The Punjab government has declared a local holiday in Lahore on August 4 to observe the 983rd annual Urs of Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh (RA). This decision comes with comprehensive security arrangements throughout the city to ensure the safety of attendees.
A notification from the Punjab Services and General Administration Department clarified that the holiday will be limited to Lahore district and its subordinate government offices. However, the Punjab Civil Secretariat, its attached departments, and regional offices will continue their regular operations on this day.
Authorities have instructed all relevant departments to strictly enforce the holiday notification. Meanwhile, Lahore Police have finalized stringent security protocols at Data Darbar, anticipating thousands of devotees from across the country to participate in the Urs festivities.
Lahore Capital City Police Officer (CCPO) Bilal Siddique Kamyana detailed that walk-through gates, metal detectors, and electronic barriers have been installed at the shrine. Visitors are subjected to thorough security screening to maintain order and safety.
The CCPO emphasized special security provisions for women and children, directing officials to maintain close coordination with Data Darbar administration and Urs organizers. Additionally, traffic police have been tasked with ensuring smooth vehicular movement around Data Darbar and nearby areas during the event.
In a significant development, the city’s security will remain on high alert not only due to the Urs celebrations but also because of the upcoming Chehlum of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA). Search and combing operations will continue throughout Lahore to uphold public safety during this period.
