TAXILA: The district administration on Monday finalised security arrangements for the upcoming Baisakhi festival at Gurdwara Punja Sahib, Hassanabdal.

The district administration also reviewed security arrangements for Sikh pilgrims from across the globe especially from India.

A special session of all stakeholders was held at Gurdwara Punja Sahib Hassanabdal which was presided over by deputy commissioner Mohammad Naeem.

District Police Officer Attock Rana Shoaib Mehmood, assistant commissioner Inshtique Niazi, officials from Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB), office bearers of Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee besides officials from different law enforcement agencies were also present in the meeting.

The ETPB officials said arrangements have been finalised for free food distribution, accommodation, medical and travel facilities for the Sikh pilgrims.

They informed the meeting that around 3,000 Sikh pilgrims are expected to arrive at Gurdwara Punja Sahib in Hassanabdal.

The ETPB officials said Indian Sikh pilgrims would arrive at Hassanabdal on April 12 through special trains via the Wagha border for a three-day stay. They will perform religious rituals including Ashnan, Akhand Paath Sahib, Ardas and Hukamnama.

After offering religious rituals, Sikh pilgrims from India and other countries would leave for Nankana Sahib on April 14, after attending the Bhog ritual.

They said that a large number of Sikh pilgrims from other countries including the UK, France, the US, Canada and the UAE were also expected to arrive here to offer religious rituals.

Sikhs and Hindus from other parts of the country including Peshawar, Swat, Tando Adam, Larkana, Sukkur, Badin, Umar Kot, Karachi and Lahore would also join the Besakhi celebrations.

“We have finalized security and other necessary arrangements including food and accommodation at Gurdwara Punja Sahib for the pilgrims,” deputy commissioner Mohammad Naeem said while talking to newsmen on this occasion.

District police officer Attock Rana Shoaib Mehmood said a foolproof security plan has put in place for Sikh pilgrims.

Published in Dawn, April 5th, 2022