Why Are Roads Sealed and Communication Lines Cut in Islamabad and Rawalpindi?
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Synopsis
Tensions escalate in Islamabad and Rawalpindi as authorities seal off roads and cut communication lines ahead of a planned protest by Tehreek-e-Labbaik (TLP). With a heavy police presence and Section 144 imposed, the situation is charged with uncertainty. Will this lead to clashes? Read on for an in-depth look at the unfolding events.
Key Takeaways
- Roads closed and communication lines cut in Islamabad and Rawalpindi.
- Section 144 imposed, restricting gatherings and protests.
- Police deployed in large numbers to control the situation.
- Potential clashes anticipated as TLP protests planned.
- Traffic disruptions reported across key thoroughfares.
Islamabad, Oct 10 (NationPress) On Friday, roads were blocked, communication lines severed, and every entry point was shut in Pakistan's capital, Islamabad, along with the nearby city of Rawalpindi, in anticipation of a protest by Tehreek-e-Labbaik (TLP). Local media has reported that police are bracing for potential clashes with TLP supporters on Multan Road following Friday prayers.
A Section 144 has been enforced in both Islamabad and Rawalpindi, prohibiting rallies, protests, public gatherings, and assemblies. Furthermore, authorities have banned pillion riding and incendiary speeches. The TLP has planned an anti-Israel demonstration outside the US Embassy in Islamabad today, as reported by Pakistani daily, The Express Tribune.
To block access to Islamabad from Rawalpindi, containers have been positioned at the Faizabad Interchange. Law enforcement agencies are on high alert, anticipating further closures to impede the movement of TLP supporters. Containers, trailers, and barriers have been installed at over 37 locations throughout the city. Both public and private schools along Multan Road have been instructed to remain closed, while universities in both Islamabad and Rawalpindi also canceled classes.
Approximately 6,000 officers and personnel have been deployed in Rawalpindi, under the command of Rawalpindi City Police Officer Syed Khalid Hamdani. Police presence is notable at key areas like Kalma Chowk, Rahimabad, Gulzar-e-Quaid, Sawan Pul, and Adiala Road. Additionally, 13 Special Police Units and snipers have been stationed along Murree Road from Shalimar Chowk to Faizabad.
Services of the Metro Bus have been disrupted, and significant routes including Murree Road, Faizabad, Moti Mahal Chowk, Shamsabad, Khanna Pul, Chak Madad, Dhoke Kala Khan, IJP Road, and Pandora Chungi have been closed. All roads leading to Islamabad have also been blocked.
Barricades have been set up in the Red Zone and Extended Red Zone, with GT Road being obstructed at Taxila Chowk, Brahma Interchange, Fateh Jang Toll Plaza, Chak Beli Morh, Gujar Khan, Mandra Toll Plaza, and Chakwal Morh.
The closures have significantly disrupted traffic flow in the city. The shutdown on Murree Road has caused congestion on side streets, forcing motorcycles and rickshaws into narrow lanes, making it challenging for individuals to navigate.
Routine court operations faced interruptions due to low attendance at hearings in civil courts and the police's inability to transport prisoners from Adiala Jail. Police vans were stationed at intersections such as Chandni Chowk, Committee Chowk, Mareer Hassan, Liaquat Bagh, Faizabad, and various other roads. The Senate session scheduled for today was adjourned indefinitely due to a lack of quorum.
Interior Minister of State Talal Chaudhry stated that the TLP did not obtain permission to conduct the rally. On Thursday, the police raided TLP headquarters to apprehend party leader Saadi Rizvi, but faced resistance from TLP supporters, who retaliated by throwing stones and sticks at police personnel on Multan Road. In response, police deployed tear gas to disperse the crowd.
Point of View
Our stance remains aligned with the principles of democracy and public safety. The government's decision to impose Section 144 and restrict gatherings is aimed at maintaining order amid rising tensions. However, it is crucial that authorities balance security measures with the rights of citizens to peacefully protest.
NationPress
11/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why were roads sealed in Islamabad?
Roads were sealed in Islamabad to prevent potential clashes ahead of a planned protest by the Tehreek-e-Labbaik party.
What is Section 144?
Section 144 is a legal order that prohibits gatherings and protests to maintain public order.
What measures have been taken to control the situation?
Authorities have deployed thousands of police officers, set up barricades, and imposed restrictions on public gatherings.
What was the reason for the TLP protest?
The TLP organized the protest to express their anti-Israel sentiments outside the US Embassy in Islamabad.
How has traffic been affected?
Traffic has been severely disrupted due to road closures, leading to congestion in surrounding areas.
