Mobile phone services have been suspended across the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi in anticipation of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf's (PTI) protest rally supposed to be held at Islamabad's D-Chowk today.
This suspension, ordered by the Interior Ministry, is part of the government’s effort to maintain law and order during the rally.
Authorities confirmed that the suspension, which includes both mobile calls and internet data services, was implemented to prevent any potential disruption of public order and to maintain law and order. However, the authorities say broadband internet and landline services remain operational for now.
Also Read: PTI protest: Punjab, Islamabad sealed; mobile service suspended
Residents in nearby areas such as Gujar Khan, Hasan Abdal, Taxila, and Kalra Syedan have also reported interruptions in their mobile phone services.
The PTI's scheduled protest rally in Islamabad's D-Chowk today has prompted authorities to enforce widespread closures and increased security across Punjab and the federal capital.
Also Read: PTI rally: Islamabad sealed with 100 containers; 400 detained
In anticipation of the protest, all entry and exit points as well as major routes from Lahore to Islamabad have been blocked, with heavy police presence and containers set up to prevent movement. The police has also arrested three PTI workers from Islamabad's D-Chowk.
Security has been intensified in Islamabad, where containers have been placed around D-Chowk and other sensitive areas. Police teams have been deployed at all major points, the Red Zone completely sealed off and all the entrances to the federal capital blocked with containers.
Metro bus services between Islamabad and Rawalpindi have been suspended, and all educational institutions remain closed. The government's work-from-home advisory for private offices continues, with commercial centres expected to remain shut during the protest.
