By our correspondent
KARACHI: Chehlum processions commemorating the martyrs of Karbala and Husayn ibn Ali are being held across Pakistan, with authorities deploying extensive security measures in major cities.
In Karachi, the main procession began from Nishtar Park after a religious gathering addressed by Allama Shehenshah Naqvi. Participants later offered Zuhr and Asr prayers on M.A. Jinnah Road near Imambargah Ali Raza before continuing along the designated route.
Authorities have deployed around 5,000 police officers to secure the procession, while roads leading to the route have been sealed with containers. Residents have been advised to follow traffic diversions and security instructions. Karachi Police Chief Azaad Khan also visited key points along the route to review security arrangements.
In Lahore, the central Chehlum procession set off from Haveli Alif Shah inside Delhi Gate and is scheduled to conclude at Karbala Gamay Shah after passing through its traditional route, including Wazir Khan Mosque, Mochi Gate, Rang Mahal and Bhati Gate.
More than 10,000 police personnel have been deployed for security in Lahore. Authorities are monitoring the procession through CCTV cameras, while snipers have been positioned on rooftops.
The Punjab Safe Cities Authority said surveillance was being carried out through 43 Smart Safe City centers, with more than 800 cameras, additional portable smart cameras and drone monitoring supporting security operations. Monitoring teams are also overseeing the security of 44 religious gatherings and 17 processions in the city.
In Rawalpindi, the central procession began from Imambargah Ashiq Hussain under tight security. In Quetta, two major processions were held, including the central procession from Alamdar Road and another from Hazara Town.
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