Chehlum of Karbala martyrs being observed today
Mobile phone services suspended in select areas as part of regular security measures
October 30, 2018
KARACHI: The Chehlum of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) and other martyrs of the Karbala tragedy is being observed today with traditional religious solemnity and spirit, amid strict security measures countrywide.
The Chehlum observance takes place 40 days after the Day of Ashura, and commemorates the martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) and his 72 companions by Yazidi forces in the Battle of Karbala in 61 A.H.
In Karachi, the main congregation highlighting the sacrifices of Karbala martyrs is being produced from Nishter Park. A central mourning procession will be taken out from Nishter Park to Hussainia Iranian Imambargah Kharadar after the conclusion of the congregation. It will be joined by small mourning processions from different areas of the city.
Pillion riding has been banned in Karachi and other cities across Sindh for five days from October 28 to November 2. Mobile phone services have also been suspended in select areas as part of regular security measures on the occasion.
The roads and streets leading to MA Jinnah Road – the route of the central procession – have been blocked with containers and barbed wires from Numaish Chowrangi to Tower to provide security to the mourners.
Inspector General of Police Sindh Dr Kaleem Imam has ordered all police DIGs to use available resources to ensure foolproof security for the mourning processions and congregations marking the Chehlum in all districts of the Sindh province.
Similar security measures have been deployed in other major cities including Lahore, Faisalabad, Multan, and Rawalpindi.
All private and state schools across Sindh will remain closed today on the occasion.
