Youm-e-Ali was observed in Karachi amid tight security like in other parts of the country on Wednesday. Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah said Hazrat Ali’s (RA) teachings represent the highest ideals of justice, courage and humanity.
The main procession in Karachi issued from the Nishtar Park and culminated at the Hussainian Iranian Imambargah in Kharadar after passing through its traditional route. Police and Rangers were deployed along the main route.
Walk-through gates were installed as part of the foolproof security arrangements. A traffic plan was also chalked out by the traffic police. Strict security measures were implemented across the city, with several key roads, including MA Jinnah Road, closed to vehicular traffic.
Police sealed the roads leading to the procession route by placing containers and heavy vehicles at key points. Earlier, police had also conducted a sweep through the Bomb Disposal Unit in markets, shops and streets falling along the procession route.
Roads linking to MA Jinnah Road from Gurumandir to Tower, as well as roads from Saddar Dawakhana, the Empress Market to Regal Chowk, were sealed with containers and heavy vehicles.
Police were deployed at the sealed points and ordered not to allow anyone to enter or exit through the restricted roads along the procession path. Both tracks of MA Jinnah Road between Numaish and Tower were closed to traffic, while all turns and roads leading from the Empress Market towards Regal Chowk were also closed to traffic.
In District Central, people travelling from Nazimabad were directed to use alternative routes to reach their destinations, as several main arteries remained inaccessible. The traffic police urged the public to cooperate with the authorities and follow the provided instructions to avoid inconvenience.
Youm-e-Ali is observed annually to observe Hazrat Ali’s (RA) martyrdom, and large processions are a traditional part of the observance in Karachi and other parts of the country. The authorities have historically implemented heightened security arrangements during such events to maintain peace and order.
Youm-e-Ali reminds people that true success lies in standing firm on the path of truth and righteousness, the CM said in his message. He urged people to pledge to incorporate the Hazrat Ali’s (RA) teachings into their daily lives.
He said Imam Ali’s (RA) martyrdom remains a great and painful chapter in Islam’s history. He added that a strict security plan was implemented across Sindh for the relevant processions and gatherings. “Security measures were further strengthened in view of the tense and war-like situation in the region.”
Senior police and government officials reviewed the security arrangements made along the main procession route. During his visit to MA Jinnah Road, Karachi police chief Azad Khan directed the officers on duty to remain alert, ensure more effective arrangements and provide all possible facilities to the procession’s participants.
