Pakistan: Officials to heighten security nationwide for Chehlum Aug. 25-26

Officials will heighten security across Pakistan for the Shi'a observance of Chehlum Aug. 25-26; Sindh and Punjab provincial governments are likely to declare Aug. 26 a holiday. Worshippers will stage processions to and from imambargahs (traditional Shi'a congregation halls), mosques, and other sites. Thousands of Sufi Muslims will also congregate Aug. 24-26 at Lahore's Data Durbar shrine to commemorate the death anniversary of Saint Hazrat Ali Hajveri (RA). Road closures and traffic restrictions are probable, with severe traffic delays and business disruptions likely in areas with significant Shi'a populations.

Security personnel will deploy to guard Shi'a religious sites and processions, especially in major urban centers like Islamabad, Karachi, and Lahore. Procession routes in parts of Punjab Province will also face mobile phone service restrictions 05:00-23:00 Aug. 26; affected locations are in Bhakkar, Chakwal, Gujranwala, Gujrat, Jhang, Layyah, Mianwali, Rawalpindi, Sargodha, and Toba Tek Singh districts. Officials may also impose temporary, localized telecommunications restrictions in response to any sectarian clashes and/or militant attacks.

Although authorities have not disclosed any specific terror threats, Sunni militant organizations have previously targeted Shi'a minority gatherings during religious observances. Security personnel may establish checkpoints on major roadways and heighten security at malls, markets, and other potential targets as a precaution.