Pakistan
Ashura processions culminated across Pakistan amid tight security measures
Lahore: Ashura, the 10th of Muharramul Haram, was observed across Pakistan on Thursday with traditional religious solemnity and fervour to pay homage to the sacrifices of Hazrat Imam Hussain Razi Allah-ho Tala Anho and his companions in Karbala.
Police and law-enforcement agencies made extraordinary measures to secure central processions throughout the country.
Mourning processions taken out in various parts of the country concluded in evenning in peaceful manner except Bahawalnagar blast.
Thousands of mourners, including ladies and children wearing black dresses participated in countrywide hundreds of Ashura processions for ceremonial mourning that involves the ritualistic ‘Mourning’ or beating of chests, self-flagellation to reflect the grief over the violent martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) and his companions.
A number of devotees carrying ‘Tazias’ and ‘Alams’ were reciting soul-stirring elegies and hymns, dedicated to Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) and his family. ‘Zuljinnah’ was the major attraction of the mourning processions and everybody wanted to touch it.
In majalis, Ulema and Zakireen threw light on the teachings of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) and his great companions in their majalis.
Elaborate arrangements were made across the country for security of the mourning processions and majalis. Authorities have tightened the security in order to avoid undesirable circumstances.
Extra measures were carried out by the authorities including suspension of mobile phone service on and around the route of main procession and in the sensitive areas, ban on pillion riding and large scale monitoring of processions through CCTV cameras. Special security gates and scanners have been installed at the entrances of imambargahs to search the attendees of Majalis.
All markets and businesses remained closed on the occasion of Ashura and a special traffic plan for the procession of 10th of Muharram ul Haram have also been chalked out by the administrations of major cities.
The participants of processions and majalis were advised to adhere to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) in view on ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
Ashura gatherings concluded peacfully in Faisalabad
In Faisalabad, all Mohramul Haram programmes concluded peacefully in Faisalabad district.
Faisalabad police provided extensive security cover to all processions and majalis round the clock .