CM orders foolproof security

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has the directed provincial cabinet and the Cabinet Committee on Law and Order to monitor security arrangements for Ashura.

The CM directed the law enforcement agencies to make foolproof security arrangements for the 9th and 10th of Muharram.

The security plans and standard operating procedures (SOPs) should be implemented in letter and spirit, she said, ordering close cooperation among the law enforcement agencies.

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz said safety of the participants of Majalis and processions was the responsibility of the government and all necessary measures should be taken for the purpose.

She said no effort should be spared to maintain a peaceful atmosphere in every city. The law enforcement agencies should be fully active and diligent, she said.

The CM said a close watch should be kept on mischievous elements. All resources should be used to ensure law and order in the province.

She also directed the authorities concerned to extend support for Sabils and Langar for the mourners.

Meanwhile, Member of Provincial Assembly (MPA) Saeed Akbar Khan Nawani called on Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz. Development projects, public issues, suggestions and recommendations to solve public problems were discussed during the meeting.

Saeed Akbar Nawani appreciated the field hospital and Clinics on Wheels programme.

The chief minister said the government was expanding the scope of the programme by setting up 500 more field hospitals. "My dream of bringing health facilities to the doorsteps of the people is being realised successfully," she said.

Maryam Nawaz said 200 basic health units (BHUs) would start providing 24-hour services by the next year, adding that anaesthesiologists, paediatricians and cardiologists would visit remote hospitals once a week. She said thalassemia centres would be established in district headquarters hospitals and linked with regional blood centres.