RAWALPINDI: The mourning processions of Muharram 8 concluded peacefully on Friday morning after passing through their traditional route amid tight security.

The main procession started from Imambargah Hifazat Ali in Bohar Bazaar and culminated at Qadeemi Imambargah via Raja Bazaar. Several other processions joined the main procession at various points.

The district administration and local police had closed all roads by placing containers and sealed off all side streets with barbed wire.

Army and Rangers personnel were also deployed to prevent any untoward incident. The procession began at 9pm on Thursday and ended at Fajr prayers at Qadeemi Imambargah. No untoward incident was reported.

Zakireen, nauhakhwan and khateebs highlighted the supreme sacrifices of Hazrat Imam Hussain (AS) and his companions for the cause of Islam at various locations along the procession route.

Thousands of people participated in the procession, with many flagellating themselves in mourning for the martyrdom of Hazrat Qasim in Karbala.

In their sermons, religious scholars emphasised the significance of the sacrifices made by the martyrs of Karbala.

They urged the Ummah to follow in the footsteps of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) and to inculcate the spirit of sacrifice for the glory of Islam while commemorating the most tragic incident in Islamic history.

Meanwhile, a meeting was held at the commissioner’s office, Rawalpindi, under the chairmanship of Punjab Minister for Communications and Works Sohaib Ahmed Bharath to review Muharram arrangements.

The meeting was attended by Deputy Commissioner Rawalpindi Dr Hassan Waqar Cheema, City Police Officer Khalid Hamdani and other administrative officials.

The provincial minister was briefed on the security measures taken for Muharram. The meeting was part of a series of reviews focused on ensuring comprehensive and effective security to maintain public safety during the holy month.

Officials informed the minister that robust security arrangements had been made to maintain law and order.

Personnel from the police, law enforcement agencies and the district administration have been deployed along the procession routes.

The monitoring of the processions via CCTV cameras is also underway. The provincial minister noted that all stakeholders, including peace committees, religious scholars and others, are playing a constructive role in maintaining harmony and law and order.

He added that fake news is being closely monitored to ensure accurate information reaches the public.

“All institutions are fulfilling their responsibilities efficiently through mutual cooperation,” he said, adding that full implementation of the code of conduct is being ensured.

Rawalpindi Waste Management Company (RWMC) workers are deployed on all routes to maintain cleanliness, and sabeels are being set up along the way.

The minister also directed officials to remain alert in view of possible rainfall.

Published in Dawn, July 5th, 2025