As part of its preparations for the Muharram commemorations, the Urban Protection Unit of the Vehicles and Machinery Department has intensified its field operations to safeguard pilgrims and mourners, with particular attention given to the Torch Processions that draw large crowds during the opening nights of Muharram.
Extensive Field Deployment
Saad Sabbar, head of the unit, stated:
“A comprehensive operational plan has been prepared to secure the mourning ceremonies throughout the first ten days of Muharram. Five specialized urban protection teams have been stationed around the Holy Alawi Shrine and along the main roads leading to it, enabling rapid response to any emergency while ensuring the safety of participants.”
Stationary and Mobile Teams
He explained that three teams have been permanently deployed around the shrine, while mobile units equipped with fire extinguishers and water tanks remain on standby for immediate intervention when necessary.
A dedicated team has also been assigned to extinguish ceremonial torches before the mourning processions leave the shrine’s precincts. These teams operate daily from 7:00 p.m. until 4:00 a.m.
These measures form part of the Holy Alawi Shrine’s annual preparations for Muharram, aimed at strengthening preventive safety measures and providing a secure environment for the millions of pilgrims and mourners visiting the holy city of Najaf during this sacred season.
