Pak-SA Cricket Meets High Security in Rawalpindi

News Desk 

Rawalpindi: The Rawalpindi Police have finalized extensive security and traffic arrangements for the Pakistan–South Africa Test series, scheduled to begin on Monday at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.

According to a police spokesperson, more than 5,500 police officers and personnel have been deployed under the directives of City Police Officer (CPO) Syed Khalid Hamdani to ensure foolproof security and smooth traffic management during the event.

A comprehensive security and traffic plan has been implemented for both the practice sessions and the Test matches. Over 367 traffic officers have been assigned to manage vehicular flow and facilitate the movement of citizens, while senior officers are present in the field to supervise operations and brief deployed personnel.

As part of heightened security measures, snipers have been stationed on rooftops, and CCTV cameras have been installed at strategic locations for continuous surveillance. A dedicated control room has also been established to monitor the security situation in real-time.

Additionally, police mobiles, the Elite Force, and the Dolphin Squad are conducting regular patrols in and around the stadium to maintain law and order.

CPO Syed Khalid Hamdani emphasized that “foolproof security and traffic measures have been ensured to facilitate cricket fans and all stakeholders involved in the Pakistan–South Africa series.” He reiterated that the Rawalpindi Police are committed to ensuring both the safety of the public and the smooth conduct of the Test match.

Meanwhile, both cricket teams held their final practice sessions on Sunday. The Pakistan squad participated in an optional training session that began with physical drills, followed by batting, bowling, and fielding practice under the supervision of team coaches.

ITP Issues Special Traffic Advisory for Islamabad

ISLAMABAD, Oct 19 (APP): In connection with the Pakistan–South Africa Test series, the Islamabad Traffic Police (ITP) has issued a special traffic advisory for October 20–29, to facilitate smooth movement between Islamabad and Rawalpindi during the matches.

According to an ITP spokesperson, around 310 traffic officers will be deployed across the federal capital to manage traffic flow, particularly during practice sessions and team movements.

The advisory stated that traffic on major routes such as Expressway and Srinagar Highway may experience congestion during peak hours. To minimize inconvenience, citizens have been advised to use the following alternate routes:

Travelers from Margalla Road to Khanna should use Faisal Avenue via Blue Area, Club Road, and Lehtrar Road.

Those heading towards G-9, G-10, G-11, and Tarnol sectors are advised to take Faisal Avenue through F-10 Road.

Commuters traveling from Rawalpindi Saddar to Islamabad should opt for Srinagar Highway via Peshawar Mor.

Motorists entering Islamabad through IJP Road should use Sabzi Mandi Road as an alternative.

ITP officials will be stationed along service roads to guide commuters and provide on-ground assistance. The spokesperson urged citizens to plan their journeys with additional travel time, remain patient during cricket-related movements, and follow the instructions of traffic wardens.

The ITP further advised that citizens can obtain real-time traffic updates through the Traffic Helpline 1915, Emergency Helpline Pukar-15, and FM 92.4.

“Our personnel are dedicated to ensuring minimal inconvenience for citizens while maintaining smooth traffic operations throughout the cricket series,” the spokesperson added.