In line with the public welfare vision of Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif, the Punjab Livestock and Dairy Development Department made extensive arrangements to ensure the health, safety and timely medical care of Zuljanah horses participating in Muharram processions across the province.
The arrangements were carried out under the special directions and continuous supervision of Punjab Minister for Agriculture and Livestock Syed Ashiq Hussain Kirmani and Secretary of Livestock Punjab Ahmed Aziz Tarar.
Livestock Department teams remained on the ground around the clock throughout the 9th and 10th of Muharram, providing veterinary services along procession routes.
During this period, a total of 249 Zuljanah horses were examined and treated across Punjab, while 135 mobile veterinary dispensaries were deployed with various processions to provide immediate medical assistance in case of emergencies.
To fulfil this important religious and public service responsibility, 794 officers and field staff remained actively engaged across the province.
Special arrangements were made in the Lahore Division, where 92 mobile veterinary dispensaries, along with expert veterinarians and 519 officers and staff members, were deployed.
These teams conducted detailed examinations of 197 Zuljanah horses during the two days of Muharram and provided on-the-spot treatment, medicines and other veterinary facilities to sick or injured animals.
Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif had issued special instructions to ensure veterinary emergency services, timely treatment and necessary laboratory support for Zuljanah horses during Muharram.
According to the department, this was the first time in Pakistan’s history that such a comprehensive, coordinated and round-the-clock veterinary service network had been established during Muharram.
Officials described the initiative as a reflection of the Punjab government’s commitment to animal welfare and an example of professional and responsible public service during religious gatherings.
Veterinary doctors, para-veterinary staff and field personnel performed their duties with dedication and professionalism despite extreme heat, long working hours and continuous field engagements.
Their timely intervention helped provide immediate medical care to Zuljanah horses on several occasions, contributing to the smooth and secure conduct of Muharram processions across the province.