Main procession begins from Nishtar Park
Karachi:The main religious gathering marking the Youm-e-Shahadat of Hazrat Ali (RA) is underway at Nishtar Park in Karachi on Wednesday, with authorities enforcing strict security and traffic arrangements across the city.
Organisers scheduled the main Youm-e-Ali procession to begin shortly after 12:30pm. The procession will travel along its designated route before concluding at Hussainia Iranian Imam Bargah in Kharadar.
According to officials, the procession is expected to reach the Numaish intersection by around 1pm. Meanwhile, authorities have implemented a comprehensive traffic plan to manage movement and facilitate mourners.
Traffic police have closed M.A. Jinnah Road from Guru Mandir to Tower for regular vehicles. In addition, Corridor Three from Saddar Dawakhana to Regal Chowk has been restricted.
Authorities have also diverted traffic from several areas. Vehicles from District Central will move through Lasbela toward Nishtar Road in Garden, while traffic from Liaquatabad will follow the Guru Mandir–Lasbela–Garden route.
Furthermore, commuters travelling from Hassan Square to Peoples Chowrangi have been advised to use New M.A. Jinnah Road, Jail Flyover, Teen Hatti and Nishtar Road.
Officials have restricted movement beyond the traffic signal at the Society Office on Shahrah-e-Quaideen except for authorised vehicles carrying special passes. Meanwhile, vehicles carrying food for distribution will enter M.A. Jinnah Road through Tower.
Heavy security deployment across cities
Authorities have deployed 5,213 police officers and personnel across Karachi to maintain security during the event.
Police have sealed the procession route and installed CCTV cameras for surveillance. In addition, snipers have been stationed on tall buildings while officers conduct snap checks along the route.
Quick response teams remain on alert, and police personnel are stationed at hospitals to respond to emergencies.
Meanwhile in Quetta, the Zuljanah procession will begin at 10pm from Alamdar Road under heavy security.
