Amid heightened tensions between Pakistan and India, the Punjab government has activated a comprehensive security and emergency response plan.
The Provincial Intelligence Centre (PIC) of the home department has established an Internal Security Control Room operational round the clock, directing all district administrations to set up local control rooms and appoint focal persons for real-time coordination.
A high-priority circular issued by the PIC ordered immediate establishment of the district control rooms.
The central hub, led by Deputy Director Muhammad Shahzad Ahmad Khan and Assistant Director Tahir Mahmood, will monitor law and order via dedicated hotlines.
Following an emergency meeting chaired by Punjab Home Secretary Noorul Amin Mengal, the provincial authorities implemented critical measures outlined in the federal government's War Book.
As part of the measures, key installations across Punjab will be secured, law enforcement agencies and medical staff ordered to report for duty.
Hospitals were placed on high alert with 24/7 staffing, emergency medical supplies and blood banks activated.
Civil defence sirens and warning systems were tested; shelters identified and made operational.
All schools and colleges were closed on Wednesday and exams postponed indefinitely.
Inspector General of Police Dr Usman Anwar confirmed full coordination with the civil defence, Rescue 1122 and the military.
Punjab Police's telecom resources are available to all departments, he stated, citing heightened border checkpoints and anti-riot deployments.
Meanwhile, Lahore Chief Traffic Officer Athar Waheed made national flags on all patrol vehicles mandatory as a symbol of unity.
Over 3,000 emergency responders and ambulances area standby and citizens were urged to dial 115 for emergencies.
The health department was also directed to ensure functional emergency protocols and communication lines. In an advisory for citizens, the authorities urged calm but advised vigilance.
If sirens sound, residents should move immediately to designated shelters, a Civil Defense spokesperson reiterated.
COMMENTS
Comments are moderated and generally will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive.
For more information, please see our Comments FAQ