Punjab announces tight security, cleanliness plan for Eid-ul-Adha

LAHORE – Punjab Information and Culture Minister Azma Bokhari, along with Punjab Housing Minister Bilal Yasin, addressed a joint press conference at the Directorate General Public Relations, announcing comprehensive administrative, security, and civic arrangements for Eid-ul-Adha.

Azma Bokhari said that all leaves of officers and staff under the Suthra Punjab programme have been cancelled to ensure uninterrupted sanitation operations during the Eid period. She stated that foolproof security arrangements have been finalized for mosques and Imambargahs across the province.

She warned that transporters will not be allowed to overcharge passengers, adding that strict action, including cancellation of route permits and vehicle fitness certificates, will be taken against violators. She further announced a complete ban on fireworks, aerial firing, one-wheeling, and display of weapons on Chaand Raat, with strict enforcement by law enforcement agencies.

The Minister strongly condemned the recent terrorist incident in Balochistan, paid tribute to the martyrs, and expressed heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. She said operations against Fitna-al-Khawarij are ongoing across the country to counter terrorism.
Azma Bokhari said that 12 million waste bags are being distributed among citizens as part of cleanliness arrangements.

She added that a crackdown has been launched against unfit vehicles as citizens travel for Eid, while amusement park rides will also be required to obtain valid fitness certification.

She further stated that under the directives of the Chief Minister Punjab, preparations for Eid-ul-Adha are in full swing. She said that 160,000 houses are targeted for completion under the provincial housing initiative, with 100,000 houses to be constructed annually. The “Apni Chhat, Apna Ghar” programme, she noted, is transforming lives across Punjab.

Highlighting regional security concerns, she said Pakistan has exposed hostile proxy networks at the global level and reaffirmed that the sacrifices of over 30 martyrs will not go in vain. She added that all necessary diplomatic and security measures are being taken to safeguard national sovereignty.

Speaking on the occasion, Punjab Housing Minister Bilal Yasin strongly condemned terrorist activities and said that security forces remain fully alert to counter all threats. He stated that intelligence-based operations have been intensified, leading to multiple arrests across Punjab, while the repatriation of 17,000 illegally residing Afghan nationals has been completed.

He said that more than 40,000 security personnel have been deployed for Eid-ul-Adha security, including cattle markets, mosques, and Eid prayer gatherings. Strict action is being taken against overcharging, overloading, and unfit vehicles.

Bilal Yasin added that 21,000 WASA employees will remain on duty during Eid, while field officers’ leaves have been cancelled to ensure uninterrupted civic services.

He further stated that the “Apni Chhat, Apna Ghar” programme has gained international recognition as a successful housing model, with loan approvals for 160,000 families expected by June 2026.