In view of the long march of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), security arrangements have been tightened in Islamabad, Rawalpindi, and various areas of Punjab. The federal capital’s D Chowk has been closed with containers.
Additional police personnel have been deployed at the entry and exit points of Islamabad, while surveillance of people coming and going has also been increased. Containers are also present at Faizabad, and security personnel have been deployed.
Tensions have increased in the political situation after the lack of progress in the talks between the government and the opposition. There is a heavy police presence from Attock to Islamabad, and containers are present at various places.
The Punjab Home Department has also imposed Section 144 in the province. According to the notification, the ban will remain in place from October 6 to October 15. During this time, gatherings of five or more people, processions, and certain other activities will be banned in public places, highways, and open spaces.
In addition to possessing and displaying weapons, inciting people to hold illegal gatherings has also been banned. However, wedding ceremonies, funeral prayers, burials, mosques, and other places of worship will be exempted from this ban.
Courts, government institutions, and ceremonies with the permission of the relevant authorities are also exempted. Section 144 will not apply to law enforcement and security personnel on duty.
According to the Punjab Home Department, the decision has been taken to maintain law and order and protect the lives and property of the public. Authorities have also cited potential threats to public gatherings in intelligence reports.
According to sources, containers and police personnel are present on various highways leading to Attock, Jhelum, and Islamabad. A large number of containers have also been placed on Jhelum GT Road. However, the main roads are currently open for traffic.
The situation of the long march has also affected educational activities. The Peshawar Board has postponed the annual matriculation examinations scheduled for October 7, 8, 9, and 10. The new schedule will be announced later.
Meanwhile, IG Punjab Rao Abdul Karim has said that the law and order situation in the province is normal. According to him, all the major and minor roads are open, and there is no permanent roadblock at any place.
He said that action will be taken against those responsible for negligence or poor performance of duties as per the law and relevant rules.
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