Govt announces public holidays on Muharram 9, 10

The federal government on Tuesday announced public holidays on the 9th and 10th of Muharram (July 16 and 17) on account of Ashura.

"[…] the Prime Minister has been pleased to declare 16th and 17th July, 2024 (Tuesday and Wednesday) as public holidays on the occasion of Ashura (9th & 10th Moharram 1446 AH)," a notification issued by the Cabinet Division read.

The country marked the first of Muharram, the beginning of the new Islamic year 1446 AH, on July 8.

Youm-e-Ashura will be observed on July 17 (Wednesday) across Pakistan.

On the other hand, the Sindh and Punjab governments imposed Section 144 across the provinces to ensure security during the ten days of Muharram.

Pillion riding has also been banned on Muharram 9 and 10 in the provinces.

The Interior Ministry also approved the deployment of military and frontier corps personnel to provide security during Ashura processions.