Heavy security: Ashura observed peacefully in Rawalpindi

RAWALPINDI: Ashura (10th of Moharram)  was observed peacefully in the garrison city  as no untoward incident was reported on Wednesday where  three major processions were taken out.

Over 6, 000 security personnel carried out duties in Rawalpindi as all road leading towards routes of processions were blocked and the participants were allowed to take part in the procession only after thorough search and proper identification.

The government did not suspend cell phone services but maintained tight security for the processions. Being a public holiday, major roads and markets remained deserted.

Meanwhile, a major Muharram mourning procession was taken out at Marrir Chowk on Thursday. Police blocked Peshawar Road from Race Course to Churr Chowk for safety of the procession. Another major mourning procession would be taken out at Taxila on Friday.

Published in The Express Tribune, October 14^th, 2016.