Srinagar, Jun 25 (KNO): As Kashmir prepares to observe Youm-e-Ashura on Friday with religious fervour and solemnity, authorities have put in place elaborate traffic arrangements across Srinagar to ensure the smooth conduct of the traditional Zuljinah procession from Bota Kadal to Imambara Zadibal.
The annual procession, one of the largest Muharram gatherings in the Valley, is expected to draw thousands of mourners commemorating the martyrdom of Imam Hussain (AS) and his companions at Karbala.
In view of the expected rush, the Srinagar Traffic Police on Thursday announced a detailed traffic diversion plan for Zadibal and several adjoining areas.
“The main Zuljinah procession will proceed from Bota Kadal to Imambara Zadibal, and traffic movement in Zadibal and surrounding localities will remain affected during the observance,” a traffic advisory, accessed by the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), reads.
According to the advisory, all traffic moving towards Zadibal from different directions will be diverted at Firdous Cinema, Mill Stop, Lal Bazar and Bota Kadal. Commuters heading towards Hawal Road have been advised to take the Firdous Cinema–Ali Masjid–Sazgaripora route.
Motorists travelling from Karan Nagar and Nallamar towards Soura will be required to use Ali Jan Road, while no right turn towards Sazgaripora will be allowed at Ali Masjid.
Similarly, vehicles coming from Kalai Andhar will not be permitted to proceed towards Zadibal via Firdous Cinema and will instead be diverted towards Sazgaripora or Nowhatta. Traffic from Soura will also not be allowed towards Zadibal beyond Nallabal, with commuters advised to use alternative routes through Zoonimar and Awantibhawan Road.
Authorities have further said vehicles approaching from Lal Bazar will not be allowed to move towards Bota Kadal and should instead take Mallabagh and other interior roads to reach Soura and adjoining areas.
“People should plan their travel in advance and avoid unnecessary movement in areas witnessing Ashura processions. Public cooperation is crucial for ensuring smooth traffic management and the peaceful conduct of religious events,” the official said.
Youm-e-Ashura, observed on the 10th day of Muharram, marks the supreme sacrifice of Imam Hussain (AS) – the grandson of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) – at Karbala. The occasion is observed across Kashmir with mourning processions, religious gatherings and recitations highlighting the values of sacrifice, justice and resistance against oppression.
Notably, traffic Police have appealed to the public to strictly follow the advisory and cooperate with field staff to avoid inconvenience during the observance of Ashura on Friday—(KNO)