Govt announces public holidays on Muharram 9, 10

· Geo News
Security personnel patrol a street during a procession of Ashura in the Islamic month of Muharram in Karachi. — AFP/File
  • Federal govt declares Ashura holidays on June 25, 26.
  • Holidays to be observed by both five-day, six-day offices.
  • Sindh govt also announces Ashura holidays for same dates.

The federal government on Monday announced public holidays on 9th and 10th Muharram 1448 AH in connection with Ashura.

According to a notification issued by the Cabinet Division, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has declared 9th and 10th Muharram, falling on June 25 and 26 (Thursday and Friday), as public holidays.

The holidays will be observed by both five-day and six-day working week offices across the country.

— Reporter

Earlier today, the Sindh government also declared public holidays to be observed on the same days on account of Ashura.

The holy month of Muharram-ul-Haram, marking the beginning of the new Islamic year, 1448 AH, fell on June 14, the Ministry of Religious Affairs and Interfaith Harmony said.

In this regard, the Karachi police made comprehensive security arrangements for Muharram ul Haram observances.

Authorities had announced that participants wishing to join the main processions from 8th to 10th Muharram through designated vehicles must obtain a permit sticker or pass. Applications could be submitted at the DIG Traffic Karachi Office, Garden Headquarters, from June 22 to June 23, 2026, until 1:00 pm.

Applicants were required to provide a copy of the vehicle registration book, a valid CNIC of the vehicle owner, two recent passport-size photographs of the driver, a valid CNIC of the driver and an introduction letter from the relevant association, institution or organisation.

Passes would only be issued to law enforcement agencies, registered organisations, ambulances, media organisations and other authorised entities.

Officials clarified that permits would not be issued to unregistered individuals, vehicles or drivers. A maximum of three persons would be allowed to travel under a single permit. Authorities warned that any non-cooperation during security checks, provision of false information or misuse of permits would result in the immediate cancellation of the pass.