Lahore: Authorities in Pakistan on Friday suspended mobile internet services and sealed major roads in Islamabad and Rawalpindi, while the Punjab government imposed Section 144 across the province amid fears of unrest linked to a protest call by the Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan (TLP).
Containers and barricades were erected at the federal capital’s entry points, including Serena Chowk, Express Chowk and Marriott Chowk, effectively locking down the red zone. Metro bus and local transport services were halted, causing severe inconvenience to commuters, while mobile data services were shut down in the twin cities on government orders.
The Punjab Home Department’s Section 144 notification bans public gatherings, display of weapons, processions and loudspeakers, though religious prayers, funerals and official functions are exempted.
The move follows reports that the TLP had planned its own “Ya Aqsa Million March” in solidarity with the Palestinians, which officials feared could turn violent. Law enforcement agencies in Punjab and the twin cities have been put on high alert, paramilitary forces have been deployed and security has been tightened around sensitive installations. Schools, offices and courts were disrupted, while legal institutions expressed concern over limited access to courts.
Officials say the restrictions are temporary and could be eased once the security situation stabilizes.
