LAHORE:The Punjab government has finalised an extensive security plan for Eid and Chand Raat, with more than 47,000 police personnel to be deployed across the province to ensure public safety.
The decision was taken during the 50th meeting of the cabinet committee on law and order, chaired by Khawaja Salman Rafique and co-chaired by Bilal Yasin at the Punjab Home Department here on Wednesday.
Minister for Auqaf Chaudhry Shafay Hussain also attended the session. Officials reviewed the overall law and order situation and assessed security arrangements for Eid, as well as for Pakistan Day and upcoming matches of the Pakistan Super League, scheduled to be held from March 26 to May 3 in Lahore, Multan, Faisalabad and Rawalpindi.
According to a spokesperson for the Punjab Police, over 17,000 officers, including female personnel, will be deployed at markets and key locations on Chand Raat, while more than 5,000 will perform duties in Lahore alone.
On Eid day, over 47,000 officers will secure around 29,000 congregations across the province, including 10,000 in the provincial capital. The committee directed authorities to ensure foolproof, three-tier security at mosques, Imambargahs and open congregations, with strict monitoring through CCTV cameras and deployment of specialised units, including the Special Branch, CTD, Dolphin Squad, PRU and Elite Force. A ban under Section 144 on drone flying will remain in place, while aerial firing, one-wheeling, temporary mechanical rides and kite flying will be strictly prohibited during the festive period.
Authorities also ordered enhanced security at public places, including markets and recreational spots, and directed traffic management plans to avoid congestion. The meeting also approved the extension of deployment of two companies of Rangers at check posts in Mianwali, and sanctioned financial assistance for victims of a recent attack in Bhakkar.
Speaking at the meeting, Salman said extraordinary security measures would be ensured in light of the prevailing regional security situation, urging citizens to cooperate with law enforcement agencies. Bilal emphasised strict implementation of security guidelines across all districts, while Hussain called for active engagement of peace committees to maintain interfaith harmony.
Punjab Home Secretary Dr Ahmad Javed Qazi directed authorities to enforce a ban on display of weapons, establish checkpoints at inter-provincial entry and exit points, and ensure timely sharing of information among departments. Police said strict vigilance would be maintained on proscribed organisations and criminal elements, while additional personnel would be deployed to ensure smooth traffic flow during Eid holidays.
