LAHORE: Across Pakistan, commemorative processions and majalis took place on Friday to observe the Chehlum of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) and honor the martyrs of Karbala, with security arrangements significantly stepped up. Roads were sealed, and events closely monitored to ensure safety and order.
Punjab Police remained on high alert to facilitate a peaceful observance of the occasion. Inspector General of Punjab Police, Dr. Usman Anwar, emphasized the importance of promoting religious harmony and interfaith unity among all sects. He announced that a total of 644 gatherings and 392 processions are underway throughout the province, with around 37,000 police personnel deployed for security.
In Karachi, the main procession commenced at 1 pm from Nishtar Park and was scheduled to conclude at Hussania Iranian Imambara. A large contingent of Rescue 1122 personnel was stationed along the route to provide assistance if needed.
Lahore saw the deployment of approximately 12,000 security personnel to oversee 44 majalis and 14 processions. Special police units, traffic authorities, and volunteers supported these efforts. Security measures included the installation of 926 walk-through gates and the deployment of over 6,700 metal detectors for thorough checks. The city’s Safe City camera network facilitated real-time monitoring of the processions.
During the Chehlum and Urs of Hazrat Data Ganj Bakhsh (RA), additional personnel were assigned, and key routes such as Circular Road and Lower Mall Road were closed to traffic. Over 600 cameras kept watch through live feeds.
In Quetta, the main procession originated from Alamdar Road Imambargah Nichari, led by Ashiq Hussain Hazara, President of the Balochistan Shia Conference. Over 2,000 police officials secured the route, which was monitored via CCTV.Foolproof security was also provided in Hunza, Gilgit, Nagar, and Skardu, with law enforcement agencies establishing water and medical camps along procession routes to assist participants and maintain order.
In Hyderabad, the central mourning procession departed from Karbala Dadan Shah and ended at Qadam Gah Mola Ali, with roads sealed using barricades and barbed wire. Over 100 cameras were used for surveillance.In Sialkot, the procession started at Imambargah Dar Batool, while in Sukkur, the Arbaeen walk began from Military Road and concluded at Karbala
Maidan in Rohri, with many women mourners participating.Rawalpindi’s procession, originating from Imambargah Ashiq Hussain in Teli Mohalla, was carefully scanned and sealed before the route, with police sniper units on high alert to ensure security.
