Use of K-P govt machinery for PTI rally raises concerns

Equipment has reportedly been requested for potential use at the rally, particularly to clear blocked routes

PAKISTAN:

The use of machinery and vehicles belonging to the Khyber-pakhtunkhwa government for the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) rally in Islamabad, has sparked controversy over the use of public resources.

More than 40 operational vehicles from Rescue 1122, including ambulances and fire trucks, were dispatched to Islamabad, with videos surfacing of the vehicles arriving in Swabi.

In addition to the ambulances and fire vehicles, cranes, excavators, and disaster response vehicles have also been requested for potential use at the rally, particularly to clear blocked routes.

Rescue officials confirmed that staff members and vehicles are accompanying convoys heading to the event.

Rescue 1122 authorities stated that the resources are being used for emergency services.

The officials claimed that all vehicles and personnel have been deployed to handle any emergencies that may arise during the rally adding that the personnel are performing their duties by ensuring safety and providing emergency services.

The deployment has raised questions about the use of government resources for political events, with authorities asserting that their primary goal is to ensure public safety during the gathering.

The PTI is gearing up for a major rally in Islamabad today, a day after President Zardari signed the new Public Order and Peaceful Assembly Bill 2024 into law.

Despite the new legislation, PTI leaders are finalising preparations at the Sangjani Cattle Market site.

Ahead of PTI's Sangjani rally, authorities blocked major Rawalpindi and Islamabad routes with barriers and containers. Key roads including Old Airport Road, GT Road, and Faizabad link are closed, causing significant disruptions.

Earlier the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa government announced the development of plans A, B, and C to ensure a successful Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) rally in Islamabad on Sunday. PTI leaders have stated that the rally will not be canceled or postponed at anyone's request.

Ambulances, bulldozers, and cranes were being transported to Swabi by Saturday evening. Each PTI member in the national and provincial assemblies has been tasked with bringing 1,000 to 2,000 supporters, and they must implement the plans established by the party leadership.

The chief minister of K-P was personally said to overseeing the preparations.