Punjab on high alert: Shrines, mosques fortified

Punjab on high alert: Shrines, mosques fortified as security is intensified at Data Darbar, Badshahi Mosque, and other religious sites amid rising border tensions during Ramadan.

LAHORE – Authorities have significantly bolstered security at major shrines and mosques across Punjab, implementing stringent measures to protect worshippers during the second Friday of Ramadan amid heightened tensions along the country’s western border .

The Punjab Police have been placed on high alert province-wide, with Inspector General of Police Rao Abdul Kareem directing all regional and district officers to maintain maximum vigilance. Security has been specifically intensified at prominent shrines including Data Darbar and Bibi Pak Daman in Lahore, as well as the shrines of Baba Farid Ganj Shakar and Bahauddin Zakariya .

At Data Darbar, authorities have imposed a complete ban on private vehicle entry to the premises. Visitors are being thoroughly screened using walk-through gates and metal detectors before being allowed entry. Similar arrangements have been implemented at the historic Badshahi Mosque and other large mosques across the province .

The heightened security comes as intelligence-based combing operations continue throughout Punjab. According to police officials, over 2,500 combing operations were conducted recently, resulting in hundreds of arrests and recovery of weapons and explosive materials .

Specialized units including the Dolphin Squad, Police Response Unit, and Elite Force teams have intensified patrolling around sensitive locations. The IG Punjab has emphasized coordinated efforts with district administrations, Civil Defence authorities, and Rescue 1122 to ensure rapid emergency response .

Security has also been enhanced at foreign missions, including Chinese consulates, and for foreign nationals such as Sikh pilgrims visiting the province .

Authorities urge citizens to remain calm and avoid spreading unverified information on social media .

Source: HUM News English