Karachi, August 26, 2024 – The Sindh government has suspended cellular phone services across all major cities of the province, including Karachi, in observance of the Chehlum of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA).
This decision to halt cellular phone services, announced a day earlier, is part of a comprehensive security strategy aimed at ensuring peace and order during the religious commemoration.
Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hasan Lanjar earlier disclosed that mobile services would be halted in several key cities, including Karachi, Hyderabad, Larkana, Sukkur, and Khairpur. The suspension of cellular phone services is a precautionary measure frequently adopted by authorities during significant public gatherings or religious events to mitigate the risk of untoward incidents.
Minister Lanjar emphasized that all security forces in the province would be on high alert throughout the day. “Aerial surveillance will be conducted over mourning processions to monitor any suspicious activity and to ensure the safety of the participants,” he stated. These measures aim to prevent any security breaches and to provide a safe environment for those observing the Chehlum, which marks the 40th day after the martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) and his companions in Karbala.
In addition to the suspension of cellular services, the Sindh government has imposed a ban on pillion riding across the province, including in Karachi. This restriction is part of the broader security protocols to reduce the chances of any disturbances or incidents during the processions. Violators of the ban may face strict penalties as per the government’s directive.
The provincial government had earlier declared a public holiday for all public and private schools across Sindh to facilitate the observance of Chehlum. This holiday is in line with the efforts to minimize traffic congestion and enhance security during the processions, which typically attract large crowds.
Meanwhile, in Rawalpindi, the local administration also announced a public holiday in the city today to commemorate Chehlum. The Rawalpindi police have issued a detailed security plan for seven processions originating from various Imambargahs in the city. According to SSP Operations Hafiz Kamran Asghar, over 4,400 security personnel and officers will be deployed to maintain order and security across the city, with an additional 215 personnel managing traffic flow. The comprehensive security plan includes securing key locations, monitoring crowd movements, and ensuring swift responses to any emergencies.
The suspension of cellular services, along with other stringent security measures, underscores the government’s commitment to maintaining peace and order during significant religious events. Authorities have urged citizens to cooperate with the security measures and to report any suspicious activities to ensure the safety of all participants.
The Sindh government’s actions reflect a proactive approach to safeguarding public gatherings, ensuring that religious observances can be conducted peacefully and without disruption. As the day progresses, the situation will continue to be closely monitored by law enforcement agencies.
