoom Plaza and China Chowk will remain closed for traffic. Citizens have been advised to use Jinnah Avenue.

Likewise, Seventh Avenue heading to Chand-Tara Chowk will remain closed from Blue Area outer loop to Suhrawardy Chowk. Citizens can use an alternate route from Nazimuddin Road to Faisal Avenue.

Published in The Express Tribune, October 28th, 2018.

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