Pakistani paramilitary soldiers stand alert at road and observe the area to ensure security in Karachi, Pakistan, Sunday, Dec. 12, 2010. Violence has surged in Pakistan in recent days with militants launching a wave of suicide bombings. The attacks have killed more than 70 people this month, prompting authorities to deploy extra police and security forces at important installations across the country. – Photo by AP

KARACHI: CCPO Karachi, Fayaz Leghari said on Sunday that the Karachi police had finalised the security arrangements for the month of Muharram, and that commercial centers which fal on the Muharram procession routes will remain closed for three days.

Speaking to a press conference, Leghari said that the central procession of Muharram will have three exit and entrance ways. The police will also provide security to the persons coming from other areas of the city towards the procession.

Leghari also added that a regular exit route will be offered after the procession. He said that 5,700 policemen will provide security to the route and a comprehensive strategy has also been developed in case of any emergency. -- DawnNews

EMERGENCY MUHARRAM CELL

An Emergency Muharram Cell has been set up at the Chief Minister House here.

An official announcement on Sunday said that this will function round the clock.

It said that the Cell has been established for monitoring and keeps a liaison among various organizations regarding the maintenance of law and order, monitoring the situation and entertaining complaints of the people.

This cell will also remain in contact with the City District Government Karachi, IGP Sindh, Pakistan Rangers, Home Department and the Corps Headquarter.

The cell has started functioning and it is headed by Deputy Secretary Administration, Saeed Ahmed Shaikh. The phone numbers are: 99202051-5 and 99207349-50 and fax: 99202000. – APP