Lahore: The 981st annual Ghusl Mubarak ceremony of Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh will take place on July 16, marking the commencement of the Urs celebrations at the revered Durbar. The event, scheduled on the 9th of Muharram ul Haram, will be attended by federal and provincial ministers along with other government dignitaries.

According to Directorate General Public Relation – Govt of Punjab announcement issued on 09 July 2024, the Director General Auqaf Punjab, Khalid Mahmood Sindhu, chaired a meeting to finalize the arrangements for the ceremony. High-level officials including the SSP Operation Lahore, Administrator Auqaf Data Darbar Tauqeer Mehmood Watto, and representatives from various departments like Safe City Authority, Food Authority, and Municipal Corporation were present.

The Administrator Auqaf highlighted the extensive security measures and facility improvements planned for the event. Pilgrims will experience enhanced lighting, cleanliness, and sewerage facilities around Data Durbar. Entry for general visitors will be through Gates 1 and 5, while female visitors will use Gate 4. Surveillance will be bolstered by CCTV cameras and metal detectors, ensuring a secure environment.

Further, the Food Authority will oversee the distribution of food, implementing a special mechanism to ensure quality. An exemption from load shedding in the vicinity for two days during the Urs celebrations was also announced to facilitate the attendees.

The Director General stressed the importance of an integrated security system and continuous duty by officers from all allied departments to manage the large crowds expected, aiming to prevent any mismanagement or stampede during the sacred event.