First-ever 'Mehfooz Muharram' security app launched as authorities roll out comprehensive safety plan

Islamabad (Web Desk): For the first time in the federal capital, authorities have launched a dedicated mobile application called “Mehfooz Muharram” (Safe Muharram) as part of wide-ranging security measures for Muharram-ul-Haram, which includes complete geo-tagging of all imambargahs, religious gatherings, and procession routes, along with drone-based digital monitoring across sensitive areas.

These arrangements were reviewed in a high-level meeting chaired by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Thursday, where he evaluated the overall security and administrative preparations for the religious month.

Officials told the meeting that the new application will allow the public to instantly report any suspicious individuals, unusual activity, or shortcomings in security arrangements, and it will also feature live location tracking and image sharing to help authorities respond quickly to any potential threat.

A central command and control room has been established at Safe City Islamabad to continuously monitor the situation and coordinate responses throughout Muharram.

The minister directed officials to put in place a detailed traffic management system and ensure a four-layer security cordon around all majalis and procession routes, while also ordering strict checking at all entry and exit points of these gatherings.

Emphasizing active field presence, Mohsin Naqvi directed all concerned officers to remain deployed on ground throughout Muharram and further directed that security personnel on duty must be provided with proper meals and refreshments.

He also stressed the need for close coordination with religious scholars to maintain peace and public order, adding that strict compliance with the agreed code of conduct must be ensured and a zero-tolerance approach adopted against any provocative or inflammatory material.

During the briefing, Islamabad’s Chief Commissioner and Inspector General of Police gave a detailed presentation on the security plan, informing the participants that audits of all majalis and processions had already been completed and that Peace and Nigehban committees had been activated to assist law enforcement agencies.

The meeting was also informed that the Islamabad administration would maintain continuous engagement with religious scholars, organizers of majalis, and procession committees to ensure peaceful conduct of all events during Muharram.

The meeting was attended by senior police and administrative officials, including deputy inspectors general, senior superintendents of police, the deputy commissioner, and all assistant commissioners, with authorities expressing confidence that the integrated security plan and enhanced technological surveillance would help ensure a peaceful and secure Muharram in the capital.