ISLAMABAD: After about six years, Eid congregations have been allowed at about 19 open places in the capital city.

Since 2007, the capital administration had banned holding of Eid congregations in the open due to terrorism threats.

The year 2001, 2008, 2009 and 2010 were considered the worst for Islamabad as the city witnessed a number of terrorist attacks.

However, the ban was also violated and a few congregations were held at open places every Eid.

A police officer said for the last few years the security situation in the city had been improving. Besides, threats of terrorism has also decreased compared to the previous years.

“Some people were already seen violating the ban on congregations at open places,” he said.

In view of the improving situation, the police have decided to provide security to the faithful attending Eid prayers in open places.

An officer of the capital administration added that no direction or recommendation had been received from the government to disallow Eid congregations in open places. Besides, the police also did not request for the ban.

“We are discouraging congregations in open places but not banning them.”

Large Eid congregations will be held at their traditional places, but the organisers of smaller ones are being asked to merge into the bigger gatherings, the official added.

A police spokesman said security would be provided to 19 open places along with 594 worship places.

He said about 3,000 policemen would perform security duties during the Eid days and guard religious gatherings at open places, mosques and Imambargahs. The Bomb Disposal Squad will also keep a check at different areas.

As per plan, beat systems have been introduced for the security of main shopping centres, markets and additional deployment of policemen would be made to ensure foolproof security.

All SHOs have been directed to conduct security meetings with the managers of bus stands. Following these meetings, special police pickets would be established in the vicinity of the bus stands.

Policemen would also patrol different sectors while contingents of Rangers and police commandos will assist the police.

Police teams have been constituted to patrol various sectors and rural areas.

Keeping in view the rush of visitors to public places, security measures have also been taken at Shakarparian, Daman-i-Koh, Yasmin Garden, Monal, Lakeview Park, Chattar Park and Centauras Mall.

Published in Dawn, October 4th , 2014