Cities across Pakistan, including Karachi, Lahore, and Peshawar, are observing the 9th of Muharram today with religious processions being carried out under heavy security. Authorities have taken extra precautions to ensure everything remains peaceful — mobile phone services have been suspended in certain areas, roads have been closed, and thousands of police personnel are on duty.
In Karachi, the main procession began at 1:00 PM from Nishtar Park. Before it started, a religious gathering (majlis) was held where Allama Shahenshah Hussain Naqvi delivered a sermon. The Imamia Students Organisation led the combined Zuhrain prayers afterward. The procession is moving along its traditional route — Numaish, Saddar, Radio Pakistan, Jamia Cloth Market, and Denso Hall — before concluding at the Hussainia Iranian Imambargah in Kharadar.
Security officials have said all arrangements were finalised well in advance to ensure the safety of the participants.
In Lahore, the day began with the main procession at 10:00 AM. According to Punjab Police, more than 147,000 officers and staff have been deployed across the province to secure over 1,600 processions and nearly 4,000 majalis. In Lahore alone, 79 processions and 378 gatherings are taking place, with more than 10,000 officers providing security.
Special squads like the Dolphin Force and PRU are working closely with emergency services such as Rescue 1122, Rescue 15, and the fire brigade. There’s a particular focus on ensuring the safety of women and children.
“We are on high alert across the province,” said Punjab IG Dr. Usman Anwar. “Laws like Section 144 and the Loudspeaker Act are being strictly enforced.”
Peshawar also saw its main procession begin at 10:00 AM from Husainia Hall. Saddar and the Cantt areas have been sealed off, and all commercial activity in the region has been halted for the day.
Mobile services have been suspended in the city for both the 9th and 10th of Muharram. The Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system is also shut for two days as a precaution.
Over 10,000 security personnel have been stationed across Peshawar, and the entry of Afghan refugees into the city has been temporarily restricted. Key roads like Qissa Khwani Bazaar, Circular Road, GT Road, and Khyber Bazaar have all been closed to ensure safety.
Despite the strict measures, the processions so far have been peaceful, with participants marking the solemn day with traditional rituals and prayers.
