Education Minister Harjot Bains Inspects Final Preparations for Hola Mohalla Festivities.
Punjab Education Education Minister Harjot Singh Bains announced that the renowned festival of Hola Mohalla, a symbol of Sikh heritage and Punjab’s rich history, is being celebrated at Sri Anandpur Sahib, the birthplace of the Khalsa. The festival will take place in Kiratpur Sahib from March 10 to 12 and in Sri Anandpur Sahib from March 13 to 15, with the Rupnagar district administration making comprehensive arrangements for the convenience of devotees arriving from around the world.
After reviewing the preparations, Education Minister Harjot stated that the district administration, under Deputy Commissioner Himanshu Jain and SSP Gulneet Singh Khurana, is finalizing arrangements. He emphasized that all departments have been directed to ensure seamless facilities for pilgrims.
Education Minister Harjot further informed that this year, the festival area has been designated a “No Dark Zone,” ensuring full illumination. All welcome gates in the holy city are being adorned, and LED lights are enhancing the city’s ambiance.
To facilitate transportation, 22 parking zones have been set up, with free shuttle bus services and e-rickshaws to ferry devotees to the holy shrines. These parking areas will be equipped with proper lighting, drinking water, and toilet facilities. Kiratpur Sahib has been divided into two sectors and Sri Anandpur Sahib into 11 sectors. A main control room, along with sub-control rooms in each sector, will oversee management, while dispensaries will be available for health services. Additionally, veterinary dispensaries have been arranged for the horses of Nihang Singhs, along with hundreds of clean drinking water taps and temporary toilets.
Education Minister Harjot appealed to pilgrims to maintain a pollution-free, green, and plastic-free environment during the festival. Shopkeepers and businesses have been advised not to cause traffic disruptions through illegal encroachments. Special teams will monitor the quality of food and beverages, while the entry of beggars and the sale of drugs or alcohol in the festival area have been strictly prohibited.
He announced that the Virasat-e-Khalsa complex will remain open throughout the festival without breaks. Adventure activities such as hot air balloon rides and boating will be available, and a craft fair at Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Khalsa College will highlight Punjab’s culture and development. A cleanliness drive has been launched, with a focus on plastic waste collection and management. Facilities such as baby feeding centers, ambulance services, and fire brigades have also been arranged.
Ensuring security, Education Minister Harjot stated that 4,500 police officers will be deployed, with CCTV cameras and high observation posts monitoring the entire area. He warned anti-social elements, drug peddlers, and troublemakers of strict consequences.
Traffic management plans have been put in place, including route diversions for vehicles from surrounding areas. Helplines for complaints, convenience, and security have been set up, along with lost-and-found desks and help centers. Six LED screens will display important information, and mobile towers will ensure strong network connectivity.
Encouraging pilgrims to visit Sri Anandpur Sahib for Hola Mohalla, Bains reaffirmed the Punjab Government’s commitment to ensuring a safe and seamless experience for all attendees.