Peshawar faced widespread disruption on Sunday as containers blocked major roads and security measures intensified following the imposition of governor’s rule and emergency in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. The provincial capital, which has experienced years of militant violence while largely maintaining political stability, witnessed an unusually tense atmosphere as normal movement across the city became difficult.
Mobile phone services remained unavailable during the morning, adding to public uncertainty. The city had already experienced a nearly 48-hour mobile service suspension days earlier during a PTI protest march. Peshawar Bus Rapid Transit stations were also closed, leaving commuters searching for alternative transport.
Major routes, including sections of GT Road and Khyber Road, were blocked with shipping containers. Police personnel were deployed at several locations, while access to the Red Zone remained heavily restricted. Roads near the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Assembly, Governor House, Chief Minister House and Civil Secretariat were placed under heightened security.
Armoured vehicles, prison vans and riot police were also visible across sensitive areas. The Civil Secretariat appeared largely deserted, while security checks increased around government residences and key administrative buildings.
University Road was reportedly blocked near Tehkal, while containers were also placed at Stadium Chowk and Arbab Road. Traffic remained limited in several commercial areas, although parts of Saddar Bazaar continued operating.
Internet services were also disrupted later in the day, further affecting communication and daily activity.
The restrictions transformed routine travel into a major challenge for residents. With roads blocked, public transport disrupted and communication services affected, the political crisis quickly became a daily-life problem for ordinary citizens across Peshawar.
