LAHORE – The 969th annual Urs of Hazrat Ali Hajveri popularly known as Data Ganj Bakhsh (RA) would be held from January 1-3 (Tuesday to Thursday) with enthusiasm and fervor amid elaborate security arrangements to avoid any untoward incident.
The Urs ceremonies will star on Tuesday at 10 am with inauguration of milk sabeel and laying wreath. Like the previous year, Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif will inaugurate the Urs ceremonies. Auqaf department has allocated Rs 8 million for “langer” and other arrangements for devotees.
As part of security arrangements, 80 cameras have been installed for monitoring. Over 400 Police personnel would perform security duties and devotees would be checked through walk through gates and metal detectors at the entry points of shrine. Lady police constables would also be deputed in the premises reserved for women. Volunteers of various organizations would assist the Auqaf department in performing security and arranging different ceremonies.
Besides policemen and security guards of Auqaf department, 170 would be deployed to perform security duties. Police has also made special arrangements for checking pick pocketing and other crimes. Various departments and agencies including Lesco, Wasa, Civil Defense, Health and SNGPL will set up camp offices for Urs days.