Thousands of mourners across Pakistan observed the Chehlum of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) and the martyrs of Karbala on Tuesday, with religious processions and gatherings taking place under extensive security arrangements in major cities.
Authorities deployed thousands of police personnel, installed surveillance systems and implemented strict traffic and security measures to ensure the peaceful observance of the occasion.
In Karachi, the central Chehlum procession began from Nishtar Park after a religious gathering. The procession is following its traditional route under a comprehensive security plan. More than 5,000 police officers and personnel have been deployed along the route, while roads leading to the procession have been sealed with containers. Senior police officials visited the route to review security arrangements and monitor the deployment.
The city administration urged residents to cooperate with law enforcement agencies, follow traffic advisories and use alternate routes to avoid inconvenience.
In Lahore, the main Chehlum procession started from Haveli Alif Shah inside Delhi Gate and is proceeding along its traditional route before concluding at Karbala Gamay Shah. More than 10,000 police personnel have been assigned to provide security. Roads and streets connected to the procession route have been secured with barriers and barbed wire, while surveillance is being carried out through CCTV cameras, drones and sniper deployment on high-rise buildings.
Officials said 43 Smart Safe City centres across Punjab are monitoring processions in real time. In Lahore alone, more than 800 surveillance cameras are being used to monitor processions, religious gatherings and other sensitive locations. Additional portable smart cameras have also been installed to strengthen security.
In Rawalpindi, the central Chehlum procession commenced from Imambargah Ashiq Hussain under heightened security, with police and other law enforcement agencies deployed throughout the route.
In Quetta, two major processions were taken out from Alamdar Road and Hazara Town to commemorate the martyrs of Karbala. More than 1,700 police personnel, supported by the Frontier Corps (FC), have been deployed to maintain law and order.
Authorities sealed procession routes and intensified security checks at entry and exit points. CCTV cameras are monitoring the routes, while a Quick Response Force has been stationed at multiple locations to respond to any emergency.
As part of the security measures, mobile phone and internet services have been temporarily suspended in several areas of Quetta.
Across the country, law enforcement agencies remain on high alert to ensure the peaceful conclusion of Chehlum processions. Authorities have appealed to the public to cooperate with security personnel and follow official instructions to help maintain peace and public safety during the religious observance.
