LAHORE: The 983rd annual Urs of Hazrat Ali Hajveri, known as Data Ganj Bakhsh, will begin on Sunday (today), and all arrangements have been finalised for the three-day celebrations.

At the opening ceremony, special prayers will be offered for the security, peace and stability of the country.

A foolproof security plan has been implemented for the Urs – CCTV cameras activated and a modern control room set up – to ensure public safety. A large number of volunteers have been deployed to guide and serve the pilgrims so that they can be provided with all possible facilities.

Meanwhile, Commissioner Nauman Yousaf reviewed arrangements for the Urs and presided over an administrative meeting at Hajveri Hall, which was attended by Deputy Commissioner retired Capt Muhammad Ali Ijaz, along with officials of LWMC, Wasa, Rescue 1122, Lesco, Punjab Food Authority and the Darbar administration.

All relevant institutions have been ordered to remain on high alert and maintain mutual communication so that the best facilities can be provided to the pilgrims.

Published in Dawn, August 2nd, 2026