Pakistan Railways has suspended all train services between Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Peshawar due to the ongoing Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) protest in Islamabad. The suspension includes routes between Peshawar and Rawalpindi, Lahore and Rawalpindi, and Multan to Faisalabad to Rawalpindi.
As part of the suspension, 25 train bookings scheduled for Sunday, November 24, have been canceled, and affected passengers are being provided immediate refunds at temporary booking counters set up for this purpose. A heavy police presence has been deployed at the railway stations, which have been completely sealed off, restricting access to travelers.
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The disruptions come as PTI continues to push forward with its planned protest in Islamabad, despite the government’s security measures, which include crackdowns, road closures, and arrests. The protest is set for November 24, and PTI has vowed to overcome these obstacles to reach the capital.
A high-level meeting at the Chief Minister’s House in Peshawar, chaired by PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Khan, with notable figures including Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, former president Arif Alvi, and Shibli Faraz, finalized plans for the rally. The meeting focused on overcoming logistical challenges posed by the motorway closures, with the decision to send convoys via the GT Road. Plans to remove roadblocks and reopen the motorway were also discussed.
As the security situation remains tense, PTI is determined to press ahead with its rally, which is part of their larger campaign to call for the release of former Prime Minister Imran Khan and address other political demands.