Karbala: The Karbala Municipality Directorate has announced the roll-out of its service plan for the upcoming Arba’een pilgrimage, which is anticipated to draw millions of visitors. The plan, approved by Karbala Governor Engineer Nassif Jassim Al-Khattabi, is designed to deliver municipal services and accommodate the large influx of pilgrims.
According to National Iraqi News Agency, Engineer Hassan Mohammed Ali Al-Sharifi, Director of the Karbala Municipality, revealed that an extensive meeting was held with the Deputy Director for Services Affairs, officials from eight municipal sectors, and representatives from various departments to discuss the plan’s implementation and monitor its different aspects.
The plan entails dividing Karbala and its surrounding areas into nine service sectors and implementing a three-shift system to maintain round-the-clock operations. Approximately 3,000 waste containers will be distributed along pilgrimage routes, and more than 32 tons of garbage bags will be supplied to municipal sectors and Husseini processions.
Al-Sharifi further explained that the plan includes the involvement of 2,468 personnel from engineering, technical, and service staff. Additionally, around 5,000 extra cleaning workers will be deployed, along with 419 specialized vehicles, including compactors, sweepers, dump trucks, loaders, and water tankers. The initiative will also utilize support from municipalities in other governorates.
Moreover, the Media and Government Communication Division is set to launch an awareness campaign. This campaign will distribute informational brochures to Husseini procession owners and visitors, stressing the importance of public cleanliness, protection of public property, proper waste disposal, and avoiding encroachments on sidewalks and roads.
The detailed service plan is part of the Karbala Municipality Directorate’s efforts to ensure a suitable environment for the Arba’een pilgrimage. It aims to enhance the city’s presentation and foster cooperation and shared responsibility in serving the visitors.