Punjab to install QR-coded panic buttons at 4,700 imambargahs for Muharram security

LAHORE: Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif has directed authorities to implement a wide-ranging security plan for Muharram and asked organisers of religious gatherings to promptly download and activate QR-coded panic buttons installed at 4,700 imambargahs across the province.

During a briefing on Muharram arrangements, officials informed the chief minister that the QR-coded panic button mechanism had been introduced in Punjab for the first time. They said scanning the code would immediately alert the relevant security and administrative agencies, enabling a rapid response.

Maryam Nawaz also ordered province-wide combing operations and real-time intelligence sharing, and directed that a three-tier security plan be enforced throughout the month. She was told that drone use during Muharram had been banned and that unlawful use of loudspeakers would not be allowed.

Muharram arrangements across Punjab

According to the briefing, 47,280 religious gatherings and processions are expected to take place across Punjab during Muharram. These include 37,868 majalis and 9,412 processions.

A total of 125,641 police personnel will be deployed for security duties. To reinforce the arrangements, the provincial government has requisitioned 61 companies of the Pakistan Army and 76 companies of Rangers. In addition, 30,445 trained volunteers will assist law enforcement agencies in maintaining order.

Monitoring and public facilities

Officials said the Punjab Safe Cities Authority would conduct live digital monitoring of processions, with 5,623 CCTV cameras activated across the province. They added that 1,040 body cameras and drones would be deployed for field surveillance, while more than 1,000 advanced 4G cameras had been installed at highly sensitive locations.

The Punjab government will also set up cold and sweet drinking water stalls for mourners. Separately, the Suthra Punjab Authority has been instructed to ensure the use of fragrance along procession routes and at venues hosting religious gatherings.