The Motorway Police have announced the closure of all motorways starting at 8 PM on Friday, citing maintenance work as the primary reason. However, reports indicate the closures may also be tied to anticipated PTI protests in Lahore and Islamabad.
Major routes, including Peshawar-Islamabad, Lahore-Islamabad, Pindi Bhattian-Multan, Sialkot-Lahore (M11), and M14 from Dera Ismail Khan to Hakla, will remain shut indefinitely.
Read more: Report: Government Incurred a Loss of Rs 1.1 Billion Due to the PTI-Led Protests
The Motorway Police cited maintenance and a deteriorating law-and-order situation for the decision, with vehicle access restricted unless authorized by local authorities.
Islamabad Hostels and Transport Shut Down
In Islamabad, all hostels have been ordered closed until November 27 by the deputy commissioner due to the expected protests. Public transport services in the region have also been suspended, with terminals sealed off, and major roads, including Murree Road, Rawat’s T Chowk, and Faizabad, being secured with heavy police presence and containers.
GT Road and Lahore Ring Road Closures
In Wazirabad, the GT Road at Chenab Toll Plaza has been blocked with containers, while Lahore authorities have announced a closure of the Ring Road on November 23 and 24, from 8 AM to 6 PM, to prevent disruptions as PTI convoys prepare to leave for Islamabad. Concerns over protests and potential interference by “malicious elements” prompted the move.
Heightened Security in Islamabad
Ahead of PTI’s planned protest at D-Chowk on November 24, Islamabad authorities have ramped up security, sealing 24 key locations and deploying heavy police forces. The Red Zone and major entry and exit points will be blocked with containers, while Section 144 has been imposed in Islamabad and Rawalpindi to ban public gatherings and protests.
Interior Minister’s Warning
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has taken a firm stance, stating that marches and sit-ins in Islamabad will not be allowed. He emphasized strict enforcement of Islamabad High Court directives, warning that violators will be held accountable for any loss of life or property. Naqvi assured that daily life in Islamabad would not be disrupted, declaring, “No shop, business, or road should be closed.”
