ISLAMABAD/RAWALPINDI: Amid growing security concerns over protests announced by the religious group Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP), the Punjab Home Department has imposed Section 144 across the province, including Rawalpindi, for 10 days. The Federal Government has also sealed off Red Zone in Islamabad due to the same concerns. The traffic police have also issued road closures and diversions updates to facilitate denizens in the twin cities.
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The decision of Section 144 imposition comes in response to anticipated demonstrations and potential disruptions in various cities. According to the official notification, a ban has been enforced on public gatherings, display of weapons, and the use of loudspeakers. Law enforcement agencies are on high alert to maintain law and order.
In the federal capital, the Islamabad Red Zone has been completely sealed to prevent entry of protestors. Containers have been placed at all main entry points including Serena Chowk, Nadra Chowk, Express Chowk, and Marriott Chowk, effectively shutting off all access. All gates leading into the Red Zone have been blocked, and only card holders will be allowed entry.
The Islamabad Police, along with Rangers, have been deployed across the capital, particularly at entry and exit routes. Security personnel are stationed at critical junctions, with containers and barriers ready to be deployed further if needed.
TRAFFIC DIVERSIONS AND ROAD CLOSURES
A comprehensive traffic diversion plan has been issued by the Islamabad Traffic Police (ITP) for October 10, particularly around the Faizabad Interchange, a key junction between Rawalpindi and Islamabad.
Heavy Traffic Diversions:
- Traffic from Lahore redirected from Rawat T-cross to Rawalpindi.
- Traffic from Peshawar via GT Road redirected to the Motorway and Rawalpindi from Chungi No. 26.
- Traffic from Murree rerouted from Rawal Dam Chowk to Park Road, Lehtrar Road, and Expressway.
Light Traffic Diversions:
- Faizabad-bound traffic from Rawal Dam Chowk diverted from both sides.
- Travelers from Bhara Kahu, Murree, and Islamabad to Rawalpindi advised to use Park Road, Taramri Chowk, Lehtrar Road, Khanna, and Expressway.
- Travelers heading to the airport should use Kashmir Chowk and Srinagar Highway.
- Multiple diversions have been established around I-8, Ninth Avenue, Faisal Avenue, and IJP Road.
- Citizens from sectors F-8 to F-11 and G-10 to G-11 are advised to use Golra Mor via Srinagar Highway to access Rawalpindi.
CURRENT ROAD SITUATION UPDATE
Closed:
- Rawal Dam Chowk to Saddar Rawalpindi
- Saddar Rawalpindi to Rawal Dam Chowk
- IJP to Rawal Dam
Open:
- Sohan Mor to IJP
- Islamabad Expressway (with restricted access; only one vehicle allowed at a time)
The public is advised to stay updated through official traffic and police communication channels, and avoid unnecessary travel, especially around Faizabad, Red Zone, and connecting roads between Islamabad and Rawalpindi.
PUBLIC TRANSPORT SUSPENDED
Due to the tense developing situation, the Metro Bus Service between Saddar Station and Pak Secretariat has been suspended on the instructions of the district administration.
The bus service between Rawalpindi and Islamabad has also been halted. Metro stations and buses will remain non-operational until further notice.
EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS AFFECTED
In Rawalpindi, the Pir Mehr Ali Shah PMAS-Arid Agriculture University has announced a complete closure on Friday, October 10. Both teaching and administrative activities have been suspended, with official notifications issued to all department heads.
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Islamabad remains on high alert as the TLP has called for a protest in the capital. All entry routes into the city are heavily guarded, and surveillance and intelligence monitoring have been intensified. Police, Rangers, and administrative personnel are stationed at strategic points. Authorities have said that routes may be closed at any time without prior notice depending on the situation.