Lahore: In a significant gesture of religious harmony and cross-border goodwill, Pakistan is set to welcome around 2,800 Indian Sikh pilgrims today through the Wagah Border to participate in the Vaisakhi Mela and the 327th birth anniversary of the Khalsa.
The special arrangements come despite ongoing tensions between Pakistan and India, highlighting the country’s commitment to facilitating religious tourism and honoring Sikh traditions.
Despite ongoing border restrictions, authorities have made special arrangements to open the Wagah Border to facilitate the pilgrims’ entry.
Officials including Chairman of the Evacuee Trust Property Board Qamar-uz-Zaman and President of the Pakistan Sikh Gurdwara Parbandhak Committee Sardar Ramesh Singh Arora, will receive the pilgrims upon arrival.
According to Additional Secretary Shrines Nasir Mushtaq all necessary arrangements have been finalized, including accommodation, transport, medical facilities, and security, ensuring a safe and comfortable stay for the visiting pilgrims.
Under the bilateral agreement nearly 3,000 pilgrims are expected to arrive on April 10 while Sikh devotees from other countries will also take part in the celebrations.
The main Vaisakhi ceremony will be held on April 14 at Gurdwara Panja Sahib in Hasan Abdal. During their stay, pilgrims will visit key religious sites including Nankana Sahib, Sheikhupura, Kartarpur, Eminabad, and Lahore.
A high-level meeting chaired by Provincial Minister Khawaja Salman Rafique reviewed preparations for the event. Authorities have directed strict security measures, uninterrupted electricity and gas supply at all gurdwaras, and the provision of transport, medical support, and additional facilities.
Officials from multiple departments, including law enforcement and administrative bodies, are coordinating to ensure smooth arrangements across all locations. Pakistan has reiterated its commitment to providing warm hospitality and respect to Sikh pilgrims visiting the country for religious observances.
