Islamabad and Rawalpindi roads blocked ahead of PTI protest

Several roads leading to Islamabad and Rawalpindi have been blocked by the government authorities in preparation for the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protest scheduled for November 24.

According to the media reports, hostels, guest homes, and hotels have been evacuated as part of the security measures, and “no entry” signs have been posted on important roads in Islamabad and Rawalpindi. Access to the twin cities has been limited to 33 spots, with shipping containers used to block entry points.

Also read: Govt formulates strategy to deal with PTI protest November 24

The Faizabad Interchange is closed, and Metro bus service between the two cities has been discontinued. Key roadways, including those leading to the Adiala Jail, have also been blocked. To ensure calm, the Islamabad Police have closed all key access routes to the city. Additional law enforcement officers totaling 30,000 have been deployed, including contingents from Sindh and Azad Kashmir and Frontier Corps members.

PTI opposition leader Omar Ayub reiterated that plans are in place to overcome government hurdles to the demonstration, claiming that they will reach Islamabad “at any cost.” Meanwhile, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi warned that anyone who broke the law would be prosecuted, emphasizing the importance of securing the city ahead of a Belarusian delegation’s anticipated visit.

In reaction to the planned rallies, the Punjab government enforced Section 144 across the province from November 23 to November 25. This comes as the PTI’s founder, Imran Khan, calls for nationwide demonstrations.