LAHORE - Punjab Police have finalized a comprehensive security plan for Muharram-ul-Haram, with more than 124,000 police officers and personnel to be deployed across the province to ensure the safety of religious gatherings and mourning processions.
Enhanced Security Arrangements
Punjab Inspector General of Police (IGP) Abdul Kareem stated that enhanced security arrangements have been made for 47,280 religious events scheduled during the first ten days of Muharram, including 37,868 majalis and 9,412 mourning processions. According to a Punjab Police spokesperson, over 41,200 personnel will be assigned to the security of majalis, while more than 73,400 officers and officials will be deployed along procession routes. An additional 9,500 personnel will conduct patrols around sensitive locations, procession routes, and religious gatherings.
Multi-Agency Security Operation
The security operation will involve the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD), Special Branch, Traffic Police, Dolphin Squad, Police Response Unit (PRU), and district police formations. Continuous monitoring of majalis and processions will be carried out through the Safe Cities surveillance network.
IGP Directives
IGP Abdul Kareem directed police officers to maintain close coordination with peace committees and organizers of religious events to address issues proactively. He emphasized that only approved routes and venues would be permitted for processions and majalis, while strict enforcement of Section 144 and the Loudspeaker Act would be ensured. Authorities will also closely monitor individuals placed on the Fourth Schedule, while CCTV cameras, metal detectors, and walk-through gates will be installed at sensitive locations. Legal action will be taken against those involved in spreading hate material, wall chalking, and displaying provocative banners and posters.
Pillion Riding Ban and Control Rooms
The IGP announced that a ban on pillion riding will remain in force on the 9th and 10th of Muharram, with exemptions for women, senior citizens, and law enforcement personnel. Muharram Control Rooms will operate round the clock in all districts and remain linked with the Central Control Room at the Central Police Office to ensure an effective response to any security situation.
