The Punjab government has finalised comprehensive arrangements for the 327th Vaisakhi Festival, with authorities preparing to host thousands of local and international pilgrims from April 10 to April 19.
A high-level meeting at the Punjab Home Department reviewed security, accommodation, transport and overall event management. The session was chaired by Khawaja Salman Rafique and Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora, and Additional Secretary Shrines Nasir Mushtaq outlined the festival schedule and operational priorities.
Officials were briefed that the Vaisakhi Festival is expected to draw about 20,000 local pilgrims, roughly 3,000 visitors from India and another 3,000 attendees from other countries. Sikh pilgrims are scheduled to visit major religious sites including Lahore, Nankana Sahib, Hasan Abdal, Eminabad, Farooqabad and Kartarpur Narowal during the festival period.
Ministers emphasised that security and a comfortable stay for visitors are top priorities. They instructed strict verification of vehicle fitness certificates and measures to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply at key venues. The importance of respecting religious sensitivities and fostering positive impressions of Pakistan through smooth festival management was also highlighted.
Practical arrangements directed at easing the pilgrimage include senior citizen counters, additional washrooms, air-conditioned marquees, dedicated medical facilities and ambulances, large-scale langar services and provision of luxury buses for transport. Officials were also told to select certified currency exchange dealers to safeguard pilgrims’ needs.
Dr. Ahmad Javed Qazi, Secretary Home Punjab, said that delivering high-quality hospitality and security during the Vaisakhi Festival will contribute to strengthening Pakistan’s international image. He urged all departments to coordinate closely and maintain top-tier standards throughout the event.
The meeting brought together senior officials from the Home Department, Police, Rangers, FIA, Customs, Rescue 1122, Health and Transport departments. Commissioners, regional police officers, deputy commissioners and district police officers from across the province also joined via video link to finalise operational roles and responses.
