Punjab on High Alert as Massive Security Lockdown planned for Youm-e-Ali

2026-03-03 - 17:13

LAHORE – Punjab Home Department rolled out massive and uncompromising security plan for Youm-e-Shahadat of Hazrat Ali R.A set to be observed with deep reverence on 21st Ramadan, Wednesday, March 11, 2026. Across Punjab, authorities are bracing for large-scale religious activity, including major processions, mourning gatherings (majalis), and public assemblies, and officials have made it clear: there will be zero room for error. All districts, foolproof security has been ordered for every mosque, imambargah, place of worship, seminary, and shrine. Additional police and security personnel will be deployed wherever required, with strict monitoring of all mourning processions and religious congregations. The department categorically banned any objectionable or provocative speeches targeting any sect, warning that strict action will follow violations. A zero-tolerance policy against the public display of firearms has been enforced across the province. Authorities have also ordered strict implementation of the Punjab Sound System Regulation Act 2015, with legal action promised against violators. Key processions will be monitored through quadcopters to maintain real-time surveillance of crowds, routes, and personnel deployment. Security officials will keep constant watch from the air to prevent any untoward incident. Even critical infrastructure is under special protection. Authorities have ordered heightened security for transmission lines of WAPDA and gas pipelines operated by SNGPL along procession routes to prevent sabotage or disruption. All entry and exit points of major cities will undergo strict checking. Law enforcement agencies have been directed to closely monitor suspected miscreants and take proactive steps to ensure religious harmony. Prominent religious and political personalities will receive additional security cover, reflecting heightened sensitivity surrounding the day. Emergency response institutions including Rescue 1122, Civil Defence, the Health Department, and other disaster management bodies have been placed on high alert. Fire brigades, bomb disposal squads, ambulances, and medical staff will remain fully operational. Authorities have also ordered uninterrupted electricity supply during all events and stressed that no lapse in security, especially during iftar hours, will be tolerated. The 21st Ramadan procession in Lahore has been declared one of the most sensitive religious events of the day. It will be placed under extraordinary surveillance, with security personnel ordered to remain on duty until the complete conclusion of all processions and gatherings. ‘Pakistan’s Security Pact With Saudi Arabia still stands’: Islamabad Tells Tehran