The residents of Islamabad and Rawalpindi are currently facing a suspension of mobile internet services as the federal government tightens security in response to ongoing protests by the TLP Today (Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan).
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The Ministry of Interior, led by Minister Mohsin Naqvi, officially approved the immediate suspension of mobile data to ensure law and order and manage rising security concerns. The order, which went into effect on Friday night, was communicated to the Pakistan Telecommunication Authority (PTA) and will remain in force until authorities issue a further directive.
Widespread Disruptions and Security Measures:
The internet shutdown is part of a broader security lockdown impacting the twin cities, including multiple road closures today:
- Connectivity Disruption: Residents across various sectors of both Islamabad and Rawalpindi have reported significant disruptions to mobile internet services, severely inconveniencing daily life and communication.
- Security Sealing: Multiple key entry points into Islamabad’s Red Zone—including Serena Chowk, Express Chowk, and Nadra Chowk—have been sealed off with large containers.
- Traffic Paralysis: Traffic flow between Rawalpindi and Islamabad is severely disrupted, with the crucial Faizabad Interchange and Zero Point remaining closed. Police have placed barriers on major routes, restricting mobility for citizens in both cities.
Section 144 Enforced Across Punjab and Rawalpindi:
In conjunction with the internet suspension, government authorities have enforced stringent restrictions on public assembly and movement:
- Punjab Province Restrictions: The Punjab government has imposed Section 144 province-wide for ten days. This restricts the gathering of four or more people to prevent potential unrest and maintain public safety.
- Exclusions: The order specifically excludes prayers, weddings, funerals, and official gatherings.
- Bans: It strictly bans weapons display, processions, and the use of loudspeakers in public areas.
- Rawalpindi Extension: The Rawalpindi District Administration has extended Section 144 in the district until October 17, making restrictions even stricter. This local directive also includes a ban on pillion riding (two people on a motorcycle) and declares any attempt to remove police barriers or provoke unrest as a punishable criminal offence.
Authorities have issued a clear warning that carrying weapons, sticks, or explosives will result in swift legal action as they work aggressively to prevent any breakdown of law and order.
The comprehensive measures, while aimed at security, have resulted in widespread inconvenience for citizens dealing with restricted movement and severely disrupted mobile communication services.
