Foolproof security ensured for PSL eliminator in Lahore

LAHORE: The security cover around the Qaddafi Stadium on Tuesday was beefed up for the semi-final of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) played between Quetta Gladiators and Peshawar Zalmi.

More than 20,000 security personnel were deployed in and around the stadium and floodlights were also installed on the route leading from the hotel where the teams are staying to Qaddafi.

Lights have also been installed on the surrounding roads to cater to the parking needs of the cricket enthusiasts visiting the stadium to witness the face off.

Lahore Capital City Police Officer (CCPO) Amin Wains said that a massive police force was being mobilised for the mega cricketing event. “We are utilising all available resources and capacity to ensure foolproof security for the PSL matches,” he said.

DIG (Operations) Dr Haider Ashraf said that the adjoining roads had been closed for traffic due to security reasons and diversion plans had been displayed on important roads of the city to facilitate the commuters.

He also said that a four to five-tier security arrangement had been ensured and visitors would be allowed to enter the stadium after proper checking.

The DIG also said that a new range of scanners and high definition facial-recognition CCTV system had been put in for the purpose. “No public vehicle will be allowed within a kilometre radius of the sports complex,” he added.

A makeshift hospital facility has also been built within the Hockey Stadium adjacent to the cricket stadium in case of an emergency.

“The entire city will function normally, and there will be less inconvenience, but for the sake of the people’s safety we have to have a tight security programme in place,” said the CCPO.

Moreover, a team headed by Lahore Chief Traffic Officer (CTO) Rai Ijaz will remain on duty during the playoffs of the PSL. Seven superintendents of police, 22 DSPs, 97 patrolling officers, 2,000 traffic wardens and 56 lady traffic wardens are a part of the team.

The CCPO said a comprehensive traffic plan had also been completed to facilitate cricket lovers and other road users.

He added the morale of his force was very high. “We will follow the guidelines and footprints of martyred DIG Syed Ahmed Mobin, who sacrificed his life for the motherland and its people. We will continue to serve the community with commitment and dedication and terrorists cannot deter our resolve,” said the CCPO.