New Digital Alert Mechanism Activated at Thousands of Imambargahs
LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has directed organizers of religious gatherings to immediately download and activate QR-coded panic buttons at 4,700 Imambargahs across the province as part of an extensive Muharram security strategy.
During a high-level briefing on Muharram arrangements, officials informed the chief minister that Punjab has introduced the QR-coded panic button system for the first time. Authorities explained that once the code is scanned, it instantly notifies relevant security and administrative agencies, enabling a rapid emergency response.
Furthermore, the chief minister instructed law enforcement agencies to conduct province-wide combing operations, strengthen intelligence sharing and strictly implement a three-tier security plan throughout Muharram.
Massive Security Deployment Planned Across Punjab
Officials revealed that Punjab will host 47,280 religious gatherings and processions during Muharram, including 37,868 majalis and 9,412 processions.
To ensure security, authorities have assigned 125,641 police personnel across the province. Additionally, the government has requested support from 61 companies of the Pakistan Army and 76 companies of Rangers.
Meanwhile, 30,445 trained volunteers will assist law enforcement agencies in maintaining order and facilitating religious events.
The briefing also confirmed that authorities have prohibited drone operations during Muharram and will strictly enforce restrictions on the unlawful use of loudspeakers.
Advanced Surveillance and Public Facilities Arranged
The Punjab government will establish cold and sweet drinking water stalls for mourners along procession routes. In addition, the Suthra Punjab Authority has been directed to maintain cleanliness and use fragrance along key routes and gathering venues.
Moreover, the Punjab Safe Cities Authority will conduct live monitoring through 5,623 CCTV cameras installed across the province. Authorities will also deploy 1,040 body cameras and surveillance drones, while more than 1,000 advanced 4G cameras have been installed at highly sensitive locations to strengthen security monitoring throughout Muharram.
