The Punjab government has declared June 25 and 26, corresponding to 9 and 10 Muharram 1448 AH, as public holidays across the province in observance of Muharram.
According to a notification issued by the Services and General Administration Department (S&GAD) on Monday, the holidays will be observed on Thursday and Friday for offices operating under both five-day and six-day workweek schedules.
The notification stated that the decision was taken to facilitate the observance of Ashura, which is marked with religious gatherings and processions across the country to commemorate the martyrdom of Hazrat Imam Hussain (RA) and his companions.
The provincial government directed that the announcement be given wide publicity through print and electronic media.
The notification follows an earlier announcement by the federal government, which had also declared June 25 and 26 as public holidays on account of 9 and 10 Muharram.
Provincial and federal offices, educational institutions and other government departments will remain closed on both days, while security and administrative arrangements are being finalised to ensure peaceful observance of Muharram across Punjab.