The federal government has suspended mobile internet services in Islamabad and Rawalpindi due to rising 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. The decision came into effect on Friday night and will continue indefinitely until further notice. Several areas of Rawalpindi have already experienced internet disruption as authorities work to maintain law and order.
In a related move, the Punjab government has imposed Section 144 across the province for 10 days. The order bans gatherings of four or more people in public places, streets, neighborhoods, and open fields. The Punjab Home Department issued the notification to prevent potential unrest and ensure public safety.
The government clarified that the Section 144 restrictions do not apply to prayers, weddings, funerals, offices, or courts. However, the notification also announced a ban on the display of weapons, public assemblies, and the use of loudspeakers throughout Punjab during this period.
Specifically in Rawalpindi, the District Administration has enforced Section 144 until October 17. Under this order, gatherings of five or more people are prohibited. Pillion riding on motorcycles is banned, and removing police barriers is considered a criminal offense.
Carrying weapons, sticks, shotguns, ball bearings, or explosives is also strictly prohibited. Authorities have warned that legal action will be taken against violators and those delivering provocative speeches.
The ongoing protests have caused major disruptions in Islamabad. Multiple entry points to the Red Zone have been blocked, including Serena Chowk, Express Chowk, Nadra Chowk, and Marriott Chowk. Faizabad on Murree Road, along with the Faizabad Bus Stand, has been closed using heavy containers, causing severe traffic disruptions. Zero Point has also been sealed as part of the citywide security lockdown.
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These measures have severely affected movement in the twin cities, with residents facing restricted mobility and disrupted communication services. The government continues to monitor the situation closely while enforcing Section 144 to maintain public safety.
