The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) planned protest rally at Islamabad’s D-Chowk has led authorities to impose extensive closures and heightened security across Punjab and the federal capital.
In anticipation of the rally, all entry and exit routes between Lahore and Islamabad have been blocked, with heavy police deployment and containers set up to restrict movement. Three PTI workers have been arrested at D-Chowk, Islamabad.
Lahore roads sealed, Section 144 imposed
Key entry and exit points in Lahore, including the Thokar Niaz Baig Motorway M2 and Babu Sabu Interchange, have been completely sealed. Containers, police vehicles, and water cannons are stationed to prevent protestors’ movement and maintain order. The closure has caused significant disruption, particularly at Babu Sabu Interchange, with a heavy police presence in the area.
Read More: Rawalpindi Sealed Off with Containers as PTI Prepares for Protest
Section 144, which bans public gatherings, sit-ins, and protests, has been enforced across Punjab from October 3 to 8. To aid law enforcement, the Punjab government has deployed Rangers in Lahore, following similar measures in Rawalpindi and Attock. Restrictions are also in place in Sargodha until October 6.
The government has banned all political gatherings, citing security concerns, stating that such events could be potential targets for terrorist attacks.
Major road closures
In addition to Lahore, the GT Road at Bhai Khan in Gujar Khan and highways from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) to Punjab have been blocked using large vehicles. The Jhelum River bridge and three bridges connecting Sarai Alamgir and Jhelum are also sealed, causing long traffic queues. The motorways from Burhan Interchange and Pathargarh are similarly blocked.
Rawalpindi locked down, twin cities on high alert
Rawalpindi is also under tight security, with all routes into Islamabad sealed by containers and other barriers. Key roads, including Murree Road Cricket Stadium to IJP, Charing Cross, and parts of Peshawar Road, have been shut down. However, some roads like those from Kutchehry Chowk and the airport remain open.
In Islamabad, the Red Zone is completely sealed, and Metro bus services between the twin cities are suspended. Educational institutions are closed, and a work-from-home advisory remains in place for private offices.
The government has prepared to handle the protests firmly, with special police teams assembled to make arrests. A ban on motorcycle pillion riding has also been enforced.
Mobile service suspended
To maintain control, mobile phone services have been suspended in Islamabad and Rawalpindi, affecting nearby areas such as Gujar Khan and Taxila. Internet services have also been disrupted in some locations, although broadband and landline services remain functional.
PTI convoy from KP
Meanwhile, PTI supporters from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, led by Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, are expected to head to Islamabad. The convoy will gather workers from Peshawar, Charsadda, and Mardan at Swabi Interchange.
The federal government has promised a strict response to the protest, forming special teams to make arrests if necessary, while security forces remain on high alert due to concerns of potential terrorist threats.
