August 18, 2003	Monday	Jumadi-us-Sani 19, 1424

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ISLAMABAD, Aug 17: The Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) administration has served notices on the administrations of all banks, educational institutions, government and private organisations, cinema halls and commercial plazas to immediately install close-circuit televisions (CCTVs) on their premises to minimize the chances of terrorism, a senior official of the ICT told Dawn on Sunday.

The official said during meetings the representatives of these institutions had assured the ICT administration of installation of close-circuit televisions.

Responding to a query, the official said the ICT administration would also install explosive device and explosive material detectors at all entry points of Islamabad. He said the services of international firms could also be acquired in this regard.

The official said directives had also been issued for the installation of cameras at all churches in Islamabad. Besides, he said, all security agencies had been directed to train their security guards in a way that they could foil any attempt of terrorism.

The hilly range of Margalla, he said, would also be under strict vigilance, as the other side of the range fell in North West Frontier Province (NWFP) and thus criminals could easily take refuge on either side of the hilly area after committing crimes.

The official said under a new security plan, the number of security guards had also been increased from two to six persons at all sensitive places.

“Random checking of vehicles has also been started at all entry points. This may cause problems to the citizens, but in the prevailing circumstances we are compelled to take such steps,” the official said.