The Sindh government, in collaboration with law enforcement agencies, implemented extensive security and traffic management measures to ensure peaceful Ashura commemorations across the province. With a well-coordinated deployment strategy and strict regulations, authorities worked diligently to maintain order and protect the public.
Security Deployment
To ensure the safety of mourners and the smooth conduct of Ashura processions, a total of 59,000 police personnel were deployed across Sindh. This included:
- 49,662 police officers stationed in major urban centers such as Karachi, Hyderabad, and Sukkur
- 14,546 officers assigned specifically to the security of majalis (religious gatherings)
- 35,116 personnel deployed to protect various processions throughout the province
- Additional teams were placed in sensitive areas from the 8th to 10th of Muharram for heightened vigilance
Traffic Arrangements
To facilitate the flow of traffic and prevent congestion during processions, a comprehensive traffic management plan was enforced. Key elements of the plan included:
- Closure of MA Jinnah Road in Karachi to all vehicular traffic during main processions
- Markets and commercial centers such as Saddar, Empress Market, and Regal Market were temporarily sealed
- Specific traffic diversions were introduced for commuters:
- Nazimabad residents were directed through Lasbela Chowk, Nishtar Road, and Garden routes
- Liaquatabad commuters were routed from Teen Hatti to Lasbela Chowk, with a left turn towards Central Jail
- From Hassan Square to PP Chowrangi, commuters were diverted via Kashmir Road under the Jail Flyover
Other Measures
In addition to security and traffic arrangements, several regulatory measures were introduced to support peaceful observance of Ashura:
- Section 144 was enforced across Sindh, banning pillion riding on the 9th and 10th of Muharram — with exceptions for children, elderly, and journalists
- The use of licensed weapons and drone cameras was strictly prohibited until the 10th of Muharram
- Mobile and internet services faced partial suspensions in Karachi, particularly on the 8th of Muharram, to prevent misuse and ensure safety
Processions and Gatherings
Ashura was observed across Sindh with widespread participation in processions and religious gatherings:
- Over 4,135 Ashura processions were held across the province
- In Karachi alone, 8,301 processions were expected
- Sindh hosted 2,217 imambargahs, including 389 in Karachi, where 16,990 majalis took place
- Out of these, 502 processions in Karachi were marked as high-risk, and 1,110 majalis were identified as sensitive
Conclusion
The Sindh government and law enforcement agencies undertook meticulous planning and execution of security and traffic operations to ensure a peaceful Ashura. Their proactive approach, including massive police deployment, strategic traffic control, and public safety measures, played a vital role in maintaining law and order. As a result, citizens were able to observe Ashura with solemnity and in a secure environment.
