LAHORE: The district government has imposed a ban on pillion riding across the provincial capital on Muharram 9 and 10 and plans to suspend mobile phone services on the routes of processions.

The Lahore police had requested the district coordination officer to ban pillion riding and suspend mobile services.

Meanwhile, the city police conducted a mock exercise to ensure security arrangements.

Personnel from Dolphin Force and operations participated in the demonstration that was carried out in the main arteries of the city and areas from where the main processions will be taken out.

Deputy Inspector General (Operations) Dr Haider Ashraf and other senior police officers supervised the mock exercise.

According to some reports, the city police also launched search-and-sweep operations and took many suspects into custody from the Walled City.

SHAHBAZ: Foolproof security has been made throughout the province for the protection of life and property of citizens on Youm-i-Ashur, says Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif.

At a meeting on Monday, the chief minister said security plan for Majalis and processions should be fully implemented and lawenforcement agencies discharge their duties efficiently.

He said a vigilant eye would be kept on anti-social elements and directed the authorities concerned to take action against those involved in delivering provocative speeches and publication and distribution of material based on religious hatred.

He said members of peace committees and elected representatives should play a vigorous role for the promotion of religious harmony and utilise their energies for maintenance of religious brotherhood and tolerance.