Muharram security: Pillion riding banned in Punjab

LAHORE: Punjab Home Department has banned pillion riding in the province till Ashura and imposed Section 144 as part of measures for enhancing security during Muharram.

The ban on pillion riding will start from 7 Muharram and continue till Ashura, the 10th of Muharram. Elderly citizens, women, and law enforcement personnel will be exempted from the ban on pillion riding.

Section 144 has been imposed banning statements that promote inter-sectarian, inter-faith, or racial hatred.

Muharram moon unlikely to be sighted today

The construction of barricades on buildings’ rooftops that are present in the routes of the processions will be not allowed, as part of Muharram security in Punjab.

Punjab government has also prohibited stones, bricks, bottles, or trash and weapons and flammable materials during the procession.

Punjab province has sought extra assistance from rangers to support the police for maximum security.

 Instead of suspending mobile phone services across the board, plans are being put in place to disable networks only where a procession is taking place.