A meeting of the Divisional Peace Committee was convened at the Commissioner's Office in Bahawalpur, jointly chaired by Divisional Commissioner Irfan Ali Kathia and Regional Police Officer Ghazi Muhammad Salahuddin. The session focused on reviewing security, administrative, and public facilitation arrangements for Muharram-ul-Haram.
Commissioner Announces Heatwave Measures
Commissioner Irfan Ali Kathia stated that all necessary preparations for Muharram have been finalized across the division. He assured that every possible facility would be provided to mourners and participants in religious gatherings and processions. In light of the ongoing heatwave, special measures have been introduced to protect mourners from extreme temperatures. Cool water mixed with rose essence will be sprayed along procession routes to mitigate the intense heat. Additionally, the Punjab government will establish dedicated cooling camps and cold-water distribution points (Sabeels) along major procession routes.
Appeal for Religious Harmony
The Commissioner urged members of the peace committee, the business community, and representatives of various schools of thought to actively promote religious harmony, tolerance, and peace during Muharram-ul-Haram. He informed the meeting that Deputy Commissioners of all three districts within the division are maintaining continuous coordination with district peace committees, licensed procession organizers, and representatives of mourners to address concerns and ensure smooth arrangements. He directed all relevant departments to complete and fully secure all preparations before the commencement of Muharram.
Historical Tradition of Peace
Commissioner Kathia emphasized that Bahawalpur Division has historically been a symbol of peace and coexistence, expressing confidence that this tradition would continue. He also directed Deputy Commissioners to issue identification cards to members of district peace committees to enable them to perform their responsibilities more effectively during Muharram.
RPO Highlights Security Measures
Regional Police Officer Ghazi Muhammad Salahuddin stated that all available resources would be utilized to maintain security and law and order during Muharram. He informed participants that district police officers are personally inspecting procession routes in their respective districts to ensure comprehensive and foolproof security arrangements. The RPO appealed to the trader community to cooperate with law enforcement agencies and assist in maintaining peace. He requested business owners to facilitate security efforts, particularly through the use of CCTV cameras installed at commercial establishments whenever required.
