MANSEHRA: Deputy Inspector General of Police Hazara Range Nasir Mehmood Satti on Thursday sought the support of clerics, elders and businesspersons to maintain peace in Upper Kohistan district.

“Your district holds significant strategic importance, as mega energy projects like the Diamer-Basha and Dasu hydropower projects are being executed here. You should report the presence of any strangers as the security of Chinese nationals is our top priority,” Mr Satti told a gathering of local elders, clerics, business community’s members and members of dispute resolution councils in Dasu, the district headquarters of Upper Kohistan.

He said that the police were utilising all available resources to ensure the safety and security of Chinese engineers and workers involved in constructing the 8,600-megawatt Diamer-Basha and Dasu hydropower projects.

“We have planned the establishment of additional police stations and an increase in the number of personnel in the existing force to ensure the safety of Chinese nationals, foreigners, and local tourists travelling through the Karakoram Highway to Gilgit-Baltistan,” he said.

Mr Satti also addressed police personnel in Darband, instructing them to remain vigilant on the Karakoram Highway and in their duties elsewhere.

“We are implementing all possible measures for your welfare and your families, but you must remain honest and trustworthy in performing your duties,” he said.

The DIG said the provincial police had a proud history of sacrifices for the safety and protection of citizens.

“We must uphold the legacy of our brave force and prioritise the safety of our Chinese guests over our own lives,” he said.

Also, the DIG paid surprise visits to police stations and check posts in the Lower Kohistan and Kolai-Palas districts.

He also met with police personnel and reviewed the law and order situation in the region.

Published in Dawn, December 27th, 2024