Youm-e-Ashur, the 10th of Muharram, is being observed across the country on Wednesday (today) with due solemnity and sanctity, to pay homage to the sacrifices of Hazrat Imam Hussain (Razi Allah) and his companions in Karbala.

Alam, Zuljinah and Taazia processions will be taken out in all big and small towns of the country amid stringent security cover. Ulema and Zakireen will highlight the teachings of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) and various aspects of Karbla tragedy. They will highlight the supreme sacrifice of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) and his companions.

Federal and provincial governments have taken stringent security measures to maintain law and order. The law enforcement agencies have been put on high alert across the country to deal with any eventuality. Pillion riding has been banned in many cities including Lahore and cell phone service suspended in different areas. In some sensitive cities, army would remain standby to meet any untoward situation.

Close circuit cameras have also been installed at sensitive points to keep a watch on Majalis and mourning processions. Control rooms have also been set up to monitor the situation. Routes of Zuljinah processions are being closely monitored while LEAs personnel are patrolling sensitive areas.

Hospitals have been kept on alert where doctors and paramedics will remain on duty round the clock. Rescue 1122, Edhi and Health Department ambulances are standby to deal with any emergency. A number of medical aid camps have been set up along the routes of processions by the private social welfare organisations. Sabeels of water have also been set up.

Due to security reasons, Metro Bus Authority (MBA) will not operate metro bus service in Lahore and Rawalpindi on Wednesday. Religious scholars said that Karbala is a lesson for Muslim Ummah to renew its pledge to offer sublime sacrifices and uphold the supreme values of righteousness and truth. The best way to pay tribute to Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) is to follow and promote his teachings, they said.

Moreover, in the provincial capital of Lahore, the 9th Muharram processions were taken out on Tuesday from various parts of the city including Islampura, Shadman, Green Town, Mughalpura etc. The processions of Shabih-e-Zuljinah, Alam (flag) and Tazia marched through usual routes and culminated at their destination amid strict security cover.