Arbaeen Pilgrims Continue Their Journey Toward Karbala as Service, Cultural and Qur’anic Initiatives Expand Along Pilgrimage Routes

Arbaeen Pilgrims Continue Their Journey Toward Karbala as Service, Cultural and Qur’anic Initiatives Expand Along Pilgrimage Routes
————————————

Pilgrims crossing Muthanna province have continued their march toward Diwaniyah, passing through the city of Al-Rumaitha after covering around 36 kilometers before entering Diwaniyah through Al-Hamza Al-Sharqi district. Their route included areas such as Al-Aridhiyat, Al-Tabu, and Abu Habibat, as large numbers of visitors accompanied by mobile service convoys made their way toward Karbala to commemorate the Arbaeen of Imam Hussein (peace be upon him).

Diwaniyah has become a key gathering point for pilgrims arriving from Basra, Maysan, Muthanna, parts of Wasit, and other areas of the province. Local authorities have mobilized their resources to support the incoming crowds, while Hussaini processions and residents continue providing food, water, accommodation, and other essential services.

Meanwhile, the “Ya Zaynab Road” route from Kirkuk to Karbala is witnessing continued growth in the number of pilgrims and service processions. The route, which has developed over recent years into an important northern pilgrimage path, began with only a few dozen participants but has gradually expanded with the participation of processions from areas including Taza, Daquq, Tuz Khurmatu, and Amerli.

Organizers said preparations for the route begin immediately after each Arbaeen season, including maintaining equipment and preparing food supplies, water, medical materials, and transportation due to the long distances and limited services along some parts of the road. The most challenging sections include the Hamrin Mountains and Al-Azim areas, where pilgrims face difficult conditions before reaching areas with better services in Diyala province.

Medical teams and security forces are accompanying pilgrims along the route to provide first aid, treat cases of exhaustion caused by long-distance walking and high temperatures, and ensure the safety and organization of the movement. Officials from Kirkuk’s Hussaini processions department said the number of registered service processions in the province has increased in recent years, with participation from different communities and ethnic groups.

In parallel with these service efforts, the Holy Shrine of Imam Hussein (peace be upon him) has launched a Qur’anic education project along the roads leading to Karbala. The Dar al-Quran Department has established dozens of Qur’anic stations offering educational programs, religious guidance, and answers to visitors’ questions during their journey.