Pakistan is observing Ashura with deep religious devotion to commemorate the martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA), the beloved grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), and the martyrs of Karbala. Thousands of mourners have gathered across the country to take part in religious processions and mourning gatherings while remembering the sacrifices made at Karbala.
Major cities, including Karachi, Lahore, Rawalpindi, Sukkur, Hyderabad, Peshawar, and Quetta, are witnessing large Ashura processions and religious assemblies. Scholars are addressing gatherings and highlighting the values of sacrifice, patience, courage, and steadfastness demonstrated by Imam Hussain (RA) and his companions.
Authorities have introduced extensive security arrangements to ensure that all Ashura events are held peacefully. Roads along procession routes have been closed to unnecessary traffic, and additional security checkpoints have been established in different cities. Law enforcement agencies are closely monitoring the situation to maintain public order.
In several sensitive areas, mobile phone and internet services have been partially suspended as a precautionary measure. Section 144 has also been enforced, banning the public display of weapons and restricting activities that could disturb law and order. In addition, motorcycle pillion riding has been restricted in various parts of the country to strengthen security during the observance of Ashura.
According to the Inspector General of Punjab Police, more than 100,000 police officers and security personnel have been deployed across the province. Their responsibility is to provide security for mourning processions, religious gatherings, and other related events throughout the day.
In Karachi, the main Ashura procession started from Nishtar Park and is moving along its traditional route before concluding at Hussainia Iraniyan Imambargah in Kharadar. Thousands of mourners are participating in the procession while volunteers continue to provide water and other essential services.
Lahore’s central procession, featuring the symbolic Zuljanah, began from Nisar Haveli and is following its customary route before ending at Karbala Gamay Shah. A large number of devotees have joined the procession to pay tribute to Imam Hussain (RA).
In Rawalpindi, the central procession is scheduled to begin from Imambargah Ashiq Hussain and will conclude at its designated destination after passing through its traditional route.
Peshawar is hosting several mourning processions throughout the day. The first procession departed from Imambargah Agha Syed Ali Raza Shah, while 12 additional processions are being held under strict security arrangements.
Meanwhile, Quetta’s main procession began from Imambargah Hussaini Sadat on Alamdar Road and will continue until after sunset. The procession includes 35 groups carrying symbolic Zuljanah, standards, and tazias. Volunteers have also established water distribution points, refreshment stalls, and emergency assistance camps to serve participants.
After the conclusion of the processions, Sham-e-Ghariban gatherings will be held across the country. During these gatherings, religious scholars will recount the events that followed the tragedy of Karbala and remember the sacrifices of Imam Hussain (RA) and his companions.
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The Prime Minister, President, Interior Minister, provincial chief ministers, and senior police officials have directed all relevant departments to ensure peaceful observance of Ashura. Authorities remain on high alert as millions of people continue to participate in mourning ceremonies across Pakistan.
