Security on red alert as PTI stages rally in Islamabad
Organisers claim that 20,000 chairs have been placed at the venue.
The Islamabad administration on Sunday put security on red alert as the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) is holding a public rally at Sangjani locality today.
The party has set up a massive stage and a sound and lighting system to cater to the entire venue, while organisers claim that they have place 20,000 chairs at the venue.
The federal capital police have sealed off nearly all entry points to the city due to intelligence indicating a ‘medium-level’ terrorism threat in connection with the political gathering.
The security plan suggests that there is a possibility of disturbances in Islamabad, prompting the deployment of containers at various locations throughout the city, including all major entry points.
Earlier in the day, police have discovered a suspicious bag near the PTI gathering venue in Sangjani, which contained a hand grenade, detonator, electric wires, and other explosive materials. The bomb disposal squad is on-site, and an investigation is ongoing.
To enhance security, a substantial force comprising police, Rangers, and paramilitary personnel will be deployed at the rally venue and throughout the capital. These forces will be on high alert to address any potential violence related to the PTI gathering.
Authorities have sealed off 29 locations across the city, effectively cutting off access to key areas.
The following locations that have been cordoned off include:
- New Margala Road
- Zero Point
- Faisal Chowk
- Bari Imam Cross
- Expressway
- Marriott Hotel Chowk
- NADRA Chowk
- Express Chowk
- Secretariat Chowk
- FATA House
- Taramri Chowk
- Shahpur
- Bani Gala Road
- Faizabad
- Ninth Avenue
- Golra Mor
- Motorway Toll Plaza
- Tarnol Phatak
In addition, the GT Road has been closed to traffic in both directions at the Sangjani area, with containers placed to block access. The entrance to Islamabad from the M2 Motorway has also been closed at the 26 number Chungi toll plaza.
Furthermore, the Metro Bus service has been completely suspended in Islamabad due to the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) rally in the Sangjani area.
The Metro Bus administration announced that the service has been suspended between Rawalpindi Saddar Station and the Pakistan Secretariat. The service has also been completely shut down at Faizabad, the main thoroughfare in Rawalpindi.
In addition to the Metro Bus suspension, the Islamabad Expressway has been closed at various points due to the PTI rally.
