Rawalpindi Under Tight Security as Ashura Processions Take Place

DID Press: Authorities in Rawalpindi have implemented extensive security measures for Ashura commemorations, deploying military, paramilitary, and police forces across the city to safeguard religious processions and gatherings.

According to officials, five army units, seven ranger units, and thousands of police personnel have been assigned to security operations. More than 5,500 security officers are responsible for protecting the main Ashura procession route.

Security arrangements include anti-drone systems, mobile signal jammers, aerial surveillance, and enhanced monitoring of key locations. Authorities have also suspended Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) services between Rawalpindi and Islamabad due to procession movements and security considerations.

Emergency services have been placed on high alert, with 57 ambulances and 537 hospital beds prepared to respond to any incidents. More than 2,000 surveillance cameras are monitoring the city around the clock through two central control rooms.

Roads leading to procession routes have been closed, while security personnel, including rooftop snipers, have been deployed at strategic points.

Participants are permitted to enter procession areas only after passing through security checkpoints and undergoing physical screening conducted by both male and female security officers.

The measures are part of Pakistan’s annual efforts to ensure security during Ashura, one of the most significant observances in the Islamic calendar.