Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann has directed the police and civil administration to put comprehensive arrangements in place for the annual Shaheedi Sabha at Sri Fatehgarh Sahib from December 26 to 28, after nearly 80 lakh devotees visited the historic town during last year's congregation.
At a high-level review meeting on Friday, Mann instructed officials to prioritise the safety and convenience of pilgrims, with special attention to transport, healthcare, road infrastructure, accommodation, cleanliness and security.
The state government will operate 200 shuttle buses to facilitate the movement of devotees from villages and adjoining areas to the religious site. The number of e-rickshaws will also be increased to provide last-mile connectivity, particularly for elderly pilgrims and those unable to walk long distances.
Twenty Aam Aadmi Clinics will be made available to provide medical assistance during the congregation. The administration has also been directed to ensure adequate accommodation facilities and establish night shelters in coordination with Gurdwara management committees.
AI cameras, drones and police patrols for security
Security and crowd management will be strengthened through the deployment of AI-enabled cameras, drones, watchtowers and motorcycle patrol units. Six police help desks will be established at strategic locations to assist devotees, while officials will identify traffic diversion points to prevent congestion on roads leading to the town.
Mann has also directed the administration to repair all roads leading to Sri Fatehgarh Sahib on a war footing. Officials have been asked to ensure that the work is completed within the stipulated timeframe, with funds already allocated for road repairs.
To maintain cleanliness during the large gathering, 50 additional volunteers will be deployed alongside municipal staff. The administration will also strengthen sanitation arrangements, including regular cleaning and waste disposal.
Additional mobile towers and round-the-clock control room
With a large number of devotees expected to arrive over the three days, additional mobile towers will be installed to improve network capacity and ensure uninterrupted connectivity.
A joint control room involving the police and civil administration will operate round the clock to receive complaints, coordinate emergency responses and address issues faced by pilgrims.
Mann has directed all departments to work in close coordination and ensure that arrangements are completed before the congregation begins. He has also said that he will personally monitor the preparations.
Shaheedi Sabha commemorates Sahibzadas and Mata Gujri
The annual Shaheedi Sabha at Sri Fatehgarh Sahib is held to remember the martyrdom of Guru Gobind Singh's younger sons, Baba Zorawar Singh and Baba Fateh Singh, and their grandmother Mata Gujri.
The congregation draws devotees from across Punjab and other parts of the country, making transport, security and civic arrangements crucial for managing the influx.
The state government has said its preparations are aimed at ensuring a peaceful and convenient pilgrimage, while enabling devotees to pay their respects at the historic religious site without facing difficulties.