Punjab Chief Minister, Muhammad Shahbaz Sharif presided over a high level meeting here Wednesday which reviewed security arrangements for Independence Day celebrations, traffic management and strategy for controlling one-wheeling.
The CM said that nothing could be more important than protection of life and property of citizens therefore foolproof security should be ensured for Independence Day celebrations on August 14. He said that all out measures should be adopted for the safety of citizens and no effort should be spared with regard to security on Independence Day. He directed that administration, Police and law enforcement agencies should remain alert and effective implementation of security plan should be ensured.
Issuing instructions for indiscriminate crackdown on the elements involved in one-wheeling, Shahbaz said that one- wheeling will not be tolerated. He directed that special teams be constituted for controlling one-wheeling and in case of complaint in this regard from any district; action will be taken against police officer concerned while punishment will be awarded to the elements involved. The CM further directed that action should also be taken under the law against underage youth driving a car or motorcycle. He also directed to accelerate search and sweep operation and said that effective action should be taken against criminals and anti-social elements. He directed that additional police force should be deputed in markets, bazaars and public places and sensitive areas while a watchful eye be kept on entry and exit points of the cities. He said that law should come into action immediately against the elements involved in aerial firing and display of firearms. He said that police will have to play an active role for ensuring supremacy of law.
He said that police and law enforcement agencies should perform their duties with mutual co-ordination. He said that effective measures should also be taken for traffic management in Lahore, Murree and other big cities on Independence Day while comprehensive planning should be made for maintaining a smooth flow of traffic in Murree on August 14. He said that besides making alternative routes, arrangements should also be made for parking so that people should not face any difficulty. Secretary Home and IGP gave briefing on security arrangements, traffic management and steps for curbing one-wheeling on Independence Day. Special Assistant Rana Maqbool Ahmed, Member Provincial Assembly Jehangir Khanzada, CS, IG Police, Secretary Home and senior police officers attended the meeting.