Mobile phone services suspended for Muharram security
Mobile phone services were suspended in Quetta on Tuesday as authorities stepped up security arrangements for the observance of the 7th of Muharram. The move is aimed at ensuring the safety of mourners and maintaining law and order during religious gatherings and processions.
According to sources in the Balochistan Home Department, the suspension was imposed as part of a comprehensive security plan for Muharram processions and Majalis being held across the provincial capital. Officials said mobile phone services will remain suspended until the evening. The main 7th Muharram procession is scheduled to take place later in the day, with strict security measures deployed along its route.
Authorities have also closed markets and shops located along the procession route to help ensure the safety of participants and prevent any untoward incidents. Meanwhile, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has finalized a comprehensive security plan for Ashura, which falls on the 9th and 10th of Muharram. The plan includes the suspension of mobile phone services in selected areas across the province.
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Security officials said mobile services will be completely suspended in some sensitive localities, while partial restrictions will be imposed in other areas. The measures are intended to strengthen security and assist law enforcement agencies during religious observances. Authorities have identified approximately 400 Imambargahs as sensitive or highly sensitive locations across the province. In addition, 286 mourning processions have been declared highly sensitive, while another 190 processions have been categorized as sensitive.
Officials said security personnel will remain on high alert throughout Muharram to ensure the peaceful observance of religious events and protect mourners attending processions and gatherings. The enhanced measures reflect the government’s focus on preventing security threats and ensuring that Muharram events are held in a safe, peaceful, and orderly environment across both provinces.
