ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Gohar Ali Khan announced on Thursday the postponement of a public gathering in the Islamabad Capital Territory (ICT).
Last night, the federal government canceled the NOC granted to PTI for the Jalsa, while the Punjab government imposed Section 144 across the province, banning public gatherings from August 22 to August 24.
Accompanied by Azam Swati, PTI’s leader Barrister Gohar Ali Khan told the media that the decision to delay the event was made following directions from PTI founder and Chairman Imran Khan.
The political atmosphere remains tense, with PTI initially planning to hold a rally in Islamabad despite the ICT administration revoking the rally permit late last night. This led to heightened security measures across Islamabad and Rawalpindi.
Containers have been strategically placed around the Red Zone, effectively blocking all roads leading into the area. Security has been placed on high alert in both cities, with access to the Red Zone restricted to government employees who must present their office identification to enter.
Adding to the traffic congestion, Day 2 of the Pakistan-Bangladesh Cricket Test match is currently underway in Rawalpindi. To ensure the safety of players and spectators, Murree Road around the Cricket Stadium has been closed to general traffic. Due to these security measures, the Islamabad administration has declared a holiday for educational institutions across the city.
At the Ravi Toll Plaza in Lahore, the motorway towards Islamabad has been closed due to the PTI rally. Traffic is being diverted to Babu Sabu Chowk, Saggian, and Ring Road. Lahore’s Chief Traffic Officer, Amara Athar, advised citizens to check the route plan before traveling and recommended calling helpline 15 for assistance and guidance.
In Thokar Niaz Baig, Lahore, a heavy contingent of police reached the area where PTI’s women wing workers had gathered to join a caravan heading to the rally.
PTI leader Azam Swati announced that the public gathering has been rescheduled for September 8. He urged all PTI caravans to return to their home destinations, following the orders of Imran Khan.
