The Kabul Tribune (KT) — Dawn reported that security has been placed on high alert in Rawalpindi, with more than 10,000 police personnel deployed ahead of the expected second round of talks between the United States and Iran in Islamabad.
A police spokesman said over 10,000 Rawalpindi police
officers are performing security duties, while more than 600 special pickets
are monitoring all entry and exit points of the city. Additional personnel have
also been deployed along highways.
The report said 400 elite commandos, including 100 snipers,
along with 4,000 personnel from the Punjab Highway Patrol and 200 members of
the Dolphin Force, have been stationed across the city to ensure tight security
during the arrival of foreign delegations.
Security deployment began at midnight on April 18, with
foreign delegations expected to arrive at Nur Khan Airbase in Chaklala before
proceeding to Islamabad. More than 3,600 personnel were assigned to the first
shift, followed by 3,500 in the second shift.
Snipers have been positioned on rooftops to coordinate with
ground personnel, maintaining constant communication via wireless systems.
Authorities have also blocked key routes from Chohan Chowk to Koral Chowk,
while search and sweeping operations are ongoing.
Police officials said the measures were implemented on the
orders of City Police Officer Syed Khalid Mahmood Hamdani following a
high-level security meeting at Police Lines Headquarters.
Quick Response Unit teams are on alert patrol, and strict
checking systems have been enforced citywide. Monitoring through Safe City
cameras and other technologies is being conducted around the clock from control
rooms.
A special traffic plan has also been introduced, offering
alternative routes to minimize disruption for residents.
Meanwhile, advance security teams from the United States and
Iran are expected to arrive in Islamabad to coordinate arrangements for the
anticipated talks, although no official dates have yet been confirmed.
Authorities have also ordered the temporary closure of
hostels, hotels, guest houses, and inns in sensitive areas, warning of legal
action for non-compliance. Religious seminaries near high-security zones may
also be vacated.
Police have sealed most entry points to Islamabad’s Red
Zone, allowing access only through Margalla Road for government vehicles. A
local holiday is also under consideration during the talks.
Officials said about 7,000 Islamabad police personnel, 4,000
Punjab police, and 900 Federal Constabulary members are available for duty,
with additional forces on standby if needed.
