A high-level meeting was held at the Punjab Home Department to review arrangements for the 327th annual Vaisakhi Festival, chaired by Provincial Ministers Khawaja Salman Rafique and Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora.
The meeting discussed in detail the security, accommodation, transportation, and overall management plan for the international festival. Additional Secretary Shrines, Nasir Mushtaq, briefed participants that the Vaisakhi Mela will be held from April 10 to April 19.
According to the briefing, around 20,000 local pilgrims, 3,000 from India, and another 3,000 from other countries are expected to attend. Sikh pilgrims will visit key religious sites including Lahore, Nankana Sahib, Hasan Abdal, Eminabad, Farooqabad, and Kartarpur Narowal.
Speaking on the occasion, Khawaja Salman Rafique emphasized that the Punjab government is ensuring foolproof arrangements for the festival, including security and comfortable stay for pilgrims. He also directed that all transport vehicles must have valid fitness certificates and uninterrupted electricity supply must be ensured during the event.
Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora stated that the Punjab Chief Minister has set a positive precedent by actively participating in minority festivals. He stressed the need for teamwork to highlight Pakistan’s positive image globally and directed officials to respect religious sensitivities of Sikh pilgrims.
The ministers also instructed authorities to arrange senior citizen counters, additional washrooms, air-conditioned marquees, medical facilities, ambulances, and large-scale langar (community kitchen). Provision of luxury buses for transportation and selection of certified currency exchange dealers were also emphasized.
Dr. Ahmad Javed Qazi, Secretary Home Punjab, said that providing the best facilities to international pilgrims is crucial for enhancing Pakistan’s global image. He directed all departments to ensure top-tier security and hospitality arrangements.
The meeting was attended by senior officials from the Home Department, Police, Rangers, FIA, Customs, Rescue 1122, Health, and Transport departments. Commissioners, RPOs, Deputy Commissioners, and DPOs from across the province also participated via video link.
