Strict security measures adopted in Faisalabad

Strict security measures were adopted for the protection of Muharram processions in four districts of Faisalabad Division and all link roads near the Imambargah were blocked for traffic for common commuters on Thursday. Foolproof security arrangements have been made to avoid any untoward incident. Mobile phone services have also been suspended in industrial city from 9am to 6:30pm.
Police forces along with the special branch picked up more than 50 persons from various hostels and hotels, who had no identification about them. CPO Faisalabad Dr Hadir Ashraf confirmed about search operation and said this action will continue till the end of Ashura Muharram. Strict Security Measures have been adopted in Faisalabad to protect the Muharram Majalis and Processions by deploying Police Force and Volunteers on all the routes of these Processions and the places for holding of Majalis while Police Strength at 172 Sensitive Trouble Spots, he added.
He mentioned that as much as 1,502 Muharram Processions would be taken-out in all the 4 districts of Faisalabad Division while over 4,000 Majalis will be held where trained police force has been deputed to thwart any terrorist activity. DCO, Noor-ul-Ameen Mangal stated that a number of Control Rooms have been established in Faisalabad district, which have been linked with the Central Control Room to minutely check the Muharram Processions and Majalis and keep a vigilant eye on anti-social elements and destructionists and identify the Trouble Spots to Law Enforcing Agencies and the Police in case of any eventuality during Muharram.
He was, however, confident that keeping in view the strict security measures in Faisalabad, the Muharram will pass peacefully. He said the Administration has categorised the Muharram Majalis in 3 categories and the Police Force would be deployed at these points according to their requirement. He said the Police would continue search operation and keep a vigilant eye on 'Suspects' and nab them before time to help avert their nefarious designs during Muharram Days.
Meanwhile, thousands of mourners are holding processions on Muharram 9 across the district to recall the immortal sacrifices rendered by Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) and his companions in Karbala. Preachers are wholeheartedly throwing light on bright and candid teachings of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) and his great companions who became victims to atrocities of cruel forces of cruel rulers.
Apart from this, mourners are also beating their chests as a ritual while showing their love, suffering and agony of heart and soul for the family members of the great Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) who were mercilessly assassinated. Furthermore, the commuters had to face great difficulties in reaching their destinations due to the blockage of the service road in Faisalabad, Chiniot, Toba Tek Singh and Jhang districts and strict security cordon in the whole areas, where Imambargahs are situated. Public transport was also not available at bus stands which further troubled the travellers. They had to travel on unfrequented routes on foot to reach their destinations. Hospitals in the Industrial City were put on alert to meet any emergency situation.