Peshawar division finalizes security, monitoring plan for upcoming anti-polio campaign

PESHAWAR, (APP - UrduPoint / Pakistan Point News - 13th May, 2026) Authorities here on Wednesday finalized administrative and security arrangements for the anti-polio campaign scheduled to begin on May 18, with officials directed to ensure strict monitoring and full protection for vaccination teams across the division.

The decisions were taken during a high-level meeting chaired by Riaz Khan Mehsud, attended via video link by deputy commissioners, district health officers, police officials and representatives of relevant departments from Peshawar, Nowshera, Charsadda, Mohmand and Khyber districts.

The meeting reviewed preparations for the upcoming Sub-National Immunization Days (SNIDs) campaign, implementation of previous Divisional Task Force decisions, environmental sample reports and progress on routine immunization activities aimed at strengthening protection against poliovirus.

District administrations and health authorities briefed the meeting on operational planning, vaccination coverage targets and deployment of mobile teams, while police officials shared security strategies for sensitive areas and routes identified for polio workers.

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Speaking on the occasion, Commissioner Riaz Khan Mehsud directed all deputy commissioners to personally supervise field operations during the campaign and ensure that all available resources are utilized for achieving maximum coverage.

He stressed that eradication of polio remained a national responsibility and called for coordinated efforts among all institutions to achieve the objective of a polio-free Peshawar Division.

The commissioner also instructed district police officers to provide foolproof security to vaccination teams and submit daily performance reports during the campaign. Special emphasis was placed on vaccinating children of displaced families from Tirah Valley and Afghan returnees to prevent any immunity gaps in high-risk populations.

Officials were further directed to enhance public awareness campaigns, improve access to remote areas and strengthen inter-departmental coordination to ensure the success of the drive.