THIS is with reference to the letter ‘Security checkpoints’ (June 27). The need for security checkpoints was felt to protect citizens from evil plans and attacks of terrorists.
With the rise of terrorism, security checkpoints were created at the main entrance of cities. The aim was to stop terrorism and anti-state activities.
It caused a great deal of inconvenience to the citizens in terms of time as they had to wait in long queues in order to pass through these checkpoints.
However, even the building of checkpoints could not serve as deterrence to terrorist activities. Various incidents of suicide bombings and target killings have taken place, most recently in Karachi.
These checkpoints work as watchmen who check the vehicles of people living in a house and inspect the vehicles of their guests but are unable to protect the household from robbery or burglary and are completely unaware of what is happening in the street or even at the back of a house.
The problem at the moment is not with the commitment of the personnel deployed at the checkpoints but the approach with which they fight terrorism.
Citizens have to wait in long queues each time they pass through checkpoints.
However, terrorists enter a city through their evil designs allegedly with an accomplice within the security checkpoint.
A lot of precious time is wasted at security checkpoints due to having to wait in long queues. Dismal performance is also witnessed due to the long duty hours of security personnel at some checkpoints which causes yet another problem.
Modern, time-efficient and professional approach needs to be adopted to improve things at checkpoints.
X-ray scanners and equipment that can detect explosives would be a good addition. This will save the time of citizens and will be more reliable.
Terrorism is not a simple matter of tracing an ordinary criminal or catching a thief. Terrorism is operated by masterminds and fanatics, heavily financed and equipped with modern and destructive weapons based on fancy technology.
Citizens should act responsibly enough to provide timely information regarding any suspicious activity going around in their neighbourhood and work place.
MIYAN SAMAR HASNAINIslamabad
Ineffective measure
ACCORDING to media reports, the number of pickets in Lahore has increased, even though the CCPO promised to remove all of them.
This move has not only agitated the residents of Lahore, but also, according to a few policemen, is not effective in controlling crime.
A number of policemen also believe that snap checking yields better results, as compared to permanent check posts.
The role of the police in controlling crime is instrumental and it is a big service to citizens. Extra check posts and security arrangements always agitate commuters and other people because they cause hindrance in the regular flow of traffic.
An improved relationship between police and citizens is a necessity and provides the best means to control crime. The initiation of community policing is an effort that must be appreciated by everyone. But for this, stakeholders will have to worksincerely for its success.
ZULFIQAR HAIDERIslamabad