LAHORE: The city district administration on Saturday issued a city-wide alert to all relevant departments, assigning specific tasks to ensure a smooth and successful holding of tri-nation matches in Lahore.

At a meeting with the district administration, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) representatives gave a detailed briefing to the participants regarding preparations and arrangements for the series.

According to the briefing, the tri-nation cricket series, featuring Pakistan, New Zealand and South Africa, will be hosted in Pakistan. The teams will be stationed in Lahore from Feb 5 to 10. Practice sessions for the teams are scheduled for Feb 6 and 7, while matches will be held in Lahore on Feb 8 and 10. The Pakistani cricket team will depart from Lahore to Karachi on Feb 9, with a match between New Zealand and South Africa taking place on Feb 10. The New Zealand and South African teams will subsequently depart from Lahore to Karachi on Feb 11.

The MCL has been asked to ensure appropriate lighting arrangements on routes and green belts. The Lahore district administration, in collaboration with all stakeholders, will ensure clear routes for teams and spectators. CCTV cameras will be installed for comprehensive monitoring of the matches. The health department will remain vigilant and prepared to handle any unforeseen circumstances, with medical arrangements and emergency services being prioritised, including the establishment of a temporary 10-bed hospital.

The Lahore Waste Management Company will oversee sanitation arrangements, while the Water and Sanitation Agency will maintain the sewerage system and ensure regular watering of routes. The Lahore Electric Supply Company will guarantee uninterrupted power supply. Civil Defence, in coordination with police personnel, will undertake stringent security duties. A bomb disposal squad will be deployed in the field.

The city district government and the Lahore Parking Company will jointly manage parking arrangements.

The meeting was attended by key officials, including MCL CEO Shahid Abbas Kathia, additional deputy commissioner headquarters, assistant commissioner finance and planning, City assistant commissioner, deputy CEO of MCL, representatives of the PCB and the deputy commissioner.

Published in Dawn, January 19th, 2025