Millions gathered in Karbala as Iraq marked Ashura

KARBALA: Millions of pilgrims from Iraq and around the world gathered in the holy city of Karbala as Ashura was observed amid extensive security, health and municipal arrangements.

Ashura, observed on the 10th of Muharram, commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussein ibn Ali (RA), the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), who was martyred in the Battle of Karbala in 680 AD. The occasion was marked through mourning processions, sermons and religious gatherings.

The areas surrounding the shrines of Imam Hussein and Hazrat Abbas remained packed with worshippers as mourning processions continued through the city during the Ashura commemorations.

To manage the influx of pilgrims, Iraqi authorities deployed ambulances, hospitals, emergency medical centres and inspection teams to provide healthcare services and monitor food and beverage safety.

Municipal authorities also mobilised sanitation workers and specialised vehicles to maintain cleanliness, while wastewater teams carried out drainage and sewer maintenance operations across the city.

Authorities also increased fuel supplies for mawakeb, volunteer groups that provide free food, water, accommodation and other services to pilgrims during Muharram.

Ashura commemorations were also held in other parts of Iraq, including Basra and Erbil, where thousands of worshippers participated in mourning ceremonies under heightened security arrangements.