Over 5,000 cops to secure HBL/PSL matches

The Security and Emergency Services Division of Karachi police has drawn a comprehensive security plan for the HBL/PSL-7 matches starting today on Thursday.

According to spokesman for DIGP Security and Emergency Services Division, around 5,650 personnel in total will be deployed for the security.

Security Division's 1,700 personnel including 1,200 Special Security Unit (SSU) commandos, 1,500 traffic police, 500 Special Branch men in civvies, 250 Rapid Response Force, Sindh Rangers and other law enforcement personnel will perform their security duties at National Stadium Karachi, Jinnah International Terminal, parking points, hotels, and various other areas. Sharpshooters will also be deployed at important installations.

Command and control busses will be deployed at the National Stadium to monitor law and order around the stadium. Aerial surveillance will also be carried out during the movement of teams. In addition, a Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team consisting of state-of-the-art and well-equipped commandos, including lady commandos, will be on alert at the SSU headquarters to deal with any emergencies.

Keeping in view the convenience of the people, it has been decided to keep all the roads, highways open for traffic except one track of Sir Shah Suleiman Road.

Spectators will be transported and guided by SSU commandos from the parking lot to the stadium by shuttle bus service.

For the spectators coming to the National Stadium, Hakim Saeed Ground near Baitul Mukarram Masjid, University Road, and China Ground, parking points adjacent to the National Coaching Center have been allotted for VIPs. Vehicles fitted with CNG cylinders are strictly prohibited from entering the stadium.

Special instructions have been issued for spectators coming to watch the match, according to which fans can buy match tickets at any designated M&P stores across Pakistan or from cricket.bookme.pk.

Covid-19 vaccination is mandatory for people over 12 years of age. Spectators must carry a national identity card to prove their identity. Arrive at the stadium ahead of time to avoid waiting in long queues.

Fans must present a vaccination certificate before entering the stadium. Masks must be worn when entering the stadium. Violation of NCOC approved regulations will result in expulsion from the stadium.

No firearms, toy guns, explosives, firecrackers, cigarettes, matches, lighters, sharp objects such as knives and metal or wood are allowed inside the stadium. Spectators are not allowed to throw anything on the ground, artists or fellow spectators.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 27^th, 2022.