Pakistan observes Youm-e-Ashura with nationwide mourning processions, extensive security deployments, road closures and emergency measures to ensure peaceful commemorations.
Pakistan is observing Youm-e-Ashura with mourning processions and religious gatherings across major cities and towns under heightened security, as authorities deploy thousands of law enforcement personnel to maintain peace and protect participants.
Mourners are taking out processions carrying replicas of sacred standards, coffins and Zuljanah to commemorate the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (RA) and his companions in the Battle of Karbala. Religious congregations are also being held nationwide, highlighting the message of sacrifice, justice and steadfastness associated with Ashura.
In Karachi, the central Ashura procession began after the main mourning congregation at Nishtar Park, where religious scholar Allama Shehnshah Naqvi addressed participants. More than 5,000 police officers, supported by Rangers, have been deployed, while mobile phone services have been partially suspended along procession routes. Authorities also closed M.A. Jinnah Road and sealed surrounding streets and markets with containers to prevent unauthorized access.
Rawalpindi deployed over 8,000 police personnel as the central procession departed from Imambargah Ashiq Hussain in Teli Mohalla before being joined by another procession from Imambargah Colonel Maqbool.
In Quetta, approximately 17,000 personnel from the Police, Frontier Corps and Balochistan Constabulary are providing security. The central procession began from Shohada Chowk on Alamdar Road, with around 1,200 volunteers assisting mourners and 30 medical camps established to provide emergency healthcare.
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