'Government failed to wrap capital in high technology security foil'

The Federal Government has failed to launch the project concerning installation of high technology explosive detectors and monitors at all entry points of Islamabad to avoid any terrorist activity. Besides, it has not succeeded in activating the special force for the security of the Red Zone area.
The Interior Ministry had floated the plan for installation of high technology at 21 entry points of the Federal capital following the criticism it received for its plan for construction of concrete wall surrounding the Red Zone.
The government, soon after Marriott Hotel bombing, had announced to build a concrete wall around the Red Zone to stop terrorists from striking into this security sensitive area, comprising Constitution Avenue, Diplomatic Enclave, President House and office, Prime Minister House and Secretariat, Pak Secretariat, Supreme Court and other government installations.
But the plan was largely criticised and even the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) Administration and the Capital Development Authority (CDA) termed it deterrent to foreign investors besides burdening the national exchequer with heavy cost and it was suggested that explosive detectors should be installed at all entry points instead.
However, all plans and suggestions remained within the limits of spoken opinions rather than any consolidated measure to overcome the issue. The Interior Ministry or any other relevant institution too, has not even started the paper work regarding this project, well placed officials in the Interior Ministry told Business Recorder on Saturday.
They said that the government as a move to enhance the security arrangements, had announced to increase the strength of Islamabad Police and to provide them with modern and sophisticated weapons and training. There was also a plan to introduce a special force for the protection of the VVIPs and for the security of Red Zone. As per the plan, 1200 personnel were to be selected and specially train by foreign instructors in this regard. However, no special force came on surface to protect the VVIPs and Red Zone area even after passing of three months, sources said.