The 16th century shrine in Narowal district was where the founder of the Sikh religion, Guru Nanak, breathed his last. PHOTO: FILE
This was revealed during a meeting on Wednesday when PSGPC expressed their satisfaction over the preparations made by the Evacuee Trust Property Board (EPTB). PSGPC President Sardar Tara Singh presided over the meeting which was attended by EPTB Chairman Dr Amir Ahmed and other officials.
During the meeting, a location to accommodate two makeshift tent cities was also selected at Nankana Sahib. The officials said that commemorative coins and postage stamps to mark Guru Nanak Devji’s 550th birthday have been approved.
They also showed the designs to EPTB officials. Sources explained that one side of the coin will bear the image of Janam Asthan Nankana Sahib, while the other side will have the words Islamic Republic of Pakistan and the number 550.
On the other hand, the postage stamps, which will be worth Rs8 and could be used commonly, will have the image of Janam Asthan Nankana Sahid and the number 550. Addressing the meeting, Sardar Bashan Singh said that earlier, PSGPC had decided that the postage stamp would cost Rs13.
However, after they were informed that Rs8 is the common price for a postage stamp, they decided to review the price. In addition, accommodation arrangements for Sikh pilgrims who will come to the country on the occasion were also discussed.
Sources said that during the meeting, it was decided that makeshift tent cities will be established for Sikh pilgrims who will come to Pakistan from across the world. The makeshift residences will be set up in Nankana Sahib and could accommodate 25,000 pilgrims.
EPTB Chairman Dr Amir Ahmed assured PSGPC officials that all arrangements will be completed in time for Guru Nanak Devji’s 550th birthday.
Sikh pilgrims from all over the world will be welcomed and provided accommodation and security, he said. He added that special trains will also be made operational for the pilgrims.
Further, preparations and arrangements for the death anniversary of Sher Punjab Maharaja Ranjit Singh and the martyrdom day of Guru Arjan Devji were also reviewed. Both events will be held in Gurdwara Dera Sahib in June.
Published in The Express Tribune, May 16th, 2019.
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