ISLAMABAD: The Islamabad Traffic Police has devised an alternate traffic plan to mitigate the confusion caused by the ongoing protests announced by the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and Jamaat-e-Islami (JI).
The protests have led to major disruptions in the twin cities of Islamabad and Rawalpindi, prompting authorities to implement strict measures. Major avenues have been blocked with large containers to restrict protesters access, resulting in extensive traffic jams and widespread commuter frustration. The Red Zone has been completely sealed, while the Islamabad Expressway at Faizabad has been blocked from Rawalpindi with containers. In response to these challenges, Islamabad Traffic Police issued a comprehensive traffic plan advising commuters to use alternative routes to reduce the issues of public.
Citizens are asked to use Rawalpindi Sadar route if Rawat Road is inaccessible, and to opt for the motorway in case Peshawar GT Road is closed. Similarly, alternative routes are recommended for closures at Srinagar Highway G14, Faizabad, Zero-Point, Serena Chowk, and Embassy Road.
The development takes place as the local administration has imposed section 144 in Islamabad and completely sealed the red zone ahead of the protests of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and Jamaat-e-Islami. According to media reports, the Punjab Home Department also imposed Section 144 across the province, banning rallies and public gatherings for three days.
As per the notification, issued on Thursday, section 144 will be in effect from Friday, July 26 to Sunday, July 28. Officials said that the ban has been imposed in order to maintain law and order and to prevent any possible terrorist threats.
The notification said that the local administration would ensure the implementation of the order in the federal capital and Punjab.
The move comes as the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) led opposition alliance announced a country-wide protest on Friday for the release of prisoners.
