PESHAWAR: Authorities in Peshawar have ordered the closure of all markets in the historic inner city for four days during Muharram, reported a Privaate TV channel.
Security measures in inner city
Officials sealed key commercial hubs including Qissa Khwani Bazaar, Kohati Bazaar, Peepal Mandi, Kochi Bazaar, and Sarafa Bazaar. They installed concertina wire and heavy barricades across these markets to restrict movement and suspend business activity during the period.
Sensitive districts and deployment
Authorities declared eight districts of Peshawar as sensitive and six as highly sensitive. The provincial government deployed more than 43,000 police personnel across the city to ensure security. Officials said over 12,000 personnel were assigned specifically to sensitive areas.
Security at religious gatherings
Officials strengthened security arrangements at 164 Imambargahs and 907 processions. Police commandos and paramilitary forces were deployed at key points. Authorities said they aimed to ensure peaceful observance of Muharram.
Communication and transport measures
Authorities decided to suspend mobile phone services in sensitive areas. They also suspended the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) service in Peshawar during the security period. Officials said they took these steps to prevent any untoward incident.
Monitoring and control room
Police established a central control room to monitor processions in real time. Officials said they used CCTV surveillance across the city to track movement and respond quickly to any situation. The administration said it would maintain strict vigilance throughout the four-day period.
