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Islamabad, Rawalpindi Fortified with Containers Amidst Looming Protests
- •Islamabad and Rawalpindi are undergoing a massive security build-up with shipping containers and personnel deployed to fortify key routes and sensitive areas like the Red Zone.
- •The preparations are in response to multiple planned protests, including Jamaat-e-Islami's long march, and separate mobilizations by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Kisan Ittehad, and Kashmiri groups.
- •Nearly 1,000 cargo containers have been seized or positioned at major intersections and approaches to sensitive areas to prevent protesters from entering Islamabad's Red Zone.
- •Jamaat-e-Islami's 'Super Long March' from Karachi, demanding the abolition of the petroleum levy, is set to culminate in Islamabad, with PTI and Kisan Ittehad planning protests for late September.
- •Islamabad Police have canceled all leaves until October 5, and the federal government has requested 23,500 police personnel from other provinces to assist with security duties.
Key Questions Answered
Authorities have fortified Islamabad and Rawalpindi by positioning nearly 1,000 cargo containers at major intersections, sensitive areas, and approaches to the Red Zone. Additionally, Islamabad Police have cancelled all non-emergency leaves until October 5, and the federal government has requested 23,500 additional police personnel from Punjab, Sindh, and Balochistan.
Jamaat-e-Islami launched its long march from Karachi to protest against rising petroleum prices and the petroleum levy, demanding the complete abolition of the levy to lower fuel costs and provide relief to citizens.
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has announced nationwide protests for September 27, with Islamabad serving as a major mobilization point. Their campaign demands the release of jailed former prime minister Imran Khan, along with upholding constitutional supremacy and the rule of law.
