MANSEHRA: The police have ramped up the security of Chinese nationals working on hydropower projects in the Balakottehsilhere.

`We have enhanced security measures for Chinese engineers and workers engaged in the Suki Kinari and Balakot hydropower projects.

Only officials and other relevant people should be allowed near project sites and residential camps, DPO Shafiullah Khan Gandapur told reporters here on Friday.

Deputy Commissioner Khalid Iqbal and Mr Gandapur, accompanied by other officers and police personnel, visited both project sites to assess the security situation and ordered the complete sealing of project site boundaries.

`Although we have already provided foolproof security to engineers and workers involved in these energy projects, the safety of Chinese nationals remains our top priority, and that`s why we have regularly been inspecting and reviewing the arrange-ments,` Mr Gandapur said.

He added that the foreign nationals were not only guests of the country but were also contributing significantly to the national economic development.

`These two projects will help address the country`s electricity shortfall, he noted.

The DC and DPO also visited the residential camps of the Chinese workers to inspect security measures in place.

They held discussions with department heads and officials about safety protocols and the effectiveness of lawenforcement arrangements.

Later, Mr Gandapur chaired a meeting with officers and personnel from various law enforcement agencies, directing them to remain vigilant and alert while on security duty, patrolling and escorting Chinese nationals.

`We will not tolerate any negligence. The safety of foreign nationals working on these vital energy projects is of the utmost importance,` he said. Correspondent