The Lahore Traffic Police has announced a detailed traffic management plan to facilitate the smooth flow of vehicles during the 983rd annual Urs of Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh Ali Hajveri (RA). This three-day religious event is expected to draw large crowds, prompting authorities to implement special arrangements to manage traffic effectively.
SSP City Zone Maqsood Loon will oversee the traffic operations, ensuring that the plan is executed efficiently. The initiative includes the deployment of five Deputy Superintendents of Police (DSPs), 111 traffic inspectors, and 900 traffic wardens. To enhance traffic management, 15 forklifts and four breakdown vehicles will be on standby to remove improperly parked vehicles and maintain smooth traffic flow.
Parking Arrangements for Visitors
To accommodate the influx of visitors attending the Urs, the Traffic Police has designated five specific parking stands. This will help manage the parking situation and ensure that visitors can access the event without hassle. Additionally, vehicles such as milk supply trucks, handcarts, and rickshaws will be permitted to reach the Sabeels via designated routes including Azadi Flyover and Peer Makki.
Road Closures for Security
In light of security concerns, several roads will be closed to all types of traffic during the Urs. Key closures include:
- Kachehri Chowk
- Bhati Chowk
- The road from Peer Makki to Data Darbar
These closures are essential to ensure the safety of attendees and maintain order during the event.
Traffic Diversions and Routes
The traffic management plan includes several diversions to redirect vehicles away from congested areas. Key diversions are as follows:
- Traffic from Shahdara towards Lower Mall will be diverted from Azadi Chowk towards the Railway Station.
- Another diversion for traffic from Shahdara to Lower Mall will be via Niazi Shaheed Chowk, Bund Road, and Saggian.
- Vehicles traveling from Chauburji Chowk towards Lower Mall and Data Sahib will be redirected from MAO College to alternative routes.
- Traffic from the Inner Circular Road can access their destinations via Mori Gate, Urdu Bazaar, and Kachehri Road.
- No vehicles will be allowed to enter Lower Mall from District Courts Chowk or the corner of the DIG Operations Office.
- Traffic from Retigan Chowk, Bilal Ganj Chowk, Beri Wala Chowk, and Mori Gate will not be permitted to proceed towards Data Darbar.
- Motorists from Taxali Chowk, Mori Gate, or Azadi Chowk will also be restricted from entering Lower Mall Road.
- For those traveling from Shahdara to Upper Mall, the advised route is via Railway Station and Press Club.
These diversions are designed to minimize congestion and ensure that traffic flows smoothly during the event.
Live Traffic Updates and Assistance
The Lahore Traffic Police encourages motorists to stay informed about traffic conditions. Live traffic updates can be accessed through Rasta FM and the Rasta App. Additionally, citizens can reach out to the Punjab Police Helpline at 15 for any traffic-related assistance or guidance during the Urs celebrations.
This comprehensive traffic management plan reflects the authorities’ commitment to ensuring a safe and organized environment for all attendees of the Urs of Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh. By implementing these measures, the Lahore Traffic Police aims to facilitate a smooth experience for the thousands expected to participate in this significant religious event.
