Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has postponed the public gathering (jalsa) in Islamabad scheduled for today. The procession has been called off on the directions of PTI founder Imran Khan. PTI leader Azam Swati met Imran Khan in Adiala jail and informed him about the current situation and protest of another religious party in the city. Azam Swati conveyed the message of Imran Khan and announced that Imran Khan had instructed to postpone the public gathering to avoid any chaos and untoward situation. Barrister Gohar and Azam Swati announced that the public gathering would be held on September 8 and it had already been notified. Earlier, PTI insisted on holding a public rally today for administration approval.

ISLAMABAD RED ZONE CLOSED

The Islamabad administration on the direction of the Ministry of Interior has sealed the Red Zone and closed the routes for other cities traffic with containers in the wake of public gathering. Heavy contingent of police has been deployed. Only Margalla Avenue is open for entrance in the Red Zone. Motorway at Kalar Kahar Interchange is closed for Islamabad and road to Islamabad from Ravi Toll Plaza in Lahore is also closed for traffic. Public has been facing discomfort amid long queues of vehicles on roads due to suspension of traffic.

CLOSURE OF SCHOOLS

The Islamabad deputy commissioner has also ordered closure of public and private schools for the safety of children amid religious parties and PTI public gatherings. Metro bus service in the capital was also suspended and security of metro bus stations have been heightened. The Punjab government has also imposed Section 144 across the province. The section would be enforced from August 22 to 24 and any public and political gathering is not allowed across the Punjab.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan