Internet services will be suspended in several major cities starting midnight, including Islamabad, Lahore, Rawalpindi, Multan, and Gujranwala. Mobile phone services will remain active for now, but internet and broadband access will be halted due to heightened security ahead of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protest on November 24.
The Interior Ministry instructed the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) to suspend services, with PTA confirming receipt of the directive. Sources suggest mobile phone services might also be suspended, depending on the evolving situation.
Meanwhile, the National Counter-Terrorism Authority (NACTA) has issued a terror alert, warning of potential attacks by the militant group Fitna al-Khawarij during the PTI protest. According to NACTA, several operatives of the group recently crossed the Pak-Afghan border and are planning attacks in major cities, including public gatherings and rallies.
To address security concerns, Islamabad’s administration has implemented strict measures. Key areas like the Red Zone and D-Chowk have been completely sealed, with 2,200 containers blocking 24 critical routes, 14 of which will close by tonight. Over 19,000 Punjab Police personnel, along with Rangers and Frontier Corps (FC), have been deployed to maintain order, supported by reinforcements from Sindh and Azad Kashmir.
The Islamabad police reiterated that Section 144 is in effect in the federal capital, urging citizens to avoid unlawful activities. A spokesperson assured that all steps would be taken to safeguard public safety and maintain order as per Islamabad High Court directives.
