Why Roads Are Blocked During Muharram in Pakistan: A Response to the Critics

By Fawad Pirzada

Each Muharram, as processions fill the streets, major cities across Pakistan experience road closures, traffic diversions, and heightened security protocols. For many, this triggers frustration and criticism:

“Why are roads blocked every year? Why can’t these events be held indoors?”

What Is Muharram and Why Are Processions Held?

Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar, marks the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (A.S.), the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), who stood against tyranny in the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD.

For Shia Muslims, and many Sunni supporters, this is a month of mourning. Public processions (Juloos) are organized across the country to remember the tragedy, show unity, and express resistance to injustice.

These processions are deeply spiritual, historic, and often generational traditions that have always taken place in public streets.

 

Why Are Roads Blocked During Muharram?

1. To Manage Large Crowds

Muharram processions draw thousands of people. Blocking roads ensures participant safety, prevents accidents, and allows emergency access. Without such measures, traffic and pedestrian congestion could become life-threatening.

2. To Prevent Terror Attacks

Sadly, these processions have been targets of sectarian violence for years. The threat is real and the scars run deep. Not Just Precaution Real Tragedies Have Occurred

 

Karachi – Ashura Bombing (Dec 28, 2009)

 

A suicide bomber struck the main procession on M.A. Jinnah Road.

 

🔸 43 people killed, over 100 injured.

 

🔸 Fires spread in nearby markets during the panic.

 

 

Rawalpindi – Raja Bazaar Violence (Nov 2013)

 

Clashes erupted during a procession near a mosque.

 

🔸 10 people died, properties were looted and burned.

 

🔸 A citywide curfew followed.

Dera Ismail Khan – Multiple Attacks (2008–2012) Processions were repeatedly bombed.

 

🔸 A 2012 attack killed 8 people.

 

🔸 The city remains under tight lockdown each Muharram.

 

 

Quetta – Hazara Shia Attacks

 

In 2004, a suicide bomber killed 40+ people in a Hazara procession.

 

Targeted attacks on the community have continued for over a decade.

 

These tragedies explain why heavy security, mobile jammers, and road blockades have become a standard part of Muharram in Pakistan.

Why Not Hold Processions Indoors?

This argument, though common, misses the point:

Public processions are not just religious, they are historic and symbolic. Just as Christians hold Good Friday parades and Hindus celebrate Holi or Diwali with street events, Muslims have the right to observe their traditions publicly. Removing processions from streets means silencing a centuries-old act of public mourning and resistance.

Road Blockages Are Not Privilege, They Are Protection These measures are not about giving special treatment. They are about saving lives in a country where religious processions have been consistently attacked. They are a state’s response to a threat, not a reward to a group.

How We Can Improve the Situation

Traffic Police: Must issue timely, clear diversion  plans and updates.

Organizers: Should respect timelines and coordinate closely with authorities.

Public: Needs greater awareness and empathy.

Media: Should educate, not provoke sectarianism.

 

No one enjoys being stuck in traffic. But behind those barricades lies a history of loss, faith, and courage.

Next time you’re inconvenienced during Ashura, remember that those streets are closed not out of favoritism but because too many lives have already been lost walking them.

 

Fawad Pirzada explores observations from everyday life and beyond, sharing his opinions and perspectives