Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif personally reviewed security arrangements for Muharram during a visit to the Provincial Intelligence Centre at the Civil Secretariat on Wednesday. She monitored live surveillance feeds of processions and majalis across the province.
Live Monitoring and Briefing from Districts
Deputy commissioners and district police officers from all districts joined the meeting via video link and briefed the chief minister on security measures. The CM reviewed live CCTV feeds, digital monitoring systems, social media surveillance operations, and security deployment plans.
Officials informed her that a comprehensive security framework had been activated across Punjab, including physical and cyber patrolling, QR code-enabled panic buttons, LTE communication networks, and Safe City surveillance.
Directives for Vigilance and Harmony
The CM directed authorities to maintain maximum vigilance until Ashura and ensure foolproof security for mourners. She stressed the need for strict action against those spreading sectarianism, hate material, and provocative content on social media. She also emphasized close coordination with religious scholars and stakeholders to promote inter-sect harmony.
Heatwave Relief Measures
CM Maryam Nawaz expressed satisfaction over arrangements for water sprinkling, sabeels, and other facilities for mourners amid the prevailing heatwave. She directed officials to ensure the provision of cold drinking water and other necessary facilities along procession routes.
Deployment and Technology
According to the briefing, more than 124,000 Punjab Police personnel have been deployed for Muharram security duties, with Pakistan Army and Rangers personnel assisting law-enforcement agencies. A total of 4,836 QR code-enabled panic buttons have been installed at imambargahs across the province, and real-time CCTV monitoring of processions, majalis, and sensitive locations continues round the clock.
Section 144 and Restrictions
Officials informed the meeting that Section 144 remained enforced across Punjab, with restrictions on pillion riding on the 9th and 10th of Muharram, drone operations, display of weapons, misuse of loudspeakers, wall chalking, and provocative speeches.
The CM said the extensive preparations reflected the most comprehensive Muharram arrangements in Punjab’s history and warned that negligence at any level would not be tolerated.
