Karbala: The Holy Abbasid Shrine has issued a comprehensive set of guidelines for the Husseini processions participating in the Arba’een pilgrimage of Imam Hussein (peace be upon him). The recommendations focus on ensuring the safety and smooth operation of the pilgrimage, which is a significant event for the Shia Muslim community.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, Qasim al-Tarfi, Assistant Head of the Rituals, Processions, and Organizations Department at the Holy Abbasid Shrine, announced that 46 organizational recommendations have been outlined. These cover various aspects such as security, service, health, and organizational matters, aimed at facilitating the pilgrimage and safeguarding the well-being of the pilgrims.

Al-Tarfi elaborated on the recommendations, which include inviting religious figures and preachers to educate procession participants on visitor hospitality and service quality. The guidelines also specify logistic arrangements, such as designated transport points for mourning processions, vehicle access routes to alleviate congestion, and emergency routes. The pilgrimage schedule is meticulously planned, allocating specific days for different mourning activities and assigning unified processions for each governorate, with strict size regulations for mourning vehicles.

Further recommendations stress collaboration with security forces, caution against rumors, and reliance on local resources such as Karbala gas trucks. Safety measures include mandatory fire extinguishers in every procession, construction restrictions, and strategic placement near checkpoints. The guidelines also prohibit carrying weapons, harboring wanted individuals, and using loudspeakers during prayer times.

Sanitation and health protocols are emphasized, requiring procession members to maintain cleanliness, use protective gear while distributing consumables, and ensure proper waste management. Medical processions must be officially licensed and staffed with qualified personnel to provide adequate healthcare services during the pilgrimage.