Sir: The holy month of Muharram is starting and the government is advised to take steps to forestall any untoward incidents. Because of my experience in anti-terrorism work, I would like to make some suggestions. All congregation places should be registered with the local government. Parking areas should be far away from the compounds designated for these gatherings. The old and sick may be dropped at the entrance after due clearance and vehicles should go back to the parking area. All entry points should be well guarded and each person attending the congregation should be searched. Keeping in view the prevailing conditions in the country, processions in Muharram should be restricted to smaller, safer routes. The mourning and breast-beating should be done indoors rather than on roads where huge crowds become a security risk. Armed plainclothes police guards should be deployed in all gatherings to keep an eye on possible terrorists whose movements are always suspicious. ARUB SABA REHAN Karachi