Foolproof security, uninterrupted services ordered for Muharram

CM directs all depts to ensure seamless arrangements for processions, majalis province-wide

KARACHI:

Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah on Monday directed authorities to ensure foolproof security for Muharram-ul-Haram processions and majalis across the province, along with uninterrupted civic services and comprehensive administrative arrangements.

Chairing a review meeting at the Chief Minister House, CM Shah said maintaining law and order and facilitating mourners remained the government's top priority during the holy month. He warned that no negligence or lapse in arrangements would be tolerated.

The meeting was attended by provincial ministers Nasir Hussain Shah, Zia-ul-Hassan Lanjar and Riaz Hussain Shah Sheerazi, Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab, Chief Secretary Asif Hyder Shah, Home Secretary Iqbal Memon, Inspector General of Police Javed Alam Odho, senior provincial officials, and representatives of relevant departments.

Religious scholars and community leaders, including representatives of the Jafaria Alliance - Allama Baqar Hussain Zaidi, Syed Shabbir Raza Zaidi, Syed Nadeem Hyder, Hassan Sagheer Abidi, Syed Ali Sadiqain and others - also attended the meeting and presented suggestions regarding Muharram arrangements.

The chief minister reviewed security and facilitation measures for processions and majalis, directing all departments to remain on high alert and ensure effective inter-agency coordination. He also instructed officials to incorporate proposals given by religious scholars into the final arrangements.

CM Shah directed K-Electric, HESCO and SEPCO to ensure uninterrupted electricity supply during religious gatherings and avoid load-shedding along procession routes.

He further instructed local government bodies to ensure cleanliness along procession routes, improve street lighting, guarantee availability of drinking water, and strengthen drainage and sewerage systems to prevent public inconvenience. The chief minister directed police and district administration to implement a comprehensive security and traffic management plan, particularly at sensitive locations, and maintain close coordination with scholars, procession organisers and community representatives.

Stressing on religious harmony and inter-sect unity, CM Shah urged all stakeholders to work jointly for the peaceful observance of Muharram and the maintenance of law and order.

He said the provincial government would utilise all available resources to ensure the protection of lives and property during the month across Sindh.