In preparation for Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) planned protest at D-Chowk on Friday, mobile phone and internet services were suspended in Islamabad and Rawalpindi. Additionally, a two-day ban on pillion riding (double riding) on motorcycles was enforced in Islamabad, allowing only one person to travel on a motorcycle. The district administration made this decision to uphold law and order, with strict legal action against violators.
The suspension of services has caused significant disruption in Rawalpindi, impacting residents’ ability to communicate and travel. Many are struggling to reach their workplaces, and students and teachers are facing challenges getting to schools, colleges, and universities. The shutdown also affected ride-hailing services and other travel systems that rely on mobile networks and internet access, rendering them non-operational.
Furthermore, the federal cabinet approved the deployment of the army in Islamabad under Article 245 of the Constitution to safeguard important government buildings and the Red Zone. The rangers are already deployed in the city. The Islamabad administration has closed 24 entry and exit points, significantly restricting movement in the city.
In anticipation of the protest, the motorway has been closed at various locations, and containers have been placed in different cities to prevent PTI convoys’ entry into Punjab from KP.
