LAHORE, Oct 24 (APP): The government put in place foolproof arrangements for monitoring and security of processions on Youm-e-Ashur here Saturday with installation of 280 CCTV cameras on processions’ routes and sensitive places.
While three helicopters including that of the Punjab Chief Minister also monitored mourning processions by hovering over the routes.
A total of 15,000 policemen and 500 scouts/volunteers as well as Army Jawans and Rangers performed duties that ensured foolproof security of the main Shabeh Zuljinnah procession that was taken out from Nisar Haveli Mochi Gate at night of 9th Muharramul Haram and culminated at Karbala Gamey Shah Bhaati Chowk at night of 10th Muharram-ul-Haram.
The law enforcement agencies put in place up to seven-layer security mechanism for checking of the people joining the mourning procession and Azadari Majalis of the processions, while, 15 surveillance vans were also part of the security apparatus. Two control rooms were established at the DCO Office and Lower Mall Police Station for effective coordination of the law enforcement agencies.
In addition to CCTV cameras, flood/search lights were also installed at various points for effective vigilance of procession routes and adjoining areas.
The mourners were allowed to enter the procession after a thorough checking and scanning by the walk-through gates at specific points, while police snipers were posted at the rooftops of building on the route of procession.
Around 1200 wardens performed duties around the procession routes to keep smooth traffic flow on city roads.
All senior police officers including CCPO Lahore Capt. (retd) Amin
Wains, DIG Operations Dr Haider Ashraf and DCO Lahore Capt. (retd) Muhammad Usman personally monitored the security arrangements to ensure peace and tranquility.
There was a complete ban on carrying and displaying of fire-arms and
pillion riding during 9th and 10 Muharram, mobile phone service was also remained suspended till culmination of the main mourning procession of the city.
The officials of civil defense, LESCO, fire-brigade/Rescue-1122 also
performed the respective duties to facilitate the mourners of the processions. While medical camps were also set up at various points.
APP/maa-hsn/zqr/tsw
