SHIKARPUR: The General Officer Commanding (GOC) of Pano Aqil Cantonment, Major General Zaffarullah Khan on Tuesday presided over a high-level meeting at Shikarpur deputy commissioner office (DCO) to analyse security measures regarding upcoming general elections.
“It is our prime responsibility to maintain law and order situation to ensure that free, fair and peaceful elections are conducted,” he said while urging the candidates to inform their respective district administrations before carrying out public rallies or gathering.
He further emphasised on the implementation of the electoral code of conduct issued by the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) in its true spirit and essence. While directing the officers to ensure effective monitoring of the polling stations by CCTV cameras, he proposed a joint planning strategy between district administration and law enforcement agencies to ensure transparency in the polling process.
Meanwhile, the Shikarpur DCO Syed Hassan Raza observed in the meeting that CCTV cameras were already installed in at least 15 ‘sensitive’ polling stations while the provision of other facilities including potable water, washrooms and cleanliness would also be ensured. Reportedly, 825 polling stations have been established for men while another 743 polling stations have been allotted for women.
Moreover, 58 polling stations in total have been declared ‘sensitive’ where foolproof security measures would be ensured.
The Shikarpur’s newly appointed senior superintendent of police (SSP) Jahanzeb said that the police officers convened meetings with all the contesting candidates in the district while duties were already assigned to the police personnel.
The Shikarpur election commissioner Ali Ahmed Abbasi also briefed the officers regarding ballot papers and the polling process.
Three people die in separate road accidents
Two motorists died on Tuesday when a speedy vehicle rammed into their motorcycle near Daro bus stop in Shikarpur.
Reportedly, 28-year-old Rameez Ahmed and 18-year-old Ibrar Ahmed were on their way to Madeji town when a double-cabin vehicle ploughed into their motorcycle.
Consequently, both of them died on the spot while vehicle’s driver managed to flee from the scene.
Meanwhile, a Rescue 1122 team rushed on the spot and shifted deceased’s bodies to Madeji Taluka Hospital for autopsy.
Later, the bodies were handed over to their relatives.
The area police started investigation into the incident.
Moreover, an 18-year-old disabled youth identified as Bachal Gahejo was crossing a road in a wheelchair when a fully loaded tractor-trailer crushed him. While being rushed to THQ Madeji Hospital, he succumbed to his injuries.
The area police arrested the tractor-trailer driver and initiated further investigation.
Published in Daily Times, July 18th 2018.