The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) is all set to hold a large-scale rally in Islamabad today, as preparations reach their peak. The city’s entry and exit points have been sealed off, and containers have been strategically placed across various locations in anticipation of the gathering.
Security concerns intensified when law enforcement agencies discovered hand grenades, rocket launchers, and detonators at the rally site. The discovery prompted immediate action, with the police summoning a bomb disposal squad to ensure the safety of participants.
The PTI rally, scheduled to take place near the Sangjani area, is being touted as a significant show of political strength. The party’s leadership, including PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar, has already visited the venue to oversee the final preparations. Gohar assured that the rally would be peaceful, emphasizing that it would not involve a long march or sit-in. He confirmed that the rally has commenced and that allied parties are also expected to join the gathering.
However, the rally has not been without its challenges. Opposition Leader in the National Assembly, Omar Ayub, claimed that a new No Objection Certificate (NOC) was issued for the rally at the last minute, potentially complicating the event. Ayub urged party members to make their way to the venue by any means necessary, stressing the importance of their presence.
Former Foreign Minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi reiterated the party’s commitment to holding the rally, stating that it would proceed regardless of any obstacles. Meanwhile, the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa has directed all provincial assembly members to bring at least 1,000 supporters each. The district administration has also released a detailed route plan for attendees.
In response to the planned rally, the Islamabad district administration has heightened security across the city, placing the entire district on high alert. Containers have been deployed at key locations to ensure peace and order. All entry and exit points to the Red Zone have been sealed off, with only authorized individuals permitted access through Margalla Road.
Read More: Traffic Plan Announced for PTI Jalsa in Sangjani on Sunday
The rally’s impact on traffic has been significant, with containers blocking the GT Road in both directions at the Sangjani area. The motorway’s entry point to Islamabad at the 26th toll plaza has also been closed. Additionally, containers have been placed at Khanh Pul on the expressway, leading to severe traffic congestion on the Islamabad-Rawat stretch.
Murree Road has been blocked at Faizabad with containers, and the route from Rawat T-Chowk to Rawalpindi has been similarly obstructed. The Faizabad interchange has been entirely sealed off, further exacerbating traffic issues.
In a related development, containers have been deployed at the Attock Khurd police check post, which lies on the border between Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Punjab. This measure is intended to control the flow of people and maintain security during the rally.
Barrister Saif, an advisor to the Chief Minister of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, expressed concerns that the government might attempt to revoke the rally’s NOC before it concludes. He warned that the PTI is prepared to face any administrative hurdles, reaffirming the party’s determination to carry out the rally even if the NOC is withdrawn.
As the situation develops, PTI supporters and the public are advised to stay informed and exercise caution. Further updates on the rally and traffic conditions will be provided as they become available.
