Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has approved a comprehensive security plan for Muharram-ul-Haram, introducing a ban on drone operations and directing strict action against the illegal use of loudspeakers across the province.
Chairing a high-level meeting on Muharram security arrangements on Tuesday, the chief minister said modern technology and coordinated security measures would be utilized to ensure the safety of religious gatherings and processions.
As part of the new security framework, QR-coded panic buttons have been installed at 4,700 imambargahs across Punjab for the first time. The system will enable organizers to instantly alert law enforcement and administrative authorities in the event of an emergency by scanning a QR code.
Officials briefed the meeting that a total of 47,280 majalis and processions are scheduled to take place during Muharram, including 37,868 majalis and 9,412 processions across the province.
To maintain law and order, more than 125,000 police personnel have been deployed. Security arrangements will also be supported by 61 companies of the Pakistan Army and 76 companies of Rangers.
The Punjab Safe Cities Authority will monitor procession routes through live digital surveillance, while authorities have been directed to take action against any violations of approved routes and timings.
Maryam Nawaz instructed commissioners, Regional Police Officers (RPOs), and District Police Officers (DPOs) to remain present in the field and personally supervise the implementation of security measures.
She also ordered the removal of obstacles from procession routes, including hanging electric wires and construction materials, and directed local administrations to ensure that all manholes are properly covered before Muharram events begin.
Rescue 1122, Civil Defence teams, and Clean Punjab staff will remain on duty throughout Muharram, while provincial ministers have been assigned to oversee arrangements in their respective areas.
The chief minister further urged religious scholars to promote inter-sect harmony and unity and directed security agencies to strengthen intelligence sharing and monitoring efforts to help maintain peace during Muharram-ul-Haram.
