DERA GHAZI KHAN: Enhanced security measures are needed to protect trans-Indus districts against a fresh wave of militancy in the country, especially in neighbouring Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtukhwa provinces.

Locals say that as security concerns escalate, there is an urgent need to strengthen security measures at the entry points of Dera Ghazi Khan district.

A local resident of Tuman Qaisrani said that their area Tuman Qaisrani shares its boundaries with troubled areas of Balochistan and KP. Key checkpoints such as Bewata, Sakhi Sarwar, Triman, Ghazi Ghat and Shah Wali are strategic locations for the installation of large scanner gates.

These scanners will help thoroughly inspect loaded trucks to curb smuggling activities and detect potential contraband hidden under legitimate goods. Ensuring comprehensive scanning at these entry points could significantly reduce the risk of illicit activities.

A retired official of the Baloch Levy said that it is prime time to reactivate the Baloch Levy, a specialised paramilitary force traditionally responsible for safeguarding the provincial boundaries of Dera Ghazi Khan and Rajanpur. These districts will benefit immensely from the Levy’s reactivation. Their presence can enhance border surveillance and provide critical support to existing security forces.

Another dire need is convening a grand jirga of the 10 tribes inhabiting the Sulaiman Range. These tribes include Mazari, Darishak, Lound, Gorchani, Leghari, Khosa, Lound Soori, Buzdar, Qaisrani and Khetran. Local tribal people suggested, during a conversation with Dawn, that a traditional tribal council could assign responsibilities to tribal leaders for safeguarding the passes of the Sulaiman Range, government infrastructure and their respective Tumans (territories).

The renowned steel bridge connecting Punjab with Balochistan, a strategic asset, is one such critical infrastructure that requires heightened protection. With tribal cooperation alongside security forces, this effort can reinforce the defence of the two districts against external threats.

Commandant of Border Military Police and Baloch Levy Asad Chandio, responding to a query regarding holding a jirga of heads of tribes in the Sulaiman Range, said that instead of holding a jirga, they are consulting heads of tribes individually to make them responsible for the safety and security of passes located in their respective Tumans.

On the other hand, a meeting, chaired by Commissioner Dr Nasir Mahmood, addressed security measures in Dera Ghazi Khan, particularly in the tri-border areas. Decisions were taken regarding the enhancement of security on internal and external routes, including Kachha areas and mountain passes, with strict surveillance at border entry and exit points and inter-provincial check posts.

It was decided to enhance security on key highways like the Sakhi Sarwar-Bewata National Highway, and Sui-Triman and Kashmore Road. Strict protocols for the movement of forces and protecting foreign nationals, especially Chinese citizens, were also discussed.

Regional Police Officer retired Captain Sajjad Hassan Khan emphasised rigorous security in sensitive areas, VVIP protection, and a crackdown on tinted vehicles. The meeting reaffirmed the implementation of the National Action Plan to counter threats.

Published in Dawn, November 26th, 2024