Mobile services suspended in twin cities, exit points blocked ahead of PTI protest
Mobile network services are suspended in Islamabad and Rawalpindi on Friday, as police blocked all entry points to the cities in anticipation of a planned PTI rally at D-Chowk in the capital.
Meanwhile, imprisoned PTI founder Imran Khan reiterated his call for supporters to assemble for a “peaceful protest.” as his party ramped up preparations for the rally despite the ban on gatherings.
PTI has conducted several rallies nationwide in recent weeks to protest against Khan’s “illegal” imprisonment, the Election Commission of Pakistan’s delay in implementing a verdict on reserved seats, and to advocate for the “preservation of the Constitution.”
Before the PTI’s earlier rallies in Islamabad and Lahore this month, the government had issued strict guidelines that the party did not fully adhere to, leading to clashes between PTI workers and law enforcement.
Despite being warned a day earlier by Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi not to hold any rally in Islamabad due to important visits from foreign dignitaries, the PTI provided updates on its caravans departing from various cities.
JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman, who recently has developed a friendly dialogue with the PTI, also urged the party to delay its planned events until after the foreign delegations have left.
Amid the protest today, mobile network services have been down across the twin cities since the morning, causing inconvenience for residents, particularly those who depend on them for work.
The roads leading to the Red Zone and D-Chowk were also sealed off completely, including key areas such as Serena, Jinnah Avenue, Nadra Square, Marriott Hotel, and Zero Point. Key entry points into the twin cities, such as Srinagar Highway at Bus Stop 26, Faizabad Chowk, Sanjgani Toll Plaza, Margalla Road, and 9th Avenue, were also closed.
Security is on high alert, with a ban on pillion riding, said Rawalpindi City Police Officer Khalid Hamdani. Officials indicated that other routes within Islamabad would likely be blocked after 2 PM to deter PTI workers from entering the city.
Islamabad Police also reminded the public via their X account that Section 144 is currently “in force” in the capital.
“Citizens are advised against participating in any illegal activities. The law will take action against those who disrupt peace and order,” the police warned, urging the public to follow traffic advisories regarding road closures.
On Wednesday, authorities in the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) implemented Section 144 and the Peaceful Assembly Act across the capital, prohibiting gatherings and processions in restricted areas as part of enhanced security measures.
According to ICT police, the high-security zone, Red Zone, and surrounding areas have been designated as restricted zones.
