Karachi police on Friday announced that they would deploy 5,367 personnel as part of their security plan for the next day’s Youm-i-Ali procession, according to a press release.

The release stated that strict security measures had been taken along the route of the procession — which commemorates the martyrdom of Hazrat Ali — and that the personnel deployed were ready to deal with any possible situation.

“The personnel on security duty include 76 senior officers, 725 NGOs, 3469 head constables and constables, 137 women police personnel, 70 personnel of the Special Branch, while 75 personnel of the Rapid Response Force have been deployed,” the statement read.

The police added that 815 traffic police personnel would also be deployed to maintain the flow of traffic in the metropolis, while walk-through gates would be installed at the entry and exit points of the procession.

Additionally, the bomb disposal squad and special branch personnel would also be deployed to conduct a comprehensive search of the participants.

“In case of any emergency, rescue agencies and ambulance services have also been put on alert to provide immediate medical assistance,” the press release read.

“Karachi Police urges the public to keep a close eye on their surroundings and immediately report any suspicious activity or unusual situation to Madagadgar 15. Karachi Police will continue to fulfil its responsibilities to protect the lives and property of citizens and restore law and order,” the statement concluded.

Last year, Youm-i-Ali was observed across Sindh on April 1 as mourning processions in all major cities and towns across the province ended peacefully amid tight security.

In Karachi, the main procession was led from Nishtar Park and after passing through its traditional route, it terminated at Imambargah Hussainia Iranian in Kharadar in the evening.

As part of security measures, all entry points along the route of the procession were sealed off by placing containers until late in the night.

Opinion

The fallout

The fallout

Faced with an untrustworthy trade partner in the US, the economic imperative for countries would be to pursue trade diversion.

Editorial

April heat
Updated 14 Apr, 2025

April heat

A much broader and more cohesive plan is needed to meet Pakistan’s changing requirements amidst an accelerating climate crisis.
ADB’s advice
14 Apr, 2025

ADB’s advice

WITH the Trump administration’s trade war on China and the rest of the world having led to global economic...
‘Land of the free’
14 Apr, 2025

‘Land of the free’

IN Trumpian America, even those foreigners with legal status are finding that the walls are closing in on them. As...
Caught in between
Updated 13 Apr, 2025

Caught in between

In the absence of a trade agreement, under WTO rules, Pakistan cannot reduce duty rates for the US without doing the same for other countries.
Spirit of giving
13 Apr, 2025

Spirit of giving

THE recent declaration by ulema affirming that organ donation after death is not only permissible but an act of...
Targeting dissent
13 Apr, 2025

Targeting dissent

THE recent notice sent by the FIA to former senator Farhatullah Babar is deeply troubling — and revealing....