Ranchi: Muharram was observed peacefully across the city on Wednesday in presence of elaborate security arrangements, as processions featuring attractive tazias moved through prescribed routes and drew large crowds.The tableaux blended devotion with messages of nationalism, social awareness and the country’s military strength.Most tazias, around 10-ft high, offered glimpses of revered sites such as Mecca, Medina, Jama Masjid in Delhi, Haji Ali Dargah in Mumbai and known imambaras. Several processions had participants carrying the national flag, while one tableau displayed tanks and missiles of the Army. Another procession, highlighting the adverse impact of drug abuse, stood out.Mohammad Mahzood said the processions followed their fixed routes and volunteers ensured passage for ambulances and vehicles of the district administration and fire service.The processions began reaching Albert Ekka Chowk from different parts of the city around 4 pm. From there, they proceeded towards Milan Chowk and moved onwards to culminate at Karbala Chowk.The administration remained on high alert throughout the processions. Officials monitored the crowd and processions from the ground as well as watchtowers, while drones and CCTV cameras were deployed for surveillance.Camps were set up by the district administration and organisations from different sections of society. Volunteers welcomed devotees with water, fruits, sweets, headgear, mementoes and swords.The arrangements reflected coordination among organisers, civic groups and security agencies, helping the city mark Muharram with discipline, reverence and communal harmony.
