Sources indicate that internet and broadband services will be suspended tonight in Islamabad, Lahore, Rawalpindi, Multan, and Gujranwala. Mobile phone services will remain operational, but internet and broadband services will be halted as part of increased security measures ahead of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protest scheduled for November 24.
Authorities have not yet confirmed how long the suspension will last, and a decision regarding the potential suspension of mobile phone services will be made after assessing the situation on the ground.
In a related development, the National Counter-Terrorism Authority (NACTA) has issued a terrorism threat alert ahead of the PTI protest. The alert warns of possible attacks by the extremist group Fitna al-Khawarij, which is reportedly planning to target public gatherings during the PTI protests. NACTA reports that members of the group have crossed the Pakistan-Afghanistan border and entered various cities. Security agencies are on high alert in response to the credible threat.
Meanwhile, the Islamabad administration has taken extensive security measures for the PTI protest, sealing off key areas including the Red Zone and D-Chowk. Over 2,200 containers have been placed to block 24 critical entry and exit points in the city, with 10 major points already blocked. An additional 14 routes are expected to be closed tonight, restricting movement in and out of the capital.
To support local law enforcement, over 19,000 officers from the Punjab Police, along with Rangers and Frontier Corps (FC), have been deployed in Islamabad. Additional personnel and equipment have also been sent from Sindh and Azad Kashmir. Rangers have been stationed at strategic locations such as 26 No. Chungi, Tarnol, Sangjani, and Attock’s Kati Pahari, equipped with tear gas shells and anti-riot gear.
The Islamabad police have reinforced the implementation of Section 144, urging citizens to adhere to the law and refrain from participating in unlawful activities. The police have vowed to take all necessary measures to ensure public order and protect citizens’ lives and property.
