ISLAMABAD: The government’s expenditure on security arrangements in Islamabad is expected to rise after Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) postponed its planned protest march to October 4, prolonging uncertainty over the party’s mobilisation in the federal capital.
The party, founded by former prime minister Imran Khan, has announced the march primarily to demand his release from prison. Its decision to delay the demonstration means authorities may have to maintain or revise security preparations for a longer period.
The government has already introduced extensive measures to prevent protesters from entering Islamabad, including police deployments, roadblocks and restrictions on major routes. Keeping these arrangements in place could add to spending on personnel, transport, equipment and other operational requirements.
The revised protest date also creates challenges for residents, commuters and businesses, particularly if access to key roads remains restricted ahead of the march.
PTI, meanwhile, has reiterated its intention to proceed with the demonstration despite government restrictions. The party maintains that its central demand remains Khan’s release.
With the march now scheduled for October 4, the duration and scale of the government’s security response will determine the additional financial burden. No revised official cost estimate has been provided in the supplied report.
