LAHORE: In order to review arrangements for the 327th International Baisakhi Festival, a high-level meeting was held at the Punjab Home department chaired by Provincial Minister for Minority Affairs Ramesh Singh Arora and Provincial Minister and Chairman of the Cabinet Committee on Law and Order Khawaja Salman Rafique.
It was informed that the Baisakhi Festival will be held from April 10 to April 19. Around 20,000 local pilgrims, 3,000 pilgrims from India, and 3,000 from other countries are expected to participate. The pilgrims will visit Lahore, Nankana Sahib, Hasan Abdal, Eminabad, Farooqabad, and Kartarpur Narowal.
Speaking on the occasion, Arora said the Chief Minister of Punjab has set a positive precedent by participating in festivals of all religious minorities. He emphasised that Baisakhi is an international festival, also attended by foreign diplomats, and all departments must work collectively to project a positive image of Pakistan. He directed that all officials deployed with Sikh pilgrims must ensure full respect for their religious traditions and sensitivities.
Provincial Minister Khawaja Salman Rafique stated that the Punjab government is making foolproof arrangements for the festival. He added that guests from across the world will be hosted in accordance with their traditions, while special measures are being taken to ensure the safety and comfortable stay of pilgrims. He also directed that all transport must have valid fitness certificates.
The meeting directed provision of senior citizen counters, additional washrooms, heavy-duty generators, and extra FIA counters. Arrangements for langar, quality medical facilities, and ambulance services were also emphasised. It was further directed that luxury buses be arranged to ensure timely and comfortable transportation of pilgrims.
The LESCO officials were instructed to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply during the festival. Directions were also issued to select certified currency exchange dealers, arrange air-conditioned marquees, and appoint focal persons in all departments for effective coordination. Secretary Home Punjab Dr. Ahmad Javed Qazi stated that providing excellent arrangements for international pilgrims is vital for enhancing Pakistan’s global image. He directed that foolproof arrangements for accommodation, food, and security be ensured at all locations.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026
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