The federal government has announced a two-day public holiday in observance of Ashura, corresponding to the 9th and 10th of Muharram ul Haram. According to a notification issued by the Cabinet Division, these holidays will fall on the 16th and 17th of July 2024 (Tuesday and Wednesday).
Government Notification
“The Prime Minister is pleased to declare 16th and 17th July 2024 (Tuesday and Wednesday) as public holidays on the occasion of Ashura (9th & 10th Moharram 1446 AH),” the official notification stated.
Health Department Measures in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
In response to the upcoming holidays, the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Health Department has mandated that all hospitals and basic health units (BHUs) remain operational 24/7 during the first 10 days of Muharram. The department has specifically instructed health centers to extend their services to areas near Imambargahs to manage the increased number of people gathering for mourning rituals.
Muharram and Ashura Significance
Muharram, the first month of the Islamic calendar (also known as the Lunar or Hijri calendar), holds significant religious importance. The Day of Ashura, in particular, is highly revered. For Shia Muslims, Ashura is a day of mourning commemorating the martyrdom of Husayn ibn Ali, the grandson of the Islamic prophet Muhammad and the third Shia imam.
The declaration of public holidays for Ashura reflects the importance of this period in the Islamic calendar. With additional measures by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Health Department to ensure healthcare facilities remain accessible, the government aims to provide comprehensive support to citizens during this significant time of mourning and reflection.
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