Punjab government and police heaved a sigh of relief as the Youm-e-Ashur went peaceful in the provincial metropolis without any unpleasant or untoward incident. Thanking God for peaceful observance of Ashura, Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif wrote on his Facebook page “Many thanks to Govt servants, security agencies, religious scholars & all of you for making Muharram peaceful! Alhumdulillah!!!”
The main procession of Zuljinnah in the Lahore, an event considered a challenge for law enforcement agencies, concluded with peace and harmony. Besides the main Zuljinah procession on 9th Muharram, which was taken out from the Nisar Haveli inside the Mochi Gate to Karbala Gamay Shah, over 200 majalis and 100 other small processions were organised in the city during Ashura to pay homage to the martyrs of Karbala. Scores of mourners beat themselves with sharp chains at Nisar Haveli to lament the brutalities of Yazeedi army on Imam Hussain (AS) and his accomplices. Mourners also observed Shaam-e-Gharibaan at the Karbala Gamay Shah where they were only allowed to enter after complete body search. Long rows of the mourners were seen at the entrance of Karbala Gamay Shah because of limited number of security gates and personnel for search out of pilgrims. Contrary to following years, less Sabeels were set up in the city to distribute milk and drinks owing to the winter season however the tradition of distribution of “Niaz” was observed with religious reverence. Other than mourning congregations and processions, Youm-e-Ashur was also observed by heavy attendance at graveyards of the city and people prayed for their deceased relatives decorating their graves with rose petals. For avoiding any untoward incident, 12,000 policemen were deployed in the city with four companies of Rangers. Volunteer force from the organisers were also trained and appointed for the internal security management of the procession. Rescue 1122 and medical staff was also accompanying the procession to provide first aid to bleeding mourners in any case of emergency. Meanwhile, the processions in the city were also monitored aerially through two helicopters provided by the army. Close circuit television (CCTV) cameras and jammers were installed as part of the security arrangements for the main procession. All routes leading to the main procession were fenced and cordoned off. Capital City Police Officer (CCPO), Ahmad Raza Tahir also expressed satisfaction on his team for making Asura a peaceful event. He congratulated the policemen for their service and also appreciated peace committees and citizens for cooperation. Citizens of Lahore are not only satisfied with the performance of Lahore Police, but are proud of them, a handout quoted the CCPO. CCPO also appreciated traffic officers and traffic wardens for maintaining smooth flow of traffic during Muharram days and ensuring that no traffic jam occurred anywhere.
