PTI-police showdown spells twin cities chaos

Metro, cellular services down; roads blocked

RAWALPINDI/ISLAMABAD:

Business, social, educational and other activities remained suspended on Friday in the twin cities of Rawalpindi and Islamabad as the administration took various measures to prevent Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf workers from reaching D Chowk, the protest venue recommended by PTI founder Imran Khan.

The worst sufferers were the local residents, who struggled with commuting and communication due to road closures and the suspension of cellular services.

The showdown between police and PTI workers started early morning and lasted till late evening, which led to the detention of dozens of PTI workers and leaders.

To intercept PTI workers, the administration blocked key roads leading to the capital by placing containers. Major routes, including Faizabad, T-Chowk, Khanna Pul, Double Road, and Ninth Avenue, were sealed throughout the day.

In Rawalpindi, major roads such as Murree Road, Peshawar-Islamabad Motorway, and GT Road were also fully blocked.

Court activities were paralyzed as police were unavailable to transport the accused to court.

Due to the PTI protest, Metro bus services, cellular networks, and internet services were suspended, adding to citizens' woes. Private schools remained closed to avoid any potential unrest.

After sunset, the PTI workers rallied on Murree Road and a clash ensued between police and PTI workers in Faizabad. In order to disperse PTI workers, police lobbed tear-gas shells.

Despite stringent security measures, PTI women workers managed to reach D Chowk and raised slogans against the government. Meanwhile, police arrested PTI founder's sisters Aleema Khan and Uzma Khan as they reached D chowk. In addition, the Rangers and police contingents were deployed at check post number 26 to stop the PTI caravan coming from K-P under the leadership of K-P Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur.

Meanwhile, the Punjab government called Rangers in Lahore, Rawalpindi and Attock in view of law and order situation. The Punjab government imposed Section 144, banning political gatherings, sit-ins, protests and other such activities.

An Islamabad Police spokesperson said that Section 144 is enforced in the capital, and authorities will leave no stone unturned to safeguard lives and property. He urged the public not to participate in any illegal activities and advised citizens to stay updated on travel advisories due to road closures.

(WITH ADDITIONAL INPUT BY IMRAN ASGHAR, NAEEM ASGHAR & USAMA IQBAL)