Sindh announces August 4 school holiday

The Sindh School Education and Literacy Department has announced that all public and private educational institutions across the province will remain closed on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, in observance of the Chehlum of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA).

According to an official notification issued by the department, the holiday will be observed on 20th Safar 1448 AH, marking the annual commemoration of Chehlum. The decision applies to all government and privately managed schools operating under the administrative control of the School Education and Literacy Department throughout Sindh.

The notification stated that the closure was approved following a decision taken during a meeting of the provincial Steering Committee held on February 12, 2026. It confirmed that all educational institutions under the department’s jurisdiction would remain closed on August 4 to facilitate the observance of the religious occasion.

Chehlum is observed every year on the 20th of Safar and marks the conclusion of the 40-day mourning period following the martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA), his family members, and companions in the historic Battle of Karbala in 680 AD. The occasion holds immense religious significance for Muslims, particularly for those who participate in mourning gatherings and commemorative processions held across the country.

As part of the annual observances, mourning processions featuring Alam, Tazia, and Zuljinah are expected to take place in several cities and towns across Sindh. Thousands of devotees traditionally participate in these events to pay tribute to the sacrifices made by Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) and the martyrs of Karbala.

In light of the large public gatherings expected during Chehlum, the Sindh Home Department has also announced additional security measures aimed at maintaining law and order throughout the province.

A day before the school holiday notification was issued, the Home Department imposed a province-wide ban on pillion riding for the day of Chehlum. The temporary restriction is intended to strengthen security arrangements and minimise the risk of any untoward incidents during the religious processions and gatherings.

Authorities have clarified that the ban forms part of a broader security plan implemented each year for major religious occasions. Law enforcement agencies have been directed to ensure strict compliance with the measures while facilitating the safe conduct of mourning events.

In a separate notification, the Sindh Home Department also announced the extension of Section 144 across the province for another month. The renewed restrictions came into effect on August 1 and will remain in force as part of ongoing efforts to preserve public order.

Under Section 144, several activities have been prohibited throughout Sindh, including wall chalking, public rallies, demonstrations, and the open display of weapons. The restrictions are designed to prevent any activities that could disrupt peace or pose security concerns during the mourning period.

The provincial government has urged citizens to cooperate with the authorities and follow the issued guidelines to help ensure that Chehlum observances are conducted peacefully and securely across Sindh.