Islamabad Prepares for PTI Protest
Islamabad police are preparing for a protest by opposition parties, deploying more than 2,000 containers at key points in the capital and at Attock Bridge.
The police have requested Rs827 million to cover costs for container rents, accommodation, food, transportation and anti riot equipment such as tear gas shells and rubber bullets.
Officials expect 20,000 to 25,000 protesters, with the PTI long march scheduled to start on Sept 27 and reach Islamabad within three to four days. Security arrangements must be ready by Sept 26.
A wall of containers has been erected around the Red Zone, and gates at seven entry points will be closed. The police plan to block major roads and highways, including Margalla Road, Faisal Avenue and the Expressway.
The deployment includes 16,000 police personnel and 4,000 anti riot kits from Punjab Police, and 2,000 personnel and 3,000 kits from Sindh Police, along with senior officers from both provinces.
Educational institutions such as government schools, the Sports Complex and the Pak China Friendship Centre have been closed to accommodate police forces, while schools in Hazro city and other areas have also been shut.
In Rawalpindi, nine police pickets have been established around the Red Zone, and the Dolphin Force will patrol the area 24 hours a day. Attock district has seen intensified security with containers and sandbags at key crossings.
The extensive measures are expected to cause traffic congestion on major routes, including the Expressway, Srinagar Highway and Margalla Road, as motorists seek alternative paths.
