26 February 2004	Thursday	05 Muharram 1425

ISLAMABAD, Feb 25: The Islamabad Capital Territory police have divided the capital into three circles to ensure foolproof security during Muharram.

A spokesman for the ICT police said the circles were the City Circle, I-9 Circle and Rural Circle. The in charges of these circles are SP Sultan Azam Tamouri (City), SP Asim Gulzar (I-9) and SP Mazharul Haq Kakakhai (Rural), he added.

He said a control room had been established at the office of Senior Superintendent of Police to monitor Majalis and congregations. The spokesman said the police had also asked the Capital development Authority to cut down bushes in the vicinity of Imambargahs and along the congregation routes.

APP ADDS: The local traffic police have been directed to keep a vigilant eye on pillion riders till Muharram 10 to avoid any untoward incident.

Deputy Superintendent of Police, Traffic, Malik Matloob Ahmad said the SSP had asked them not to allow pillion riding, especially near religious congregations and mourning processions. However, women, elderly persons, schoolchildren and journalists have been exempted from the ban, he added.

The DSP said all-out efforts were being made to avoid any criminal activity and ensure peace during Muharram. He said wearing helmet was mandatory for every motorcyclist, therefore, the police had launched a campaign to strictly implement this law. Mr Ahmad asked the motorists to carry the vehicle's documents with them to avoid any inconvenience.