LAHORE:The Evacuee Trust Property Board (ETPB) has ramped up comprehensive preparations to host the 557th birth anniversary celebrations of the founder of the Sikh religion, Baba Guru Nanak Dev Ji, with the main commemorative ceremony scheduled to be held in Nankana Sahib on November 24.
The arrangements were thoroughly reviewed during a high-level meeting held at the ETPB headquarters on Thursday. The session was chaired by Board Secretary Nasir Mushtaq, while ETPB Chairman Qamar Zaman participated via video link. The meeting was attended by senior officials representing the Pakistan Rangers, Customs, Immigration, Rescue 1122, Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL), and relevant district administrations to coordinate security, accommodation, transport, and ancillary facilities for the visiting Sikh pilgrims.
Addressing the meeting, ETPB Chairman Qamar Zaman stated that the freedom of religious worship and pilgrimage is a fundamental human and religious right. He reaffirmed that the board, with the active cooperation of sister institutions, will extend exemplary hospitality to all Sikh pilgrims arriving from across the globe, particularly from India.
Briefing the participants, Board Secretary Nasir Mushtaq said that pilgrims arriving from India via the Wagah border on November 22 will receive a warm and traditional welcome. He detailed that air-conditioned buses will be arranged for their transportation, while quality accommodation and round-the-clock langar facilities will be provided at designated locations.
Furthermore, medical camps with necessary facilities will be established at all residential sites, alongside arrangements for the supply of clean mineral water. To ensure convenience and safety, currency exchange counters and telephone booths will be set up, uninterrupted electricity and gas supplies will be maintained, and Rescue 1122 ambulances will accompany every convoy of 20 buses.
Nasir Mushtaq emphasized that foolproof security and seamless travel arrangements are being finalized in close collaboration with the police, Rangers, and district administrations. He expressed optimism that the visiting Sikh pilgrims will take back pleasant and memorable experiences of their sacred journey to Pakistan.