Staff Report
PESHAWAR: Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Sardar Ali Amin Khan Gandapur, visited the Supreme Command Post at Kohati Gate on Saturday to review the security arrangements for the 10th of Muharram. During the visit, officials briefed him on a wide range of preparations, including security measures, sanitation at venues of processions and gatherings, and uninterrupted power supply. The Chief Minister was informed that the Supreme Command Post serves as the central control room, operating round-the-clock since the first of Muharram, and aimes to ensure effective coordination, monitoring, and prompt response among all concerned departments and agencies for the security of Muharram. Personnel from police, rescue services, the Pakistan Army, intelligence agencies, and other relevant departments have been deployed at the command post. In addition, five sub-command posts have also been established across Peshawar to strengthen security operations. Officials informed the Chief Minister that Peshawar will have 116 processions and 316 Majalis during Muharram for which foolproof security arrangements have been made, with live monitoring through CCTV and drone cameras. Special cleanliness drives and uninterrupted electricity supply have also been ensured at all major sites. Furthermore, special traffic plans have been devised for areas surrounding the processions. Section 144 has been enforced to restrict pillion riding during the holy month. Emergency has been declared in hospitals across the province, with all staff leaves cancelled. It was informed that similar measures have been taken in rescue and Tehsil Municipal Administrations (TMA). Religious scholars representing all schools of thought have also been included in the Supreme Command Post to promote sectarian harmony.
The Chief Minister was informed that 1,180 security personnel have been deployed in Peshawar alone, while similar arrangements are in place across other districts of the province. A robust coordination and quick response mechanism has been established among all departments to respond to any untoward incidents.
Expressing satisfaction over the security and administrative arrangements, particularly for Ashura, the Chief Minister directed officials to pay special attention to the processions on the 10th of Muharram. He also announced a special honorarium of Rs. 10,000 each for all personnel performing Muharram-related duties at the Supreme Command Post and other control rooms.
Speaking to the media, the Chief Minister assured that comprehensive and foolproof security measures have been implemented for all processions and gatherings across the province. He said that approximately 10,000 gatherings and 1,000 processions are expected during Muharram, for which 36,000 security personnel have been deployed.
Emergency measures have been enforced in hospitals, rescue services, and TMAs to deal with any unforeseen situations. Control rooms have been established to ensure real-time monitoring of all major Muharram events.
He expressed hope that all processions and gatherings will conclude peacefully. Responding to a question, the Chief Minister emphasized the importance of observing Muharram with solemnity and reverence. “The tragedy of Karbala teaches us patience and standing firm for truth and justice,” he said. “The best way to honor the martyrs of Karbala is to align ourselves with truth.”
He also appealed to the public, especially religious scholars, to play their role in maintaining inter-sectarian harmony throughout the holy month.
