The Punjab government has enforced a complete ban on drone use during Muharram processions and gatherings due to heightened security concerns.
This includes a prohibition on drones for any purpose, even media coverage, as part of broader safety measures.
During a press briefing on Thursday, Punjab Information Minister Azma Bokhari stated that the Pakistan Army and Rangers have been brought in to assist the police in maintaining peace across the province.
“Several sleeper cells have already been detained by security agencies, and surveillance is ongoing,” she said.
The province is preparing for over 38,000 Majalis and 9,000 processions, and to ensure order, more than 238,000 police personnel along with 35,000 volunteers will be deployed.
Elite units such as the Dolphin Squad and the Counter Terrorism Department (CTD) will also remain on duty throughout the religious period.
The government has laid out a strict code of conduct and issued warnings against spreading hate speech on social media, noting that violations will be handled by the cyber security force.
Bokhari added that decisions on mobile service suspension and bans on pillion riding will be taken based on the evolving situation.
She also called on religious leaders to encourage messages of peace and harmony, particularly in light of ongoing regional tensions between Iran and Israel.