Pakistan issues visas to Sikh pilgrims for Baisakhi

LAHORE: (Web Desk) – In Lahore, authorities have issued more than 2,800 visas to Sikh pilgrims from India for the upcoming Baisakhi and the 327th Khalsa Janam Din celebrations. The pilgrims are set to attend the annual Vaisakhi Mela in Pakistan from April 10 to 19, visiting important religious sites.

During their stay, pilgrims will travel to sacred locations including Gurdwara Panja Sahib, Gurdwara Nankana Sahib, and Gurdwara Kartarpur Sahib. They are expected to arrive through the Wagah Border on April 10, while the main ceremony will take place on April 14 at Gurdwara Panja Sahib.

A high-level meeting was held at the Punjab Home Department to finalize arrangements for the visiting pilgrims. The session was chaired by Secretary Home Dr. Ahmad Javed Qazi, while Provincial Minister Khawaja Salman Rafique joined via video link.

During the meeting, officials emphasized that ensuring the safety of Sikh pilgrims remains the highest priority. Authorities were directed to implement comprehensive security measures and provide all necessary facilities to ensure a smooth and comfortable visit.

Officials from the Evacuee Trust Property Board briefed participants that all preparations have been completed. These include well-arranged accommodation, quality bedding, clean drinking water, air-conditioned spaces, and proper sanitation facilities at gurdwaras and residential areas.

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Strict security measures will be enforced at all religious sites and surrounding areas, including surveillance through CCTV cameras, intelligence-based monitoring, and temporary security setups. Coordination among officials has also been enhanced through digital communication channels to ensure efficient management.

The Evacuee Trust Property Board, operating under the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony, is overseeing the overall arrangements, ensuring that pilgrims can observe their religious duties in a safe and welcoming environment.