In an effort to maintain law and order during the observance of Muharram authorities in Quetta have decided to suspend mobile and internet services. The suspension will be in effect on the 7th, 9th, and 10th of Muharram, corresponding to July 26, 28, and 29 respectively.
This decision was made in response to instructions from the Ministry of Interior, following complaints about service disruptions in certain areas. On the 9th of Muharram, residents can expect a suspension from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm, while on the 10th, services will be restored after the culmination of processions.
In addition to the suspension of mobile services, the provincial government in Balochistan has imposed a ban on pillion riding in the Quetta division from the 1st to the 12th of Muharram, extending until July 31. This measure is part of a broader strategy to prevent potential disturbances during this period.
The federal government has declared public holidays on July 28 and 29, coinciding with the suspension of mobile services and road closures during Ashura. Furthermore, the government has approved the deployment of armed forces across the country to ensure security during the Muharram period.
Last week, the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) announced a partial suspension of mobile services in certain areas of Karachi until the 10th of Muharram. Similarly, the Sindh government has also imposed measures under Section 144 of the CrPC, including a ban on pillion riding on the 9th and 10th of Muharram, to ensure uninterrupted Ashura day activities.
These measures reflect the government’s commitment to ensuring a peaceful observance of Muharram, a significant period in the Islamic calendar.
