PTI Convoy Reaches Islamabad Toll Plaza Amid Escalating Clashes and Disruptions
The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) convoy has arrived at the Islamabad Toll Plaza, with its next stop reported to be Chungi No 26, where violent clashes between PTI workers and security forces are intensifying. Several PTI workers have been detained by the authorities at Chungi No 26 as tensions continue to escalate.
Capital City at a Standstill
The PTI’s protest has severely disrupted life in Islamabad, with key entry points to the city blocked by containers, causing major traffic and transport issues. Major roads including Faizabad, Ninth Avenue, Srinagar Highway, and Murree Road have been closed, leading to gridlocks and commuter delays. The Islamabad Expressway has been shut down from Faizabad, with only one vehicle allowed to pass at a time, and the Metro bus service has been suspended for three days. Additionally, access to Islamabad has been restricted at Khanna Pul, Sohan, IJP Road, and Ninth Avenue.
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Severe Transportation Issues
Motorists are facing significant difficulties, with many forced to drive on the wrong side of the road or ride motorcycles on footpaths to navigate through blocked streets. The road closures have also caused a shortage of essential supplies, particularly vegetables and fruits, as the supply chain has been disrupted. This has led to complaints of skyrocketing prices and profiteering in the affected areas.
Violence at Sangjani Toll Plaza
A video has surfaced showing PTI workers vandalizing government property at the Sangjani Toll Plaza. The footage shows protesters looting computers and valuables, and setting a police vehicle on fire. Security forces have launched an investigation, utilizing CCTV footage to identify and apprehend the individuals involved. Authorities have vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice.
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Government-PTI Talks
In an effort to resolve the situation, the government has initiated talks with PTI leadership to propose an alternative location for the protest. Sources indicate that negotiations between Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi and PTI leaders are ongoing at the Ministers Enclave. However, PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar denied reports of any talks and expressed surprise at the speculation, confirming that PTI leader Asad Qaiser was not even in Islamabad.
The government has reportedly offered PTI the option of holding their protest at a location like Peshawar Morr or another area on the outskirts of Islamabad, with the condition that protesters remain confined to the designated area. Additionally, the government has urged PTI to avoid entering Islamabad, citing a scheduled business conference with Belarusian investors in the capital.
The situation remains tense as both sides continue to navigate the crisis, with authorities emphasizing the need for peace and order while PTI maintains its stance for a larger protest.
