Punjab govt makes extensive arrangements for Shaheedi Sabha at Fatehgarh Sahib; over 3,000 cops to be deployed
PTC Web Desk: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann on Tuesday said the Punjab Government had made comprehensive arrangements for health services, transportation, sanitation and security for Shaheedi Sabha at the sacred land of Fatehgarh Sahib, where millions of devotees from across the world will gather to pay homage to the younger Sahibzadas and Mata Gujri Ji.
Addressing the media here, the Chief Minister said wide-ranging arrangements had been put in place to ensure that devotees do not face any inconvenience during the religious congregation. Special emphasis has been laid on healthcare facilities in view of the massive influx of pilgrims, he said.
CM Mann informed that 20 Aam Aadmi clinics and five dispensaries are being set up at key locations, where specialist doctors and supporting staff will remain available round the clock. Adequate arrangements for medicines and medical equipment have already been made.
Recalling the supreme sacrifice of the younger Sahibzadas, Baba Zorawar Singh and Baba Fateh Singh, the Chief Minister said their martyrdom, undertaken to uphold the human right to practise one’s faith according to one’s conscience, remains unparalleled in human history. He noted that this sacrifice is remembered in Sikh history as the “great tragedy of young lives” and added that even after more than three centuries, the pain of this sacrifice continues to be deeply felt by the global Sikh community.
To facilitate smooth movement of devotees, the Chief Minister announced the launch of a free inter-city shuttle bus service during the Shaheedi Sabha. A total of 200 shuttle buses and 100 e-rickshaws will be deployed to transport pilgrims from designated parking areas to gurdwaras and other important locations.
CM Mann further said for the first time, services of Google would be utilised to manage traffic effectively. This would provide real-time information about traffic conditions on roads leading to Fatehgarh Sahib, enabling authorities to divert traffic and make alternative arrangements whenever congestion builds up. He added that five large parking facilities and 16 smaller parking areas have been developed for vehicles.
Detailing the security arrangements, the Chief Minister said more than 3,300 police personnel would be deployed to assist sangat and maintain law and order. A police integrated control centre has been established, and a special helpline number, 0176-3232838, has been issued for public assistance. Around 300 CCTV cameras are being installed at prominent locations, while drone surveillance will be carried out across the city to keep a close watch on anti-social elements.
Mobile service providers are installing temporary towers to ensure uninterrupted communication services during the event. Additionally, 60 ambulances and fire brigade vehicles will remain on standby to deal with any emergency.
CM Mann said sanitation is a top priority during such large congregations. Machinery has been requisitioned from various districts and teams of volunteers will work in shifts round the clock to maintain cleanliness and preserve the sanctity of the holy city.
The Chief Minister also announced that a mega blood donation camp would be organised by the Punjab Government at Fatehgarh Sahib as part of humanitarian service. At the same time, he issued a strict warning against unauthorised blood donation camps, stating that no such camps would be allowed this year.
CM Mann said the Punjab Government would extend full cooperation to the Shiromani Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee (SGPC) for any additional requirements related to pilgrim convenience.
Referring to the recent notification granting holy city status to the walled city of Amritsar, Talwandi Sabo and Sri Anandpur Sahib, the Chief Minister said the move fulfilled a long-standing demand of Sikhs worldwide. He recalled that the announcement was made during the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, as these cities are home to the three Takhts of Punjab.
- PTC NEWS
