Lahore: Processions for the ninth Muharram-ul-Haram were conducted today across Pakistan with heightened security measures to honor the martyrs of Karbala. In Punjab, significant processions, including Alam, Taazia, and Zuljanah, took place in various cities, supported by a three-tier security plan to ensure the safety of participants.

According to Radio Pakistan, Lahore saw its main procession originate from Pando Street, Islampura, where anti-smog guns and sprinklers were deployed to mitigate heat effects on attendees. Multan experienced a similar sequence, with numerous processions commencing from multiple locations under a three-layer security shield. The police presence was substantial, with heavy contingents ensuring safety along all procession routes. In Bahawalpur, thirty mourning processions and seventy-seven Majalis were conducted, with Section 144 enforced to maintain public order.

In Sindh, Karachi hosted the main procession starting from Nishtar Park, secured by over six thousand police officers and monitored via CCTV. Khyber Pakhtunkhwa witnessed several processions originating from various Imam Bargahs. In Peshawar, the main procession began at Imambargah Hussainia Hall, with stringent security protocols enforced. Peshawar’s Bus Rapid Transit service and mobile phone services near procession routes were temporarily halted for security reasons, while Rescue 1122 provided medical support.

Quetta’s primary mourning procession is scheduled for tomorrow, starting from Nichari Imambargah. Security arrangements include aerial surveillance and the deployment of Frontier Corps personnel. In Gilgit-Baltistan, processions were held with strict security, with directives from Inspector General of Police Dr. Akbar Nasir Khan to ensure comprehensive safety measures.