Mock exercises mark Pakistan Day in Rawalpindi

Civil Defence teams display public safety preparations

RAWALPINDI:

Civil Defence Department teams demonstrated their public safety preparations at an event held to commemorate the Pakistan Day in Rawalpindi on Saturday.

The ceremony commenced with the National Anthem, followed by the guests raising the flag and receiving a salute and guard of honour. The Civil Defence Force paid tribute to police martyrs by presenting flowers as a mark of respect. During the event, various equipment used during wartime was showcased, including advanced robots capable of detecting and defusing hidden explosives such as munitions, hand grenades, and landmines.

A vehicle equipped with advanced ammunition detection and jammers, gifted by the European Union to the Department of Civil Defence, was also on display. The exhibition featured both ancient and modern fire extinguishers, highlighting the department's readiness to combat fires in different settings.

The event was attended by the district administration officers, President Chamber of Commerce President Saqib Rafique, Vice President Faisal Shehzad, and Additional Chief Warden Muhammad Zahid Qureshi, and Civil Defence District Officer Talib Hussain.

Saqib Rafiq emphasised the growing importance of civil defence in modern times, stressing that a strong civil defence system contributes to overall societal strength.

District Officer Civil Defence Talib Hussain announced plans to initiate a practical training programme in rescue firefighting for young individuals enrolled in colleges, scheduled to commence after Eid. Additional Chief Warden Zahid Qureshi affirmed the department's continuous readiness, whether during times of peace or war.

The event concluded with a march past by participants, culminating in a visit to the memorial of police martyrs where a saluting guard of honour was presented, followed by prayers for the country's development, security, and prosperity.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 24^th, 2024.