Security arrangements for the Pakistan Super League (PSL) season 11 appear to be one of the major reasons for Pakistan’s latest security expenditure demands with authorities demanding much-needed additional funding to ensure the smooth conduct of the tournament.
As per information provided on a private media channel, the Ministry of Interior had requested over Rs3.3 billion in supplementary expenditure for security-related expenditures for the year 2026.
However, only Rs1.2 billion was sanctioned by the government.
A major chunk of the demanded allocation was related to security of the Pakistan Super League for which Rs2.28 billion was sought.
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The funds were to be used to provide reinforced policing, inter-agency coordination and arrange logistics during the high-profile tournament.
In addition to the PSL, the funding request covered security provisions for major religious occasions which include Muharram-ul-Haram and Rabi-ul-Awwal.
Such religious occasions often feature large gatherings of people in the street, processions and events which involve the need for increased security deployment across urban centres.
The proposed expenditures were also needed for the arrangements relating to the repatriation of the undocumented Afghan nationals.
Authorities have been managing return processes that need to be coordinated at border points, transit facilities and associated operational support.
In a notable development, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi earlier announced that upcoming Pakistan Super League (PSL) matches will be held behind closed doors as part of the government’s austerity measures amid the prevailing regional situation.
Addressing a press conference in Lahore, Naqvi stated that the tournament will be restricted to just two venues, Karachi and Lahore.
He explained that the decision aims to limit public movement and facilitate more efficient management during this period.
Also read: PSL matches to be held without spectators: Mohsin Naqvi
