PAKISTAN -PUNJAB ON HIGH ALERT: 24/7 Control Room Monitors Security for Chehlum, Data Darbar Urs

Army, Rangers Deployed as Province Gears Up for Massive Religious Gatherings

LAHORE, August 3: The Punjab government has activated round-the-clock security arrangements across the province as millions of devotees prepare to observe the Chehlum of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) and his companions, alongside the annual Urs of Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh Ali Hajveri (RA).

Secretary Home Punjab Dr. Ahmad Javed Qazi visited the Home Department's Central Control Room today to review the comprehensive security apparatus put in place for the twin religious occasions. He was accompanied by Special Secretary Home Faisal Farid, Additional Secretary Home Asma Ejaz Cheema, and Additional Secretary Internal Security Javeria Maqbool.

869 Majalis, 494 Processions to Be Held

According to the security briefing, a total of 869 religious gatherings (Majalis) and 494 processions will take place across Punjab on Chehlum.

To maintain law and order, 15 companies of the Pakistan Army and 28 companies of Rangers are being deployed in various districts to assist the police force, Additional Secretary Internal Security Javeria Maqbool informed the Secretary Home.

Central Control Room Operational 24/7

The Home Department's Central Control Room is functioning around the clock, continuously monitoring reports from across the province. The Secretary Home established direct communication with district control rooms to assess field situations and receive real-time updates on security arrangements.

Zero-Tolerance Policy Against Sectarianism

Speaking on the occasion, Dr. Ahmad Javed Qazi emphasized that maintaining law and order and protecting citizens' lives and property remain the Punjab Government's foremost priorities.

"All arrangements, including security measures for Chehlum and Urs, are being made foolproof," he stated, directing all relevant departments to strictly comply with Home Department regulations.

The Secretary Home issued explicit directives for the administration, police, Health Department, Rescue 1122, Traffic Police, and all other concerned institutions to remain fully alert until the safe return of all pilgrims and mourners.

Cyber Patrolling Cell Active

Dr. Qazi acknowledged the exemplary role of religious scholars in promoting interfaith and inter-sect harmony, stating their efforts significantly contribute to maintaining peace.

He further disclosed that the Punjab Home Department's Cyber Patrolling Cell is actively taking action against elements involved in sectarian activities. "The Government of Punjab is pursuing a zero-tolerance policy against those spreading sectarian hatred," he declared, adding that all institutions are diligently performing their duties to ensure a safe, stable and peaceful Pakistan.

The comprehensive security operation underscores the government's commitment to facilitating peaceful religious observance while maintaining public order across the province.