LAHORE – Punjab government moves to restrict internet connectivity from September 27 as Islamabad braces for PTI long march.
Punjab government has reportedly approached the federal authorities with a request to suspend or downgrade mobile and internet services from September 27, citing concerns over a potential law-and-order situation ahead of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) planned long march toward Islamabad.
Punjab Home Department has written to the federal government, seeking restrictions on telecommunications services as part of precautionary measures linked to the anticipated political activity.
The proposed restrictions could affect specific areas of Attock and Rawalpindi districts, where the provincial government has reportedly sought a suspension of mobile and internet connectivity.
If approved, the proposed measures could disrupt mobile communication and internet access in the affected areas, although no final decision on the request has been confirmed in the provided report.
Mobile Services face Suspension in Islamabad, Rawalpindi and Attock on September 26-27
Islamabad is facing heightened security ahead of PTI’s planned September 27 march, with the party mobilising supporters while federal and provincial authorities strengthen measures to control access to the capital.
Authorities are preparing large deployments of security personnel, placing containers along key routes and reinforcing sensitive areas, particularly around Islamabad, Rawalpindi and Attock. Punjab has also sought Rangers’ deployment in several districts.
PTI says its mobilisation will proceed, while authorities have indicated that restrictions on gatherings and access to protected areas will be enforced. The combination of a large political mobilisation, roadblocks and extensive security deployments has raised the possibility of confrontations at entry points, although the scale or occurrence of any clashes remains uncertain.
