On the occasion of Ashura (10th of Muharram), commemorating the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (A.S.), processions across various cities in Pakistan are being taken out under stringent security measures to ensure the safety of participants.
Lahore
The main procession in Lahore began from Nisar Haveli in Mochi Darwaza and will conclude at Karbala Gamay Shah by the evening. Over 10,000 policemen have been deployed along the procession route. Walkthrough gates and barbed wire have been installed to enhance security, with volunteers assisting police personnel in maintaining order.
Okara
The central procession started from Imambargah Aiwan-e-Hussain and will return to the same location after following its designated route in the evening. After Azaan-e-Ali Akbar, a majlis will be held where the participants will mourn. Okara police have implemented tight security measures, including the installation of security cameras along the routes of the processions monitored from the DPO office.
Jhelum
In Jhelum, a total of 30 processions and 48 majalis have been planned on Ashura day. Four major processions will gather at Ahl-e-Hadith Chowk to form the main procession, which will end at Baytul Abbas after passing through its designated routes. The city has seen strict security with barbed wire closing entry and exit routes.
Multan
The city is hosting 116 processions and 130 majlis, with 21 processions marked as sensitive. The main procession started from Imambargah Hira Hyderia, and 6,000 police personnel, alongside more than 180 CCTV cameras, are monitoring the events to ensure security.
Rawalpindi
Rawalpindi has deployed 6,000 police officers, with additional support from Rangers and a Quick Response Force on standby, to safeguard 65 processions and 113 majalis. The main procession began from the old Imambargah of Bohar Bazar and is following its traditional route under stringent security measures.
Dera Ismail Khan
Three main processions have originated from the historic Imambargahs Bammu Shah, Bhura Shah, and Chah Syed Munawar Shah. These processions are being closely monitored and will conclude at 1pm by reaching Kotli Imam Hussain and other designated points.
Karachi
In Karachi, the main procession started from Nishtar Park and will end at Hussainian Iranian. Over 10,000 police and Rangers personnel are on duty, with additional measures including the closure of 120 streets with containers, suspension of mobile phone services, flying drones, ban on pillion riding, sealing of markets falling on the routes of processions and the deployment of sharpshooters on high-rise buildings.
Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah is also participating in the rally, and a medical camp has been set up by the Rangers along the route.
Quetta
The main procession in Quetta was taken out from Imambargah Mominabad Alamdar Road, comprised of more than 30 smaller processions. With over 6,000 policemen, additional Levies, and FC personnel deployed for security, the city sees a suspension of mobile phone services and aerial surveillance by helicopters to ensure a safe environment for the mourners.
These processions are a significant part of the Ashura observance, with security agencies across the country taking extensive measures to protect the participants and maintain peace during the sacred events.
