MULTAN
To ensure availability of fertilizers at control rate in the province, the Punjab government has directed all District Coordination Officers (DCOs) and Agriculture Department to launch crackdown on hoarders and profiteers. Sources said that the provincial government has asked the authorities concerned to take stern action against those found guilty of overcharging and hoarding. The DCOs are directed to boost the efficiency of monitoring teams and acquire maximum number of samples from fertilizer stores. Similarly, orders for unearthing secret godowns of fertilizer dealers have also been issued.
SECURITY ARRANGEMENTS: The district police have finalized security arrangements for Eid Miladun Nabi as 4308 cops will be deployed to maintain law and order in the district. Police sources said that the SSP Operations Shaukat Abbas has been appointed as the head of security operation and special measures are being adopted to secure over 70 processions going to take place in the district on the day. According to details, over 2800 cops would perform duty to secure 71 processions in Multan district while 1459 security personal would be deployed at 18 congregations.
On the other hand, reserve police at Police Lines have also been put on red alert so that they could move to any spot in case of emergency. Sources said that besides police, the personnel from Punjab Constabulary, Elite Force, special Branch, Bomb Disposal Squad and 1500 volunteers would also perform duty on the day.
Police sources said that walkthrough gates had been installed at the entry points of congregations taking place in sensitive areas and all the participants would be frisked with metal detectors before entry.