Authorities have decided to suspend Metro Bus and Electric Bus Services in Rawalpindi and Islamabad during the observance of 9th and 10th Muharram as part of security arrangements for religious processions and gatherings.
According to officials, the Metro Bus Service will remain completely closed from Saddar Station to the Pakistan Secretariat on both days. The suspension is aimed at ensuring smooth security operations and managing traffic along procession routes.
In addition, the electric bus service operating in Rawalpindi will also remain suspended for two days. Commuters have been advised to make alternative travel arrangements and follow official traffic advisories to avoid inconvenience during Muharram security restrictions.
Balochistan announces public holiday for Ashura
The Balochistan government has announced a public holiday for Ashura, and the decision will apply across the province.
According to the released official notification from the government of Balochistan, all the public and private offices, schools, and other institutions will remain closed on Muharram 9th and 10th.
The government of Balochistan announced the holidays to respect Ashura and to facilitate the citizens to observe the occasion.
The government officials also said that holidays will provide ease to citizens to observe the religious occasion smoothly.
Also Read, Federal govt declares June 25, 26 as public holidays on account of Ashura
Earlier, the federal government had declared June 25 and 26, 2026, Thursday and Friday, as public holidays on account of the 9th and 10th Muharram 1448 A.H., Ashura.
According to a notification issued by the Cabinet Division, the holidays have been announced in continuation of the government’s earlier circular No. 10-01/2026-Min-II dated January 19, 2026, regarding public and optional holidays for the year.
The notification stated that the Prime Minister has approved declaring both days public holidays to mark the religious observance of Muharram. The holidays will be observed by all government offices and institutions operating under both five-day and six-day working week schedules.
Also read: BRT services to be suspended on Ashura in Peshawar
