The Karachi Traffic Police have announced a comprehensive traffic management plan for the city from the 8th to the 10th of Muharram 1448 AH to facilitate Muharram processions and ensure public safety during Ashura observances.
According to a statement issued by the spokesperson for the Deputy Inspector General (DIG) Traffic Police, several key roads will remain closed due to security arrangements surrounding the main Muharram procession, which will follow its traditional route through the city.
MA Jinnah Road to Remain Closed
The traffic police have announced that M.A. Jinnah Road will remain closed from Guru Mandir to Tower during the processions on the 8th, 9th, and 10th of Muharram.
The main procession will emerge from Nishtar Park and conclude at Hussainia Iranian Imambargah after passing through its customary route. Due to the large number of mourners expected to participate, authorities have implemented extensive traffic diversions to maintain security and facilitate movement in surrounding areas.
Alternate Routes for Commuters
Traffic officials have advised citizens to use alternative routes during the days of the procession.
For Nazimabad Residents
People travelling from Nazimabad towards the city centre have been directed to use Lasbela Chowk and proceed through the Garden area to access Nishtar Road.
For Liaquatabad Commuters
Motorists coming from Liaquatabad should turn left at Teen Hatti and continue via Martin Road to reach their destinations.
Additionally, the Liaquatabad–Guru Mandir Road will remain closed to traffic between 8:30am and 9:30am on the 9th of Muharram.
For Traffic from Hasan Square
Commuters travelling from Hasan Square towards Peoples Chowrangi have been advised to use:
- Kashmir Road
- Jail Flyover
- Teen Hatti
- Nishtar Road
These routes will help avoid congestion around the procession areas.
Sindh Government Announces Public Holidays on 9th and 10th Muharram
Diversions from Shahrah-e-Faisal
Traffic moving from Shahrah-e-Faisal towards Numaish Chowrangi will be diverted from the Society Light Signal onto Kashmir Road.
Meanwhile, citizens travelling from Central Jail Gate on Jamshed Road towards Guru Mandir have been instructed to use Bahadur Yar Jung Road (Soldier Bazar) as an alternative route.
Public Holidays for Ashura
The 9th and 10th of Muharram 1448 AH will be observed across Pakistan on June 25 and 26, corresponding to Thursday and Friday.
The federal government has declared both days as public holidays following approval by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. A notification issued by the Cabinet Division confirmed the closure of government offices and institutions in connection with Ashura observances.
Significance of Muharram and Ashura
Muharram is one of the four sacred months in Islam and holds profound religious significance for Muslims around the world. The 10th of Muharram, known as Ashura, commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussain, the beloved grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), along with his family members and companions in the historic Battle of Karbala.
Across Pakistan, mourners participate in processions and attend majalis (religious gatherings) to pay tribute to the sacrifices made at Karbala. Religious scholars also address large congregations, highlighting the lessons of faith, patience, justice, and steadfastness associated with the events of Ashura.
Authorities have urged citizens to cooperate with traffic personnel, follow designated routes, and plan their travel in advance to avoid inconvenience during the Muharram processions.
