The three-day annual Urs of Sufi poet Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai? will commence on Saturday in Bhit Shah. Strict security arrangements will be in place in Bhit Shah for the 282nd annual Urs of Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai?. These arrangements include the imposition of Section 144 and the deployment of nearly 3,000 personnel.
Divisional Commissioner Hyderabad Fayaz Hussain Abbasi and DIG Tariq Razaq Dharejo reviewed the final arrangements in a high-level meeting and emphasized a zero-tolerance policy for any negligence. Utility officials were directed to maintain an uninterrupted power supply, while health officials were instructed to prepare hospitals, ambulances, and medical camps.
To maintain law and order, the police will enforce Section 144 from August 7 to 11. Religious affairs officials will oversee the shrine’s decoration and water distribution points. The local municipality will handle sanitation, drainage, and pilgrim facilities, and remove encroachments near the shrine.
Road repairs and helipad inspections are underway. Agricultural and industrial exhibitions, as well as a livestock show, are also planned. Highway police will manage traffic flow through continuous patrolling and liaison with emergency services. Traditional sports competitions will also be held.
Deputy Commissioner Matiari Muhammad Yousuf Shaikh detailed the expected influx of devotees and outlined the security and logistical measures implemented, including a free shuttle service, shaded structures, and heatstroke relief stations. Two control rooms will monitor the event. Affirming the Urs’ significance, the commissioner stated, “Shah Latif belongs to all of us.”
SSP Matiari Aijaz Maimon explained the security plan, involving 2,688 police officers, 100 women officers, and Rangers. The area will be divided into six sectors for continuous patrolling, while 37 key locations will be monitored round-the-clock through CCTV cameras and walk-through gates. DIG Dharejo emphasized vigilance against any security lapses.
Accommodation plans for three mourning processions from Khairpur, Moro, and Karachi were also discussed. Cultural programs were reported by Matiari’s Culture Department Deputy Director Adil Ahmed Bhayo, who assured organized activities. Representatives from other departments also briefed on their preparations.