By Riaz Narijo
SEHWAN: Sindh authorities reviewed security and logistical arrangements for the three-day annual urs of Sufi saint Lal Shahbaz Qalandar, set to take place from 7 to 9 February 2026 in Sehwan. The gathering, one of the region’s largest spiritual events, is expected to draw around three million pilgrims.
A high-level meeting was held at the conference room of Syed Abdullah Shah Institute of Medical Sciences, chaired by the provincial minister for auqaf, religious affairs, zakat and ushr, Syed Riaz Hussain Shah Shirazi. Officials discussed in detail a wide range of arrangements, including law and order, security, traffic management, medical services, sanitation, accommodation, electricity, water supply, and other basic facilities for visitors.
Shirazi directed all concerned departments to ensure that pilgrims were provided with every possible facility during the urs. He described the annual gathering as an international religious event and urged all institutions to play their full role so that devotees could participate without difficulties.
He said the Sindh government would implement comprehensive measures, including making the Indus Highway safe for travelers. Despite the cold weather, authorities planned to provide mineral water bottles and set up free water stalls, while Rescue 1122 services would be strengthened to respond to emergencies.
Shirazi added that President Asif Ali Zardari and Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah were personally monitoring the preparations. Officials noted that coordinating security and logistical support for millions of visitors posed significant challenges, but they expressed confidence that careful planning would ensure a smooth and safe experience for pilgrims.
Observers said the urs at Sehwan continued to be a symbol of Pakistan’s Sufi heritage, attracting devotees from across the country and abroad. The preparations underscored the government’s focus on both public safety and the facilitation of religious and cultural gatherings, highlighting the scale and importance of the event in Sindh’s social and spiritual calendar.
#LalShahbazQalandar #SehwanUrs2026 #SufiHeritage #SpiritualGathering #Pilgrimage #SindhCulture #ReligiousEvent #UrsCelebration #FaithAndDevotion #PakistanSufism #PublicSafety #SehwanPilgrims #PeacefulGathering #CulturalTradition #DevoteesUnite
