PTI Protests Spark Road Closures in Islamabad and Rawalpindi

In recent days, Pakistan has witnessed a surge in political activity, particularly from the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party. The PTI has called for nationwide protests, prompting district administrations in the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi to take significant measures to maintain order. This situation has led to the blocking of multiple roads and the deployment of a heavy police presence throughout the area.

As part of the preparations for the protests scheduled for Friday, local authorities have implemented road closures in key areas. Notably, Peshawar Road near Charing Cross and NAL Road close to the Military Hospital have been barricaded on both sides, allowing only a single lane for traffic. This has caused considerable inconvenience for commuters, as the police have set up security pickets at various entry points into Rawalpindi. Additionally, roads leading to Murree Road’s Marrir Chowk and Liaquat Bagh have also been closed, further restricting movement.

In response to the PTI's call, a small group of party workers, led by Aamir Mughal, the president of PTI Islamabad, gathered to express their dissent against proposed constitutional amendments and alleged rigging in the recent general elections. Despite the limited turnout, the authorities remain vigilant, deploying a large contingent of police and Frontier Constabulary personnel at strategic locations, including D-Chowk, to prevent any escalation of the situation.

Moreover, the metro bus service in the twin cities has been suspended for the fifth consecutive day. Initially, the service was halted from October 14 to 16 due to security measures surrounding the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit. Following this, the Punjab government imposed Section 144 across the province on October 18, which prohibits all forms of protests, rallies, and public gatherings for a period of two days, specifically from Friday, October 18, to Saturday, October 19. This decision was made in light of the current law and order situation, as authorities expressed concerns that any protest could potentially become a target for terrorist activities.

As the situation unfolds, it is crucial for citizens to stay informed and exercise caution. The ongoing political climate in Pakistan highlights the delicate balance between the right to protest and the need for public safety. While expressing dissent is a fundamental democratic right, it is equally important to ensure that such actions do not compromise the safety and security of the general public. As events develop, it remains to be seen how the government and the PTI will navigate this challenging landscape.