Punjab Imposes Section 144: Internet, Roads Closed in Pindi and Islamabad

Islamabad—(Special Correspondent/Web Desk)— The federal government has suspended mobile internet services in Islamabad and Rawalpindi, citing increased security concerns and ongoing protests by a religious party.
According to an official letter from the Interior Ministry to the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA), Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi approved the suspension of mobile internet access in the twin cities. The suspension began on Friday night and will continue indefinitely until further notice.
According to Pakistani reports, mobile internet connectivity has already been halted in various sections of Rawalpindi as authorities take steps to ensure law and order.

In a separate development, the Punjab government has imposed Section 144 across the province for 10 days, banning the gathering of four or more people in public places, streets, neighborhoods, and open fields.

According to a notification issued by the Punjab Home Department, the restrictions are aimed at preventing potential unrest and maintaining public safety. The order took immediate effect upon issuance.

However, the government clarified that the ban will not apply to prayers, weddings, funerals, offices, or courts. The notification also announced a complete ban on the display of weapons, public gatherings, and the use of loudspeakers throughout Punjab during this period.

Amid security concerns, the Rawalpindi District Administration has issued a separate notification enforcing Section 144 specifically in the district until October 17, according to which there will be a complete ban on gatherings of five or more people.

Under this order, pillion riding on motorcycles has been banned, and attempting to remove police barriers or obstacles has been declared a criminal act.

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The notification also prohibits carrying weapons, sticks, shotguns, ball bearings, and explosives. Authorities have warned that strict legal action will be taken against anyone violating these orders or delivering provocative speeches.

In Islamabad, multiple entry points to the Red Zone have been completely closed due to the ongoing protests. Containers have been placed to block Serena Chowk, Express Chowk, Nadra Chowk, and Marriott Chowk, effectively sealing off the area.

Additionally, Faizabad on Murree Road, including the Faizabad Bus Stand, has been closed with heavy containers, causing severe traffic disruption. Zero Point has also been sealed as part of the citywide security lockdown.

These closures have paralyzed movement across key routes in the twin cities, with citizens facing widespread inconvenience amid restricted mobility and disrupted mobile communications.