District courts left without security gates

Flyover project completion exposes major security lapse

RAWALPINDI:

Following completion of the District Courts Chowk flyover and underpass project, contractors departed without reinstalling entrance gates on the four main access routes to the district courts complex, leaving the premises completely exposed to unrestricted public entry.

At present, the principal entry points of the district courts resemble open grounds, allowing anyone to enter the premises at any time around the clock. The original entrance gates reportedly disappeared during bulldozing work linked to the project.

Walk-through security gates installed at entry points have become ineffective, while metal detectors are also lying non-functional. In addition, all 77 security CCTV cameras installed across the district courts complex have fallen into disrepair, effectively rendering the surveillance system useless.

The CCTV monitoring control room has also ceased functioning, turning the entire district courts complex into a major security risk.

The district courts have eight small and large access routes, with the main entrances near Court Chowk, Jinnah Park, the Deputy Commissioner's Office, the Facilitation Centre, Habib Bank Limited and the main court passage being the most commonly used.

Lawyers have strongly protested over deteriorating security arrangements at the courts complex. Assistant Attorney General Masood Shah said the district administration must immediately install entrance gates, warning that in the event of any untoward incident, strict action would be taken and FIRs lodged against those responsible.

District Bar President Tariq Mahmood Sajid Awan said directions had already been issued to the district administration to install central entrance gates at the main District Courts Chowk and opposite Jinnah Park, along with complete security checkpoints.

He said ensuring court security was the responsibility of the administration, while the bar would fulfil all responsibilities falling within its mandate. He added that a completely foolproof security system would be ensured for the district courts complex.