QUETTA/ LAHORE: The crescent moon marking the start of Muharram 1447 Hijri has been sighted in Pakistan, confirming that Youm-e-Ashura (10th Muharram) will fall on Sunday, July 6.
The announcement was made by Maulana Abdul Khabeer Azad, Chairman of the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee, after a moon sighting meeting held in Quetta on Thursday. Officials from the Meteorological Department and SUPARCO also attended the session.
According to the committee, Friday, June 27, will be the first day of Muharram. Therefore, 9th Muharram will be observed on Saturday, July 5, followed by Youm-e-Ashura on Sunday, July 6.
Punjab takes strict security steps for Muharram
The Punjab government has announced strict security measures for the month of Muharram to ensure peace during religious gatherings and processions.
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Provincial Information Minister Uzma Bukhari said police, Rangers, and the Army have been called in for security duties. She added that some suspects have already been arrested, and law enforcement agencies are actively monitoring any threats.
Key Security Measures:
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Mobile service and pillion riding: Decisions on suspension will be made closer to the dates based on the situation.
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Large gatherings: Around 38,000 majalis and over 9,000 processions are expected in Punjab.
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Deployment: More than 238,000 police personnel and 35,000 volunteers will be on duty. Dolphin Force and CTD will also be active.
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Drones banned: No drones will be allowed during processions. Anti-drone systems will be in place.
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Surveillance: Safe City cameras will monitor activities in 18 cities, with control rooms activated and extra cameras installed on procession routes.
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Mock drills: District administrations will conduct rehearsal drills to prepare for security arrangements.
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Sabeel monitoring: Water distribution camps must be registered, and their quality will be checked by the Food Department.
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Peace messages: Religious scholars have been urged to promote harmony, especially in light of ongoing tensions between Iran and Israel.
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Social media monitoring: Action will be taken against hate speech online. Cybersecurity teams will stay alert.
The Punjab government has issued a code of conduct for Muharram, and violators will face strict action.
