The Karachi police on Wednesday made comprehensive security arrangements for the main procession held on the martyrdom anniversary of Hazrat Umar Farooq (RA) and finalised steps for Muharramul Haram observances.
Officials said that, acting on the directives of Karachi Additional Inspector General of Police (Addl IG) Javed Alam Odho, a heavy deployment of police personnel, reserve forces, bomb disposal squads and Special Branch officials had been made along procession routes and surrounding areas. Authorities had also established special security measures, including blockades, rooftop surveillance, walk-through gates and emergency medical assistance facilities, to ensure the safety of participants.
The Additional IG Karachi had directed traffic police officials to implement an effective traffic management plan, guide commuters regarding alternative routes and ensure smooth traffic flow during religious gatherings. The police had appealed to citizens to cooperate fully with security personnel and promptly report any suspicious activity through the Madadgar-15 helpline.
Meanwhile, authorities had announced that participants wishing to join the main processions from 8th to 10th Muharram 1448 AH through designated vehicles must obtain a permit sticker or pass. Applications could be submitted at the DIG Traffic Karachi Office, Garden Headquarters, from June 22 to June 23, 2026, until 1:00 pm.
Applicants were required to provide a copy of the vehicle registration book, a valid CNIC of the vehicle owner, two recent passport-size photographs of the driver, a valid CNIC of the driver and an introduction letter from the relevant association, institution or organisation. Passes would only be issued to law enforcement agencies, registered organisations, ambulances, media organisations and other authorised entities.
Officials clarified that permits would not be issued to unregistered individuals, vehicles or drivers. A maximum of three persons would be allowed to travel under a single permit. Authorities warned that any non-cooperation during security checks, provision of false information or misuse of permits would result in the immediate cancellation of the pass.
Separately, Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hassan Lanjar directed all relevant departments to ensure extraordinary and foolproof security arrangements throughout Muharram-ul-Haram. Chairing a high-level meeting on Muharram security, he emphasised the strict implementation of all restrictions imposed by the Sindh Home Department and warned that no exemptions would be granted.
He instructed officials to establish a special control and monitoring room at the Central Police Office, strengthen CCTV surveillance through the Command and Control Centre, and review security deployment at sensitive locations, including Nishtar Park, Hussainian Iranian, imambargahs, mosques and major thoroughfares.
He further directed the Special Branch to enhance monitoring of hotels, guest houses and other accommodation facilities and maintain daily movement records. Lanjar stressed that all available resources would be utilised to maintain law and order and protect the lives and property of citizens during Muharram.
