Karachi Imposes Pillion Riding Ban for Muharram Security?

KARACHI (RNN TV) — The Sindh government has enforced a ban on pillion riding in Karachi as part of heightened security measures for Muharram processions and related activities across the city.

Muharram, one of the four sacred months in Islam, holds particular significance, with the 10th day — Ashura — commemorating the martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA), the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), and his family during the Battle of Karbala.

To ensure the safety of participants, more than 5,000 police officers have been deployed to secure the central procession, while an additional 1,000 personnel are assigned to manage traffic flow. Cellular services have been suspended along the procession route, which began at Nishtar Park.

Security efforts have been ramped up with sharpshooters stationed on high-rise buildings, sniffer dogs checking the procession paths, and extensive monitoring via CCTV cameras. Additionally, MA Jinnah Road has been closed to traffic, and shops and markets in Saddar, Empress Market, Regal, and Lighthouse areas have been sealed off. Streets leading to the procession route are also blocked using containers.

Only vehicles with special procession stickers are permitted to access the designated routes. Likewise, traffic from Sharea Quaideen is restricted beyond the Khudadad Colony signal. A traffic diversion plan is in place to manage the flow of vehicles.

Traffic from Soldier Bazaar is being redirected towards Coast Guard or Nishtar Road.
Vehicles from Nazimabad are being diverted from Lasbela Chowk towards Nishtar Road and Garden.
Traffic from the Super Highway is rerouted from Liaquatabad No. 10 to Nazimabad Chowrangi No. 2.
Commuters from Liaquatabad are directed towards Teen Hatti, Martin Road, and Jail Road.

According to the Karachi Traffic Police’s diversion plan, those traveling from Hassan Square to PP Chowrangi can take Kashmir Road under the Jail Flyover, or use the Jail Flyover to head towards Teen Hatti and Nishtar Road via Lasbela Chowk.

The measures are in place to ensure the safety of those participating in the religious observances and to prevent any untoward incidents during this sensitive period.

Source: Web Desk