ISLAMABAD, August 22 (DNA): Government is reportedly considering using armed drones for security of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor  (CPEC) projects.

Sources privy to the government stated that the government is of the viewpoint that unmanned aircrafts should be used to secure different routes, railways track and gas pipelines under construction with cooperation of China as part of China-Pakistan Economic Corridor.

Drone will be an apt weapon to counter any terror attack within lesser time.

Sources also stated that Minister of Planning, National Reforms, and Development Ahsan Iqbal has discussed the possibility with the Prime Minister and production of drones will be ramped up if a formal decision is taken in the near future.

Around 8,000 Chinese workers are employed in Pakistan at the moment under at least 210 projects after China invested $46 billion. Some 8,000 military personnel, 500 SSG commandos and paramilitary troops are performing duties at different projects.

Another 7,000 Chinese nationals are expected to arrive in Pakistan once construction of other projects starts.

According to the sources, a conference is scheduled to be organised in Islamabad’s Expo Centre on August 29 regarding China-Pakistan Economic Corridor. DNA
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