Communication blackout: Cellular services to be suspended across K-P for Eid Miladun Nabi

Pillion riding banned in Peshawar, DI Khan for security.

DERA ISMAIL KHAN/ PESHAWAR: Following strict security measures adopted for Eid Miladun Nabi, the Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (K-P) government has requested the interior ministry to suspend cellular network in the province today (Tuesday).

A statement issued from K-P Home and Tribal Affairs  department requested the federal ministry to suspend cell phones in the province, especially in the most sensitive areas, including the provincial capital.



The district administration has already imposed a ban on pillion riding in Peshawar and the direction came into force on Monday evening.

Officials told The Express Tribune the district administration has already launched a campaign against motorcyclists riding without proper documentation, adding a circular was issued against pillion riding as well.

“Those violating the official directions will be dealt with iron hands,” the officials said. “The orders to ban pillion riding will remain intact for around 24 hours.”

The notification issued from the office of Secretary Home Syed Akhtar Ali Shah stated security forces are on red-alert and police commandos have been deployed at sensitive locations where plain-clothed law enforcement personnel will keep a close check on the public.

Earlier on Sunday, the home department finalised security arrangements adopted for Eid Miladun Nabi where a ban was imposed on the entry of Afghan nationals into the provincial capital.

Shah made an appeal to religious scholars, elected members of the assembly and the public to extend support to the home department for maintaining peace during gatherings marking Eid Miladun Nabi.

All commissioners, deputy commissioners, regional police officers and district police officers were also directed to deploy special police squads and commandos to ensure harmonious ceremonies.

DI Khan

A ban on pillion riding has been imposed throughout the district as part of security measures for Eid Miladun Nabi, according to a notification issued by DI Khan DPO Nisar Ali Marwat.

Two religious processions will be held in the city, one from Taj Masjid through GPO Chowk to Liaquat Park while the other will commence from Haq Nawaz Park and conclude at Maidan Hafiz Jamal. Strict security measures, including fencing, have been put in place, according to the notification.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 14^th, 2014.