Over 5,000 cops to be deployed for 773rd Urs of Lal Shahbaz Qalandar

The government of Sindh has finalized extensive security and administrative arrangements for the 773rd Urs of Hazrat Lal Shahbaz Qalandar (RA), which will be observed with great religious fervour from February 17 to February 19 in Sehwan Sharif.

Officials said that a meeting was held under the chair of chief secretary Syed Asif Hyder Shah along with provincial minister for Auqaf, religious affairs, Zakat, and Ushr Syed Riaz Hussain Shah Shirazi to review the preparations for the annual event, which is expected to draw over 2.5 million devotees from across the country.

During the meeting, officials from various departments presented detailed plans to ensure the smooth conduct of the Urs, with particular focus on security, medical facilities, traffic management, and public services. The CS emphasized that all necessary measures should be taken to facilitate the visitors and uphold the sanctity of the revered occasion.

In light of past security concerns, especially the tragic suicide attack at the shrine in 2017, where 72 lives were lost and over 200 people were injured, the Sindh police and Rangers, in coordination with intelligence agencies, have devised a comprehensive security plan.

Over 5,000 police personnel will be deployed across Sehwan Sharif, with special units from the Counter-Terrorism Department, Bomb Disposal Squad, and Rapid Response Force assigned to ensure a safe environment for visitors. Walk-through gates and metal detectors will be installed at all entry points of the shrine, while biometric verification of visitors will be conducted through digital monitoring systems. Additionally, CCTV surveillance has been enhanced, and intelligence teams will be on high alert to counter any potential threats.

Speaking on the occasion, CS Shah said that to ensure the well-being of the pilgrims, medical camps will be set up every 30 kilometres along the Indus Highway, where emergency medical staff and ambulances will be stationed. The Health Department has been directed to deploy additional doctors, paramedics, and mobile health units to provide immediate medical aid to those in need. Furthermore, efforts are being made to ensure the provision of clean drinking water, functional sanitation facilities, and adequate resting areas for the large influx of devotees.

Traffic management has also been given special attention to prevent congestion and ensure a smooth flow of vehicles. A comprehensive traffic diversion plan has been prepared, under which heavy vehicles will not be allowed to enter Sehwan during the Urs. Designated parking areas have been allocated at Lal Bagh and Aral Wah, while public transport will be regulated through specific drop-off points. Additional police officers will be deployed on highways leading to Sehwan to assist travelers and enforce traffic rules.

In a move to ensure food safety and hygiene, the CS has directed the Sindh Food Authority to carry out strict inspections of all food stalls, restaurants, and hotels operating in Sehwan during the Urs. Any establishment found violating hygiene standards will be immediately penalized, and substandard food items will be confiscated. He stressed that there should be no compromise on the quality of food provided to devotees, and strict action will be taken against any negligence.