Rawalpindi on high alert ahead of SCO Summit

Rawalpindi:In preparation for the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in Islamabad, the local administration has raised security to the highest level to ensure the safety of foreign heads of state, delegates, and maintain law and order in Rawalpindi. The summit, scheduled from October 12 to 16, has prompted significant precautionary measures, including the temporary closure of several business establishments.

The administration has ordered the closure of all wedding halls, cafes, restaurants, and snooker clubs during the summit dates. Owners of these establishments have provided written assurances of compliance, with authorities warning that strict legal action will be taken against anyone violating the orders. Businesses are required to remain fully closed from October 12 to 16, in light of the current security concerns in the country.

In addition to these closures, a local holiday has been declared in both Islamabad and Rawalpindi from October 14 to 16. During this period, all government and private educational institutions, as well as government, semi-government, and private offices, will remain shut. The decision to suspend certain business activities was made to minimize any risk posed by the potential movement of suspicious individuals.

Meanwhile, Rawalpindi's Deputy Commissioner, Hasan Waqar Cheema, has cancelled the holidays of all government officers across public sector departments. The staff in these departments are expected to be present in their offices to fulfil their duties, including tasks related to dengue prevention. A formal notification has been issued by the Deputy Commissioner regarding the cancellation of holidays.