RAWALPINDI: Six major mourning processions featuring Zuljinah, Alam, Tazia, Jhoola, and Mehndi will be taken out on Ashura, Friday, June 26, to commemorate the sacrifice of Imam Hussain and the martyrs of Karbala. Security arrangements have been finalized with a police flag march as a show of force.
Security Deployment
Rangers will be deployed in support, while the army remains on red alert. Processions will be monitored through aerial surveillance and drones. A specialized bomb-detection and disposal robot and a modern response vehicle have been requisitioned. Mobile phone and internet services will be suspended, and all routes will be sealed from tonight.
Route Restrictions
Containers and barbed wire are already placed, and even small streets connected to procession routes will be blocked. A ban has been imposed on pillion riding along procession routes. Carrying weapons, sticks, matches, and cigarette lighters into processions is prohibited. Standing on rooftops, balconies, and windows overlooking routes is banned, and keeping stones or bricks on rooftops is prohibited.
High Sensitivity Zone
The stretch from Fawara Chowk to Dingi Khoi has been declared highly sensitive, where commandos will be deployed on rooftops. Around 500 CCTV cameras have been installed, and entry will be allowed only through front and walk-through gates. Metro Bus service will remain suspended. Parking and storage of building materials along routes are prohibited. Drains and sewers on both sides of the routes have been ordered cleaned and treated with lime.
Search Operations
Police, Special Branch, and Civil Defence teams, assisted by trained dogs, machinery, and equipment, will conduct searches and clear routes. Bringing motorcycles into processions is prohibited. Emergency measures are enforced at all hospitals in the city, with doctors and paramedical staff directed to remain present. Ambulances will accompany the processions.
