PTI public rally is in progress in Islamabad as admin heightens security measures

ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) public rally is in progress in Sangjani area of the federal capital today meanwhile the Islamabad administration has heightened security measures, putting the city on red alert and closing several key roads.

The PTI had previously postponed a rally in Islamabad after the local administration revoked its no objection certificate (NOC) and sealed roads leading to the capital on August 22.

The event was rescheduled for September 8, following a meeting between PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Khan and PTI founder Imran Khan at Adiala jail.

To ensure safety, a large contingent of law enforcement, including police, Rangers, and paramilitary forces, will be stationed at the rally site and throughout the city, prepared to counter any potential unrest, officials said.

Authorities instructed police officers to remain within their assigned areas, equip on-duty personnel with full gear, and refrain from using mobile phones during work hours.

During a security sweep near the PTI rally site, police recovered a suspicious bag containing a hand grenade, detonator, electric wires, and other explosives. The bomb disposal squad arrived on the scene, and an investigation is ongoing.

In an effort to maintain order, authorities placed containers at strategic locations to block traffic, including roads leading to the Red Zone. Access to the Red Zone is restricted, with only authorized individuals allowed to use the Margalla road.

Other major roads, including Chongi No. 26, GT Road Taxila, and various points along the Islamabad Expressway, have also been closed. Additional closures have been implemented at Faizabad, Khanna Pull, and Rawat T Chowk, causing significant inconvenience to residents of Islamabad and Rawalpindi, despite alternative routes being provided.

The metro bus service between Rawalpindi Saddar Station and Pak Secretariat has been suspended due to the rally, as directed by the district administration. Law enforcement and local authorities have decided to isolate the rally venue from the rest of the capital to prevent potential unrest.

At the rally site, organizers encountered difficulties due to the uneven terrain, with sand mounds, pits, and mud complicating the setup of chairs. Despite these challenges, preparations were nearly complete, and the event was expected to start in the afternoon.