Security High Alert Across the Country on 9th Muharram: Mobile Services Partially Suspended in Major Cities

Karachi, Lahore, Peshawar, and other cities witness heightened security measures and partial mobile phone service suspension during central Muharram processions.
On the 9th of Muharram, strict security measures have been implemented across Pakistan, with central processions taking place in major cities such as Karachi, Lahore, and Peshawar under tight security protocols. Authorities have sealed off sensitive areas, and some mobile phone services have been partially suspended in various regions.
In Karachi, the central procession for 9th Muharram will start from Nishtar Park at 1:00 PM, followed by a Majlis (religious gathering) where Allama Shahanshah Hussain Naqvi will deliver a speech. After the Majlis, prayers will be offered by the Umayya Students Organization. The procession will follow its traditional route through areas including Numaish, Saddar, Radio Pakistan, Jameel Cloth Market, and Denso Hall, finally concluding at the Hussainia Iranian Imam Bargah in Kharadar. Full security arrangements have been made to ensure the safety of participants.
In Lahore, the central procession began at 10:00 AM from Pandu Street, with over 147,000 police officers and personnel deployed for security duties. According to the Punjab Police spokesperson, 1,689 mourning processions and 3,895 Majlis (religious gatherings) are being held across the province today, with over 100,000 officers assigned to protect them. Special security teams, including the Dolphin Squad and Police Response Unit (PRU), have been given clear instructions, and they are in continuous communication with emergency services like Rescue 1122, Fire Brigade, and Rescue 15. Emphasis is also being placed on the protection of women and children.
Punjab’s Inspector General of Police, Dr. Usman Anwar, stated that security in the province is on high alert, and Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure has been strictly enforced. Strict measures are being followed for procession timings, designated routes, and the Loudspeaker Act.
In Peshawar, mobile phone services have been suspended for the 9th and 10th of Muharram due to security concerns. The BRT service has also been temporarily halted for two days. The central procession started from Hussinia Hall at 10:00 AM. Areas including Peshawar Saddar and Cantonment have been completely sealed off, and commercial centers are closed. Over 10,000 security personnel have been deployed in Peshawar, and restrictions have also been placed on the entry of Afghan refugees into the city for two days. Several important roads, including the famous Qissa Khwani Bazaar, Khyber Bazaar, Circular Road, and GT Road, have been closed.
Security forces remain vigilant across the country to ensure the safety and smooth conduct of religious activities on this solemn occasion.