It has been decided to monitor mobile phones.
Lahore: For the first time in Punjab, cyber patrolling and quick response force will be deployed during Muharram-ul-Haram, while it has been decided to monitor mobile phones.
A meeting chaired by Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif will give final approval to the Muharram security plan on June 25.
In a review meeting chaired by Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb, it was decided to appoint spokespersons in each district during Muharram. The meeting decided that a strategy to eliminate fake news and rumor-mongering on social media would be prepared, and that violations would be punished.
The meeting was briefed that 110,000 security personnel would be deployed across Punjab during Muharram, while 79 rangers would also help in the security of 38,217 Muharram gatherings, and Section 144 would be imposed.
The meeting was attended by all provincial secretaries and regional police officers, including health, finance, interior, food, and all the arrangements before, during and after Muharram from 1st to 10th Muharram, under the security plan, a detailed review was taken.
It was informed in the briefing that consultations with all stakeholders, including scholars and peace committees, had been completed, while the meeting was informed about the steps taken regarding the routes of the processions, repair and cleaning, power lines, and damaged transformers.
The Chief Minister directed for uninterrupted power supply during Muharram.
It was informed in the briefing that arrangements related to Muharram and security forces have been practiced in advance, there will be complete surveillance with Safe City cameras, clear signs will be displayed for the guidance of citizens and the convenience of the procession participants. The central and district control rooms, DGPR have been made a center for monitoring fake news.
Sibalis of the same design will be installed and in view of the intense heat, it is also proposed to change the timings of the processions.
The Chief Minister directed to ensure the availability of shade and water, establishment of first aid points, field hospitals, clinics on wheels at all times. He also directed to establish public toilets along the route of the procession, check the covers of drains and ensure cleanliness.
The meeting was informed in the briefing that arrangements have also been made for alternative traffic, parking places and provision of female police personnel. Special arrangements have been made for religious events in Jhang and other districts, including the Urs of Data Sahib and Ganj Shakar.
Female police personnel will not be allowed to have personal mobile phones during duty, the processions will be monitored by drones, there will be a complete ban on weapons except for security forces. Facial recognition cameras will be installed at the entrances of the processions.
Senior Provincial Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb said in her address to the meeting that Muharram is the holy month of the Islamic calendar and Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has directed to make the best arrangements. A record of security, convenience and cleanliness for the citizens should be set like a big Eid.
