Rawalpindi sealed for Ashura processions

RAWALPINDI:

Authorities finalised comprehensive security and administrative arrangements throughout the city on Thursday for the observance of Ashura, as six central mourning processions will be taken out across the city today (Friday) to commemorate the supreme sacrifice of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) and the martyrs of Karbala.

In view of the large-scale religious gatherings, authorities have placed the city under stringent security measures. Major roads along the procession routes WERE sealed, while Metro Bus and Green Electric Bus services will remain suspended throughout the day. Mobile phone and internet services are also expected to remain unavailable from 7am until midnight as part of the security plan.

All public hospitals have been placed on emergency footing to ensure immediate medical assistance in the event of any untoward incident.

The central mourning processions will begin from various Imambargahs across the city. The first Zuljinah procession will emerge from Imambargah Ashiq Hussain in Teli Lato Mohallah at 12:30pm.