PESHAWAR — The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa police force is set for a visual and practical transformation. Provincial authorities have greenlit a plan to replace the current uniforms, aiming to modernize the force’s appearance and address long-standing complaints about the quality of the existing kits.
The decision comes after years of feedback from officers on the ground. The current uniforms, which have been in circulation for nearly a decade, have frequently drawn criticism for poor fabric durability and fading colors under the province’s harsh sun.
“We need a uniform that reflects the professionalism of the force while standing up to the daily rigors of field duty,” said a senior official within the provincial police department. “This isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about comfort and utility for the men and women on the front lines.”
The new design will prioritize high-quality, breathable fabric, specifically chosen to handle the diverse climate of the region, ranging from the humid plains of Peshawar to the rugged, high-altitude terrain of the northern districts. Officials confirm that the color scheme will remain consistent with the current provincial police identity, though the cut and tactical features are undergoing a significant redesign.
Beyond the fabric, the new kits will include improved utility pockets and reinforced stitching, features requested by operational units involved in counter-terrorism and street policing. The department expects the rollout to begin in phases, starting with high-threat units before moving to regular patrols.
Funding for the transition has been allocated in the latest provincial budget. While the exact cost remains under internal review, the administration views this as a necessary investment in police morale.
The move is part of a broader push to reform the KP police, a force that has shouldered a heavy burden in the country’s security landscape. By upgrading the gear, the provincial government hopes to boost the image of the force and provide officers with equipment that matches the demands of their volatile environment.
Procurement bids are expected to open next month, with the first sets of uniforms likely reaching officers by the end of the year. For the rank and file, the change is a long-overdue acknowledgment of the practical realities of their daily work.
