Twin cities to ensure Christmas security

Sources say 500 cops will be deployed around and on roofs of churches

RAWALPINDI:

Police have finalised a comprehensive "Christmas Security Plan" to ensure safety during the celebrations. Under the plan, around 500 policemen will be deployed around and on the roofs of churches in the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad.

Entry into churches will be strictly regulated through walk-through gates, metal detector screenings, and mandatory CCTV surveillance. Security barriers will be placed on routes leading to churches on December 24 and 25. Round-the-clock security will be provided to churches from December 23 to December 26 and private security guards will also be on high alert.

Churches are being beautifully decorated with electric lights, colourful flags, and adorned Christmas trees. Special daily worship services have already begun and will continue until Christmas Day. Vigils featuring sermons, religious songs, and prayers will take place on Christmas Eve, December 24. On Christmas Day, December 25, worship services will begin at 8am and continue until noon.

The Christian community has also started decorating Christmas trees and special prayer rooms in their homes. Shopping for Christmas and New Year has picked up pace, with bustling markets and shops staying open late despite the cold weather. However, shopkeepers have reportedly raised prices on clothes, jackets, coats, and shoes in response to the increased demand.

The federal and Punjab governments have instructed all institutions to release salaries and pensions to Christian employees by December 20, boosting Christmas shopping in commercial centres.