Thousands join, remember Karbala martyrs
Saqib Rather
Srinagar, June 24: In a display of faith, devotion and remembrance, thousands of mourners on Wednesday participated in the traditional 8th Muharram procession in Srinagar, moving peacefully along the historic Guru Bazar–Dalgate route to commemorate the sacrifices of Imam Hussain (AS) and his companions at Karbala.
The procession began in the early hours from Guru Bazar and passed through Budshah Kadal, Maulana Azad Road and Lal Chowk before culminating at Dalgate and adjoining Imambaras. Black flags, banners and mourning symbols lined the route as participants engaged in religious recitations and commemorative rituals.
Mourners from various districts of Kashmir joined the procession, while volunteers and local organisations established sabeels, medical aid camps and service counters to provide drinking water, refreshments and first-aid assistance throughout the day.
Authorities had made extensive arrangements to facilitate the smooth conduct of the event. Security personnel were deployed at key locations, traffic diversions were implemented, and emergency medical services remained on standby along the route.
Speaking to reporters, Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Srinagar, Dr. G.V. Sundeep Chakravarthy, said that a comprehensive security plan had been put in place in coordination with multiple agencies.
“Srinagar Police, along with paramilitary forces and the Traffic Police, has made elaborate arrangements to ensure the procession is conducted peacefully and without inconvenience to the public,” he said.
Highlighting the use of technology in crowd management and surveillance, the SSP added:
“Drone surveillance is being used to strengthen security monitoring and to ensure the smooth and safe movement of mourners along the entire route.”
He appealed to the public and procession organisers to adhere to traffic advisories and cooperate with law-enforcement agencies.
“The cooperation of the public is crucial for the successful and peaceful conclusion of such large gatherings,” Dr. Chakravarthy said.
Meanwhile, personnel of the 132 Battalion CRPF distributed drinking water among mourners at Lal Chowk and other points along the route as temperatures remained high during the day. Their gesture was appreciated by participants and volunteers alike.
A CRPF official on duty said: “Providing drinking water and assistance to participants is part of our effort to support the smooth conduct of the procession and serve the community during this important occasion.”
Officials said similar arrangements have already been finalised for the forthcoming 10th Muharram procession in the Jadibal area, with security, traffic management and public facilitation measures being put in place well in advance. The procession concluded peacefully amid solemn observances, reflecting both the spiritual significance of Muharram and the coordinated efforts of authorities, volunteers and participants to maintain order and harmony throughout the event.
