The Punjab Home Department has issued comprehensive security directives for the 983rd annual Ghusl ceremony of the shrine of Data Darbar, scheduled to be held on the 9th of Muharram in Lahore.
Security Measures Ordered
According to a Home Department spokesperson, authorities have been directed to ensure foolproof security for all participants. Deputy Commissioner Lahore and the Capital City Police Officer (CCPO) have been instructed to prepare a comprehensive security plan, while the Inspector General of Police Punjab will submit daily reports on intelligence-based operations, search operations, and surprise inspections.
Special Arrangements for Female Devotees
Special arrangements have been ordered for female devotees, including the deployment of female police personnel at key locations. Walk-through gates will be installed at all entry points, and all visitors will undergo thorough security screening. Continuous surveillance through CCTV cameras will be maintained inside and around the shrine.
Technical Sweeps and Sniper Deployment
The department has also directed the Special Branch to conduct complete technical sweeps of the shrine and surrounding areas before the ceremony. Trained snipers will be deployed on nearby rooftops, while intelligence-sharing mechanisms will be strengthened through the deployment of relevant security personnel at the shrine.
City-Wide Monitoring
Authorities have been instructed to enhance monitoring and checking at all entry and exit points of Lahore to prevent suspicious individuals or vehicles from entering the city. Plainclothes security personnel will also be deployed to monitor potential troublemakers.
Traffic and Emergency Plans
In addition, comprehensive traffic management, parking, emergency response, and cleanliness plans have been ordered. Fire brigade units, bomb disposal squads, Rescue 1122 teams, ambulances, and medical staff will remain on standby.
Food and Sanitation Oversight
Punjab Food Authority teams will monitor langar and sabeel arrangements to prevent food contamination, while sanitation teams will ensure cleanliness in and around the shrine premises.
The Punjab Home Department has issued directives to all relevant departments and officials to ensure the peaceful and secure conduct of the annual ceremony.
