Mourning processions marking the 9th of Muharram are being held across the country on Friday to commemorate the sacrifices of the martyrs of Karbala, with authorities enforcing stringent security measures and placing law enforcement agencies on high alert.
Security Arrangements and Deployments
Police, Rangers and other security personnel have been deployed along procession routes in major cities, while surveillance has been intensified at entry and exit points. Authorities have also installed walk-through gates, CCTV cameras and other monitoring systems at sensitive locations. Traffic diversion plans have been put in place in several cities, while mobile phone services remain partially suspended in selected areas as part of security arrangements.
Main Processions in Major Cities
In Lahore, the main 9th Muharram procession is scheduled to begin from Pando Street in Islampura and conclude at Khaima-e-Sadaat Imambargah after passing through its traditional route. In Islamabad, the central procession will emerge from Imambargah G-6 Ithna Ashari, with roads along the route closed to ensure security and facilitate mourners. Karachi’s main procession will start from Nishtar Park after a majlis to be addressed by Allama Shehenshah Hussain Naqvi. The procession will pass through its traditional route, including Shah Nawaz Bhutto Road and M.A. Jinnah Road, before concluding at Hussainia Iranian Imambargah in Kharadar.
Processions in Multan, Peshawar, and Quetta
In Multan, the central mourning procession will be taken out from Mumtazabad Imambargah, with authorities monitoring the route through CCTV surveillance and additional security deployments. Several processions are also being held across Peshawar from different imambargahs. Security and administrative arrangements have been finalised, with major processions scheduled throughout the day under heightened security. In Quetta, the Shabeeh Zuljanah procession will be taken out from Nasir-ul-Aza Imambargah. Mobile phone services have been suspended in the city, while roads and streets adjoining procession routes have been sealed with containers. Markets and shops located along the routes have also been closed as a precautionary measure.
Public Advisory
Authorities have urged citizens to follow traffic advisories and avoid unnecessary travel during procession timings to ensure public safety and facilitate security operations.
