14,000 Police Personnel to Secure Muharram Processions and Majalis Across Rawalpindi Region

RAWALPINDI: Authorities have finalised extensive security arrangements for Muharram-ul-Haram across the Rawalpindi region, with more than 14,000 police officers and personnel set to perform security duties during the month.

According to police officials, a total of 1,065 processions and 4,813 majalis will be held across Rawalpindi, Attock, Jhelum and Chakwal from 1st to 30th Muharram. Of the processions, 116 have been classified as highly sensitive (Category A), 120 as Category B, and 829 as Category C. Similarly, 478 majalis have been placed in Category A, 414 in Category B, and 3,921 in Category C.

Regional Police Officer (RPO) Rawalpindi Region Babar Sarfaraz Alpa said special control rooms had been established at both regional and district levels to ensure effective monitoring and swift information sharing during Muharram. He added that all security arrangements had been completed and that strict implementation of the Punjab government's code of conduct and standard operating procedures (SOPs) would be ensured.

From 1st to 10th Muharram alone, authorities expect 759 processions and 4,376 majalis to take place. Police officers and personnel have been directed to remain on high alert and closely monitor sensitive locations, imam bargahs and procession routes.

The police will work in close coordination with other law enforcement agencies, while surveillance through Safe City cameras, intelligence-based operations, search operations and combing activities will be intensified. Authorities have also warned of strict legal action against individuals involved in spreading sectarian hatred or provocative content on social media platforms.

To minimise disruptions, alternative traffic arrangements have been prepared. Traffic police personnel will be deployed along procession routes and diversion points to maintain the smooth flow of vehicles. Special routes will remain available for ambulances and emergency services, while parking around majalis and procession venues will be strictly prohibited.

Chief Traffic Officer Rawalpindi Farhan Aslam said more than 980 traffic police officers and personnel would perform duties throughout Muharram. He noted that enforcement against vehicles without registration plates and those using black-tinted windows had been intensified as part of security measures.

The CTO urged citizens to cooperate with authorities, use alternative routes where necessary and follow traffic advisories issued during Muharram. Officials reiterated their commitment to maintaining peace, protecting lives and property, and ensuring the observance of Muharram in a secure and orderly environment.