PTI protest: Islamabad continues to remain under ‘lockdown’

ISLAMABAD: Residents of Islamabad remained under lockdown on Saturday, with all major roads closed, and cellular, internet, and metro services suspended due to the ongoing Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protest.

Roads leading to the Red Zone and D-Chowk continue to be blocked from all sides, including at Serena, Jinnah Avenue, Nadra Square, Marriott Hotel and Zero Point. Entry points of the twin cities, Srinagar Highway at Bus Stop 26, Faizabad Chowk, Sanjgani Toll Plaza, Margalla Road, and 9th Avenue.

This has caused a massive traffic gridlock, forcing many commuters, especially those travelling to airport, hospitals and job holders, to seek alternate routes.

Adding to the chaos Metro bus service between Rawalpindi and Islamabad continue to remain suspended.

Mobile network and internet services were suspended across the twin cities since Friday morning and continue to remain suspended till the filing of this report causing problems for the public, especially those relying on them for their work.

Police shell PTI protesters at multiple locations, arrest dozens

Due to the protest, law enforcement has been deployed throughout the twin cities to maintain order, with police on high alert.

Due to the PTI protest, Islamabad has been put under Section 144, banning large gatherings and pillion riding.

The police have also warned citizens to avoid non-essential travel as the situation remains.

At least 30 protesters were arrested as police fired tear gas to disperse PTI protesters attempting to reach Islamabad’s D-Chowk for a party rally. 

The PTI has carried out multiple rallies across the country in recent weeks, protesting against the “illegal” imprisonment of its founder and the Election Commission of Pakistan’s delay in implementing the reserved seats verdict, as well as to “save the Constitution”.