The historic Tazia procession from Lajo Makan in Old Sukkur will commence late tonight on the 5th of Muharram-ul-Haram, with millions of mourners anticipated to participate. Sukkur Municipal Corporation has finalized exemplary arrangements for the event, according to Mayor Sukkur and Sindh government spokesperson Barrister Arsalan Islam Sheikh.
Historic and Cultural Significance
Barrister Arsalan Islam Sheikh extended greetings to all devotees of Ahl-e-Bait, mourners of Imam Hussain, and the entire Muslim Ummah. He stated that the historic Tazia and mourning procession emerging from Lajo Makan is a great symbol of the city's religious, cultural, and historical heritage. According to local traditions, this Tazia has been taken out with devotion and respect for generations, its roots linked to Sindh's ancient spiritual and mourning traditions, traced back to the era of Hazrat Shah Abdul Latif Bhittai.
Sheikh emphasized that the sacrifices of Hazrat Imam Hussain and the martyrs of Karbala will remain a beacon for truth, justice, patience, steadfastness, and humanity. The 5th Muharram procession is a grand manifestation of love for Ahl-e-Bait, unity of the Ummah, religious harmony, and Sukkur's centuries-old traditions, in which millions of mourners participate every year.
Arrangements by Sukkur Municipal Corporation
Barrister Arsalan Islam Sheikh said extraordinary arrangements have been completed in view of the arrival of millions of mourners. All towns, union councils, and relevant departments of Sukkur have been issued special directives to provide maximum facilities. A special cleanliness campaign has been carried out on all procession routes, at Imambargahs, and venues of Majalis. Roads have been washed, lime sprinkled, disinfectant sprayed, and garbage disposal arranged on time. Pavers have been installed on procession routes, roads repaired, and all drainage work completed to ensure mourners face no difficulty.
Special sanitation arrangements have been made in collaboration with Sukkur Municipal Corporation and Solid Waste Management. Cleanliness operations will continue throughout the procession to keep the environment clean, healthy, and pleasant.
Water, Cooling, and Transport Facilities
Mayor Sukkur said seven water bowsers have been deployed to provide clean and cold drinking water. Sabeele-e-Imam Hussain have been set up at various points offering cold water, drinks, ice, and other essential facilities. In view of the intense heat, large industrial fans are being installed at key locations and gathering points of the procession. A special free shuttle service is also being provided to facilitate the movement of mourners.
Power Supply and Digital Monitoring
Generators have been installed at 14 key locations to ensure uninterrupted power supply, so that lighting, fans, and other essential services are not disrupted in any emergency. Digital screens have been installed at various points along the procession to deliver important announcements, guidance, and information to mourners in real time. A modern CCTV monitoring system has been installed on procession routes and at key locations, which will play a vital role in administrative supervision and assist security agencies to provide a safe, peaceful, and organized environment for millions of mourners.
Washrooms and Rose Water Spray
Separate special washrooms have been established for men and women, with dedicated staff deployed for cleanliness, water, and maintenance. Barrister Arsalan said a 30-member special team has been formed to serve mourners and maintain a pleasant atmosphere, which will continuously spray rose water at various points along the procession.
Free Medical Facilities
Paying tribute to Ziauddin Hospital administration, he said free medical facilities are being provided during Muharram-ul-Haram for mourners. Medical camps set up at various locations will offer doctors, paramedical staff, medicines, and first aid free of cost, setting a great example of service to humanity.
Tribute to Late Dr. Masroor Hussain Shah
Barrister Arsalan Islam Sheikh paid rich tribute to the services of the late Dr. Masroor Hussain Shah, saying his contributions to Muharram, mourning traditions, and public service will always be remembered. He dedicated his life to serving people, love for Ahl-e-Bait, religious harmony, and public welfare. Today his sons and the entire Shah family are carrying forward this historic tradition with the same spirit, which is commendable.
Collective Effort and Spiritual Blessing
He said these arrangements are not the effort of any single individual or institution, but the result of a collective and joint effort. Noman Islam Sheikh, Nasir Hussain Shah, Arshad Mughal, Khushi Muhammad Shah, the Shah family, elected public representatives, members of National and Provincial Assemblies, chairmen, councilors, district administration, security agencies, medical institutions, social organizations, and volunteers have extended full cooperation. He added that this is not about taking credit, but about earning reward. Serving the mourners of Imam Hussain is not just an administrative responsibility for us, but a spiritual blessing and honor. Officers, staff, and elected representatives of Sukkur Municipal Corporation are engaged in this service with full devotion and consider it their good fortune.
Prayer for Acceptance and Unity
In conclusion, Barrister Arsalan Islam Sheikh prayed that Allah Almighty accept all their efforts and service, and grant them more sincerity, courage, steadfastness, and strength to serve humanity, so they can continue serving mourners of Imam Hussain and the public with the same spirit. He prayed that Allah shower His special blessings on Pakistan, Sindh, and Sukkur, and grant us the strength to move forward with unity, brotherhood, love, and peace.
