As the festive season of Eid approaches, bustling markets across Punjab witness an influx of enthusiastic shoppers. However, safety concerns, particularly for women and children, have often marred the shopping experience. To counter this, the Punjab government has launched a dedicated Women Police Squad to patrol major commercial hubs and ensure a secure shopping environment.
Women Police Squad – A Step Towards Safer Public Spaces
Under the directives of Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, the Women Police Squad has been mobilized across multiple cities, including Lahore, Rawalpindi, Sialkot, Faisalabad, Gujranwala, Chiniot, Burewala, Vehari, and Khanewal. This initiative aims to curb harassment, prevent street crimes, and provide immediate assistance to women and children in distress.
These squads, consisting exclusively of policewomen, will conduct patrolling on foot, bicycles, and motorbikes during peak shopping hours. Their primary responsibilities include:
✔️ Preventing harassment and ensuring a safe environment for female shoppers
✔️ Monitoring the activities of anti-social elements in crowded markets
✔️ Protecting against mobile phone and wallet snatching incidents
✔️ Coordinating with other security forces for quick response actions
Additional Security Measures in Lahore
To further strengthen security, Dolphin police squads have also been deployed in 65 major commercial centers of Lahore, such as DHA Raya Club, Ichhra, Anarkali, and Liberty Market. The Quick Response Cycle Squad will provide rapid support to shoppers in distress. Additionally, the PRU squad and Dolphin bicycle patrol will maintain vigilance, ensuring swift action against any unlawful activity.
More than 4,000 police personnel are engaged in this special duty across Lahore, patrolling markets post-Iftar until closing hours. The initiative has also extended to Okara, where the first Women Police Squad has been fully mobilized.
Commitment to Women’s Safety
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has emphasized that ensuring the protection of women and children is a collective responsibility. While the government plays its role through such initiatives, the public must also contribute by reporting suspicious activities and supporting law enforcement efforts.
With the implementation of Women Police Squads, Punjab is taking a progressive step toward safer public spaces, ensuring that women can shop freely and fearlessly. This initiative sets a precedent for women’s empowerment and community safety, fostering a more inclusive and secure society.