Punjab has ordered extraordinary security measures for Eid Milad-un-Nabi (PBUH) celebrations across the province, deploying over 100,000 police and paramilitary personnel, drone surveillance, and real-time traffic control systems. The Punjab Cabinet Committee on Law and Order directed these arrangements on Thursday, 12 September 2024, following intelligence reports of potential threats during the religious observances.

The security plan covers all 36 districts of Punjab, with Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Multan designated as high-priority zones. Key processions, public gatherings, and mosques will be under 24/7 monitoring, while checkpoints will be set up at major entry points into cities. The government has also instructed the Punjab Safe Cities Authority to activate its AI-powered surveillance network in Lahore and Rawalpindi to detect suspicious activity.

  • 100,000+ personnel deployed, including Punjab Police, Pakistan Rangers, and Elite Force.
  • Drone surveillance in major cities, with thermal imaging for crowd monitoring.
  • Real-time traffic control via Punjab Safe Cities Authority’s command centers.
  • Strict vehicle checks at 150+ entry points in Lahore alone.
  • Ban on public transport on key routes during peak procession hours.

Why the extraordinary measures?

The decision follows reports of potential security threats from intelligence agencies, including concerns about lone-wolf attacks or coordinated disruptions. While no specific group has been named, authorities have cited past incidents during religious gatherings, including the 2017 Lahore blast that killed 26 people during Eid Milad celebrations. The Punjab government has also directed all district administrations to submit daily security reports until Monday, 16 September 2024.

Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi confirmed the arrangements in a press briefing, stating, "We are taking no chances this year. Every mosque, every procession, and every public space will be under our watch." The government has also banned the sale of fireworks in Lahore for the duration of Eid Milad to prevent any accidental incidents.

What’s different this year?

This is the first time Punjab is using AI-driven crowd analysis to predict movement patterns and potential bottlenecks. The Punjab Safe Cities Authority has also upgraded its command centers with live feeds from 10,000+ CCTV cameras across Lahore. Additionally, social media monitoring teams have been deployed to track any calls for violence or misinformation.

  • New drone surveillance in Rawalpindi and Islamabad borders to monitor cross-city movements.
  • Emergency helplines (15, 1122, and 1121) have been linked to Safe Cities command centers for faster response.
  • Ban on public gatherings of more than 50 people in certain areas without prior approval.

What should you do?

If you’re attending a Milad procession or visiting a mosque in Punjab this week:

  • Carry your CNIC at all times—police may conduct random checks.
  • Avoid carrying large bags or backpacks—security personnel will inspect them.
  • Use ride-hailing apps like Careem or Uber instead of public transport on key routes.
  • Report suspicious activity immediately to 15 or 1122.
  • Follow traffic updates—Lahore’s Metro Bus and Orange Line services will have altered timings on Friday and Saturday.

The government has also suspended all non-essential government events in Lahore until Tuesday, 17 September 2024, to free up resources for security operations.

What’s next?

Authorities will review the security situation daily and may adjust measures based on real-time intelligence. The Punjab government has also asked Imams and mosque administrations to cooperate fully, including sharing lists of attendees for major gatherings.

  • Friday, 13 September 2024: Expected peak of processions in Lahore and Rawalpindi.
  • Saturday, 14 September 2024: Major public gatherings in Multan and Faisalabad.
  • Sunday, 15 September 2024: Final day of Eid Milad observances, with processions expected to wind down by evening.

The Punjab government has assured the public that all necessary precautions are in place, but urges citizens to remain vigilant and report any unusual activity. "We are prepared for the worst, but hope for the best," said a senior police official in Lahore.

Where to check updates?

For real-time traffic and security alerts, check:
- Punjab Safe Cities Authority
- Punjab Police Twitter
- Lahore Traffic Police

Stay safe and follow official instructions closely.