Authorities have imposed strict lockdown across Punjab and Islamabad due to a planned protest rally by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) at D-Chowk in Islamabad.
The government has enforced Section 144 in the Punjab. According to this all public gatherings and protests from October 3 to 8 across Punjab are banned. This announcement has been made by government to maintain public order and prevent potential terrorist threats.
Under this section roads leading to the federal capital have been blocked. Containers are placed in the major routes from Lahore to Islamabad. Police force in the sensitive areas has been increased to prevent protestors from moving. Three PTI workers were arrested at D-Chowk.
In Lahore, main entry and exit points, such as the Thokar Niaz Baig Motorway M2 and Babu Sabu Interchange, have been sealed off with heavy police deployment.
Rangers have been deployed in Lahore and Sargodha, further tightening security.
In Rawalpindi, authorities have blocked major roads and closed all entry points to Islamabad. Security forces have stationed containers and barriers on main roads, including Peshawar Road and Murree Road.
The Red Zone in Islamabad has been completely sealed. In Islamabad Metro bus services are suspended and educational institutions are closed.
The government has also suspended mobile services in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and nearby areas to maintain control.
PTI workers from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP), led by Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, are expected to join the protest in Islamabad. Convoys from cities like Peshawar and Mardan are gathering at the Swabi Interchange to move towards the capital.
The government has issued strict orders to deal harshly with protesters if the situation escalates.
Special police teams have been formed to make arrests in case of any disruption.
