Islamabad has started removing shipping containers used to block roads during the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protest campaign. The move could bring relief to commuters, transport operators, and businesses affected by weeks of restrictions.
Islamabad Inspector General of Police Captain (retired) Sohail Chaudhry reportedly ordered the removal of containers on October 12, 2026. Police sources confirmed that the clearance process had begun across the capital.
The containers were deployed ahead of the PTI long march demanding the release of former prime minister Imran Khan. Authorities placed barriers on major roads, entry and exit points, and routes leading towards the Red Zone.
Reports estimated that between 1,500 and 2,000 containers, or more, were used across Islamabad. Large-scale deployment began in September, particularly between September 18 and 23.
Some containers were filled with sand, welded together, or reinforced to make their removal more difficult. These arrangements significantly restricted movement across several parts of the capital.
PTI Protest Barriers Disrupted Daily Life
The prolonged roadblocks affected commuters, businesses, transport companies, and the movement of goods. Residents faced difficulties travelling between different areas of Islamabad.
Transport operators also reported financial losses during the restrictions. Some complained that their loaded vehicles had been taken for security duties.
Disputes over rental payments and compensation added further pressure on transporters. Delays in cargo movement also reportedly contributed to congestion in other locations, including Karachi.
The extensive deployment of containers attracted criticism from the public. Some people used the terms “Containerabad” and “Containeristan” to describe the situation.
Authorities had previously ordered the release of some vehicles carrying essential and perishable goods. Officials also discussed compensation arrangements with container owners.
Separate temporary security barriers were targeted for removal earlier in October. However, the latest order marks another step towards clearing the capital’s roads.
Security Measures Introduced Ahead of Long March
The container deployment was linked to the PTI protest campaign, which initially planned a march for September 27. The party later postponed it to October 4, citing strategic reasons.
The protest subsequently proceeded in phases from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Chief Minister Sohail Afridi was among the prominent figures associated with the mobilisation.
Negotiations between PTI and the federal government failed to resolve key disagreements. These included disputes over access to Imran Khan and cooperation on counterterrorism.
Authorities responded with extensive security arrangements across Islamabad. Personnel were brought in from Punjab and Sindh, while roadblocks restricted access to sensitive areas.
Restrictions under Section 144 were also imposed as part of the security measures. Officials aimed to prevent protesters from reaching sensitive locations in the capital.
Although the arrangements caused widespread disruption, the anticipated large-scale breach of Islamabad did not occur as feared.
Governor’s Rule in KP Changes Political Situation
The federal government has also imposed governor’s rule in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. This development has changed the political situation surrounding the protest campaign and the threat of another march towards Islamabad.
President Asif Ali Zardari approved the federal cabinet’s recommendations on Sunday. The decision followed a meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
The move was reported under Articles 232 and 234 of the Constitution. Article 232 covers emergency provisions, while Article 234 addresses the failure of constitutional machinery in a province.
The federal government cited security concerns and terrorism-related challenges as reasons for its decision. It also alleged that the provincial administration had not taken sufficient responsibility for counterterrorism efforts.
The removal of containers could gradually restore movement across Islamabad. However, the time required to clear every location remains uncertain.
The total cost of the security arrangements has also not been conclusively established. Estimates covering container rentals, security personnel, and related measures have ranged from hundreds of millions to more than Rs1 billion.
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The clearance operation is expected to ease pressure on major roads. Its full impact will depend on how quickly authorities remove the remaining barriers and restore normal traffic movement.
