Wine shops near gurdwara to remain closed during Jor Mela

FATEHGARH SAHIB: The major event of the district, annual Saheedi Jor Mela, to be held from December 26 to 28 in the memory of younger Sahibzadas of Guru Gobind Singh, who were bricked alive here by the Mughals for refusing to embrace Islam, would be totally religious in nature and spirit.

Deputy Commissioner Amrit Kaur Gill (right) addresses officials during a meeting at Fatehgarh Sahib on Saturday. Tribune photo

Our Correspondent

Fatehgarh Sahib, November 30

The major event of the district, annual Saheedi Jor Mela, to be held from December 26 to 28 in the memory of younger Sahibzadas of Guru Gobind Singh, who were bricked alive here by the Mughals for refusing to embrace Islam, would be totally religious in nature and spirit.

“All wine shops will remain closed while gambling stalls, dance pandals, circuses, swings and other sources of entertainment have been banned during the Jor Mela,” said Amrit Kaur Gill, Deputy Commissioner (DC), Fatehgarh Sahib, while addressing mediapersons after presiding over the meeting of district officials called to complete arrangements here today.

She directed all departments to co-ordinate and share information so that Jor Mela may be organised in a smooth manner. The DC instructed PWD officials to complete the repair and strengthening works of all roads leading to Gurdwara Fatehgarh Sahib for the convenience of lakhs of devotees, who would throng the historical shrine to pay obeisance from all over the world.

Carrying of all type of weapons, including sharp weapons and plying of loud speakers was banned, the DC said. All wine shops and ahatas (taverns) within the 3 km radius of gurdwara sahib would remain close from December 26 to 28, the DC added.

“Special medical zone will be set up by all leading hospitals of Mohali. IVY, Max and Fortis have offered to set up free medical camps. Medical facilities will be available round-the-clock,” the DC said.

“E-rickshaws will be introduced to ferry senior citizens to gurdwaras. Tractor-trailers for carrying langar material will be allowed from 8 pm to 5 am only. No such vehicle will be allowed during the day time,” the DC added while calling upon pilgrims to maintain religious sanctity of the Jor Mela.

The Fatehgarh Sahib SSP, Amneet Kondal, said, “Jor Mela has been divided into five sectors. Each sector will be headed by an SP rank officer. CCTV and drone cameras will be installed to keep a close watch on anti-social elements. Fifty one nakas, 13 observation posts and seven police help centres will be set up.”

“Main traffic for other cities will be diverted through link roads. No vehicle will be allowed in mela. Nineteen free parking sites will be set up for the convenience of devotees,” the SSP added.