QUETTA: A high-level meeting on Friday was informed that 8,000 CCTV cameras will be installed at sensitive and most sensitive polling stations in the province to monitor the election process on February 8.

       The election commission, after a survey, has identified 18 out of 35 districts as the most sensitive and sensitive.

       The meeting, presided over by caretaker Chief Minister Mir Ali Mardan Domki, while reviewing the overall law and order situation, decided that strict security measures would be taken to ensure free, fair and peaceful general elections across the province.

       Chief Secretary Shakeel Qadir Khan, Additional Chief Secretary Home and Tribal Affairs Zahid Saleem, secretaries concerned and divisional commissioners attended the meeting.

       Mr Saleem informed the meeting that arrangements are being made for the deployment of security forces, including police, Levies and FC, to provide security during and after polling in all districts.

       It was further informed that the delivery of election material to remote and inaccessible areas will be done by helicopter, while heavy machinery will be available in the respective hilly districts in case of possible snowfall in Ziarat and other winter areas.

       The chief minister expressed satisfaction over the steps taken so far in holding peaceful elections and security arrangements. Mr Domki, however, directed the authorities concerned to take more concrete steps for the conduct of fair, free, and peaceful elections.

       Published in Dawn, January 20th, 2024