Massive fireworks during the opening ceremony of the National T20 cricket tournament at Arbab Niaz Cricket Stadium, Peshawar has caused panic among residents of Peshawar.
According to officials, the intense fireworks display was part of the colourful inauguration ceremony of the tournament at the stadium.
However, the sudden loud sounds late at night spread fear among citizens, and rumours of blasts quickly began circulating on social media.
The local administration later issued a clarification, assuring the public that the sounds were not related to any security incident but were fireworks marking the start of the cricket tournament.
Earlier in the day, Mian Saeed, Capital City Police Officer (CCPO) of Peshawar, visited the stadium to review security arrangements. During the visit, Farhan Khan briefed him in detail about the security plan for the event.
Speaking on the occasion, the CCPO said that security across the city had been placed on high alert and a comprehensive plan had been implemented to maintain law and order during the tournament. Under this plan, checking at all entry and exit points has been intensified.
He added that modern technology is being used to monitor the event, including anti-drone guns, drone cameras and mobile surveillance cameras. Police personnel have been deployed along routes leading to the stadium, at key points, on rooftops of nearby buildings and around the outer perimeter.
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