Baramulla, July 20:
In light of the upcoming Muharram processions scheduled for 21st July 2025 (25th Muharram), the authorities in Baramulla district have issued a series of advisories and orders to ensure smooth conduct, traffic regulation, and maintenance of law and order across the region.
TRAFFIC ADVISORY ISSUED FOR SRINAGAR-BARAMULLA HIGHWAY
The Traffic Police Rural Kashmir has notified that vehicular movement along the Srinagar-Baramulla highway from Harthrat to Narbal will be affected from 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM due to the Muharram procession at Mirgund.
To avoid congestion and ensure smooth passage for mourners, alternative routes have been notified:
Srinagar-bound vehicles from Kupwara, Handwara, Sopore shall take the Hygam → Sumbal → HMT Srinagar route.
Vehicles from Baramulla/Uri shall take Hamrey Gate → Pattan → Sumbal → HMT Srinagar.
Vehicles from Hamrey, Pattan will move via Harthrath Bridge → Khanpath → Shadipora → HMT Srinagar.
North Kashmir-bound HMVs to take Narbal → Magam → Kungumdara → Khore → Hanjivera → Pattan.
North Kashmir-bound LMVs via Narbal → Kanihama → Nooripora → Archanderhama → Gund Khoja Qasim → Jeel Bridge → Pattan.
Motorists are advised to avoid unnecessary travel during the affected hours.
MUHARRAM ARRANGEMENTS AT CHAINABAL, PATTAN
As per a communication from the Office of the District Magistrate, Baramulla, a large Zuljinah procession is scheduled from Aastan Sharif Chainabal Pattan to village Kakarpora on 21st July. The administration has taken cognizance of the religious significance and has directed the Senior Superintendent of Police Baramulla to ensure comprehensive security arrangements.
All concerned departments, including PHE, PDD, Fire & Emergency, Health, Forest, and Municipal Council Pattan, have been instructed to make necessary arrangements such as:
Drinking water availability
Sanitation and cleanliness
Firefighting support
Deployment of traffic and security personnel
Provision of firewood
SECTION 163 BNSS IMPOSED IN MIRCHIMAR & SURROUNDINGS
In a separate and significant development, the Additional District Magistrate Baramulla has imposed Section 163 of the Bharatiya Nagrik Suraksha Sanhita (BNSS) 2023 in village Mirchimar and its surrounding areas of Tehsil Singhpora from 8:30 PM on 20th July to 9:30 PM on 21st July 2025.
The action comes amid reports of potential law and order concerns arising from past confrontations between two factions related to Muharram processions. The Government of India has already declared Ittihad-ul-Muslimeen as an unlawful organization under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967.
Under this order:
No assembly of 4 or more persons is allowed.
No processions are permitted in the affected villages.
Use of loudspeakers or arms is strictly prohibited without permission.
The step is intended to prevent escalation of conflict, protect lives, and maintain peace during the observance of Muharram.
APPEAL FOR PEACE AND COOPERATION
Authorities have appealed to the public for full cooperation with the restrictions and traffic diversions. The police and district administration have assured that all measures are being taken to facilitate religious observances with respect and dignity while ensuring public safety and order