LAHORE – The Punjab Home Department has issued detailed security directives for the Medical and Dental College Admission Test (MDCAT) 2026, scheduled to be held across the province on September 20.
The entrance test, conducted by the University of Health Sciences (UHS) for admission to public and private medical and dental colleges, is expected to be taken by more than 48,000 candidates.
According to the Punjab Home Department, 33 examination centres are being established in 15 major cities, including Lahore, Gujranwala, Sialkot, Gujrat, Sahiwal, Faisalabad, Sargodha, Multan, Bahawalpur, Rawalpindi, Dera Ghazi Khan, Mianwali, Layyah, Bahawalnagar and Rahim Yar Khan.
A three-tier security arrangement will be implemented at all examination centres. Civil Defence and the Special Branch will thoroughly inspect and scan the venues before the examination begins. Security clearance from the Special Branch has also been made mandatory for all invigilators and examination superintendents.
Walk-through gates, metal detectors and CCTV cameras will be installed at all entry points. Female police squads will be deployed to ensure the safety and convenience of women candidates.
The Home Department has directed district administrations to arrange parking facilities at a safe distance from examination centres and implement effective traffic management plans. No vehicle will be allowed to approach the examination venues.
Rescue 1122 teams, bomb disposal squads, fire brigades and medical staff will be made available at the centres, while nearby government hospitals have been instructed to remain on standby throughout the examination.
The department has also directed authorities to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply through generators at all examination venues.
Police squads will provide foolproof security to UHS teams during the transportation of examination papers. Police personnel will remain deployed around UHS premises round the clock, while effective patrolling will be ensured around examination centres in all 15 cities.
Authorities have also been instructed to make arrangements for the prompt dispersal of candidates immediately after the examination concludes to ensure a smooth and secure exit.
The Punjab Home Department said the measures had been issued to ensure a safe and orderly environment for candidates, examination staff and other personnel involved in MDCAT 2026.
