The Balochistan government temporarily suspended mobile phone and internet services across the provincial capital on Tuesday as part of heightened security measures for the 7th of Muharram processions. The seventh procession was taken out amid tight security in Quetta, with mourners marching along traditional routes before safely culminating at Mariabad.
Digital Blackout as Precautionary Step
According to sources within the Balochistan Home Department, the digital blackout was implemented as a strictly precautionary step to counter security alerts and protect citizens participating in these traditional religious gatherings. The disruption cut off cellular networks and mobile data across most neighborhoods, leaving residents temporarily disconnected. Officials stated that the network freeze is linked directly to safety protocols for the mourning processions. Services will be restored in a phased manner once the main processions conclude and law enforcement agencies grant security clearance.
Ground Security Measures
Alongside the digital shutdown, strict security measures were visible on the ground. A heavy deployment of police and Frontier Corps (FC) personnel secured all main entry and exit points of the city, keeping a vigilant watch over the entire route of the procession to prevent any untoward incidents. While the sudden blackout caused considerable communication challenges for local businesses and families trying to stay in touch, provincial authorities reiterated that public safety remains their absolute priority during these high-stakes days of the holy month.
K-P Processions Security Plan
The Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa government has finalised a comprehensive security plan for the observance of Ashura (9th and 10th Muharram) across the province and as part of the security measures, mobile phone services will be partially suspended in selected areas. According to security officials, mobile phone services will be completely suspended in some areas, while partial restrictions will be imposed in other sensitive locations. The measures are aimed at maintaining law and order and preventing any untoward incident during the religious observances.
Classification of Imambargahs and Processions
The authorities have declared a total of 400 Imambargahs across Khyber Pakhtunkhwa as sensitive or highly sensitive. In addition, 286 processions have been categorized as highly sensitive, while 190 processions have been placed in the sensitive category. The security plan includes deployment of additional personnel and surveillance to ensure smooth conduct of the events.
