On Monday, the Sindh government suspended cellular services in major cities, including Karachi, Hyderabad, Larkana, Sukkur, and Khairpur, as a security measure for the Chehlum of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA). Sindh Home Minister Ziaul Hasan Lanjar announced the suspension to ensure safety during the religious processions. The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) confirmed that both voice and data services would be unavailable in these areas.
Security forces are on high alert, with aerial surveillance planned over mourning processions. Additionally, a ban on pillion riding has been imposed across the province. Public and private schools were closed, and Rawalpindi’s local administration declared a public holiday in observance of Chehlum. The city’s police have also deployed over 4,400 security personnel to manage seven processions from various Imambargahs.
