LAHORE: The Punjab government has planned to celebrate the 327th International Vaisakhi Festival from April 10 to 19 and expects 26,000 Sikh pilgrims from around the world, including 3,000 from India, with the home department issuing security guidelines for the festival.

The home department has instructed the police and law enforcement agencies to ensure foolproof security arrangements at gurdwaras, accommodations and routes. Walk-through gates, CCTV cameras, and searchlights are installed as sensitive locations, while SP-rank officers should oversee security at events.

It asked the Special Branch to conduct security audits and screen buses, drivers, and conductors. The power supply companies have been instructed to ensure uninterrupted electricity.

Published in Dawn, April 5th, 2026