Authorities in Karachi have ramped up security measures ahead of the major Muharram processions scheduled for the 8th, 9th, and 10th of Muharram (corresponding to July 4, 5, and 6, 2025).
Hence, key areas of the city, including sections of the main procession route, have been barricaded as a precaution.
Shops and commercial centres along MA Jinnah Road, a primary route for the mourning processions, as well as in surrounding areas like Saddar, Empress Market, and Preedy Street, were partially sealed overnight.
Police have placed shipping containers at strategic entry points in Saddar to control access and manage traffic flow.
A significant deployment of police and other security personnel is expected along the procession route, which will follow its traditional path from Nishtar Park to Hussainian Iranian Imambargah.
In anticipation of Youm-e-Ashura, the federal government has announced public holidays on July 5 and 6 (9th and 10th Muharram), according to a notification issued by the Cabinet Division earlier this week.
Karachi Traffic Police have also issued a comprehensive traffic diversion plan for these three days. According to the plan, MA Jinnah Road will be closed from Guru Mandir to Tower due to heightened security.
Alternative routes have been advised for commuters. Those coming from Nazimabad are advised to use Lasbela Chowk via the Garden area to reach Nishtar Park, while travellers from Liaquatabad should divert at Teen Hatti and continue via Martin Road. People commuting from Hassan Square to PP Chowrangi may use Kashmir Road under the Jail Flyover or reach Teen Hatti via Lasbela Chowk.
Additionally, the Sindh government has formally requested the federal Ministry of Interior to suspend mobile phone services across the province on the 10th of Muharram to mitigate security threats. The Home Department cited the need to maintain law and order during this sensitive period.
Muharram, one of Islam’s four sacred months, is marked by mourning and remembrance. Ashura, the 10th day, commemorates the martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA), the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), at the Battle of Karbala.
Across Pakistan, processions and majalis are held under strict security, with religious scholars addressing large gatherings.
To ensure nationwide safety, the Ministry of Interior has approved the deployment of the Pakistan Army and Civil Armed Forces (CAFs) throughout the country. The decision follows requests from all provincial governments and regional administrations, including those of Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Jammu and Kashmir, and Islamabad.
Troop deployment will take place under Sections 4 and 5 of the Anti-Terrorism Act, 1997, with the scale and duration of deployments to be determined by local authorities based on real-time security needs.
