Section 144 enforced in Islamabad amid security concerns

ISLAMABAD: Section 144 has been imposed in the federal capital, the district administration told ARY News reported.

According to the administration, no gathering of any kind is allowed in the city.

A ban on gatherings has been imposed under the Peaceful Assembly and Public Order Act 2024, the district administration said.

The administration warned that strict action would be taken against those violating the restrictions according to law.

A violation of the Act carries a punishment of up to three years in prison, according to the administration.

The district administration urged citizens not to become part of any illegal activity.

Citizens were also asked to cooperate with security agencies as responsible citizens.

Meanwhile, mobile phone and internet services will remain suspended in Islamabad, Rawalpindi and parts of Attock on September 26 and 27 in view of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) possible long march., ARY News reported.

Sources said mobile phone and internet services would be suspended in the twin cities and parts of Attock as part of security measures.

A high-level security meeting held five days ago had discussed the closure of motorways, the GT Road and other key routes, along with measures to maintain law and order and address security concerns.

Traffic restrictions have also been imposed on major roads leading towards the federal capital ahead of the possible long march.

According to the National Highways and Motorway Police, Motorway M-1, M-14 and GT Road N-5 are being closed from both sides at different points from Wednesday evening.

Motorway M-1 will remain closed from the Islamabad Toll Plaza to Chachh Interchange, while M-14 will be closed from Hakla to Kundal from both sides.

The GT Road is also being closed for traffic from both sides at Attock Khurd.

The measures have been taken ahead of the expected arrival of protest caravans in Islamabad on September 27, led by the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa chief minister.