KARACHI – As part of heightened security measures for Muharram, the Sindh government has imposed a ban on pillion riding across Karachi. The move comes alongside other restrictions aimed at ensuring safety during the city’s main religious processions and gatherings.
Muharram, one of the holiest months in Islam, commemorates the martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA)—the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)—on the 10th day, known as Ashura. Throughout the month, especially on Ashura, large processions and religious gatherings (majalis) take place across Pakistan under strict security arrangements.
In Karachi, the main Muharram procession began at Nishtar Park, with more than 5,000 police personnel deployed for protection and another 1,000 traffic officers managing road diversions. As an additional security step, mobile phone services have been suspended along the route of the procession.
Security protocols also include sharpshooters stationed on high-rise buildings, sniffer dog inspections, and constant monitoring through CCTV cameras installed along key procession routes.
Several major roads and commercial areas have been sealed, including MA Jinnah Road, Saddar, Empress Market, Regal, and Lighthouse Market. Streets connecting to the main procession routes have been blocked with containers, and only vehicles with special procession permits are allowed access.
According to the traffic diversion plan:
- Traffic from Sharea Quaideen is not allowed beyond Khudadad Colony signal.
- Commuters from Soldier Bazaar are being rerouted towards Coast Guard and Nishtar Road.
- Vehicles from Nazimabad are redirected from Lasbela Chowk to Nishtar Road and Garden.
- Traffic from Super Highway is diverted from Liaquatabad No. 10 to Nazimabad Chowrangi No. 2.
- Travellers from Liaquatabad are being guided through Teen Hatti, Martin Road, and Jail Road.
- For those going from Hassan Square to PP Chowrangi, alternate routes include Kashmir Road under the Jail Flyover to Society Light Signal (Sharea Quaideen) or taking Jail Flyover to Teen Hatti and onward to Nishtar Road via Lasbela Chowk.
Authorities urge residents to follow the traffic guidance and cooperate with law enforcement to ensure a peaceful observance of Muharram.
