In a bid to enhance security during Muharram, the Balochistan government has announced the suspension of mobile phone and internet services in Quetta on Muharram 7 and 10, alongside the enforcement of Section 144 in seven districts. Balochistan Home Minister Meer Ziaullah Langau stated that services will be cut from 6 am to midnight on these days. Muharram commenced on July 8 after the lunar crescent was sighted.
Throughout this period, religious processions and gatherings are held nationwide, necessitating strict security measures. On Ashura (10th Muharram), approximately 8,000 security personnel will be deployed in Quetta, with additional Quick Response Force platoons from the Pakistan Army on standby. Mobile services will also be suspended in Jhal Magsi, Jaffarabad, and Usta Muhammad districts on Muharram 9 and 10.
To further ensure safety, the government has banned pillion riding and imposed Section 144 from Muharram 1 to 10 across the seven districts. The home minister emphasized the government’s responsibility to maintain law and order, confirming that all necessary security arrangements have been finalized.
In parallel, the federal government has approved the deployment of the Pakistan Army and Civil Armed Forces (CAF) nationwide to bolster security during this significant period. A notification from the interior ministry outlined that the details of troop deployment will be established in consultation with relevant authorities, and the duration of the military presence will be decided later through mutual agreement among stakeholders. These measures are crucial for maintaining peace and order during the observances of Muharram across the province and beyond.
