The Ashura was observed in the twin cities with solemnity as mourners commemorated the martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain and his companions on Muharram 10, the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar.
Collectively, some 10 processions were taken out in the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi amid tight security.
As many as 6,000 police personnel and around 600 personnel of Paramilitary Rangers and Civil Defence Department performed their duties. Policewomen were also part of the security teams.
The processional routes remained sealed with barbed wires and containers. The cellular service remained suspended in the twin cities. The rallies were aerially monitored through drone cameras and helicopters.
The police high-ups of both cities kept monitoring the security situation during the processions. All mourning processions concluded peacefully on Sunday eve after which Sham-e-Ghareban were organised at designated Imambargahs.
A prominent Shia Speaker Allama Qamar Haider Zaidi addressed the congregation at Fawara Chowk and shed light on the fortitude and philosophy of the Imam Hussain. After this, the procession culminated at Qadeemi Imambargah after passing through Jamia Masjid Road.
Meanwhile, Islamabad police said they have achieved success in maintaining law and order during Muharram due to effective coordination among all wings of the force.
IG Aamir Zulfiqar appreciated the performance of the Operational Wing headed by DIG Waqaruddin Syed who ensured effective security on Muharram.
In Attock, as many as 50 Youme Ashur processions were taken out from different Imambargahs that merged into the main procession.
Published in The Express Tribune, September 1st, 2020.
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