As part of security measures being taken, mobile phone services will remain partially suspended in some cities across Pakistan on Tuesday and Wednesday (9 and 10 Muharram).
Strict security measures have been taken throughout the country for Ashura to prevent any untoward incident.
The main 9th Muharram procession will be taken out from several cities including Quetta, Islamabad, Multan, Lahore, Peshawar and Karachi.
Karachi’s MA Jinnah Road sealed
In Karachi, MA Jinnah Road has been sealed with containers and other barriers and would remain unavailable for routine traffic on 9th and 10th Muharram.
According to city traffic police officials, MA Jinnah Road would be opened on the morning of 11th Muharram.
The government has already banned pillion riding in Karachi, Lahore, Quetta and Rawalpindi.
Security beefed up in Lahore
While talking to the media, Director Inspector General (DIG) Operation Dr Haider Ashraf said, “Every house on the procession routes had been searched to ensure foolproof security.”
“Over 2000 security personnel have been deployed in the city.”
Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan on Monday chaired a high-level security meeting in Islamabad to review law and order situation and arrangements made for Muharram.
The Interior Minister also reviewed requests forwarded by the provinces for jamming of cellular phone service in different cities across Pakistan.
The Interior Minister directed Inspector General of Police to ensure foolproof security for Muharram processions mosques and Imambargahs and other religious places.
Appreciating the role of religious leaders of all sects in maintaining peace and promoting harmony in society, Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan advised security officials and administration to remain in constant communication with the religious scholars for maintenance of peace.
He directed security officials to maintain better coordination between intelligence agencies and police for quick response to any untoward situation.