The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) is set to stage a protest today at Minar-e-Pakistan in Lahore (Saturday). In response, the provincial government has implemented extensive measures to counter the demonstration. These actions include arresting PTI activists, sealing off the city’s entry and exit points, enforcing Section 144, and deploying a significant security presence.
In addition to the police, Rangers have been deployed for security. Over 250 PTI activists have already been detained, and numerous containers have been placed around Minar-e-Pakistan by the authorities.
The city’s connection to the Islamabad motorway has been obstructed with containers, causing considerable inconvenience for travelers at the Lahore-Sialkot motorway, Babu Sabu Interchange, and Thokar Niaz Baig points.
Road Closures: Access routes from Lahore to the Islamabad motorway have been sealed with containers, significantly disrupting travel, especially at the Lahore-Sialkot motorway, Babu Sabu Interchange, and Thokar Niaz Baig.
The police have set up a control camp on the Azadi Flyover, and more containers are placed near Data Darbar. So far, the Deputy Commissioner has not issued a No Objection Certificate (NOC) for the protest.
The closure of the motorway is expected to divert traffic onto GT Road, which may lead to additional challenges for commuters.
Crackdown on PTI Supporters: On Friday, Lahore police identified the arrested PTI workers as instigators of unrest, and authorities have issued orders for the arrest of an additional 1,590 PTI activists.
In Islamabad, the crackdown on PTI protesters continues. Despite initial efforts, Ali Amin Gandapur’s convoy was met with heavy tear gas shelling near Katti Pahari in Hassan Abdal. The crackdown spanned from D-Chowk to China Chowk, leading to the arrest of Imran Khan’s sister, Aleema Khan, and activist Azam Khan. Around 1,600 protesters have been arrested across Islamabad and Rawalpindi.
Section 144 Enforcement: The Punjab government has imposed Section 144 in Lahore, Mianwali, Rawalpindi, Sargodha, and Attock, banning political assemblies, rallies, and protests.
This ban will remain in place in Lahore until October 8, Mianwali until October 7, and Rawalpindi, Sargodha, and Attock until October 6. Additionally, pillion riding has been banned in Rawalpindi and Attock on Friday and Saturday.
The government has also deployed nine companies of paramilitary Rangers to oversee security in Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Attock on Saturday.
