The chehlum is observed 40 days after Ashura to commemorate the martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain and his 72 companions in the Battle of Karbala in 61 A.H.
In Karachi, the main congregation was produced from Nishtar Park. A central procession was taken from Nishter Park to Hussainia Iranian Imambargah Kharadar after the conclusion of the congregation. It was joined by other mourning congregations from various parts of the city. Pillion riding was banned in Karachi and other cities across Sindh for five days from October 28 to November 2. Mobile phone service was also suspended in select areas as part of regular security measures on the occasion.
The roads and streets leading to MA Jinnah Road ,the route of the central procession, had been blocked with containers and barbed wires from Numaish Chowrangi to Tower to provide security to the mourners. Inspector General of Police Sindh Dr Kaleem Imam has ordered all police DIGs to use available resources to ensure foolproof security for the mourning processions and congregations marking the Chehlum in all districts of the Sindh province. All private and state schools across Sindh remained closed.
Published in Daily Times, October 31st 2018.