In a major move to thwart the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protest scheduled for November 24, the government has started placing containers across Rawalpindi, blocking key roads to prevent the demonstration. As part of heightened security measures, containers have already been delivered to several critical locations, including Fawara Chowk and Liaquat Road. One container has been positioned near the church on Liaquat Road, while two more containers are blocking access to the Fawara Chowk parking plaza. In response to PTI’s call for a protest in Islamabad, both the Punjab and federal governments are taking aggressive steps to ensure law and order. Additional containers are expected to be deployed along the city's main highways and streets in the coming days. Meanwhile, the Rawalpindi Police have decided to seal 47 locations across the city, setting up police pickets at 34 strategic points in the cantonment and nearby areas.

To reinforce security, over 4,500 law enforcement personnel will be on duty across Rawalpindi on November 24. Special security measures have also been implemented at Adiala Jail and on Adiala Road, where access points will be sealed off. In addition, police commandos have been stationed at key facilities throughout the city and cantonment to ensure the protection of important sites. Rawalpindi's security efforts have been further strengthened by the imposition of Section 144, prohibiting public gatherings, processions, or rallies of more than four people in the city until November 26. Authorities have issued formal notifications to enforce the ban on public assemblies. In a series of preemptive actions, Rawalpindi Police have arrested 28 PTI workers across various districts, including Taxila, Wah, Saddar, Rawat, and Gujjar Khan. The arrests, carried out as part of ongoing crackdowns, are connected to cases involving anti-terrorism provisions.

Police are also intensifying raids on containers and dumpers in a bid to seal off key routes between Rawalpindi and Islamabad. Additional containers have been deployed along GT Road, Rawat, Taxila, and the Margalla Check Post, with checkpoints extending to the motorway and Tarnol. The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has expressed strong concerns over the government's actions. Barrister Saif, advisor to the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister, criticized the arrests and deployment of security forces as an overreaction. He argued that the government’s claim that it was only trying to prevent gatherings of 50 people was contradicted by the large-scale security measures. He accused the government of using "high-handed tactics" and said that PTI supporters would find a way to reach Islamabad and press their demands, despite the government's best efforts. As tensions rise ahead of the November 24 protest, the situation in Rawalpindi and Islamabad remains fluid, with authorities on high alert and PTI supporters determined to carry out their demonstration despite the government’s strong opposition.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan