The strict security arrangements enforced since yesterday by the authorities as part of the overall nation-wide security alert for the month of Muharram which began yesterday. In Karachi patrolling and presence of police and rangers pickets at all important and sensitive points has been beefed up to helped restore the confidence of residents.
Special vigil is being maintained at all the Imambargahs and places where Majlis for Muharram are being held. The security personnel are present in very good number and in a state of high alert at and around the Shahe Khorasan Imambargah at the confluence of M.A. Jinnah road and the old Britto Road. Large numbers of Sabeels have also been put up in different parts of the city and the thirsty are served iced water or sharbat from these Sabeels.
Meanwhile the preparation of Tazias and special Alums in different parts of the city is also well underway for the Youme Ashur and the earlier processions that will be taken out by the mourners and the faithful.
The holding of majalis in the evenings and in late night at different places is also in top gear. Around six hundred big and small Majalis are being held in different parts in homage to the Martyrs of Karbal. Strict security arrangements are made at all these Majalis.
Meanwhile, all officials in the city including police officials are now engaged in finalising arrangements for the smooth passage of the Muharram's main procession taken out on Ashura, which will start gathering at different points on the eve of Youme Ashur and will comprise the main Youme Ashur procession on the morning of 10th Muharram corresponding to 20th January.