ISLAMABAD: Government declared 9th and 10th of Muharram (July 28 and 29) as public holidays on account of Ashura. "It is for general information that Prime Minister is pleased to declare July 28 to 29, 2023 (Friday and Saturday) as public holiday on Ashura (9th and 10th Moharram 1445 AH)," notification issued by Cabinet Division stated.

Country marked first of Muharram, beginning of new Islamic year 1445 AH, Wednesday evening (July 19), which means Youm-e-Ashura will be observed on July 29.

Earlier, Sindh government imposed ban on pillion riding on 9th and 10th Muharram across province in line with security arrangements planned for Ashura.

Moreover, Ministry of Interior has decided countrywide deployment of Pakistan Army troops during Muharram. "Army troops being deployed countrywide under Article 245", circular dispatched to provinces read. Interior Ministry has sent circular to four provinces, Gilgit Baltistan and Azad Kashmir government. "Military troops being deployed on request of provinces for maintenance of law and order," Ministry stated.