Rawalpindi deploys 2,500 cops for Ramadan plan

WEB DESK: As the holy month of Ramadan commences, authorities in Rawalpindi have introduced extensive security and traffic arrangements aimed at ensuring public safety, maintaining order and facilitating the smooth movement of worshippers and residents.

A police spokesperson confirmed that more than 2,500 officers have been deployed across the city, supported by 900 traffic personnel, to uphold law and order throughout the month. In addition to regular forces, over 6,500 civil volunteers will assist at mosques and imambargahs, while Elite commandos, the Dolphin Force and specialised police units will conduct routine patrols in sensitive areas.

Heightened security

Amid heightened security concerns, authorities have placed the city on maximum alert. Combined teams from Rawalpindi Police and Islamabad Police are manning special checkpoints at strategic locations, with strict barricading and random vehicle checks underway at all major routes leading in and out of the city.

City Police Officer Syed Khalid Mahmood Hamdani has directed an immediate intensification of search, sweep and combing operations around mosques, imambargahs and other vulnerable locations. A coordinated security framework has been devised for religious sites, including mosques, imambargahs and churches, as well as other critical installations across the city.

The Safe City surveillance system is operating round the clock, with continuous monitoring of highways and sensitive areas. CCTV cameras are fully functional at religious venues, where entry-point screening has been tightened. Administrations of mosques and imambargahs have been instructed to deploy trained private security personnel alongside police officers.

Security staff have been ordered to maintain a constant presence at ground level and on rooftops. Entry to religious premises will be permitted only after thorough full-body searches. Civil volunteers, working in coordination with peace committees and religious scholars, will assist in enforcing standard operating procedures. Police and traffic teams have also been stationed at Ramazan convenience markets to facilitate shoppers and maintain order.

Traffic arrangements

On the directives of Chief Traffic Officer Farhan Aslam, a dedicated traffic management plan has been implemented. More than 900 traffic wardens have been assigned duties, including special squads tasked with curbing violations such as one-wheeling.

The plan was formulated with the assistance of Inspector Mohammad Waseem, Security Officer at the Traffic Headquarters. Traffic officers and vehicle lifters will be deployed outside Taraweeh venues, mosques and Ramazan bazaars to prevent illegal parking and ensure the steady flow of vehicles.

Mr Aslam stated that the objective of the plan is to provide optimal traffic facilities to citizens during Ramazan. Supervisory officers and wardens will remain stationed on highways and at major intersections, particularly during Iftar hours, to minimise congestion. He also urged motorists to exercise patience, avoid excessive speed and refrain from reckless manoeuvres. Wardens on duty will be provided with Iftar arrangements at their respective posts.

These enhanced measures underscore the authorities’ proactive approach to safeguarding religious observances and public life in Rawalpindi during the blessed month, with the aim of ensuring a secure and peaceful environment for residents and visitors alike.