Twin cities paralysed as government and PTI gear up for confrontational power show

Entry-exit points blocked with containers; M1 motorway, schools, metro bus and mobile phone services shut.

Life in Rawalpindi and Islamabad was disrupted, almost coming to a standstill, after authorities sealed off all entry and exit points, and suspened mobile phone services ahead of a planned Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) rally at D-Chowk in the capital.

The government is putting its best foot forward to limit the success of the latest rally of the beleagured party today, but PTI is leaving no stone unturned to ensure that the planned mass gathering is perceived as a triumph.

Islamabad police confirmed that all police facilitation centres and driving license offices would remain shut for the day. Metro bus services in Rawalpindi were also suspended, affecting the route between Saddar and IJP Road, though operations between IJP Road and Pak Secretariat continued.

At the Burhan Interchange, a standoff between the K-P convoy and police resulted in tear gas being used against PTI supporters.

Meanwhile, at D-Chowk, PTI workers began to gather, prompting the police to fire tear gas, leading to the arrest of six more individuals.

Over 20 PTI workers have been arrested from various locations across the city.

Heavy machinery has been deployed to key areas, including Faizabad and the Islamabad Expressway, where double-layered containers have been placed to block traffic. Security measures have been stepped up in Rawalpindi, with 4,000 officers deployed to maintain order amidst the protests.

Routes from K-P sealed

Authorities have sealed all major routes from Khyber Pakhtunkhwa with containers, effectively shutting down the M1 motorway at four key points: GT Road, Attock Khurd, Hassanabdal, and Chashma Point.

Additionally, the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) has been blocked at several locations.

The widespread closure of entry and exit routes across the district is creating significant challenges for travellers, adding to the disruptions caused by ongoing protest preparations.

Authorities have reportredly dug up trenches on the roads connecting K-P to Punjab.

Schools closed

Private schools in Rawalpindi and Islamabad were also closed today due to anticipated "peaceful" protests by the PTI at D-Chowk. The Islamabad Private School Association announced the closures, citing roadblocks and safety concerns.

Waheed Khan, General Secretary of the Private School Association, stated that student safety is the top priority, adding that students had faced significant difficulties the previous day due to containers blocking roads. Similarly, Abrar Ahmed, President of the Northern Punjab Private Schools Management Association, confirmed that schools in Rawalpindi would remain closed to avoid disruptions caused by roadblocks.

Section 144 enforced

Authorities in Punjab have also enforced a two-day ban on pillion riding in Rawalpindi and Attock under Section 144. The Home Department of Punjab issued a notification stating that the ban will be effective from Friday, October 4, to Saturday, October 5.

The measure has been taken to prevent potential "violence, unrest, and terrorism". However, law enforcement personnel will be exempt from the restriction.

Yesterday, Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT) authorities imposed Section 144 and the Peaceful Assembly Act throughout the federal capital, restricting gatherings and processions in designated areas as part of heightened security measures.

A police statement confirmed that the Red Zone and surrounding high-security areas have been declared restricted, with the law being strictly enforced.

The capital police emphasized their commitment to protecting the lives and property of citizens, warning that anyone involved in illegal activities would face accountability.

The statement urged citizens to refrain from participating in unlawful gatherings, noting that legal action would be taken against those who threaten peace and order.

PTI decided to fully implement its plan for the protest at D-Chowk, with Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur leading the main convoy.

Party leaders have instructed participants to bring slingshots, masks, salt, water, food supplies, mobile chargers, and other essential items to protect against teargas.

Equipment for removing containers, as well as ambulances, will also be part of the convoy. All party leaders have been strictly instructed to ensure their participation in the protest and to bring supporters along.

It was acknowledged by party leaders that the planning for the previous protest was inadequate. However, this time, instead of turning back midway, every effort will be made to reach Islamabad.

A specialised and trained team will move ahead of the convoy, while the machinery for clearing obstacles will lead, with the main procession following behind. The K-P CM emphasised the need for discipline within the convoys and adherence to the planned strategy.

He stated that the protest is peaceful, and they do not wish for any confrontation, as the police and officials are "their brothers, and no harm will be caused".