PESHAWAR: As part of heightened security arrangements for Muharram, authorities have decided to suspend mobile phone services in Peshawar on the 9th and 10th of Muharram.
According to a police spokesperson, the mobile service shutdown will begin today (8th Muharram) after Friday prayers and will remain suspended until 10:00 PM on Ashura (Sunday).
The step has been taken to tighten security along procession routes, enhance surveillance in sensitive areas, and prevent any untoward incidents.
Security forces, including police, military, and paramilitary units, have been deployed across Peshawar and other sensitive districts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Over 70,000 police personnel have been posted across the province, with additional deployment in key areas of the city.
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Authorities have assigned 3,000 extra officers to different locations within Peshawar. Several hotels and medical plazas have also been temporarily closed due to possible security threats.
Drone cameras, CCTV, and other modern technology are being used to monitor Ashura processions.
Meanwhile, Peshawar Cantonment area will remain sealed till the 10th of Muharram. The city’s Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) service will also stay suspended for two days.
In a bid to control movement during the sensitive days, Afghan refugees have been restricted to their temporary camps throughout this period.