KP CM reviews security arrangements for Ashura

PESHAWAR: Chief Minister Sardar Ali Amin Khan Gandapur visited the Supreme Command Post at Kohati Gate in the provincial capital 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 aims at ensuring 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.

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 Rs10,000 each for all personnel performing Muharram-related duties at the Supreme Command Post and other control rooms.