Punjab announces local holiday in Lahore on August 4
Which government offices will remain closed?
According to the official notification, all district government offices in Lahore will remain closed on August 4. The holiday also applies to government departments working under the administrative control of the Deputy Commissioner, Lahore.
Officials said employees of these offices will observe the local holiday in line with the government’s notification. However, essential public services will continue according to their respective operational schedules where required.
Provincial government offices to remain open
The Punjab government clarified that the holiday will not apply to the Punjab Civil Secretariat. Other provincial government departments and offices will also continue their routine operations.
Officials said only district-level offices in Lahore are covered by the holiday notification. People planning to visit government offices have been advised to check in advance whether their destination falls under the district administration or the provincial government.
Holiday linked to Data Ganj Bakhsh Urs
The local holiday has been announced to mark the annual Urs of Hazrat Ali Hajveri, one of the most respected Sufi saints in South Asia. Thousands of devotees from across Pakistan visit Data Darbar in Lahore every year to participate in religious gatherings, prayers, and other events during the Urs.
The annual observance is considered one of the largest religious events in the province. Authorities usually make special security, traffic, and administrative arrangements to ensure the smooth conduct of the celebrations.
Official notification issued by the Punjab government
The Punjab government issued an official notification confirming the local holiday and explaining its scope. Officials instructed all relevant district authorities to implement the decision and inform the concerned departments.
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The notification clearly states that only offices operating under the administrative control of the Deputy Commissioner, Lahore, will remain closed. Provincial government institutions have been directed to continue their normal working schedule without interruption.
Citizens advised to plan official work
Residents have been advised to complete any urgent work at district government offices before the holiday. People planning to visit public offices on August 4 should first confirm whether the office falls under the district administration.
Officials said this would help avoid inconvenience and unnecessary travel. Citizens have also been encouraged to follow official announcements for any further updates.
Religious events expected to attract large crowds
Every year, the Urs of Hazrat Ali Hajveri attracts thousands of devotees to Data Darbar. Security, traffic and administrative arrangements are usually strengthened to facilitate visitors during the celebrations.
Authorities are expected to deploy additional personnel to maintain public safety and manage traffic around the shrine. Devotees have been advised to cooperate with law enforcement agencies and follow official instructions throughout the event.
Local holiday applies only to Lahore
Officials clarified that the notification applies only to Lahore and does not announce a province-wide public holiday. Government offices in other districts of Punjab will continue their routine operations unless separate notifications are issued.
Authorities said any future updates regarding holidays or administrative arrangements would be communicated through official channels. Residents have been advised to rely only on official government notifications for accurate information.
