New traffic routing introduced in Karbala to ease Arbaeen congestion

BAGHDAD, Iraq — Iraq's Security Media Cell announced on Monday that vehicles arriving in Karbala from Baghdad have been rerouted during the ongoing Arbaeen pilgrimage to ease congestion and facilitate pilgrims' return. Under the new arrangement, passenger cars traveling from the Baghdad direction are being diverted onto the Jamaliya–Harr road, while buses are permitted to enter central Karbala. The cell said drivers of private vehicles are advised to use the Latifiya–Kamishli–Fadhiliya Bridge–Jarf al-Nasr route, noting that the corridor does not overlap with pedestrian pilgrim movements and is suited to vehicular traffic. Officials urged travelers coming from Baghdad to Karbala to opt for public transport. The Arbaeen pilgrimage marks the 40th day of mourning for Imam Hussein, the grandson of Prophet Muhammad, and draws millions of Shia Muslims to Karbala each year, placing heavy strain on the city's roads and infrastructure. The Security Media Cell did not indicate how long the new traffic arrangements would remain in place.