ISLAMABAD: In response to a protest rally announced by a religious group, authorities in Pakistan have enacted significant restrictions, including road closures and internet suspensions, across various regions. Key urban centers such as Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Islamabad have experienced extensive disruptions as precautionary measures are implemented to manage public order.
The protest preparations have led to severe traffic congestion, hindering routine commuting and essential services. Major transportation routes, including the Lahore-Islamabad Motorway and GT Road, have been partially obstructed with containers. Entry points into Lahore, such as Babu Sabu and Thokar Niaz Baig, have been sealed off, while access to Islamabad via the motorways has been entirely restricted. Additionally, strategically significant passageways, such as the Chenab River Bridge in Gujrat, have been closed to limit mobility further.
Public transportation has also been disrupted as authorities temporarily suspended the Orange Line Train service in Lahore. Adjacent areas along GT Road, including Muridke, Rabwah , and Gujrat, have similarly been affected by blockades, exacerbating traffic flow challenges.
Educational institutions have not been spared from the turmoil. Schools in Lahore were directed to close early at 11:00 AM, and the University of Punjab canceled all scheduled examinations for the day. These exams are postponed until further notice, with updates on revised schedules forthcoming.
The Government of Punjab has invoked Section 144 of the Code of Criminal Procedure to curb public gatherings for the next ten days across the province. This imposition bans the assembly of four or more individuals in public spaces; however, exemptions are provided for religious ceremonies, weddings, and funerals. Furthermore, a province-wide prohibition on the public display of arms has been enforced under this directive.
In Islamabad and Rawalpindi, mobile internet services have been suspended following an order from the Ministry of Interior to preserve security in the region. The Pakistan Telecommunication Authority initiated this directive at midnight with no definite timeline provided for restoring connectivity.
As tensions escalate, law enforcement agencies have intensified operations in both cities, deploying increased personnel and conducting aerial surveillance to monitor developments. Authorities remain vigilant and are prepared to introduce further measures if required to maintain public safety and restore normalcy.
