Pakistan celebrated Eidul Azha on Wednesday with religious devotion, large prayer gatherings and strict security measures across major cities, as millions of Muslims offered special prayers for peace, prosperity and national stability.
From Islamabad to Quetta, worshippers gathered at mosques, Eidgahs and open prayer grounds early in the morning to mark one of Islam’s most significant religious occasions. Authorities across the country implemented extensive security arrangements to ensure peaceful celebrations amid concerns over public safety during large congregations.
In the federal capital, thousands of people offered Eid prayers at the iconic Faisal Mosque, where pleasant weather following rainfall added to the festive atmosphere. Similar large congregations were reported in Lahore, Peshawar, Faisalabad, Gujranwala, Sargodha, Mohmand, Dera Ismail Khan and other cities.
In Peshawar, one of the main Eid congregations was held at the central Eidgah on Charsadda Road under the leadership of Maulana Tayyab Qureshi. Worshippers offered special prayers for Pakistan’s security and prosperity, while also expressing solidarity with the people of Palestine and Kashmir.
Punjab Police remained on high alert throughout Eid celebrations, with authorities deploying thousands of personnel to secure sensitive locations. Punjab Inspector General of Police Abdul Kareem said security had been strengthened across the province, particularly in Lahore, to protect worshippers and maintain public order.
According to Punjab Police, Eid prayers were scheduled at more than 30,000 mosques and hundreds of open prayer grounds across the province. More than 45,000 police officers and personnel were deployed, supported by Quick Response Force teams assigned to sensitive areas. In Lahore alone, over 11,000 officers were tasked with securing thousands of gatherings.
Police authorities also intensified patrols around mosques, Eidgahs, graveyards and public parks. Security officials were instructed to strictly monitor banned organisations and individuals placed on the Fourth Schedule, while special attention was given to maintaining law and order during the collection of sacrificial animal hides.
Political and government leaders also extended Eid greetings to the nation. Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi congratulated citizens and the Muslim Ummah, describing Eidul Azha as a symbol of sacrifice, obedience and selflessness. He also paid tribute to the country’s martyrs and their families for their sacrifices in the defence of Pakistan.
In Balochistan, Chief Minister Mir Sarfraz Bugti urged people to embrace the values of brotherhood and sacrifice associated with Eidul Azha. Referring to the recent tragedy in Quetta, he said the provincial government had decided to observe Eid with simplicity in solidarity with victims of terrorism.
Balochistan Interior Minister Mir Ziaullah Langau also appealed to citizens to include underprivileged and deserving people in Eid celebrations while promoting compassion and unity.
In Quetta, Eid prayers were held under strict security arrangements at hundreds of mosques and Eidgahs. Governor Sheikh Jaffar Mandokhail offered Eid prayers at Governor House, while Chief Minister Bugti also joined worshippers in the provincial capital.
Meanwhile, Nawaz Sharif offered Eid prayers at Jati Umra in Raiwind alongside members of the Sharif family. He later visited the graves of his parents, wife and brother, where he laid flowers and offered prayers.
In Dera Ismail Khan, Governor Faisal Karim Kundi offered Eid prayers at Jamia Masjid Muhammadi in his native village Kokar. Special prayers were held for Pakistan’s development, peace and stability in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.
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