Punjab issues security guidelines for Good Friday, Easter celebrations

LAHORE, Mar 31 (APP):The Punjab Home Department has issued comprehensive security guidelines to ensure foolproof arrangements for Good Friday on April 3 and Easter on April 5, directing authorities to remain on high alert across the province.
According to the department spokesperson, the Christian community in Pakistan, like the rest of the world, will observe Holy Week, including Good Friday, Easter, Holy Saturday (April 4) and Easter Monday (April 6). Special security measures have been ordered to maintain law and order during religious gatherings and related activities.
The guidelines emphasized enhanced security at churches, residential areas of the Christian community, public places, recreational parks, shopping centres and cinemas. Authorities have been directed to install high-resolution CCTV cameras at churches and sensitive locations, along with walk-through gates and metal detectors.
Strict checking at all entry points of churches has been made mandatory, while parking arrangements are to be ensured at a safe distance. Volunteers from the Christian community will assist law enforcement agencies, remaining on high alert during the events.
The Home Department has instructed that adequate lighting be ensured at public places and 24/7 patrolling around places of worship be maintained until the conclusion of the celebrations. Special security arrangements have also been ordered for foreigners, particularly missionary leaders, including deployment of additional personnel and anti-riot forces where required.
Law enforcement agencies have been directed to enhance intelligence sharing and conduct snap checking and combing operations in identified areas. Rescue 1122 and fire brigade services will remain stationed near churches, while hospitals across the province will stay on high alert.
The spokesperson further directed strict monitoring of hotels and guest houses through Hotel Eye software, while divisional and district intelligence committees will finalise security plans. Interfaith harmony and peace committees will also be activated.
Deputy commissioners and district police officers have been instructed to personally supervise security arrangements, while district control rooms will remain linked with the central control room of the Home Department to ensure effective coordination and implementation of security SOPs, spokesperson added.