In a key meeting chaired by Punjab Home Secretary Ahmad Javed Qazi, several decisions were taken to enhance conditions within the province’s prison system and bring departmental policies in line with other law enforcement bodies.
One of the major announcements was the decision to align the martyr compensation package for Prison Department employees with that of the Punjab Police. This move aims to acknowledge the sacrifices of jail staff who lost their lives in the line of duty.
The meeting also approved special arrangements for children to meet their incarcerated mothers, ensuring emotional support for women inmates and their families.
To strengthen prison security and preparedness, the department will procure rubber bullets and tear gas to manage emergencies and maintain order within facilities. Additionally, 200 personnel will receive drill instructor training from the Pakistan Army to enhance operational capabilities.
In a move to improve mobility within jails, the department will purchase 100 motorcycles for internal patrolling near the main prison walls.
The Home Secretary also directed the immediate activation of an advanced online booking system to streamline the visitation process for inmates and their families.
For better hygiene and health conditions, he ordered the installation of water filtration plants in collaboration with the Punjab Safe Drinking Water Authority, ensuring the supply of clean drinking water to prisoners.
Lastly, the number of inmate uniforms will be increased to improve living standards for prisoners across Punjab’s jail system.
