In a significant move ahead of a major religious congregation, Punjab's Health Minister Dr Balbir Singh conducted a comprehensive review of the arrangements for the upcoming Shaheedi Sabha in Fatehgarh Sahib. The high-level meeting with administrative and police officials was held at Bachhat Bhawan to ensure seamless execution of the event scheduled for December 25, 26, and 27.
Massive Preparations for Millions of Devotees
Acting on the directives of Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, Dr Balbir Singh outlined the government's extensive plans. The event, which commemorates the supreme sacrifice of the younger Sahibzadas Baba Zorawar Singh and Baba Fateh Singh, along with Mata Gujri Ji, is expected to draw a staggering crowd. The minister stated that arrangements are being made for an estimated 5 million devotees from across India and abroad to ensure they face no difficulties during their pilgrimage.
Healthcare and Civic Amenities Take Center Stage
Considering the large gathering and the prevailing cold weather, robust medical infrastructure is being put in place. The health minister detailed a multi-layered healthcare strategy for the Sabha. This includes setting up 20 temporary clinics at intervals of every 500 metres to provide immediate care. Furthermore, 24-hour emergency services will be operational, with specialist doctors stationed at various dispensaries.
To handle critical situations, a fleet of around 60 ambulances will be on standby for rapid response. A dedicated critical care block, equipped with all essential life-saving facilities, is also being prepared to manage any serious health emergencies that may arise during the three-day event.
Noble Initiatives: Blood and Organ Donation Drives
In a tribute to the spirit of sacrifice embodied by the Sahibzadas, the Punjab government will launch two significant humanitarian campaigns during the Sabha. A large-scale blood donation camp will be organized at the District Administrative Complex on December 25 and 26. Dr Balbir Singh encouraged devotees to participate voluntarily, adding that if donor turnout is high, names would be registered for future donations as well.
More notably, the government will use this sacred platform to initiate a public movement for organ donation. "In tribute to the great martyrdom of the Shaheeds, a campaign for organ donation will be developed as a public movement from this sacred land," the minister announced. The aim is to encourage citizens to pledge to donate their organs after death, thereby giving a new lease of life to those in need. He highlighted the state's progress in medical infrastructure, mentioning the recently started liver transplant facilities in Mohali and upcoming kidney transplant services.
Administration Working Round the Clock
MLA Advocate Lakhbir Singh Rai, who was also present, assured that the entire district administration is working tirelessly. He emphasized that officials are dedicated to providing every possible facility for the pilgrims arriving from different parts of the country and the world. The review meeting covered all logistical aspects, including traffic management, sanitation, water supply, and security, to create a safe and comfortable environment for the historic congregation.
