Maryam Nawaz unveils province-wide security blitz for Muharram

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has directed all relevant departments to implement comprehensive security,

Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz has directed all relevant departments to implement comprehensive security, facilitation, and emergency preparedness measures across the province for Muharram.

Chairing a high-level meeting in Lahore, the chief minister emphasized coordinated action among police, intelligence agencies, district administrations, and other institutions to ensure peace during religious gatherings.

She ordered enhanced surveillance in sensitive areas identified as high-risk, along with deployment of additional personnel and increased use of modern technology along procession routes. Every major gathering will be monitored through CCTV cameras under the Safe City system.

Officials were instructed to strengthen intelligence sharing, continue combing operations, and maintain strict vigilance to prevent any untoward incident. The chief minister also stressed the use of three-tier security arrangements, including checkpoints and holding areas.

Highlighting recent regional tensions and security challenges, she called for extra caution and urged authorities to remain fully alert, particularly in light of past security incidents.

Maryam Nawaz also directed that QR-based panic alert systems be actively used by participants to ensure immediate emergency response, with linkage to police helplines and rescue services.

To facilitate mourners, she ordered the provision of clean drinking water, heat relief arrangements, mobile medical units, and Rescue 1122 deployment along all routes. District administrations were also instructed to remove obstacles, repair infrastructure hazards, and ensure cleanliness and proper signage.

She further directed strict action against hate speech and objectionable content, and called for close monitoring of individuals involved in incitement.

The chief minister instructed authorities to involve civil defence teams, conduct mock drills, and ensure operational readiness of control rooms in all districts. She also emphasized traffic management, public awareness campaigns, and respectful treatment of all participants.