RAWALPINDI/ISLAMABAD – Security measures have reportedly been initiated in Rawalpindi, Islamabad and other parts of Punjab following the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) announcement of a long march on September 27.
Authorities are expected to close major routes as part of security plan.
Reports said a plan has been chalked out to potentially restrict entry and exit routes of the twin cities. Containers and other barriers are expected to be placed along key roads as part of the security arrangements.
Measures were also being planned on routes leading from Attock, the Jhelum Bridge and Chakwal. Containers are also expected to be deployed on routes coming from Hazara, Murree and Galiyat.
Security is being tightened at Taxila, Margalla Check Post, 26 Number Chungi, Tarnol and surrounding areas. Arrangements are also being made on routes connecting T-Chowk with Rawalpindi and Islamabad.
Additional police personnel from various districts of Punjab will be deployed in Rawalpindi and Islamabad to support security arrangements.
Strict action has been planned against violations of Section 144, blocking roads, damaging government property and taking the law into one’s own hands.
Security arrangements will also cover the motorway, Islamabad Interchange, Hazara Motorway, Grand Trunk Road and Murree Expressway, sources said.
Police authorities have also requisitioned armoured vehicles equipped for firing tear-gas shells and additional rubber bullets. Consideration is also being given to suspending mobile phone services, according to the sources.
Red Zone-style security arrangements have been planned around Adiala Jail and its surrounding areas. Monitoring and search operations are also continuing at hotels and guest houses in Rawalpindi and Islamabad.
