QUETTA: In view of security threats, the Balochistan government has decided to impose a ban on pillion riding on the eve of Youm-i-Ali in the provincial capital.

Home Secretary Balochistan, Akbar Hussain Durrani on Saturday told Dawn.com that article 144 would be intact for a day in the city to ensure peace.

“Except Quetta, there would be no ban on pillion riding in other cities of Balochistan,” Durrani said.

The provincial government has already placed paramilitary troops and police on a high alert to avert any untoward incident on the occasion.

The home secretary stated that so far no decision was made to suspend mobile phone services in Quetta. Security on roads and streets leading to Hazara Town, Alamdar road and other areas has been tightened.

“Frontier Corps and Police are deployed at all sensitive points in the city,” Durrani informed.

The government has already declared 55 Imam Bargahs as sensitive for Youm-i-Ali. The provincial high ups held a high level law and order meeting to evolve an effective security strategy in the city.

Shops and markets located on the route of procession would be sealed off by the administration to minimise the danger of terrorism.

Mourning processions would be taken out in Hazara Town and Alamdar road in connection with Youm-i-Ali.