Location: Lahore, Pakistan
Event: Muharram and Ashura.
The Islamic religious month of Muharram begins on August 21. There will reportedly be approximately 300 religious processions in Lahore during the month of Muharram. August 29 and 30 are expected to be the peak days for processions in Lahore. During this period, U.S. citizens traveling or residing in Lahore can expect frequent traffic disruptions and road closures to accommodate religious processions. Increased police presence, additional check points, and partial suspension of cellular service in and around procession routes are expected.
U.S. citizens are encouraged to avoid unnecessary travel and avoid large crowds in the vicinity of the Civil Secretariat, Anar Kali, Old Anar Kali, Shadman, Islampura, Shahdara, Badshahi Mosque, Mughalpura, Lal Pull, Bahar Shah Rd., Sanda, Chburchi and the Walled City (Motchi gate, Kashmiri bazar, Kotwali, Rang Mahal, Urdu bazar, Data Darbar and the Lower Mall area) during the August 29-30 time period.
There have been incidents of sectarian violence in proximity to these processions in the past.
Actions to Take:
- Avoid large crowds, particularly in the areas listed above
- Monitor local media for updates
- Be aware of your surroundings
- Enroll in Safe Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates
Assistance:
U.S. Embassy Islamabad, Pakistan
+(92)(51) 201-4000
ACSIslamabad@state.gov
https://pk.usembassy.gov
U.S. Consulate General, Karachi
+(92)(21) 3527 5000
ACSKarachi@state.gov
U.S. Consulate General, Lahore
+(92) (42) 3603 4000
ACSLahore@state.gov
U.S. Consulate General, Peshawar
+(92) (91) 526 8800
State Department – Consular Affairs
888-407-4747 or 202-501-4444
Enroll in Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive security updates
