ISLAMABAD: During the occasion of Ashura, authorities in several parts of Pakistan suspended mobile services to maintain security and prevent any potential untoward incidents. The Ministry of Interior requested the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to suspend mobile services not only on Muharram 9 and 10 but also on Muharram 11.
In specific areas of Islamabad, mobile services were suspended during designated time frames on Muharram 9. Similarly, mobile services will be suspended in Shah Allah Ditta and Noorpur Shahan/Bari Imam on Muharram 11.
In Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, mobile services would remain suspended in 14 districts until 10 pm on Muharram 9 and 10. Quetta also suspended mobile services on Muharram 9 and 10. There is also a ban on pillion riding until Muharram 12 in Quetta.
Partial mobile service suspensions are in place in some areas of Karachi until Muharram 10. In Lahore and Sindh, pillion riding was banned on Ashura. However, landline and cable net services continue uninterrupted. These measures are taken to ensure public safety during the sensitive religious period.
Army To Be Deployed Nationwide To Ensure Muharram Security
Earlier, the federal government approved the deployment of the army nationwide to maintain security during the holy month of Muharram.
The provincial authorities of Sindh, Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Islamabad, Gilgit-Baltistan, Azad Jammu and Kashmir had specifically requested the military’s assistance to manage the law and order situation.
In response to their request, the Central government authorized the deployment of both army troops and civil armed forces. This decision was made to ensure a peaceful environment in accordance with Article 245 of the Constitution.
