Lahore: Chief Minister Punjab Maryam Nawaz Sharif presided over a special meeting to review arrangements for Muharram-ul-Haram, making crucial decisions to ensure safety and order. She called for an immediate emergency plan from the administration, enforcing strict implementation of the code of conduct with zero tolerance for violations.
According to Chief Minister of Punjab, immediate action was directed against those spreading hateful content on social media. A complete ban on banners, posters, and wall-chalking was mandated province-wide, with immediate arrests for violations of the drone ban during Muharram-ul-Haram. Provincial Ministers, Commissioners, Deputy Commissioners, RPOs, and DPOs were instructed to personally oversee Muharram arrangements and engage with scholars.
The Chief Minister instructed the Safe City Authority to repair out-of-order cameras and tasked the Special Monitoring Unit with overseeing and reporting on hateful content. Mock security drills were ordered, along with uniform installation of ‘sabeels’ for processions and gatherings. Refreshments like lemon water and cold drinks are to be provided to participants, with iron pipes installed for security.
To protect mourners from heat, water sprinkling systems are to be set up, with field hospitals and clinics on wheels accompanying ‘Ashura’ processions. An effective traffic management plan was also emphasized, including advisories and water drainage arrangements in case of rain.
She further directed activating Hotel Eye and Travel Eye systems and continuing combing operations with an anti-drone system. SOPs for Muharram must be strictly followed, and emergency operations should address risks like hanging electric wires and open manholes. Uninterrupted power supply and functioning streetlights were also emphasized.
She criticized the neglect of sewer covers in private housing societies and the recurrence of potholes despite patchwork. In the context of potential threats, Muharram-ul-Haram is considered highly sensitive, with the need for alertness against negative forces.
The Chief Minister underscored the Punjab government’s service-oriented reputation, urging improved arrangements and effective stakeholder engagement. Public committees should be mobilized, and the writ of the government visibly enforced. Last year’s appreciated efforts must be surpassed, aiming to safeguard the nation from hatred and disunity.
She emphasized the state’s role as a nurturing entity, advocating for active control rooms at all levels. Acknowledging previous successful Eid arrangements, she urged even better preparations for Muharram-ul-Haram. Home Secretary, IG Police, and other officials provided detailed briefings on the arrangements.