RAWALPINDI: The Metro bus service in Rawalpindi has been suspended today (Friday) on the occasion of Chehlum processions.
According to the administration, buses will not operate between Saddar Station and Faizabad on August 15. However, the service in Islamabad, running from IJP to the Pak Secretariat, will continue as usual.
Officials said the decision was taken on the instructions of the district administration due to security concerns. They added that the step is aimed at ensuring smooth security arrangements for Chehlum processions in the twin cities.
Commuters have been advised to use alternative transport for travel on the Rawalpindi section of the route.
Meanwhile, Karachi police announced comprehensive security measures for the Chehlum procession of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA), which will take place, along with a detailed traffic plan.
Chehlum, also known as Arbaeen, marks the 40th day of mourning for the martyrdom of Imam Husain, the grandson of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). The day is observed by Shia Muslims with processions across the country.
Karachi’s Additional Inspector General (IG) Javed Alam Javed said that 11,479 police officers and personnel will be deployed for security duty. This includes 7,465 at 108 processions, 2,901 at 501 majalis, and 1,113 at 642 imambargahs.
— ALSO READ —
PMD warns of medium to high river flows in KP and Punjab
“All roads intersecting the route of Karachi’s main procession will remain closed, and extraordinary measures have also been taken around Nishtar Park,” he said.
According to the Additional IG, station house officers have been directed to stay in their areas, increase patrolling, snap checking, and picketing, and ensure high alert security at sensitive places and key installations.
Police said checkpoints at city entry and exit points have been strengthened, while bomb disposal teams are sweeping important locations. Advance intelligence gathering and sharing at police station level has also been increased.
Authorities warned that negligence in implementing security measures would not be tolerated.
The Karachi traffic police confirmed that the main procession will start on Friday from Nishtar Park and end at Hussainiya Irani Imambargah, following its traditional route.
MA Jinnah Road will remain closed from Guru Mandir to Tower, with diversions announced for vehicles in different districts. Commuters have been asked to use alternative routes.
For heavy traffic, police said all commercial vehicles from Super Highway and Gulberg will be diverted via Liaquatabad No. 10 to Nazimabad Chowrangi No. 2, Habib Bank Flyover, State Avenue Road, Shershah, and Maripur. The same route will be used for return journeys.
