PDM rally held amid strict security

4,500 police officials deployed for duty, 44 cameras installed around stage

LAHORE:

Lahore Police made strict security arrangements on the occasion of Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) jalsa on Minar-e-Pakistan on Sunday.

At least three layers security plan was devised for the purpose. The participants were checked at three points before entering the gathering. They were frisked, checked with metal detectors and asked to pass through walkthrough gates.

The gates of Greater Iqbal Park were also customised. Two gates were specified for entry of women and VVIPs and a gate for public.

The participants of the rally were asked to park their vehicles at a certain distance. Women police was also deployed for checking of women participants. The men in civvies were deputed to keep an eye on suspicious persons or activity.

Snipers were also made to sit on high top positions. Extra teams of Dolphin Squad and Police Response Unit (PRU) remained on patrolling in nearby areas to intensify police visibility and respond immediately in any case of emergency.

Heavy contingent of Ant-Riot Force (ARF) also remained present on the occasion.

Senior police offices visited different points to check security measures. They also monitored the security measures.

Deployment at entry and exit points of the city was also increased. A comprehensive traffic plan was also devised for the purpose.

Extra traffic wardens were deployed in the surroundings areas to maintain flow of traffic as well ask the vehicles visiting the venue to park at a specified point and to not block the road for the traffic.

The rally was digitally monitored as well at DIG Operations Control Room, Punjab Safe City Authority (PSCA) and Deputy Commissioner’s Office. In addition to PSCA cameras, at least 150 CCTV cameras were installed by district administration with an aim to monitor the violations conducted by the participants.

At least 44 cameras have been installed around stage, 56 cameras near 56 parking and gates and 50 in the surroundings of the area.

Over 4,500 police officials deployed for the duty was also provided meal by SP Headquarters on their points using police mobile canteens.

 

Published in The Express Tribune, December 14^th, 2020.