Islamabad and Rawalpindi remain under lockdown that began yesterday, with roads sealed, communication lines cut, and public movement at a standstill.
The religiopolitical party held an anti-Israel demonstration outside the US Embassy in Islamabad on Friday. Hamas and Israel signed a ceasefire on Thursday, with Israeli captives to be released in exchange for Palestinian prisoners, in line with US President Donald Trump’s 20-point initiative to end the war in Gaza.
Islamabad has described the plan as a “historic opportunity” for lasting peace in the Middle East. Minister of State for Interior Talal Chaudhry said the TLP “did not obtain necessary permits” to hold the rally.
Citywide Shutdown
Major arteries, including Murree Road from Faizabad to Murree Road Chowk, and link roads such as Sir Syed, Moti Mahal, Liaqat Road, Committee Chowk, Waris Khan, Rehmanabad, and Shamsabad, were completely sealed.
Read: Islamabad moves to thwart TLP protest
Trucks and barriers blocked both major and minor streets. Schools, colleges, universities, wholesale markets, transport hubs, and goods transport services remained shut, leaving the city’s commercial and social life at a standstill.
Police checkpoints and patrols were maintained throughout the city. Civil Lines Police earlier raided the TLP office at Jamia Masjid Ghausia Zia-ul-Uloom, arresting 77 workers in a preventive crackdown.
Access to lanes leading to Murree Road and Adiala Jail was blocked. The arrested individuals were not produced in court, prompting the judiciary to adjourn hearings without proceedings.
Residents faced severe hardships, with patients, the sick, and essential service providers struggling to reach their destinations. Wholesale and fruit-vegetable markets were closed, creating shortages and sharp price hikes. Public parks were deserted, and nightlife businesses, including hotels and food chains, remained shut.
Read More: Garbage crisis deepens amid protests
Authorities said the measures were necessary to maintain law and order. “These steps are to ensure public safety and prevent disruption,” a police spokesperson said, though some residents complained about the lack of assistance in navigating closures.
Yesterday, over 37 points across the twin cities were barricaded with containers, trailers, and barriers. Metro Bus services were suspended, and side streets were clogged with motorcycles and rickshaws. Security forces deployed more than 6,000 personnel, including SP-ranking officers and snipers along Murree Road.
Police had earlier attempted to arrest TLP chief Saad Rizvi, facing stone-pelting from supporters and seizing gas masks and chemicals allegedly meant for the rally. Section 144 remains in effect, banning public gatherings, protests, and inflammatory speeches.
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