Islamabad police have cut the number of checkposts on busy roads from 24 to 12 and increased patrolling to curb crime and ease traffic, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Captain (retd) Sohail Chaudhry said on Monday.
He made the announcement during a meeting with a delegation of the Islamabad High Court Journalists Association (IHCJA). The IGP said the remaining checkposts are being streamlined to reduce inconvenience to commuters while keeping security arrangements effective.
Checkposts at E-7, F-7, Daman-i-Koh and the Motorway Link Road have been removed. Police will rely more on mobile patrolling than fixed checkpoints to maintain law and order and respond quickly to criminal activity.
The IGP said he ordered the immediate removal of containers from roads once the situation in the capital returned to normal, allowing routine activities to resume.
He also said police will no longer register First Information Reports (FIRs) for speeding and minor traffic violations, so that people with clean records are not stigmatised. Vehicles driven by unlicensed drivers will be impounded until a valid licence is produced.
On sheesha centres, he said the ongoing operation is being carried out in line with directions from the Islamabad High Court and the Supreme Court.
Speaking about challenges since his appointment, the IGP said several issues needed attention but the situation was gradually normalising. He said the removal of containers and reduction in checkposts were meant to facilitate citizens without compromising public safety.
He added that resolving the grievances of police personnel is essential to improving the performance of the force. IGP said he prioritises meetings with low-ranking personnel, including constables, to understand their problems.
Participants discussed improving coordination between police and court reporters, with emphasis on the timely provision of accurate, verified information to the public.
Both sides committed to constructive engagement and stronger working relations. The meeting ended with an agreement to continue cooperation to improve communication and promote responsible reporting.