A comprehensive review meeting on polio eradication and routine immunization efforts in Dera Division was held on Sunday under the chairmanship of Commissioner Dera Division, Daud Khan, officials said.
The meeting was attended by Assistant to Commissioner (Planning and Development) Sajjad Baloch, World Health Organization (WHO) Team Leader Dr. Khalid Abdul Rahim, and other relevant stakeholders.
Addressing the participants, the commissioner described polio as a life-threatening disease and urged parents to ensure that all children under five years of age should receive polio drops. He emphasized that protecting children from the virus was a national responsibility and said the divisional administration had implemented comprehensive measures through effective coordination to strengthen immunization coverage.
Dr Khalid Abdul Rahim expressed satisfaction over Dera Division remaining polio-free during the first quarter of this year. He attributed the achievement to strong coordination between technical teams and the local administration, as well as the adoption of an effective and well-coordinated strategy.
He further noted that vaccination targets were achieved with precision and efficiency due to close collaboration among various departments, describing it as a commendable milestone.
The World Health Organization representative also appreciated the role of deputy commissioners and security forces for ensuring a safe and organized environment, which enabled field teams and frontline workers to carry out their duties effectively across all areas. He stressed that sustained coordination and joint efforts were essential for the complete eradication of the poliovirus.
At the conclusion of the meeting, all participants reaffirmed their commitment to continuing coordinated efforts with dedication and teamwork to maintain the polio-free status of Dera Division and to protect the public from the disease in the future.
Meanwhile, Kohat police carried out targeted search and strike operations in Bazid Khel and Shekhan villages to ensure foolproof security for the upcoming polio vaccination campaign.
During the operations, search activities were undertaken in various localities, suspects were checked, and checkpoints were established at key points.
Police officials stated that the purpose of the exercise was to provide comprehensive security to polio teams and to purge the area of criminal elements. All necessary measures were taken to maintain peace and order during the campaign.
Meanwhile, Kohat police also launched a successful crackdown against individuals involved in illegally transferring LPG gas into vehicles, a practice deemed highly dangerous. The police arrested suspects and the recovery of equipment, gas cylinders, and other materials from the site.
Authorities emphasized that such unlawful practices pose serious risks to human lives and could lead to major accidents. Cases have been registered against the arrested individuals, and further investigation is underway.