Sindh Govt Suspends Cellular Services on Chehlum of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA)

To maintain law and order during the Chehlum of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA), the Sindh government announced the suspension of cellular services in major cities, including Karachi, Hyderabad, Larkana, Sukkur, and Khairpur, on Monday. This measure is part of strict security protocols to ensure public safety during the religious observance.

The Sindh Home Minister, Ziaul Hasan Lanjar, confirmed that the suspension of mobile phone services would be in effect throughout the day in these key urban centers. He emphasized that this step is critical in preventing any potential security threats that could arise during the Chehlum processions, which see large gatherings of people.

“Given the current law and order situation, it is imperative that we take all necessary precautions. The suspension of cellular services, along with other security measures, will help in ensuring that the Chehlum processions proceed without any untoward incidents,” said Minister Lanjar.

In addition to the suspension of mobile services, the provincial government has also imposed a ban on pillion riding across Sindh, including Karachi. This measure, often enforced during significant religious events, aims to curb the mobility of individuals who might engage in disruptive activities. The ban is particularly stringent in areas known for large processions and gatherings.

The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) released a statement aligning with the government’s directives. The PTA confirmed that both voice and data services would remain suspended in the specified cities throughout Monday, following the orders of the interior ministry.

To bolster the security apparatus, the home minister revealed that law enforcement agencies would be on high alert, with additional security forces deployed across the province. “Security forces will remain on red alert throughout the day. We are also conducting aerial monitoring of the processions to ensure a swift response to any emergency situations,” Minister Lanjar added.

The provincial government had earlier announced a public holiday for all public and private schools across Sindh on account of the Chehlum, further underscoring the importance of the day in the religious calendar and the need for heightened security.

In a related development, Rawalpindi’s local administration also declared a public holiday in the city for Monday to observe the Chehlum. The Rawalpindi police have implemented a comprehensive security plan for the city, particularly focusing on the seven processions scheduled to emerge from different Imambargahs. SSP Operations Hafiz Kamran Asghar stated that over 4,400 security personnel would be deployed throughout the city, with an additional 215 officers responsible for managing vehicular traffic.

These precautionary measures reflect the government’s commitment to safeguarding the public during one of the most significant events in the Islamic calendar. The suspension of cellular services, along with other security protocols, is expected to mitigate risks and ensure that the observances are conducted peacefully across the province.

As the Chehlum processions unfold, the government and security agencies remain vigilant, prepared to respond to any challenges that may arise in maintaining the peace and sanctity of the occasion.

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