Punjab declares local holiday in Lahore for Data Ganj Bakhsh Urs

LAHORE: The Punjab government has declared a local holiday in Lahore on August 4 on the occasion of the 983rd annual Urs of Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh (RA), while authorities have put comprehensive security arrangements in place for the religious gathering.

According to a notification issued by the Punjab Services and General Administration Department, the holiday will apply only to Lahore district and its subordinate government offices. The Punjab Civil Secretariat, attached departments and regional offices will continue to function as usual.

The provincial government has directed all relevant departments to ensure implementation of the notification.

Meanwhile, Lahore Police have finalised extensive security arrangements at Data Darbar, where thousands of devotees from across the country are expected to participate in the Urs celebrations.

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Lahore Capital City Police Officer Bilal Siddique Kamyana said walk-through gates, metal detectors and electronic barriers had been installed at the shrine, while visitors were being screened through a comprehensive security system before entry.

He directed police officials to ensure special security arrangements for women and children and maintain close coordination with the Data Darbar administration and Urs organisers.

The CCPO also instructed traffic police to implement an effective traffic management plan to ensure the smooth flow of vehicles around Data Darbar and adjoining areas throughout the celebrations.

He said security across Lahore would remain on high alert due to the Urs celebrations and the Chehlum of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA), adding that search and combing operations would continue across the city to maintain law and order.