TAXILA, Jan 27: Local administrations have put the security on red alert in Taxila, Wah and Attock after Friday’s suicide bombing outside a five-star hotel in the capital Islamabad.

Law enforcement agencies have intensified patrolling and enhanced security around sensitive areas including defence installations, mosques and Imambargahs, and public places. Extra force in plain clothes have also been deployed to provide security cover.

“We have tightened the security for foreigners following the explosion outside a hotel located in the high security zone of Islamabad,” an official said.

He said security was already high in connection with Muharram but the suicide blast further necessitated its enhancement.

Moreover, sources in the local administration told this scribe that besides police and other law-enforcement agency personnel, officials of intelligence agencies would monitor the traditional route of the Zuljinnah procession that started from Museum road.

The special branch has also been directed to keep vigil on suspected elements.

Organisers of the processions have been directed to hire the services of private security guards. Doctors and paramedical staff of the THQ hospital Taxila will move along the processions.

People having residences along the route of Zuljinnah procession have been asked to keep the doors and windows of their houses closed. Parking of vehicles and presence of any stall/cart will not be allowed near the main procession.

The administration has also warned of registering cases against people involved in wall chalking and displaying “objectionable” posters.

ATTOCK: Brig Sajjad, who is commanding the army contingent in Attock district, on Saturday reviewed the security arrangements at Imambargahs and routes of processions.

Following strict instructions, patrolling by the army and elite force had been intensified at sensitive areas, besides deployment of extra policemen in plain clothes.

Officials of the fire department, civil defence and bomb disposal squad have also been directed to prepare themselves for any eventuality.