Islamabad transforms into fortress for SCO summit amid security concerns

As Islamabad gears up to host the Council of Heads of State of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit next week, on October 15-16, 2024, the city finds itself under an unprecedented security blanket.

This high-profile event comes at a time of heightened tension in Pakistan, following a series of attacks targeting foreign nationals and diplomats across the country.

The capital's transformation into a fortress-like venue for the SCO summit is not merely a matter of protocol, but a necessity born out of recent tragic events.

Just days ago, on October 8, a suspected suicide attack near Karachi airport claimed the lives of two Chinese nationals, sending shockwaves through diplomatic circles. This incident followed a disturbing pattern of violence, including a September 22 bombing of a foreign diplomats' convoy in northwest Pakistan that resulted in the death of a police officer, and a March attack that killed five Chinese nationals in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province.

Recent incidents - the backdrop to Islamabad's strict security measures

  

Reuters

Police officers and paramilitary soldiers gather near the wreckage of vehicles after an explosion near Jinnah International Airport in Karachi, Pakistan October 6, 2024. A massive blast that targeted a convoy of Chinese workers in Pakistan's largest city killed two nationals, Beijing's embassy said on October 7, in an attack claimed by a separatist group.

Against this backdrop of escalating security concerns, Pakistani authorities have mobilized an extensive array of security measures to ensure the safety of visiting dignitaries. The Federal Ministry of Interior, District Administration, and Capital Development Authority (CDA) are working diligently to implement these measures.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a special advisory to all diplomatic missions requesting all diplomats, particularly foreign representatives, to restrict their movements to the Red Zone and diplomatic enclave during the event. Additionally, all missions are instructed to comply with the Traffic Police's ongoing traffic plan.

To accommodate VVIP movements during the conference, comprehensive traffic restrictions will be implemented across Islamabad and Rawalpindi. Major routes, including Aabpara to Srinagar Highway and the expressway from Zero Point to Coral Chowk, will be affected. The Islamabad Traffic Police has announced alternative routes for commuters, such as using Banigala and Park Road for travel between Murree/Bhara Kahu and Rawalpindi and redirecting heavy traffic to designated motorways.

Chief Traffic Officer Mohammad Sarfraz Wark will lead over 585 officers of the Islamabad Traffic Police in managing these arrangements. They will guide citizens and enforce the strict traffic plan, which includes halting all traffic during VVIP movements and prohibiting vehicular access on the conference route.

Commercial activities are also prohibited in designated visitor areas. The authorities request public cooperation in using the suggested alternate routes to minimize disruption.

Empty city, safe city

The federal government has declared a public holiday in Islamabad and Rawalpindi from October 14 to 16 for the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) meeting. Despite this, the Ministry of Education will conduct scheduled examinations as usual during this period. Institutions holding A and O level examinations will remain open, with DC Islamabad Irfan Nawaz specifying that exams will proceed at three centers: E XI, Noor Mahal GT Road, and H8. However, all other educational institutions will be closed.

Contrary to circulating reports, the district administration has clarified that marriage halls, restaurants, and cafes in Islamabad will not be closed during the SCO meeting. No closure orders have been issued by either the federal government or the district administration. Marriage halls can operate their activities in accordance with the traffic police route plan.

The CDA is also overseeing comprehensive city renovations in preparation for the summit. This includes road repairs and beautification projects throughout Islamabad. Key areas such as the Red Zone and Convention Center have undergone refurbishment, while major intersections and highways now feature improved lighting. Reception stages and banners are being erected along main thoroughfares to welcome international delegates.

'Foolproof' security measures in place

The Ministry of Interior has implemented “foolproof” security measures for the Council of Heads of State meeting of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. Under Article 245 of the Constitution, the Pakistan Army has assumed responsibility for the federal capital's security. Both Army and Rangers personnel have been deployed at key locations throughout Islamabad, including the Red Zone.

Islamabad Police has devised a security plan involving 7,520 of its personnel and 800 Pakistan Rangers officers. All security forces will operate in two shifts. Prior to the conference, officers will conduct thorough search operations in their designated areas. The security of hotels and conference venues will be jointly managed by local police, Pakistan Rangers, the army, and intelligence agencies.

Additional security measures include mandated security clearance of diplomats' access routes, tall buildings, petrol pumps, marriage halls, and other public spaces. During the three-day conference, on-duty officers are prohibited from using personal vehicles. Furthermore, all protests and public processions have been banned under Section 144.