RAWALPINDI: The cricket teams of South Africa and Pakistan arrived in Islamabad on a special Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) flight from Karachi on Sunday.

PIA spokesman Abdullah Hafeez said the national flag carrier had reserved PK-368 exclusively for the cricket teams and all Covid-19 precautionary measures were put in place.

He said disinfection of the aircraft was carried out and special protective clothing and Covid-19 tests for the crew were arranged.On arrival, the plane was diverted from the terminal and red carpets were laid to welcome the teams. The PIA staff greeted the teams with national flags of both the countries.

The teams were driven to their hotel amid tight security provided by heavy commando guards.

While on board, the national anthems of both the countries were played.On the other hand, the city traffic police have chalked out a traffic diversion plan for Pakistan-South Africa cricket match at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.

A traffic police spokesman said due to the security reasons, Double Road will be closed for all kinds of traffic from both sides.

Traffic coming from Islamabad will be diverted from Double Road to I.J. Principal Road and vehicles coming from Faizabad will be diverted to Murree Road.

During the cricket match, 303 traffic police personnel will be deployed to enforce the traffic plan and facilitate motorists.

Suspicious vehicles and motorcycles are being closely monitored for security reasons.

Strict action will be taken against tinted windows, vehicles without number plates.

Published in Dawn, February 1st, 2021