The Sindh government has declared February 19, 2025, a public holiday for the annual Urs of Hazrat Lal Shahbaz Qalandar. The holiday applies to all public and private offices across the province.
The Department of Services, General Administration & Coordination issued a notification confirming the decision. It stated that all government offices, semi-autonomous bodies, corporations, and local councils will remain closed. However, essential services will continue to operate.
Sindh High Court Also Observes Holiday
The Sindh High Court (SHC) has also announced a holiday on February 19. The SHC and all subordinate courts will remain closed to mark the Urs celebrations.
Tabut-e-Sakina: The Sacred Ark Mentioned in the Quran
Three-Day Celebrations Begin on Monday
The Urs celebrations will start on Monday, February 17, and continue for three days. The event will feature traditional Dhamal, Qawwali, and Sufi music performances. Thousands of devotees from across the country are expected to visit Sehwan Sharif.
Pakistan Railways to Run Special Trains
To accommodate the large number of visitors, Pakistan Railways will operate two special trains to Sehwan Sharif.
- The first train will depart from Faisalabad on February 14 at 10:00 pm and reach Sehwan Sharif on February 15 at 2:15 pm. It will pass through Shurkot, Lodhran, Rohri, and Dadu.
- The second train will leave Lahore on February 15 at 3:00 pm and arrive in Sehwan Sharif on February 16 at 9:00 am.
Return Schedule of Special Trains
After the Urs, the special trains will bring devotees back to their cities.
- The Faisalabad-bound train will leave Sehwan Sharif on February 20 at 4:00 pm and reach Faisalabad on February 21 at 9:00 am.
- The Lahore-bound train will depart on February 20 at 5:00 pm and arrive in Lahore on February 21 at 11:30 am.
Thousands Expected to Attend Urs
The annual Urs of Hazrat Lal Shahbaz Qalandar is one of the most significant Sufi gatherings in Pakistan. Devotees from all over the country visit Sehwan Sharif to pay their respects and participate in spiritual activities.
Security measures will be in place to ensure the safety of visitors. Authorities have advised travelers to follow guidelines for a smooth journey.
The public holiday will allow people to take part in the festivities and honor the legacy of the great Sufi saint.
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