Security has been beefed up across the country as Ashura processions are being taken out in various cities amidst heavy police and security agencies’ deployment. The federal government has also suspended cellular services in some cities on the recommendations of the respective provincial governments.
Mobile phone services in Karachi, Hyderabad and Sukkur districts have been suspended. The service will remain closed in Karachi from 6am to 10pm on 9th and 10th of Muharram. However, some areas might not face cellular services suspension.
Mobile phone services would remain closed in Hyderabad and Sukkur from 11am to 7pm on the two days of Ashura.
In Karachi, more than 20,000 policemen and Rangers personnel have been deployed to secure the main processions backed by round-the-clock surveillance by over 1,200 closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras.
RAWALPINDI AND ISLAMABAD:
In twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad, army troops and Rangers have been deployed to assist the police in securing the Ashura processions.
Surveillance cameras, a special purpose-built police vehicle with night vision facilities and Wi-Fi-equipped police escort will monitor the Ashura procession all the way while special vehicles having the ability to thwart remotely controlled timed devices are also patrolling the route of Ashura procession.
‘Three layers of security are in place in Rawalpindi, with all link roads along the route of procession sealed off by shipping containers and razor wire.
Islamabad’s Shia community will observe similar rituals. Their rituals will be confined to Sector G-6 of the city, and about 5,000 police, Rangers and Frontier Constabulary personnel have been deployed there for security.
PESHAWAR AND DI KHAN:
The main of procession of 9th Muharram will be taken out from Imambargah Hussainia Hall located in Saddar Bazaar. Saddar Bazaar residents have been advised to avoid unnecessary movement.
Frontier Constabulary personnel have been put on standby to backup policemen in performing security duties while members of Mukhtar Force, Imamia Scouts, Wahdat Scouts and Hussaini Scouts are helping police in body searching the procession participants.
In Dera Ismail Khan, police have chalked out a security plan to ensure peace and religious harmony in Muharram, particularly during Ashura. A ban on motorcycle riding was imposed in the district as part of security arrangements.