In a significant step towards improving policing services in Pakistan’s merged districts, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Police, the Government of Japan, and UNDP Pakistan jointly inaugurated the first-ever Model Police Stations in the districts of Bajaur, Kurram, Mohmand, North Waziristan, and Orakzai.
This initiative, a key element of the KP Rule of Law Roadmap, was funded by the Government of Japan and implemented by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) in partnership with KP Police.
The launch of these model police stations marks a major achievement in the ongoing efforts to enhance law enforcement infrastructure in the region, especially in the newly merged areas, which have historically faced challenges in access to justice and security. These stations aim to bring modern police services closer to the local communities while ensuring gender-sensitive practices and promoting public safety.
Model Police Stations in merged districts
The newly constructed police stations are equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, designed to improve both the working environment for police officers and the service provided to the public. These facilities include gender-responsive desks to address cases of gender-based violence, dedicated spaces for joint community-police meetings, as well as separate holding rooms for men and women to ensure privacy and safety. Additionally, the stations feature residential facilities for 50 police officers, with special accommodation for 10 female officers, which is a significant step towards promoting gender inclusivity within the police force.
Mr. Awal Khan, Additional Inspector General of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Police, expressed his gratitude for the support provided by UNDP and the Government of Japan in transforming the police infrastructure of the merged districts. He said, “The Government of Japan and UNDP provided invaluable support in advancing the Rule of Law Roadmap, which strengthens justice and democracy in our region. The initiatives, including Gender Desks and Model Police Stations, play a crucial role in enhancing public safety and empowering marginalized communities.”
In addition to the infrastructure upgrades, the project also focused on capacity building within the police force. A total of 22 master trainers were developed, specializing in basic police functions, community-based policing, and gender-responsive policing. Furthermore, 305 police officers, including 31 women, received training aimed at improving policing standards and fostering community trust.
The project also facilitated the creation of seven district police plans for Khyber, Bajaur, Kurram, Mohmand, Orakzai, and North and South Waziristan, which provide a comprehensive roadmap to address the unique security challenges faced by each district.
At the inauguration ceremony, the Ambassador of Japan to Pakistan Wada Mitsuhiro emphasized the importance of a holistic approach to policing that incorporates gender-sensitive and community-based strategies.
He said, “This project has supported police officers in enhancing services by implementing the KP Rule of Law Roadmap, focusing on robust police training and taking a participatory approach. We believe this approach is critical to bringing long-term peace and stability to vulnerable communities. Peace and stability are basic human rights, and central to achieving sustainable development in Pakistan.”
Dr. Samuel Rizk, Resident Representative of UNDP Pakistan, echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the importance of bridging the gap between formal policing services in the merged districts and the rest of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. He stated, “Bridging this gap is essential for building safer, more peaceful communities and ensuring equal access to justice, especially for women, girls, and vulnerable groups. At UNDP, we are confident that this project’s integrated approach to policy, capacity building, and infrastructure will contribute to these goals.”
The UNDP Rule of Law Program continues to implement various interventions aimed at strengthening the security and justice sectors in Pakistan, with a focus on inclusivity and equal access to justice for all citizens, particularly marginalized and vulnerable populations.