RAWALPINDI, Jun 18 (APP):Provincial Minister for Communications and Works Malik Sohaib Ahmad Bharth on Thursday reviewed preparations for Youm-e-Ashur across the Rawalpindi Division and directed authorities to further strengthen security, surveillance and administrative arrangements to ensure the peaceful observance of the day. The directives were issued during an online meeting chaired by the minister at the Committee Room of the Communications and Works Department. The meeting was attended by Commissioner …
Provincial Minister reviews Youm-e-Ashur arrangements across Rawalpindi Division, directs enhanced security measures
RAWALPINDI, Jun 18 (APP):Provincial Minister for Communications and Works Malik Sohaib Ahmad Bharth on Thursday reviewed preparations for Youm-e-Ashur across the Rawalpindi Division and directed authorities to further strengthen security, surveillance and administrative arrangements to ensure the peaceful observance of the day.
The directives were issued during an online meeting chaired by the minister at the Committee Room of the Communications and Works Department.
The meeting was attended by Commissioner Rawalpindi Division Amir Khattak, Regional Police Officer (RPO) Rawalpindi Babar Sarfraz Alpa, Deputy Commissioners and District Police Officers of Rawalpindi, Jhelum, Attock, Murree and Chakwal.
Officials briefed the minister on the security, traffic management and administrative measures being finalized for Youm-e-Ashur.
Addressing the participants, Malik Sohaib Ahmad Bharth stressed that foolproof security arrangements must be ensured along all procession routes.
He directed law enforcement agencies and district administrations to maintain strict vigilance at entry and exit points of cities and enhance monitoring mechanisms to prevent any untoward incident.
The minister also ordered intensified monitoring of social media platforms and directed authorities to take immediate action against individuals involved in spreading hateful, sectarian, or provocative content.
He emphasized that strict legal proceedings, including the registration of cases, should be initiated against elements attempting to disrupt communal harmony and public order.
Highlighting the importance of coordinated efforts, he instructed all relevant departments to work in close collaboration to ensure the smooth and secure conduct of Ashur processions and gatherings in Rawalpindi, Jhelum, Chakwal, Murree and Attock.
Special attention was given to Murree, where a significant influx of tourists and vehicles is expected during the Ashur holidays. The minister directed the district administration to closely monitor traffic flow and visitor movement to prevent congestion and facilitate residents and visitors alike.
Malik Sohaib Ahmad Bharth further directed district administrations to remove all wall chalking across the division as part of efforts to maintain public order and civic cleanliness. He also instructed officials to ensure that manholes along procession routes are securely covered and that hanging electricity and communication wires are removed immediately to eliminate potential safety hazards.
The minister directed all concerned departments to complete and finalize their arrangements before the 6th of Muharram, stressing that timely planning and effective coordination were critical for maintaining peace and ensuring the safety of mourners.
Reaffirming the Punjab government’s commitment to preserving law and order during Muharram, he urged all stakeholders, including religious leaders, civil society and citizens, to play their role in promoting harmony, tolerance and unity.
