ETPB deploys 700 additional staff for smooth conduct of Sikh festival

0
126
ETPB deploys 700 additional staff for smooth conduct of Sikh festival

QAZI SHOAIB KHAN / DNA

ATTOCK (NOV-19) More than 2500 Sikh devotees came across the world departed after enjoying the 555 birthday celebrations of Baba Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s Parkash Purb witnessed a grand and spiritually significant gathering at Gurdwara Punja Sahib, Sarkar lasted in Hassan Abdal in a peaceful manner amid tight security cover . Thousands of Sikh pilgrims from across the world attended the event, steeped in religious devotion and tradition.

The celebrations included a nagar kirtan (religious procession) at the revered birthplace of Guru Nanak Dev Ji. According to an official from the Evacuee Trust Property board (ETPB), comprehensive security arrangements were in place to ensure the safety of approximately 2,500 pilgrims. “We deployed 3,000 security personnel along with 700 additional staff, including paramedics, to create a safe and seamless environment for the visitors. While there is no specific threat, we are fully prepared given the scale of the event,” the official shared. Apart from the religious observances, cultural and sporting activities would also planned, including cricket and kabaddi matches for the Champions Trophy in Kartarpur.

While expressing his views to media, Angraiz Singh ,a pilgrims highlighted the efforts of the Punja Sahib administration in providing a hospitable and welcoming environment for the pilgrims. He stressed how such events foster cross-border goodwill of both countries. Pilgrim Preet Koar expressed her gratitude for the hospitality and foolproof security arrangements, calling it a sacred and fulfilling experience besides thanking to the Government of Pakistan for facilitating the celebrations, making it a memorable occasion for all devotees.

QAZI SHOAIB KHAN, SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT, ATTOCK