The annual Urs of Hazrat Lal Shahbaz Qalandar (RA) will start today (Saturday) in Sehwan Sharif and will be held under strict security measures.
Attracting millions of devotees annually, the spiritual event, which is likely to attract about two million pilgrims from different parts of Pakistan and abroad, is expected to be a major event.
Sindh Governor Kamran Tessouri is the one who will inaugurate the Urs at the shrine of the revered Sufi saint.
Strict Security and Surveillance
To keep things safe during the 3-day event, authorities have deployed 5000 police and 300 Rangers. The town will also be under constant watch via 320 CCTVs that will be installed at around 200 locations.
Besides, 120 additional cameras have been installed in shrine premises to further strengthen the monitoring. Deputy Commissioner Jamshoro, Ghazanfar Ali Qadri, said these measures are taken with an aim to keep peace and help in free movement of the pilgrims.
Cultural and Literary Activities
Along with religious rituals, a number of cultural and intellectual activities have been planned. The Sindh Culture Department will conduct a conference on the Sufi traditions and heritage.
The traditional wrestling competitions are held by the Sindh Sports Department, a popular feature of the Urs festivities.
On the second day, a literary conference will be held on the topic of life, teachings and spiritual contributions of Hazrat Lal Shahbaz Qalandar (RA) in which historians and writers will speak.
Arrangements for Medical & Travel
Authorities have opened 15 medical camps across Sehwan as well as the central government hospital has been put on emergency alert for the entire period of the Urs.
To facilitate travel Pakistan Railways is going to run three special trains for pilgrims. The first train will originate from Faisalabad and two trains will start from Lahore and provide the devotees safe and comfortable means of travel during the annual Urs.
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