The Motorway Police have announced the closure of all motorways starting tonight at 8 PM, citing maintenance work as the primary reason. However, reports suggest that the closures may also be linked to anticipated protests by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) in Lahore and Islamabad.
Major motorways, including the routes from Peshawar to Islamabad, Lahore to Islamabad, Pindi Bhattian to Multan, Sialkot to Lahore (M11), and M14 from Dera Ismail Khan to Hakla, will remain closed indefinitely. According to a statement from the Motorway Police, the closure is also being enforced in response to the evolving law and order situation. Vehicle entry on these motorways will be prohibited unless authorized by local authorities.
In addition, all hostels in Islamabad have been ordered closed until November 27 by the deputy commissioner in light of the expected protests.
GT Road and Chenab Toll Plaza Closed in Wazirabad
In Wazirabad, GT Road has been closed at the Chenab Toll Plaza, with containers placed on both sides to prevent access. Public transport services to Islamabad have also been partially suspended in the region.
Lahore Ring Road Closure
Lahore authorities have requested a full closure of the Ring Road on November 23 and 24 from 8 AM to 6 PM, anticipating the departure of PTI convoys to Islamabad. The police expressed concerns about potential protests or law-and-order issues even before the convoys leave the city. Fears of disruptions by “malicious elements” have prompted the authorities to implement the closure to maintain order.
Comprehensive Security Measures in Islamabad
In response to PTI’s planned protest at D-Chowk in Islamabad on November 24, the government has announced extensive security measures. Authorities will seal 24 key locations across the city and deploy heavy police forces. All entry and exit routes to Islamabad, including the Red Zone, will be blocked using containers.
The Islamabad Transport Authority has ordered the closure of all transport terminals starting at 8 PM tonight, with buses and terminals being sealed off with tents. A heavy police presence and strategic container placement will be enforced on major roads and entry points, including Murree Road, Rawat’s T Chowk, Faizabad, and several other areas leading to the city.
Red Zone and Additional Security Preparations
In case the situation escalates, authorities have indicated that the Red Zone may be completely sealed. Over 2,200 containers have been brought to Islamabad to secure key locations. Section 144 has been imposed in both Islamabad and Rawalpindi, banning public gatherings and protests.
Interior Minister’s Firm Stance on Protests
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has made it clear that no marches or sit-ins will be allowed in Islamabad. He emphasized that the Islamabad High Court’s directives will be strictly enforced, and violators of the court orders will be held accountable for any resulting damage or loss of life. Naqvi reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring that daily life in Islamabad remains unaffected by political unrest, stating, “No shop, business, or road should be closed.”
