The Sindh government has imposed a ban on pillion riding in Karachi and other divisions of the province in line with the security arrangements for Chehlum, read a notification issued by the provincial home secretary.
It has also forwarded recommendations to the federal government for suspension of mobile and internet services in the metropolis and other major cities of the province on the main routes of processions, according to officials and notifications issued to this effect.
Pillion riding has been banned in Karachi on October 30 (Tuesday only) while in Hyderabad, Shaheed Benazirabad, Mirpurkhas, Sukkur and Larkana divisions, pillion riding has been banned for five days from October 29 (Monday) to November 2 (Friday). The ban shall not be applicable to women, children below the age of 12 years, senior citizens, journalists, law enforcement personnel in uniforms and employees of essential services.
The Sindh government officials said that this ban has been imposed in light of recommendations by Sindh Inspector General Police (IGP) Dr Syed Kaleem Imam, who has mentioned that intensive religious activities will be held in all areas of Karachi and other ranges of the province.
Therefore, in view of the ongoing operation against terrorist organisations and perceived threat on the occasion of Chehlum, the provincial police chief has recommended the imposition of a ban on pillion riding in Karachi and other major cities of the province.
Chehlum of Hazrat Imam Hussain will be observed tomorrow across the country with religious spirit‚ devotion and respect. Security and other necessary arrangements have been made to provide ease to processions and to avoid untoward incident.The citizens will observe Chehlum of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) and his 72 other companions with due reverence here on Tuesday like other parts of the country.
Millions of mourners will pay homage to the martyrs of Karbala including Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) and his companions who sacrificed their lives for the cause of Islam and to give eternal lease of life to the high values of humanity.
Stringent security measures have been put in place to maintain law and order and provide foolproof security to the processions.
