QUETTA: The Balochistan Police have imposed stringent security measures in Quetta, including a complete suspension of mobile phone services in urban areas, to ensure the peaceful observance of Muharram processions and gatherings.
According to Quetta City Superintendent of Police (SP) Asif Ghafoor, mobile phone networks were shut down across the city on the 9th of Muharram and will remain suspended on the 10th of Muharram as part of a broader security strategy aimed at preventing potential militant attacks and maintaining public safety.
Speaking to the media, Ghafoor said law enforcement agencies had developed a comprehensive security plan to protect mourners participating in religious processions and gatherings commemorating the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (RA) and the tragedy of Karbala.
“Mobile services have been suspended in key urban areas, along procession routes, and at sensitive locations due to security concerns. These measures are intended to prevent any untoward incident and ensure the safety of citizens,” he said.
Thousands of police personnel have been deployed across the provincial capital, with heightened surveillance at major religious sites, strategic corridors, and vulnerable locations. Security officials have urged the public to cooperate fully with law enforcement authorities during the observances.
In the lead-up to Muharram, Quetta Police held a series of coordination meetings involving provincial government officials, intelligence agencies, and other relevant departments. The meetings resulted in a range of additional security measures, including a ban on motorcycle pillion riding, restrictions on carrying weapons, and traffic diversion plans across the city.
Additional police forces have been stationed in several sensitive areas, including Sariab Road, Jinnah Road, Liaquat Road, and other key locations frequently used by mourners during Muharram processions.
“Our objective is to ensure that these sacred days are observed in a peaceful and secure environment,” Ghafoor said.
Many residents have expressed support for the enhanced security arrangements despite the inconvenience caused by the suspension of mobile services. A local businessman, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the restrictions would create some difficulties but were necessary for public safety.
“Mobile service disruptions are inconvenient, but security must come first. Everyone should cooperate to ensure Muharram passes peacefully,” he said.
Some residents suggested the use of alternative communication methods, including landline telephones and internet-based messaging services where available. Women and elderly citizens have also called on authorities to provide dedicated secure areas along procession routes.
Pakistan routinely imposes heightened security measures during Muharram, particularly in cities with a history of sectarian violence or militant threats. Mobile phone services have been partially or fully suspended in several parts of the country during previous Muharram observances as a precautionary measure.
Security experts say temporary communication restrictions are often used to disrupt potential coordination among militant groups and reduce the risk of attacks during large public gatherings.
Authorities emphasized that emergency services, including ambulance networks, fire brigades, and police helplines, will continue to operate uninterrupted throughout the security operation. Citizens have been urged to immediately report any suspicious individuals or activities to the relevant authorities.
